Top 7 Tourist Sights In Dublin
Written by Roberta Striga -
Monday, 06 October 2008
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 Feeling anxious about traveling somewhere for the first time? If the city you are traveling to for the first time is Dublin, both the largest city and capital of Ireland, there is no need to be afraid.
If there is one city in the world that embraces new and old visitors alike with welcoming arms and a pat on the back then it is Dublin.
And once you experience that level of good old Irish hospitality, wit, charm and craic it will be a love affair for life.
These are 7 top sights in Dublin and all of them are conveniently located in the city center. If you do have the time, have a stroll, wonder around and you are bound to find a good few gems on the way.
If you are strapped for time these cover the basics and they will give you a good feel for the city’s history and rich cultural heritage.
 Trinity College Dublin
One sight that you cannot miss (and not only due to the fact it dominates the city center) is the Trinity College Dublin. Trinity College and its grounds are pretty but it has to be said the main attraction here is the Trinity College Library - home one of Ireland’s most treasured posessions the Book of Kells (illuminated book of gospels dating back to 800 AD).
Another thing worth checking out is the Long Room with more then 200.000 books.
Beware though during the summer months in all probability you will have to wait in the queue to get in.
 National Gallery of Ireland
One of my favorite spots that I come back to time and time again, National Gallery of Ireland is home to an extensive collection of European works that covers the period from the Middle Ages to the present day. There is a Picasso and Caravaggio, however the main lure here is the collection of Irish art.
The Millennium Wing has expanded museum extensively – make sure to check it out, there is even a portrait of Bono. And do not miss a great café and a gift shop at the end.
 St. Patrick’s Cathedral
The national cathedral is built on a spot that is supposed to be the place where St. Patrick converted pagans to Christians in 5th century. There have been a number of churches in the spot, but the one that stands here today dates back to 13th century and it has been heavily renovated in 19th century with the money from the Guinness family.
Make sure to check out the memorial dedicated to Jonathan Swift.
 O’ Connell Street and the General Post Office building
An impressive sight in itself O’Connell Street is busy regardless of what time of the day or night it is. A huge avenue has a number of statues and monuments, while on the left hand side you can see the General Post Office building (which was the focal point of the 1916 rebellion).
Nowadays O’ Connell Street is also dominated by the Millenium Spire (or Spike as the locals call it) which stands at 120 meters and it was supposed to mark the Millenium celebrations. Unfortunately it was not unveiled until 2003.
 National Museum of Ireland – Archeology and History
National Museum of Ireland located on Kildare street is a pretty sight in itself, but real treasures lie inside. The collection is dedicated to Irish history from 7000 BC to the present day, however the most interesting by far is the Treasury where you can find the magnificent Ardagh Chalice and the world known Tara Brooch.
But these are not the only interesting artifacts - since the collection is extensive you might want to spend an afternoon to get the feel for it.
 Guinness Storehouse
A tourist trap if there ever was one, however well worth checking out for anyone that has fondness for the world’s most popular Irish ale.
The museum is a part of the original brewery and in the process of going through the museum you will learn all about the brewing process and get a free pint to sample in the lush surroundings of the Gravity Bar that also offers splendid views of Dublin.
 Temple Bar
Last but definitely not least Temple Bar. Sometimes more ran over by the tourists then the locals Temple Bar has its lure nonetheless. Filled with bustling pubs and clubs, it can get rather rowdy as the night wears off.
And as someone who has been there during one of the busiest night’s of the year – St. Patrick’s day – I can say that pandemonium does not even begin to describe it.
However it is a must see for anyone visiting Dublin and if you do not mind the crowds later in the evening and a few drunks wondering about, good craic is bound to find you whether you like it or not.
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