1: Guinness Storehouse
Known as Ireland’s number one attraction, the Guinness Storehouse lets you in on one of the world’s most loved brands. Here you will learn about the brand’s humble beginnings and how it evolved to be the success story that it is today. Your tour will start at the Atrium, which is the world’s largest pint glass. Drop by the Guinness Store to shop for unique memorabilia and treats to bring home to your loved ones. From learning about the step-by-step process of brewing to finally tasting your first sample of Guinness, you will truly enjoy every minute of your visit.
Website: www.guinness-storehouse.com
2: Trinity College Dublin
With its 400-year tradition of scholarships, this University is known as one of the greatest in the world. Visitors to Dublin drop by here to explore the beauty and the serenity of the campus. Your visit here should include a tour of the university’s Zoology Museum, Science Gallery, its expansive Trinity Library and its Children’s Sports Camp.
Website: www.tcd.ie
3: Kilmainham Gaol(Jail)
The Kilmainham Gaol is the setting of some of Ireland’s most tragic and most heroic events. If you love learning about a country’s history, you will enjoy the detailed exhibition of how the prison started as well as its restoration throughout the years. Here you will have an exciting, information-filled audio-visual tour that will leave you fascinated and amazed.
Website: www.heritageireland.ie
4: Dublin Zoo/Phoenix Park
Known as the one of the world’s oldest and most popular zoos, this 28-hectare park holds a place of wonder and fascination to every visitor. You and your children can get up close and personal with some of the zoo’s 400 animals. To make the most out of your visit, check out the zoo’s daily activities and talks such as Elephant Encounters, Sealion Splash and Chimpanzee Chat.
Website: www.dublinzoo.ie
5: The National Gallery of Ireland
Now on its 150th year, the National Gallery of Ireland is home to some of the world’s most unique and most exquisite art collections. Check out the Masterpieces exhibit, which is an extraordinary selection of paintings from the European and Irish collections. Architecture enthusiasts can drop by the Russborough Revisited exhibit, which is one of the finest examples of Palladian architecture. Drop by the Gallery Shop to bring home with you prints, publications and other interesting memorabilia.
Website: www.nationalgallery.ie
6: St Patrick’s Cathedral
The church was built in honor of the country’s patron saint, St. Patrick. According to history, the site of the church is adjacent to where St. Patrick baptized converts during one of his visits to Dublin. With its strong and significant historical relevance, it has become one of the city’s most visited tourist attractions. While it is primarily a place of worship, it is also open to the public as an architectural and historical attraction. Drop by to join a service or listen to concerts by the church’s talented group of choristers.
Website: www.stpatrickscathedral.ie
7: Dublin Castle
Established in 1204 AD, the Dublin Castle has been at the center of every milestone that the city has ever accomplished. Every presidential inauguration is done here and it was the site of the first Celtic settlement over 800 years ago. Today, it draws visitors from all over the world because of its history and its architectural beauty. Dublin Castle also offers a wide range of dining and conference venues for important meetings and gatherings. The State Apartments are some of the most popular rooms and it welcomes visitors on a daily basis for guided tours.
Website: www.dublincastle.ie
8: Christ Church Cathedral
Founded in c.1028, Christ Church Cathedral offers visitors a beautiful sight to behold and hours of peace and quiet. Once you step inside the cathedral you will be amazed by the church’s bespoke interiors and interesting medieval crypts. Visitors here love exploring the crypt that includes an informative audio-visual presentation and memorials of past heroes and personalities. You can also drop by the Cathedral Shop for some souvenirs and the Cathedral Cafe for some refreshments. While you are here make sure to witness a performance by Evensong, the church’s world-renowned choir.
Website: www.christchurchdublin.ie
9: Leinster House
Originally known as Kildare House, this structure was built upon the order of James Fitzgerald, the Earl of Kildare in 1745. Today the Leinster House is home to the National Parliament of Ireland where visitors can enjoy guided tours about the House’s history. The tours are handled by ushers who have extensive knowledge of the building. When the House is in session, you can even sit and listen for a while.
Website: www.oireachtas.ie
10: Croke Park
For over a hundred years, this stadium has been the site of Ireland’s most important sporting events. The park can fit up to 82,300 spectators and watching a game here is truly an experience of a lifetime. Visitors can enjoy the stadium’s state-of-the-art facilities, as well as its highly interactive state-of-the-art visitor experience. The Croke Park Stadium tour gives you an all-access trip that lets you explore and discover the country’s unique sporting events. You can even visit the player’s dressing rooms and visit the pitch side for the best VIP seats. Make sure to drop by the museum where you can enjoy fantastic displays of the history of Gaelic games and how it evolved to the present time.
Website: www.crokepark.ie