Glendalough: https://heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/glendalough-monastic-site-and-visitor-centre/: Incredible heritage site with ancient tower, resting site of St. Kevin, two lakes(Glendalough means two lakes!), visitor center and the amazing Spinc hike which takes you high up into the mountains above the lakes. Located in County Wicklow a little over an hour from Dublin. If you plan to visit we suggest arriving in the morning since it’s a very popular place to visit. On the weekends or bank holidays arriving very early is necessary to get parking. One hour from Dublin.

Enniskerry: https://enniskerry.ie: This charming village is appropriately named “the gateway to Wicklow”. When visiting Powerscourt or Glendalough, it’s a nice wee village to stop by to enjoy a pint or meal. 30 min away from Dublin.

Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel and Killiney Hill: https://www.fitzpatrickcastle.com and https://www.visitdublin.com/killiney-hill. Beautiful walks with views of the Irish Sea, Dublin and monuments. Stop by the castle hotel for tea or a meal or even to stay! 40 min from Dublin and near the coastal town of Dun Laoghaire(pronounced Leary).

Athlone, County Westmeath: https://www.ireland.com/en-us/destinations/county/westmeath/athlone/: Located in the direct center of Ireland on the great River Shannon, halfway from Dublin to Galway. Boasts a thousand year old castle, the oldest pub in the world, restaurants and shops. Many monuments to visit nearby, great place to stop for a meal/break on the way to/from Galway or nice town to stay in if you’re taking a slow tour of the island. 1.5 hours from Dublin.

Galway, County Galway: https://www.galwaytourism.ie: The west coast capitol city of Ireland. Enjoy the wild Atlantic Ocean, visit the Aran Islands, enjoy shopping in historic Eyre Square and we highly suggest staying at the beautiful Hardiman Hotel https://www.thehardiman.ie. Galway is located 2.5 hours from Dublin.

Killarney, County Kerry: https://killarney.ie: A magical and romantic spot that has something for everyone. Located on the shores of Lough Leane and the Killarney National Park which features the MacGillycuddy Reeks-the highest peaks in Ireland. Enjoy adventuring in the wilderness or pampering yourself at the incredible spa located at Muckross Park Hotel and Spa or the Killarney Hotel and Spa, both luxurious 5 star hotels. There is plenty of shopping, restaurants and places to stay including hotels, BnBs or short term rentals. For the historically curious there are many options for exploration including Muckross Abbey and Ross Castle or enjoy a jaunting carriage tour of the town. Killarney is 3.5 hours from Dublin, 2.5 hours from Galway and a little over an hour from Cork.

Gougane Barra, County Cork: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g7747172-Gougane_Barra_Ballingeary_County_Cork-Vacations.html: Located in West Cork and off the beaten path, this valley features a national park with hiking and picnicking and an ancient church from 600AD. This is truly a holy and magical place to visit. If you decide to tour the island and find yourself in West Cork, this is a must see. 3.5 hours from Dublin and 1 hour from Cork City.

Garinish Island, Glengariff, County Cork: https://heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/ilnacullin-garinish-island/: Another West Cork gem! This island is located in a microclimate and features an incredible garden, fortress and manor. The boat ride over is also a treat as you get to see many cute seals. 1.5 hours from Cork City and 4 hours from Dublin.

Clonakilty, County Cork: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g211877-Activities-Clonakilty_County_Cork.html: Charming village with many attractions inside the town and around. Excellent place to stay as a base when exploring around West Cork. 3.5 hours from Dublin, 45min from Cork City.

Kinsale, County Cork: https://www.kinsale.ie: Another great base when exploring around West Cork. This famous port town is where Colm and Dorothy set sail from in 2023! 30min from Cork City and 3 hours from Dublin.

Wild Atlantic Way: https://www.thewildatlanticway.com: This is a famous route to tour. You can take on the entire grand adventure or only stop at certain points. Either way it’s a very helpful guide for finding great sites, many of the places listed here are on the Wild Atlantic Way. It’s very helpful to find off the beaten path gems in rural Ireland.

Aran Islands: https://www.aranislands.ie/plan-visit : The Aran Islands, located off the west coast of Ireland in Galway Bay, are a trio of rugged, windswept islands known for their dramatic cliffs, ancient stone forts like Dún Aonghasa, and traditional Irish culture. Visitors can explore by bike or foot, soaking in the quiet charm, Gaelic language, and breathtaking Atlantic views. Off the coast of Galway, 3 hours from Dublin.

