Dublin Zoo
Nothing beats a day at the zoo, and Dublin’s is one of the best, with a location right in the heart of the city in the Phoenix Park. It’s officially the biggest family attraction in Ireland, with around 400 animals dotted throughout their 28 hectares. Keep an eye on their site for news of additions – last year three Asian elephants were born in the space of ten weeks, and the gorgeous newborns always draw a crowd. There are lots of hotels in dublin situated close to Dublin Zoo. Check out our nearby hotels here
Details: Family tickets are €47 for 2 adults and 2 children.
See: www.dublinzoo.ie
Chester Beatty Library
Fancy a literary pursuit while you’re in the city? Skip the queues for the Book of Kells, and make your way to the Chester Beatty Library, where you’ll find an incredibly impressive collection of books from 2700 BC to present day. On the ground floor, there’s also the excellent Silk Road Café, where you can tuck into some of the best Middle Eastern food in town. Free guided tours are available at 1pm each Wednesday, and at 3pm and 4pm on Sundays.
Details: Admission is free.
See: www.cbl.ie
The Powerscourt Centre
Details: Admission is free.
See: www.powerscourtcentre.ie
Glasnevin Cemetery
It’s the final resting place for over 1.5 million souls, and a vital part of the Irish Heritage story. Be sure to pay a visit to the award-winning museum as well as partaking in a tour – the guides who lead visitors around the Victorian Garden Cemetery are passionate, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. You can also research your own family tree in the genealogy research area. While you’re there, be sure to pay a visit to the National Botanic Gardens.
Details: Combined Museum and Tour Tickets cost €12.
See: www.glasnevintrust.ie
Guinness Storehouse
It’s easy to write it off as just another tourist attraction, but the Guinness Storehouse put on one hell of a show. You’ll learn all about the history of the brand and the brewing process, as well as getting an insight into some of the most memorable adverts in the Advertising Gallery. You’ll learn to pull the perfect pint, and enjoy one in the Gravity Bar, whilst drinking in amazing panoramic views of the city.
Details: Tickets cost €18 on the door.
See: www.guinness-storehouse.com
Howth
There’s a lot more to Dublin than the city centre. Just a short DART ride away is the pretty seaside village of Howth, perfect for an afternoon stroll. Head up into the mountains for a walk along the cliff tops, where you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the coastline. There are any number of fantastic seafood restaurants in Howth village, where you can tuck into the freshest local produce.
Details: The train journey takes around 25 minutes.
See: www.visitdublin.ie