Dublin Diaries

Exploring the Southern Capital of the Emerald Isle: 5 things you can’t miss!

It was James Joyce who first brought me to the cobbled pavements of Dublin, the legendary writer of “Ulysses,” “Dubliners,” and “Finnegans Wake.” After falling in love with the complex tales of “Dubliners,” I embarked on a journey to the Emerald Isle to uncover the untold stories of this vibrant city and to better understand the writer who inspired my final-year dissertation.

From the moment I set foot in the city of Dublin, I was captivated by its charming streets, welcoming pubs, and friendly locals. Everywhere I looked, I found myself surrounded by the city’s unique character, with ceilings adorned with knick-knacks, and architectural wonders that transported me back in time. As I explored its cobblestone lanes, I couldn’t help but feel in awe of the rich history, literary prestige, and cultural treasures that make Dublin such an endearing destination.

This is a city that beckons to be explored on foot, where accidental turns will take you to unexpected destinations: the vibrant terraces of Pleasant Street, the towering arches of George’s Street Arcade, and the vast grassy plains before the Irish Museum of Modern Art. There’s a reason they call it the Emerald Isle, a country charged with heart, grit, and soul, a treasure trove of beauty highly worth the visit.

5 Things You Can’t Miss

1. Step into one of Dublin’s Iconic Pubs

Dublin is in no short supply of historic pubs and bars. Home to Guinness, heroes of advertising and keepers of Ireland’s iconic and hearty stout, Dublin is certainly a city to drink up and be merry! You’ll likely stumble upon a quaint, charismatic pub by chance – there’s something for everyone on every corner. However, here are a few popular crowd, and personal favourites to add to your itinerary:

Temple Bar – This is by far the most popular and lively pub among tourists. With its blazing red exterior, patchwork walls filled with knick-knacks, bar mats, and posters, and a host to local musicians throughout the week, it’s no wonder that Temple Bar attracts the crowds. Upon my first visit, we were offered a grand tour of its literary legacy, seated where Joyce wrote Dubliners, stood where Yeats composed extracts of his collective works – in Dublin, there’s a story beneath every stone; all you have to do is ask! While I highly recommend a visit to Temple Bar, be warned it comes with a price, with some of the most expensive rates in the city.
The Brazen Head – Renowned as Dublin’s oldest pub, since opening its doors in 1198, stepping into the Brazen Head truly feels like stepping back in time. Structurally, the pub is unlike any other in the city, more closely resembling a tavern or inn rather than a modern-day pub, with its iron-clad windows, barrel-lined entrance, and castle-like facade. The Brazen Head serves up delicious and hearty traditional meals at an affordable price, with live music and a vibrant atmosphere – I highly recommend a visit!
Mulligans – Often hailed as the “best pub in Dublin”, Mulligan’s has an esteemed reputation amongst locals and tourists alike. The unlikely convergence of politicians and artists, with a reputation for hosting famous guests such as Joyce and JFK, this iconic pub is a beloved city treasure!
Whelan’s – Whelan’s is one of Dublin’s most recognised live music venues. From indie-rock gigs to up and coming artists, Whelan’s hosts a range of talent throughout the week. With a vast history dating back to 1772, Whelan’s is firmly cemented into the city’s heritage and culture, a lively and energetic spot that lives up to its hype.
Copper Face Jacks – If you fancy something that’s open a little later, head over to Copper Face Jacks. On both occasions that I have visited Dublin, I can easily confirm that this is my favourite club. It’s vast, vibrant and all round great fun!

2. Breakfast at Bewley’s

This 1920s cafe will certainly take you back in time. An unmissable facade, decorated in the Art Deco style with dashes of Egyptian Revival design, has given Bewley’s a prominent position on Grafton Street. Getting a morning table at Bewley’s can be a challenge, but I assure you it is worth the wait – this beautiful cafe is popular for a reason. Though originally renowned for their tea and coffee, Bewley’s of Grafton Street also serves up a delicious range of breakfast favourites and traditional Irish cuisine. From the full Irish breakfast, complete with white pudding and Irish soda bread (my personal favourite), to continental classics, there are plenty of options to quench the appetites of any hungry visitor!