Connemara: https://www.ireland.com/en-us/destinations/regions/connemara/ : Connemara, located in County Galway, is a wild and romantic region of untamed landscapes, featuring sweeping bogs, rugged mountains, and shimmering coastlines. Famous for its traditional Irish culture, Connemara offers a peaceful escape with highlights like Kylemore Abbey, the Twelve Bens, and scenic drives through valleys and lakes. 1 hour from Galway City, 3.5 hours from Dublin.

Dublin Outings

Temple Bar: https://shop.thetemplebarpub.com/ : Temple Bar is Dublin’s lively nightlife hub, packed with bustling pubs, live music, and energetic crowds every night of the week. It’s the ultimate destination for a festive Irish night out, where the Guinness flows and the craic never stops.

Trinity College: https://www.visittrinity.ie/ : Home to the world-renowned Book of Kells, Trinity College is Ireland’s oldest university and a stunning example of historic architecture. Wander its serene campus and visit the Long Room, one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.

Guinness Storehouse and Tour:https://www.guinness-storehouse.com/en/home :Explore the iconic Guinness Storehouse, where seven floors of interactive exhibits tell the story of Ireland’s most famous beer. Finish your visit with a perfectly poured pint and panoramic views of Dublin from the Gravity Bar.

Irish National Gallery : https://www.nationalgallery.ie/ : The National Gallery of Ireland houses an impressive collection of European and Irish art, from classical masterpieces to modern works. Admission is free, making it an accessible and enriching stop for art lovers.

National Museum of Ireland: https://www.museum.ie/en-ie/home : Discover Ireland’s fascinating past at the National Museum, where ancient treasures like the Ardagh Chalice and bog bodies bring history to life. With multiple branches covering archaeology, decorative arts, and natural history, there's something for everyone. Free admission.

Phoenix Park: https://www.phoenixpark.ie/ : One of the largest enclosed parks in Europe, Phoenix Park is a peaceful escape just minutes from Dublin’s city center. Stroll its vast green spaces, spot wild deer, and visit landmarks like Áras an Uachtaráin and Dublin Zoo.

FAQs About Ireland

What’s the best way to see Ireland?

The best way to experience the island is by car. There are some trains that go to large cities, but the best parts of Ireland are the hidden gems you discover driving around! It’s important to note that cars drive on the left side in Ireland(like the UK) and that most cars are not automatic. Book a car far in advance to ensure you get an automatic vehicle.

What currency does Ireland use?

Ireland uses the Euro € exclusively. In Northern Ireland they use the Irish Pound £ exclusively. The Irish Pound cannot be used in the Republic of Ireland or anywhere else in the UK.

People mostly prefer card or electronic phone payments but you will always want to have some € coins on you for shopping carts if you visit a grocery store!

The cheapest and easiest way to obtain euros is through an ATM once in Ireland. You may also order euros from your bank in the US but will need to provide several days notice.

Why visit pubs if I don’t drink?

Pubs are often the main meeting place, eatery and sometimes lodging in villages and towns. Everyone visits pubs, including children. They are not just for drinking but also socializing and boast the most authentic Irish food you’ll experience. If you’re lucky you’ll encounter some trad music and dancing (traditional Irish music and dancing). When you enter a pub you seat yourself and then order at the bar. Sometimes pubs have a special restaurant area with servers, it’s usually easy to tell but you can always ask if you’re unsure!

Can I ask about The Troubles or questions about the IRA?

Ireland has had a tumultuous history as a nation and is still fragmented because of this history, as evidenced by the separation of Northern Ireland.

Please do not ask Irish people about The Troubles or the IRA, if this is something they are comfortable talking about then allow them to bring it up to you.

Is it safe to travel to Northern Ireland?

Traveling either by car, plane or boat to Northern Ireland should be more than safe. Rarely there might be some unrest in Belfast or Derry with protesters gathering. We had no issues when we visited Northern Ireland driving from the Republic. There is no physical border or check points.

Is there anything we should be mindful of if we chose to visit Northern Ireland?

Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom so there are cultural differences from the Republic of Ireland. For example-all signs in Northern Ireland will be in English while in the Republic of Ireland signs are first written in Irish Gaelic and then English. Again, please do not bring up The Troubles or IRA unless it is mentioned to you first.

Do I need to learn any Gaelic to visit Ireland?

Everyone in Ireland speaks English! There are no strictly Gaelic speakers left on the island. You might have difficulty pronouncing some names but Irish people are very friendly and happy to help if you get confused by Irish names for people or places.

A fun word to know is slàinte (slawn-che) which means “to good health!” and what the Irish say before drinking.

