Dublin by the River Liffey

Dublin the capital of the Republic of Ireland is located on the east coast in the province of Leinster.

Trinity College is located right in the heart of the city. It is the oldest university in Ireland founded in 1952 by Queen Elizabeth I. The beautiful campus has cobbled squares, gardens, and parks. The college is known around the world for its collection of great treasures on permanent display like the 9th-century illuminated manuscript The Book of Kells, the Books of Durrow and Armagh, and an ancient Irish harp.

These priceless treasures are displayed in the Treasury and the 18th-century Long Room. The Long Room has over 200,000 of the oldest books at Trinity and hosts literary exhibitions.

Not far from Trinity, you’ll find Grafton Street the premier shopping location in Dublin.

At the bottom of the street is a statue of Molly Malone. You can hear buskers entertaining by singing and playing instruments, You can enjoy shopping at boutiques, department stores, and jewelry shops.

Powerscourt Townhouse Centre has designer shops and places to eat.

Fusilier's Arch, located at the top of Grafton Street, serves as the primary gateway to St. Stephen's Green.

This park offers a delightful respite from the bustling city streets, providing a serene environment for people to relax and unwind. Visitors can take leisurely walks, recline on the lush green grass, or indulge in picnics. The park's well-maintained lawns are adorned with stunning flower beds, adding to its charm.

At the heart of the park, an intricately designed fountain takes center stage, while a bridge gracefully spans across a tranquil duck pond. Additionally, there is a playground for children.

At the top of Kildare Street, you’ll see the Irish Parliament which was once known as Kildare House.. In 1766 when James Fitzgerald, the Earl of Kildare became Duke of Leinster it was renamed Leinster House.

The National Gallery of Ireland houses a remarkable assortment of European artwork spanning from the Middle Ages to the present. Established in 1864, the gallery underwent expansions in 1903, 1968, and 2002. Notable collections within the gallery include the Yeats Museum, seven rooms dedicated to Irish art, Italian painters, the Shaw Room, and the Baroque Room. Additionally, the gallery regularly showcases temporary exhibitions.

Merrion Square is a grand Georgian square lined by stately private houses and offices. At the center is a lovely park with a statue of renowned Dublin writer Oscar Wilde. At weekends local artists line the park displaying their paintings.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum was established in 2016 and accounts for Irish emigration over the centuries. There are over 20 separate themed galleries.

James Joyce Centre is a museum dedicated to the Irish novelist and poet James Joyce.

There is also a statue of James Joyce.

The National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts and History opened in 1997. Its collections include ceramics, silver, jewelry, furniture, and Irish haute fashion. There are also exhibits exploring Irish military history.

Dublin Zoo can be found within Phoenix Park, standing as the second oldest zoo in Europe. Housing rare and exotic creatures such as Asian lions and Asian elephants, the zoo also features a Reptile House and an orangutan enclosure. Visitors delight in observing the sea lions and penguins, while also benefiting from amenities like children's play areas, a family farm, and various dining options.

Phoenix Park, the largest enclosed urban park in Europe, is home to hundreds of deer that freely wander throughout the park.

Additionally, within Phoenix Park, you can find Aras an Uachtarain, the official residence of the President of Ireland.

Another notable attraction is Deerfield, an exquisite 18th-century house that serves as the residence for the American Ambassador to Ireland.

Furthermore, Farmleigh House which was acquired by the Irish state from the Guinness family in 1999, adds to the park's charm and historical significance.

Kilmainham Gaol is a jail that dates from 1789. In the modern hall is an exhibition showing what conditions were like and outlining the struggle for Irish Independence. Guided tours are available.

Christ Church Cathedral was built on the site of the first church in Dublin. Founded in 1028 it was made of timber. The Great Nave has impressive early Gothic arches.

Dublinia is a historical recreation of life and scenes from the time of the Vikings to the medieval period. It is located in the cathedral’s Synod Hall. Among the highlights are costumed characters demonstrating period traditions.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland.

Dublin Castle is used as a venue for ceremonial occasions, exhibitions, and concerts. The ornate state apartments are open to visitors. There are museums to explore among them the Chester Beatty Library and Gallery.

The Irish Museum of Modern Art IMMA opened in 1991. The museum focuses on modern and contemporary artwork changing exhibits frequently. The building is impressive built in the late 1600s as a hospital. The permanent collection has 3,500 artworks. Guided tours are available.

The Irish Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum Experience centers its attention on the foremost musical performers from Ireland. One of the notable features entails a comprehensive one-hour tour that allows visitors to witness the progression of acts such as U2 and Thin Lizzy throughout their careers. The museum houses a plethora of artifacts and memorabilia from renowned Irish musicians.

The O’Connell Bridge is one of the most famous bridges in Dublin. The bridge leads directly onto the beautiful O’Connell Street. See modern monuments like the Spire of Dublin.