48 Hours In Dublin

7. Breakfast from Bibi’s Cafe 9. Dublin Castle – remaining building from 1200 AD 13. St Patrick’s Cathedral

Ireland has been one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited. It’s not only its natural landscape that is beautiful, but its people too. I did not meet one unfriendly person in my 5 days in Ireland and my experience of Ireland was much richer for it.

Our first two days in Ireland was spent in Dublin. Luckily the sun was out for the whole two days and so we were able to fit so much in because of it! Here is my guide to 48 hours in Dublin:

Day 1

10am

Nothing beats exploring a new city by foot. Spend some time getting to know the layout and your way around. Walk through Temple Bar (where most of the cafes and restaurants in the city lay) and then have a wonder around Grafton Street. Spend some time getting lost amongst the streets, that’s what traveling is for!

12pm

While at Grafton Street, pick up a picnic lunch and head over to the Trinity College campus. Trinity College is Ireland’s most famous university and absolutely picturesque. Spend some time exploring the grounds and pick a spot to eat your lunch. Perfect.

2pm

Now take a short walk from Trinity College to the historic Dublin Castle. This is a must for history buffs (Ahem… me) and has a beautiful garden to view as well. Most of the castle dates from the 18th century, however, parts of it still exist from the days of Lord John, who was the first Lord of Ireland. He was Lord of Ireland in the 1200’s, so parts of the castle are almost 1000 years old! (falling over in my seat right now).

4pm

If you haven’t been worn out by the day yet and are particularly keen to learn about Ireland’s most famous export, head to The Guinness Storehouse and learn about how this iconic beer is made and have a pint yourself! If not, take this time to go for a little shop in and around Grafton St.

6pm

It’s dinner time! Head to The Brazen Head, officially Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back to 1198. The food, I can say, is pretty delicious, it has all the pub classics. Bulmers cider was my friend in Ireland. Perfect way to end a busy afternoon!

9pm

The Brazen Head does have music, however if you are looking for traditional Irish music, head to The Cobblestone, where traditional music plays every night of the year! Depending on how many musicians turn out to play, it can be a lot of fun watching and dancing. the night away!

Day 2

7am

Wake up early and head down to the river to watch the sunrise. Seeing the sun peak up over the bridges is breathtaking.

9am

After your early morning rise, head for brunch at Bibi’s Cafe. A 15min walk from the city centre, this cafe is tucked away in a small suburb and has cute-as-a-button decor. Their breakfast is also to die for. Try their eggs benedict and coffee.

12pm

Head to the National Museum of Ireland –  Archaeology & History branch for today’s history hit. It houses a fine collection of Bronze Age and Iron Age gold artifacts and has the world’s most complete collection of medieval Celtic metalwork.

3pm

The cathedrals and churches in Dublin are amazing, but one that really stands out is St Patrick’s Cathedral (pictured above). The building dates from 1220. Take a walk through the cathedral and then take a stroll through the surrounding gardens, if the weather allows it.

6pm

Well done, you’ve made it through two very grueling days. Head to a pub of your choice (I recommend the Stags Head – great food) and chill out with a pint of your favourite beverage and a good pub meal.

Have you been to Ireland? What would you recommend doing whilst there?

xx