Where is the best shopping in Ireland?

For all your upscale shopping needs, Dublin is your best choice! There are two major shopping locations in Dublin which are Grafton Street located in the city center and Dundrum Shopping Center. Grafton St is the major thoroughfare in downtown and is only open to foot traffic. There are many famous pubs, restaurants, hotels and shopping. As it’s located in the heart of Dublin, this area becomes exceptionally busy on weekends and holidays and there are more tourists than Dundrum. It’s still a must street to visit though when in Dublin.

Dundrum Shopping Center is a giant mall similar in size to Fashion Island in Newport Beach. It has both an inside and outdoors section. It’s less crowded than Grafton Street but still has many of the same shops. Since it’s a little farther outside the city center, we would suggest visiting if you are already driving towards Wicklow, Fitzpatrick Castle or Killiney.

What are your recommendations for the best shops?

Avoca: For upscale gifts and extremely high quality, hand woven clothing and accessories. There is nothing nicer than an Avoca scarf! Visit their store at Powerscourt or on Suffolk Street in downtown Dublin.https://www.avoca.com/en/?utm_keyword=dquE8U2QoAw-S5HNlWg165Hp73n8lFeryQ&ranSiteID=dquE8U2QoAw-S5HNlWg165Hp73n8lFeryQ&utm_medium=affiliate&ranMID=53277&ranEAID=dquE8U2QoAw&utm_source=RAd&gad_source=1

Brown Thomas: This is a beautiful department store unique to Ireland and is similar to Saks 5th Avenue. Their flagship store is located on Grafton Street with another large store at Dundrum. A smaller version is located off Eyre Square in Galway. Their stores in Grafton Street and Dundrum feature fabulous cafes that are worth a visit as well.

https://www.brownthomas.com

Butler’s Chocolates: The best chocolate you will find in Ireland! You can visit their lovely shop near Brown Thomas on Grafton Street or pick up some chocolate at their location inside Dublin airport.

https://www.butlerschocolates.com/en/chocolate-cafes/locator/grafton-street-dublin?srsltid=AfmBOoq74tyv1W1YFTqBSCx9OJT9W-zOu9tE9sOzTbJUv-5QUSQKwUiI

Appleby Jewelry: This is my favorite jewelry shop that features a large collection of fine jewelry and impeccable customer service. The prices are very fair too. They are located in jewelry alley off Grafton Street. 5 Johnson's Ct, Dublin 2, D02 EH52, Ireland

https://appleby.ie/?utm_campaign=GoogleMyBusiness

Kilkenny Designs: This shop features Irish made goods including art, glass, crystal, stoneware etc. Located in Dublin City center. https://kilkennydesign.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_content=nassau_street&utm_campaign=gmb

Jam Art Factory: Funky and quirky art and handmade goods by local Irish artists. Located in Dublin City center. https://jamartfactory.com/product/12-arch-bridge-cork-signed-giclee-print/

George’s Street Arcade: Quirky shopping center filled with eclectic storefronts. Located in Dublin City Center. https://georgesstreetarcade.ie

Powerscourt Townhouse Shopping Center: Gorgeous Georgian mansion that has been converted into a beautiful shopping space with many boutiques, antique stores and a large cafe in the center. Kennedy and McSharry hat makers are also located here and they are the preferred hatters of the O’Briens! https://www.powerscourtcentre.ie

Food and Drink in Dublin

What are the best pubs in Dublin?

Pubs are always first come, first serve. You seat yourself and order at the bar. Please peruse this list of our favorite pubs in Dublin:

Kehoes Pub, www.kehoesdublin.ie: an authentic Victorian style pub and always packed!

Neary’s Pub, www.nearys.ie: classic old style pub where you’ll be surrounded by real Irish people. Also serves food.

The Stags Head, www.stagshead.ie: good for a younger crowd, lovely old decor and very lively into the evening.

Doheny and Nesbitts, www.dohenyandneshitts.ie: Truly classic drinking spot which has two “snugs”-small rooms where women used to imbibe as women drinking publicly was not allowed.

The Dawson Lounge, www.dawsonlounge.ie: One of the smallest pubs in the country! Quirky and unique.

The Dropping Well, www.droppingwell.com: This is a traditional pub outside of downtown but worth a visit for the cozy atmosphere and hearty food.

What are the best places to enjoy wine or cocktails?

Pubs are not the best places to enjoy wine or cocktails! You must visit a wine bar or cocktail bar for speciality drinks.

Dunne and Crescenzi, www.dunneandcrescenzi.ie: Lovely wine bar that also serves Italian cuisine. There is a location in downtown and also at Dundrum shopping center. Famous writer and dear friend, John Banville, is a particular fan of this establishment.

Olesya’s Wine Bar and Bistro: www.olesyaswinebar.ie: Excellent wine and food, you may want to make a reservation as it’s very popular. A favorite celebration spot for the O’Briens!

Vintage Cocktail Club(VCC), www.vintagecocktailclub.com: My favorite bar in Ireland and maybe the world. This speakeasy is extremely popular and requires reservations made weeks in advance. The bar features a menu of 100s of cocktails tracing the history of the cocktail while you are sat in a dimly lit Victorian style parlor. The entrance to the club is an unmarked black door with the letters VCC and a door bell you must ring for service. Please note the dress code and that this is a 23 and up club. Drinks only, not a food establishment.

No. 27 Bar & Lounge, located inside the 5* Shelbourne Hotel, www.theshelbourne.com: a delightful high class bar across the street from Stephen’s Green park. Can become crowded and is first come first serve, but I’ve always been able to get a table.

9 Below, www.9below.ie: Upscale and posh cocktail lounge.

Peruke and Periwig, www.peruke.ie: A classic and cozy cocktail lounge with food options. Popular so we advise making a reservation.

J. T. Pims, www.jtpims.ie: An O’Brien favorite for a good time! No visit to Dublin is complete without at least one trip to J. T. Pims as it’s Paul O’Brien’s absolutely favorite haunt!

Bruxelles, www.bruxelles.ie: Extremely lively three story bar and restaurant.

Lemon and Duke, www.lemonandduke.ie: Stylish Bar and Restaurant. Reservations advised for dinner and can become quite crowded late into the evening.

What are some restaurant recommendations?

It’s a very good idea to make reservations when eating out in Ireland if you’re able. Sometimes places can accommodate you, but for dinner it’s always wise to make reservations.

Many of the places mentioned in the pub and drinks sections are also restaurants so please keep those in mind and also let me recommend the following:

Davey Byrnes: www.daveybyrnes.com: Fine food and drinks but also famous for its mention in James Joyce’s book Ulysses.

Carluccio’s, www.carluccios.com: Casual Italian restaurant that has an entirely separate gluten free menu along a regular menu. Has vegan and vegetarian options.

Bewley’s Cafe, www.bewleysgraftonstreet.com: Grand European style cafe famous for their teas, coffees and baked goods. They serve Irish breakfasts/brunch and lunch as well. Enjoy the beautiful stained glass artwork.

Sophie’s Rooftop Restaurant and Terrace, www.sophies.ie: Extremely trendy eatery and bar.

Layla’s Rooftop Restaurant, www.laylas.ie: Lovely rooftop restaurant with great views of the city.

Pickle Restaurant, www.picklerestaurant.com: Very chic and complex Indian delicacies. You must reserve weeks in advance.

Etto, www.etto.ie: Farm to table style eatery serving modern European style dishes.

Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, www.restaurantpatrickguilbaud.ie: True French style fine dining with à la carte, tasting and set menus.

Peploe’s St. Stephens Green, www.peploes.com: Famous for their food and extensive wine list, this European bistro will for sure leave an impression.

Las Tapas de Lola, www.lastapasdelola.com: Vibrant and atmospheric tapas restaurant and wine bar.

Supermacs, www.supermacs.ie: This is the Irish version of McDonalds because sometimes you don’t want a Michelin meal!

Eddie Rockets, www.eddierockets.ie: 50s style diner that’s open late serving American style diner foods like milkshakes, burgers and fries(called chips in Ireland).

Where can I experience high tea?

The best spots for high tea are at The Westbury hotel or The Shelbourne hotel. Make sure to make reservations early and let them know of any food restrictions. At The Westbury, they will make any accommodations you need including vegan and gluten free. Please note that these high teas include a large amount of food and can serve as an entire meal.

