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With the city's many attractions and fascinating history, you'll certainly have no shortage of exciting things to see and do in Dublin.
Sightseeing the classic tourist attractions is a great way for new arrivals to get to know their adopted city. A good way to learn more about local history while saving money is the Dublin Pass, the city's official digital sightseeing card, which offers discounted access to many of the best attractions in the area.
Below, we list some of the most popular attractions in the Irish capital.
Attractions in Dublin
Dublin Castle
Founded in 1204 by order of King John, Dublin Castle has been rebuilt many times over the centuries. By the 1600s, it was home to the Law Courts, a banqueting hall, and Parliament meetings. It now hosts a museum, guided tours, cafés, gardens, and an international conference centre.
Dublin Zoo
The Dublin Zoo is one of the city’s most popular attractions. It boasts various exhibits of animals from the Arctic to the plains of Africa, and houses rescued tigers, elephants, orangutans, and many other fascinating creatures. Animal lovers will be glad to know that the zoo is also involved in numerous conservation projects, including breeding endangered species.
Temple Bar District
Located in the centre of Dublin, the Temple Bar District is considered by many to be the city's cultural heart. Take a stroll along the neighbourhood's cobblestone streets and enjoy live music, markets, and galleries. Be sure to pop into The Temple Bar Pub, one of Dublin's oldest and most iconic watering holes.
St Patrick's Cathedral
The imposing St Patrick's Cathedral is a popular Dublin destination for worshippers and sightseers alike. The over 800-year-old church is the largest in Ireland. Architecture buffs come from all over the world to take in the cathedral's authentic Gothic beauty.
Guinness Storehouse
This iconic drink may be brewed all over the world, but there’s nothing better than a Guinness in Ireland. It just tastes better. Take a tour of the famous storehouse set up in 1759 by Arthur Guinness, and then head up to the Gravity Bar to enjoy a pint while taking in the bar's fantastic view over Dublin.
National Museum of Ireland
If you're interested in seeing the Emerald Isle's richest treasures, look no further than the National Museum of Ireland. Marvel at specimens dating back thousands of years, learn about Ireland’s natural history, and dig through the centuries to learn about local culture and traditions. Famous exhibits at the museum include the Tara Brooch and the Ardagh Chalice, both of which date back to around the 8th century.