Why Visit Ireland? Reasons to Visit Dublin

1. It’s great value for money

If you're thinking about taking a trip to Dublin, here's some good news: it's never been better value. You'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to quality, affordable accommodation, food and drink, and getting around won't break the bank either.

2. It’s easy to get to

Whether you come by plane or take the boat, you’ll find yourself in Dublin in no time at all. Flights to Dublin arrive from over 100 European destinations, including daily flights to and from 29 UK airports, and direct ferries run here from Holyhead and Liverpool – so start planning your Dublin trip!

3. Its coastline

Dublin’s a great city – but it’s so much more than that. Travel north or south of the city centre by DART rail service, car, bus or bike, and you’ll find a sparkling string of coastal towns, beaches, harbours and bracing sea views. And where there’s sea, there’s delicious Irish seafood!

• Discover the fishing village of Howth on Dublin's northside
• Take a day trip to Dún Laoghaire and explore the southern coast of Dublin

4. The friendly locals

Ireland is famous for the friendliness of its people, and we’re proud to say that you’ll have no problem making friends in Dublin. We love a chat, we’ll always do what we can to help, and we’ve even been known to be ‘up for the craic’ every now and then!

5. Our spacious parks and gardens

On sublime summer days like these, you just want to be outside, so why not join the countless Dubliners who love to get out and enjoy 'the lungs of the city'? From the historic Phoenix Park to the central St Stephen’s Green, to name but two, Dublin is full of beautiful, relaxing green spaces.

6. Our castles

No exploration of Dublin should be complete without at least one visit to a castle. From Dublin Castle in the heart of the city, to the suburban sites in Malahide, Swords, Balbriggan, Dalkey and Drimnagh, you will discover that they’re all impressive examples of ancient architecture.

7. The beautiful beaches

You may not think of Dublin as one of the world’s great beach destinations, but a short trip outside the city centre will bring you to any number of gorgeous sandy stretches. They’re perfect for walks and views, activities like kite surfing, and – of course – ice cream!

• From kite-surfing to ice-cream, find out the best spots to visit along the Dublin coastline

8. Our cultural quarter

Dublin’s Temple Bar district richly deserves its status as the city’s Cultural Quarter. As well as its many fine bars and restaurants, you’ll find plenty of cool independent fashion and design shops, colourful outdoor markets and award-winning architectural spaces.

9. The River Liffey

Running through the heart of Dublin, and culturally celebrated by everyone from Joyce to Radiohead, the River Liffey is both a water and power supply for the city.  It is also used by commercial and recreational craft and once a year, hundreds of hardy souls attempt the historic Liffey Swim! Each of the many bridges that spans the river has its own history and style.

• Get adventurous on the water in Dublin and try white water rafting or powerboating

10. Our glorious food

Whether you fancy Michelin-starred dining, cosy cafés, tasty Irish classics, the best in world cuisine, bustling food markets, or fresh seafood straight from the coast, Dublin’s a place with something to suit all tastes in Irish food. We’re hungry just writing this!

• Discover a culinary gem in one of Dublin's tasty food markets
• Start your Dublin trip with a full belly and try out the best brunches in town

11. Our fantastic festivals

It’s no secret that Dubliners love to party, so it makes perfect sense that you’ll find so many festivals on here throughout the year. St Patrick’s Day is always the big one, but the rest of our calendar is constantly packed with all sorts of festival fun. Indulge in contemporary film at the Jameson Film Festival and experience Joyce's Bloomsday in June. Style it up for the Dublin Fashion Festival, hit the theatre at the Dublin Fringe Festival and scare yourself silly at the Bram Stoker Festival.

12. Our live music scene

Whatever type of music you’re into, you’re never far from a gig in Dublin. Live traditional Irish music sessions take place nightly in dozens of pubs and hotels, and there are plenty of concert venues and clubs hosting local and international bands, artists and DJs.

13. Lots of free things to see and do

Not only is Ireland more affordable than ever, you can also enjoy so many things to do in Dublin during your visit without spending a single euro. From museums and galleries to parks, gardens and festivals, they’re all fantastic – and free!

14. Our Georgian heritage

From gardens to galleries, townhouses and squares, you’ll find magnificently preserved examples of the architecture and style of Georgian Dublin all over. Most noticeable, of course, is our countless number of gorgeous Georgian doors!

15. Our stunning mountain views

Even in the city centre, there are places in Dublin where you can spot mountains in the distance, but to really get the full vista, take the DART to Howth. While walking around Howth Head, you can enjoy a breath-taking panorama that includes both the Wicklow and Mourne Mountains.

16. Our glorious golf courses

If you’re wondering whether there are any Dublin golf courses, let us assure you that there are! You’ll find some of Europe’s best links courses along our local coastline, and the scenery alone will ensure that these good walks will never be spoiled.

17. We’ve so much history

As you’d expect from a city that’s more than 1,000 years old, there’s ancient history to discover all over Dublin. From streets and buildings to cultural objects, you’ll find remnants of our Victorian, Georgian, medieval and even Viking eras!

18. Kilmainham Gaol

If the walls of Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin could talk… This hugely popular attraction is where some of modern Irish history’s most disturbing and inspirational dramas have played out. Down the centuries, the Gaol ‘hosted’ the likes of Robert Emmet, Parnell and the leaders of the 1916 Rising. It’s always busy – so get there early!

19. Our many traditional pubs

We’re always happy to tell you about the craic, atmosphere, culture, music and history of Dublin pubs, but really, there’s no substitute for experience. And it goes without saying that you’re always very welcome to come and sample it all for yourself!

20. The Guinness Storehouse

Year in, year out, The Guinness Storehouse is Dublin’s most visited attraction, and with good reason! You can learn about the history of ‘the black stuff’ and discover how it’s made, pull your own pint, enjoy The Gravity Bar’s stunning panoramic views and more.

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