Inside, the dining room unveils an extravagant decor, with tall stained glass windows, decadent wood-carved booths, and vintage chandeliers – it’s otherworldly! Upstairs, literary lovers will find the Joyce Room, complete with a table supposedly occupied by Joyce himself. While on my visit to Bewley’s, the upstairs section was out of bounds; a member of staff kindly allowed me to sneak upstairs and take a look around. This secluded and peaceful balcony spot is perfect for taking a book and enjoying the warmth of a coffee, overlooking the bustle and buzz of Grafton Street below.

Dublin is renowned for its vibrant breakfast and brunch culture, offering a wide range of delectable options to satisfy every palate. Here are a few more of my favourites:

Ebb & Flow (£) Sit-in. 71 Camden Street Lower, Saint Kevin’s, Dublin 2, Ireland. Recommendation: Beans on toast.
Goose on the Loose (£) Sit-in. 2 Kevin Street Lower, Portobello, Dublin, D08 X622, Ireland. Recommendation: French toast.
The Morning (£) Take-away. 49 Pleasants St, Saint Kevin’s, Dublin 8, D08 XHF2, Ireland. Recommendation: Grab a coffee and a bite to eat, then take a stroll around the multi-colored doored houses of Pleasant Street. If you loved “Normal People,” this area is reminiscent of the show!

3. Pour the Perfect Pint at The Guinness Storehouse

Admission: From €26. Tickets through here.

You haven’t truly experienced Dublin until you’ve finished (at least) one pint of Guinness…and where better to taste-test this Irish classic than the Guinness Storehouse itself? Whether you’re a beer lover or not, this visit is sure to pleasantly surprise even the most unlikely of visitors, with floor upon floor of interactive activities, historic tales, tiny tasters, and one of the best gift shops I’ve ever visited. As someone who works in advertising day-to-day, I particularly enjoyed the Advertising Floor, where “Fish on a Bike” and the infamous Guinness toucan had pride of place.

I recommend securing a ticket that includes the pint pouring class, where you’ll be taught by Guinness experts how to pour the perfect pint – there is also an option to have your face printed on top! On the top floor, you’ll find the panoramic bar, so make sure to leave plenty of time to gaze down on Dublin with another pint in hand.

Travel Back in Time to Kilmainham Gaol

Admission: Pre-book for €8 here

Kilmainham Gaol, built in 1796, is an important part of Irish history. It represents much of the politics, music, art, and culture of the country, retaining the memories and stories of people who were imprisoned there during significant events like the 1916 Easter Rising and the Irish Civil War. In Stonebreaker’s Yard, 14 political prisoners involved in the Easter Rising were executed by firing squad, one of whom, Joseph Plunkett, inspired the infamous Irish ballad “Grace”, a tribute to Joseph and Grace Gifford, who were married in the Gaol before his execution.

The Gaol itself is an extraordinary structure, with a skeletal frame occupying the main forum, lit only by the skylight that towers above. Take some time to explore the premises, enter the cells, and hear about the stories of the individuals who once occupied them. The admission also includes entry to the museum where you can learn more about the Easter Rising and the Wars that followed, as well as contributions to Irish literary and cultural history, with reference to Lady Gregory, The Abbey Theatre, Yeats, and other contemporaries. A harrowing and informative day that is highly worth a visit!

Explore The Library of Trinity College Dublin

The library of Trinity College Dublin is one of the most extraordinary displays of architecture, literature, and history in the city. With a 200ft long chamber dating to 1712-1732 and a vast literary archive housing famous artefacts, such as the Book of Kells, the library hall is certainly worth a visit, even if just to awe at its sheer scale and magnitude.

For those interested in exploring more of Ireland’s literary history, be sure to visit the Seamus Heaney museum and the James Joyce museum, which are two of my personal highlights. Alternatively, book a seat at the Abbey Theatre and fully immerse yourself in the extraordinary talent that distinguishes this city!

Thank you for reading! For more travel tips and information, please make sure to subscribe to my blog below and head over to my social channels linked here: