Century-old pubs, breathtaking cathedrals and hearty food are just a few of the things you’ll find special about Dublin - all deeply rooted in the history of Ireland.

From tours, to food and museums, here’s your ultimate guide to Dublin.

Tour…

Jameson Distillery. This short tour takes you through Jameson’s history, distilling process, and a three-shot taste comparison (of Scotch, Jameson, and American Whiskey). Even if you don’t take the tour, this is a fun place to hang out and have a drink or three. Your ticket will vouch for a free drink - order the Jameson, ginger and lime - it’ll be your new favorite.

Guinness Storehouse. The Guinness in Ireland is the smoothest you’ll find, and there’s no better place to taste it than at their storehouse. Walk through their multi-level, storytelling experience, then use your ticket to get a free pint at the end. You’ll have the chance to enjoy a drink in the Gravity Bar (featuring a nearly 360 view of Dublin), or try a flight in the tasting lounge and listen to live music.

I’d recommend hanging out in the tasting lounge before visiting the sky bar - it’s far less crowded and much more fun (plus, once you’ve seen the view, you’ve seen the view). Oh! And you must order a pretzel with Guinness chocolate and butterscotch sauce.

Book it in advance here.

Trinity College. Here, you can view the oldest known book in the world, The Book of Kells, and walk through The Longroom of the Old Library - the library that is said to have inspired Hogwarts.

Tickets are only ten euros (I’d suggest you hang out on campus and speak with locals while you wait for your entry time).

Saint Patrick’s Cathedral. This is a sight to see. Expect beautiful stained glass windows, rugged flags dating back to wars battled in the 1600s, stunning tile floors and woodwork, and many stories of Ireland’s history.

Grab a drink at… 

The Dawson Lounge. This is one of the smallest pubs in Ireland, and one of my favorites. This charming basement-pub has a only a few seating areas, but I’d suggest sitting at the stool so you can chat up the bartender (and have easy access to drinks). 

Hely’s Bar. Located in the center of Dublin, this is a quaint little spot to have a drink and appetizers (order some wings). It also happens to be connected to a much larger, lively bar (O’Briens) that sits below a hotel - might be a nice place to consider staying at. I thought this was nice if you’re wanting to move in between different atmospheres. 

Bad Ass Cafe. Fun and lively, with live music and football on tv - exactly what you’d want on a night out.

The Temple Bar. No explanation needed, just pop into this iconic establishment.

Explore…

Phoenix Park. This is the largest park in Europe, as it could fit many Central Parks inside. Here, you’ll find wide open green space (that has served as a concert venue), monuments, a very similar mansion to the White House (same designer) and wildlife.  

Grafton Street. Take a stroll down this iconic street and enjoy the buskers (this is where Ed Sheeran - my favorite - got his start), cafes and shops. 

St. Stephen’s Green. Once closed to the public, but now reopened, this park is a quiet escape off of Grafton. Grab a coffee and check out the statues, ponds and many birds that occupy this park.

Eat…

The Duke. Located just off Grafton, this pub has indoor and outdoor seating and isn’t busy during lunch. Hot tip: order the Irish Stew with lamb - don’t order the Gammon sandwich (you’re welcome). 

The Shack. Right in the center of the action, this was the perfect dinner spot before heading to the pubs, as it’s right next to the iconic Temple Bar.

While, it is a bit on the pricier side, the food was fantastic and the atmosphere was lovely. I’d recommend the salmon, but everything looking worthy of trying.

Tips:

For transportation, use their trolley system. It’s very quick and easy to get around.

Travelling solo? Book your trip through EF Tours. I went with the EF Ultimate Break group and it’s the smoothest travel I’ve ever have (use promo code BAKendall100 for $100 off).

Stay in a hostel. I stayed at the Generator - located across from Jameson Distillery, it’s inexpensive with a young, industrial aesthetic.