Stretching from the mountains to the east coast, with one of Ireland's most exciting cities in between, this fascinating county is Ireland’s thriving cultural hub.
County Dublin is compact, meaning you can get a good sense of the city and discover a few of the surrounding highlights in just one weekend. Famous for its friendly locals, boisterous pubs and live music scene, County Dublin is also home to numerous historic houses, delectable restaurants, quirky museums and scenic landscapes.
Explore the many historic castles of County Dublin, such as Dublin Castle, Drimnagh Castle and Malahide Castle. The latter is set in parkland close to the seaside. Interact with the living historic actors of Dalkey Castle who showcase examples of life in Dublin in the 1500s.
Tour the Guinness Storehouse in the center of Dublin city. Learn how to pour the perfect pint and take in views of the cityscape from the panoramic bar. Wander around Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane, which houses a fantastic collection of modern and contemporary Irish art, or study the geological exhibits in the National Museum of Ireland.
Visit Farmleigh House, the former Guinness family estate and take a journey back through time at the National Transport Museum of Ireland. Visitors at the latter can browse a collection of objects relating to public and road transportation through the ages.
For a change of scenery, head to one of County Dublin’s beaches. Donabate Beach, Seapoint Beach and Portrane Beach are just a handful of the sandy beaches offering wonderful scenic walks and sheltered swimming, or lazing on the beach if the water is too cold.
Spend a few hours exploring the quaint fishing village of Howth. Walk the Bog of Frogs Loop for scenic views of the surrounding cliffs, Baily Lighthouse and out to Lambay Island. Eat freshly caught fish and chips from Beshoffs and stroll along the pier with an ice cream.
Fly into Dublin Airport or take the ferry from the U.K. or mainland Europe. Travel around town on Luas trams or by bus, or ride the coastal DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) train which passes picturesque villages along the coast.
County Dublin offers much more than just a vibrant city center. Visitors of all ages will enjoy discovering the region’s colorful past and captivating scenery.
