![]() ![]() To see the fabled Book of Kells, arguably the most important and beautiful piece of European medieval art, head to Trinity College. A visit here gives valuable context to the sights you see as you tour the rest of the city and the country. Its archaeology branch is itself a national treasure, displaying 4,000-year-old gold jewelry, 2,000-year-old bog mummies, 1,000-year-old Viking swords and the collection’s superstar - the exquisitely wrought Tara Brooch. The National Museum shows off Ireland’s history, with treasures from the Stone Age to modern times. On a sunny afternoon, it’s an inviting lunchtime escape. Stephen’s Green, which used to host public whippings and hangings but has been transformed into a lush city park. Once filled with noisy traffic, today this is a pedestrianized people zone lined with cafes, pubs and shopping temptations. Grafton Street is the place to feel the new energy of Dublin. ![]() On my recent visit, I discovered intriguing new sights and experiences, had a great time at some iconic spots, and each night enjoyed fun and affordable entertainment. With Ireland’s invigorated economy comes a heightened focus on tourism. And the air’s cleaner too - even the pubs are smoke-free. I notice the Irish don’t use a certain curse word so much. Ireland’s charming rough edge is being smoothed out by its new affluence. During his childhood with six siblings, he says, “it was ‘first up, best dressed.’ ” He joked that “people were so poor back then, for shoes your mum would paint your feet black and tie on a ribbon.” But Paul then explains that it hasn’t always been this way. Dublin seems to be one huge construction site. He says, “Grand” - pointing out the crane-filled skyline. My driver, Paul, calls to confirm the pick-up spot, and says in a heavy Irish accent, “I’ll meet you at the turd lane.” I ask, “The what?” He says, more clearly, “The turd lane.” Before I ask him to repeat himself a turd time, I get it.Īs we drive, I ask him about the economy. On a trip there last summer, I opted to take Uber from the airport. This is the land of great craic (conversation), where people have that charming and uniquely Irish “gift of gab.” They love to talk, and you’re glad they do. Part of the reason Ireland is one of my favorite destinations is that when visiting the Emerald Isle, I enjoy the sensation that I’m understanding a foreign language. Dubliners are energetic and helpful, and visitors enjoy a big-town cultural scene wrapped up in a small-town smile. Stroll down lively O'Connell Street, tap your foot to traditional folk music, and embark on a pub crawl for a taste of the local nightlife *Helpful maps and self-guided walking tours to keep you on trackWith selective coverage and Rick's trusted insight into the best things to do and see, Rick Steves Snapshot Dublin is truly a tour guide in your pocket.Exploring beyond Dublin? Pick up Rick Steves Ireland for comprehensive coverage, detailed itineraries, and essential information for planning a countrywide trip.As the capital of the country that gets my vote for the friendliest in the European Union, Dublin is a sightseer’s delight: It’s safe, thriving and extremely accessible. With Rick Steves, Dublin is yours to discover! This slim guide excerpted from Rick Steves Ireland includes: *Rick's firsthand, up-to-date advice on Dublin's best sights, restaurants, hotels, and more, plus tips to beat the crowds, skip the lines, and avoid tourist traps *Top sights and local experiences: Uncover Irish history at the Kilmainham Gaol or view the Book of Kells in the Trinity Old Library. Rick Steves Snapshot Dublin (Seventh Edition) ![]()
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