Dublin: 10 things you must see (1-5)
Dublin is a city like no other. Situated on both sides of the River Liffey, Dublin is a booming, historic city. With stunning Georgian architecture as the backdrop to everyday life in Dublin, visitors to Dublin will enjoy seeing something unique, a historic city that is home to a very modern and hi-tech population. People who visit Dublin usually only visit Dublin for a weekend so it can be hard to decide what to see and do. This article is intended to help you decide where you should spend your time. In this particular article, I’ll be looking at the top 5 things to do in Dublin, while a second article will cover the rest of my list of top 10 things to see in Dublin.
1 – Georgian architecture
Georgian architecture in Dublin dates back to the 18th century, when Dublin enjoyed rapid population growth, a growth that meant the city had to develop outside its medieval walls. Georgian architecture is so named because it was built between 1714 and 1830, during the reigns of George I to George IV. Georgian architecture shares a sense of proportion and balance and a certain amount of grace that was derived by implementing mathematical rules and proportions in architecture.
Among the best examples of Georgian architecture in Dublin are the Custom House, Georgian Houses, The Four Courts and the General Post Office (GPO).
2-Trinity University
Located in the heart of the city of Dublin, Trinity College is a world-renowned educational institution. The College was founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592 and was exclusively for the education of Protestants in Ireland. It was not until 1793 that Roman Catholics were allowed to be educated at Trinity College.
Today, the College still retains much of its style from bygone times with its large green areas and cobblestone patios. Combined with being an educational facility, Trinity College is also home to the Book of Kells, an illuminated gospel book dating back to the 8th century.
3- Temple Bar
Located on the south side of the Liffey, Temple Bar is a trendy area set in a historic location with narrow streets that are still cobbled. Today Temple Bar is associated with nights out, the Saturday market, culture, stag/hen parties. For younger generations visiting Dublin, Temple Bar is often the first point of visit.
Historically, Temple Bar is very varied as during the last century the area was very run down. At one point during the 1980s, the area almost became a bus terminal. In opposition to this proposed development at the urging of residents and businesses, the Government created a non-profit company in 1991 to protect this unique area.
4 – Grafton Street
Grafton Street is Dublin’s main shopping street. The street is pedestrianized and runs from College Green to St Stephen’s Green. Named after the Duke of Grafton, who owned the land in this area, the street grew from a country lane to its current status as one of the best streets in Ireland, if not all of Europe.
The recent economic boom in Ireland has treated Grafton Street well, and subsequent developments did little to dampen this street’s charm. Whether you plan to go shopping during your visit to Ireland, or plan to sample the nightlife, make sure you don’t miss Grafton Street.
5 – Guinness Storehouse
Billed as the place where past and present meet, The Guinness Storehouse is a fashion museum that takes you to the home of Guinness. In this fantastic exhibition you will see, smell and taste over 250 years of Guinness making in this part of Dublin. The museum takes you on a historical journey to the present day, and hopefully answers all of your “black stuff” questions along the way.
The Gravity Bar sits at the top of the Guinness Storehouse and offers fantastic panoramic views of Dublin as the restaurant slowly rotates on its axis.