It has been about six months since I have moved to Dublin, and I have come to really love living here. There is pretty much always something to do regardless of the day of the week, the people are super friendly, the food is good and it doesn't rain all the time. Since most of my friends are now only two flight hours away from me, they have decided to come visit me on the weekends.
The two and half days that they are here, seems to be the perfect amount of time to see Dublin. While Dublin may not have some famous landmarks like Paris, Rome or Barcelona, there are still some amazing corners that will make a trip to the Green Island well worth it.
While it is, of course, important to see the touristy places in Dublin such as Dublin Castle, Trinity College, the Spire, Temple Bar, Guinness Store Factory, St. Stephen's Green, especially if it is your first time to the city, there are quite a few other places that are just as cool.
1. Dun Laoghaire
this coastal suburb of Dublin is the perfect way to spend a day. There is so much to do that sometimes even a day might not be enough. One of the biggest attractions is the beautiful promenade that allows you to talk a long stroll alongside the ocean. Once, you've gotten tired of walking around you can either find one of the many restaurants to have lunch at or go to the Royal Marine Hotel for a typical afternoon tea. Plenty of stores and boutiques will invite you to do some shopping. Plus, every Sunday there is a Farmers Market, where you not only will find locally sourced foods but also foods from around the world.
2. Temple Bar
Everyone going to Dublin is going to Temple Bar at least once. Most people will go there in the evenings to see a "real" Irish pub and to drink an extremely overpriced Guinness. However, what most people don't know is that if you go during the day you will be able to see some places that are much more worth your while. Temple Bar has a lot of little gallery's, art shops, individual coffee places and thrift stores that are definitely worth checking out. Always shopping in big brand stores is boring and you might be able to find some truly amazing and unique pieces that you wouldn't find elsewhere.
3. The Canal Area
Whenever there is even just the tiniest bit of sunshine Dubliner's flock to this area. This little water street always has swans and ducks swimming in it and with its trees alongside it, it gives a magical feel. The Canal Area has plenty of green space, awesome cafes, and restaurants that will allow you to just enjoy yourself and let your mind wander. Especially if you are with a group of girlfriends, there is no better place than to catch up and to talk about life and everything in between.
4. Hell Fire Club
If you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city this is the perfect place to go. Located in the south of Dublin this little ruin is located on top of a hill which will give you the perfect view of Dublin and the coast. There are several different routes to get to the top, from easy and fairly short to be a bit more challenging and longer. Once you are at the top you will be rewarded with the most stunning view. And on the way down you can stop at a tiny cafe, the Timbertrove Cafe, that will not only give you incredible views as well but also some of the best home-made deserts you will find in all of Dublin.