Recommended Accomodations in Dublin

The Westbury: https://www.doylecollection.com/hotels/the-westbury-hotel?utm_source=google&utm_medium=local&utm_campaign=hotel-thewestbury: 5 ⭐️ True luxury hotel in the center of Dublin.
The Merrion Hotel: https://www.merrionhotel.com: 5 ⭐️ Exquisite luxury hotel located near Stephen’s Green and capitol buildings.
The Fitzwilliam Hotel: www.fitzwilliamhoteldublin.com: 5 ⭐️ Stylish hotel located on Stephen’s Green.
The Shelbourne: www.theshelbourne.com: 5 ⭐️ Traditional and elegant selection located on Stephen’s Green.
NYX Hotel Portabello: https://www.nyx-hotels.co.uk/dublin: 4 ⭐️ Very trendy hotel in the Portabello district, fashionable area.
Thomas Moore Inn: www.thomasmooreinn.ie: 4 ⭐️ Traditional accommodation near Stephen’s Green.
Maldron Hotel City Center: https://www.maldronhotels.com/kevin-street/?utm_source=GMBlisting&utm_medium=organic:
4 ⭐️ Sleek business style hotel right in the city center.
The Alex Hotel: www.thealexhotel.ie: 4 ⭐️ Modern boutique hotel near Trinity College.
Townhouse on the Green: www.townhouseomthegreen.ie: 4 ⭐️ Small boutique hotel on Stephen’s Green with traditional accents. Warning there are no elevators in this historic Georgian building.
Staycity Aparthotels Dublin: https://www.staycity.com/dublin: 4 ⭐️ Aparthotel accomodations with various locations throughout Dublin.
Trinity Townhouse Hotel: www.trinitytownhouse.ie: 3 ⭐️ Located between beautiful Stephen’s Green and Trinity College. Warning there are no elevators in this historic Georgian building.
Staunton’s on the Green: www.stauntonsonthegreen.ie: 3 ⭐️ Right on Stephen’s Green in an old Georgian house. Warning there are no elevators in this historic Georgian building.
Travelodge PLUS Dublin: https://www.travelodge.ie/rooms/travelodge-dublin-city-centre: 3 ⭐️ The flagship of this hotel chain is very sleek and modern. Located right in the city center.
Drury Court Hotel: https://www.drurycourthotel.ie: 3 ⭐️ Traditional family owned hotel with apartment style accommodations.
Harding Hotel: https://www.hardinghotel.ie: 3 ⭐️Traditional value hotel with simple furnishing just north of the Liffey River.

This is a small sampling of the available hotels and there are plenty of other types of accommodations including short term rentals such as Airbnb.

We strongly urge you to avoid booking anywhere on the northside of Dublin ie-anything north of the Liffey River-when booking your accommodations!

Places to Avoid in Dublin

Can I visit the Northside of Dublin?

Like every major metropolitan city there are more and less desirable areas of Dublin. Overall Dublin is a very safe city but we just want to give those traveling as much information as possible to make educated decisions on which areas to frequent.

The Northside of Dublin refers to any area North of the Liffey River. This area can be less safe if you venture away from the river or major tourist areas. Only visit during the daytime if on a tour and do not wander around. There are many lovely places north of the Liffey such as Phoenix Park and the Dublin Zoo!

It is safe to visit the O’Connell Bridge and Monument as well as the Ha’penny Bridge and we do highly suggest visiting these two locations.

What is VAT and How to Get it Back (for American Travelers in Europe)

VAT (Value Added Tax) is a sales tax included in the price of most goods in Ireland—usually around 23%. As a tourist from the U.S., you can get some of that money back when you leave the country, if you follow a few simple steps.

How to Get a VAT Refund in Ireland:

Shop at Stores That Offer VAT Refunds
Look for signs that say “Tax-Free Shopping” or ask the cashier if they offer VAT refunds. You’ll need to show your passport and ask for a tax-free shopping form or digital receipt.
Keep Your Receipts and Forms
Save the receipts and tax-free documents you get. Some stores work with refund companies like FEXCO HORIZON or Planet, which may provide digital receipts instead of paper forms.
Go to the Refund Desk at the Airport
At Dublin Airport (or Shannon/Cork), before your flight:
- Go to the VAT Refund or Customs desk
- Show your receipts, passport, and the items you bought (don’t pack them yet)
- Get your receipts stamped or scanned
Claim Your Refund
After getting your documents stamped, go to the refund kiosk or desk (usually run by FEXCO or Planet) and choose how you want to be paid:
- Refund to your credit card
- Cash (in some cases)
- Check mailed to you later

Note: There’s usually a €75 minimum spend per store and a 90-day limit from the date of purchase.

Can You Help Me Build A Personalized Tour of Ireland?

Yes! Dorothy is helping others build a personalized itinerary and as long as you provide her with 6 months notice she can help you build your very own Irish adventure to accompany our wedding!

Ireland Travel Brochure and Suggestions

Day Trips from Dublin and Excursions Across Ireland

Dublin Outings

Colm and Dorothy 2026