TRAVEL TIPS
DUBLIN
OVERVIEW VISÃO GERAL TRANSPORTATION TRANSPORTE ATTRACTIONS ATRAÇÕES WHERE COMPRAS TO STAY ONDE WHERE FICAR TO EAT ONDE SHOPPING COMER
OVERVIEW Dublin is the capital of Ireland and is located in
for its vibrant pubs and night life, especially
the bay where the River Liffey enters the sea.
in the Temple Bar area, the bustling cultural
The Irish city reveals its rich history through
neighbourhood.
its legendary pubs, urban parks, elegant architecture, art galleries and amazing history.
The city offers different historical attractions – such as the Dublin Castle or Saint Patrick’s
Dublin was founded by the Vikings, who built
Cathedral – and the Viking Splash Tour and
the King’s Palace, where the Dublin Castle is
Etihad Skyline Tour. The Phoenix Park, is another
now located. The remnants of this palace, and
highly popular attraction that should be visited.
part of the city’s walls can still be seen in the Undercroft building.
The climate in Ireland, in general, is cold and rainy, and has 200 rainy days per year on
Today, in addition to being associated with
average. In the winter, temperatures range
medieval folklore, Dublin is world famous
between 4°C and 7°C. The summer is also
DUFRY TRAVEL TIPS DUBLIN
mild. The hottest months are in July and August, when temperatures oscillate between 14°C and 16°C. The best time to visit Dublin is between May and August, when temperatures are the most pleasant. In addition, several traditional holidays occur during this period, such as Spring Bank Holiday (3 May, a Celtic holiday with worker campaigns) and the Bank Holiday (7 June, which families take advantage of by having picnics and enjoying nature). Other summer events include the entertaining Vodafone Comedy Festival, the traditional Dublin Horse Show - which has been held in August since 1864 and offers an array
TRANSPORT
of different activities: horse competitions, vendors, fashion shows, etc.; in addition to the Open Air Music & Cinema Festival at Merrion Square, which gathers music and movie lovers and offers a wide range of food and beverage, except alcohol. Then in March, St. Patricks Day occurs. This festival attracts thousands of people and is worth seeing up close. The patron saint of
Dublin has an excellent public transportation system for exploring its neighbourhoods and also has alternatives for moving around the city. In addition to train lines, conveniently located around the city for easy access to the main attractions, Dublin also has privately owned tourist buses and rental services for cars, vans and bicycles.
Ireland is celebrated between March 15 and
Bicycles: The Dublinbikes service has close to
18, during which streets are painted green and
40 rental sites in the city, and charges just €2
revelers participate in a joyous parade through
for three day rentals.
the city centre.
CARS
Explore Dublin and be enchanted. It’s a
There are local and international car hire
destination saturated with history and
companies in Ireland, whose prices start at €30/
natural beauty, featuring excellent food, and guaranteeing memorable experiences.
day. However, it should be noted that in Ireland, like in England, the driver’s seat is located on the right side of the vehicle, and the driver’s side must always be on the right side of the road.
BUS There are private and public bus companies that provide services inside and outside the city limits. Operating hours may vary. For those who wish to economise, or want to visit many places in the city in a short period of time, it is worth buying a “Dublin Bus Freedom Ticket”, which is valid for 72 hours for use on public transport operated by the Dublin Bus consortium within the city limits (it also offers discount for certain attractions). In addition, Airlink Express (the airport bus) and the Green Hop on Hop Off Tour (tourism). The Nitelink, bus service runs from Monday to Saturday, starting from 12:30 am.
TAXIS
FREE TRANSPORTATION
Dublin has 29 taxi companies. The price from
The Ecocabs – a type of “pedicab” which offers
the airport to the city centre varies between
pre-defined routes financed by companies
€20 and €30, and shorter trips in the city
that want to associate their brands with
centre cost close to €10.
environmental consciousness. Thanks to these
RAIL
sponsorships, Ecocabsare free.
The Dublin metro system. This is a comfortable and rapid alternative with two lines (green and red) that connects the city’s main zones, with some stations serving as hubs for trains, buses,
ATTRACTIONS
bicycle rental points and parking zones. The rates vary depending on the trajectory and the circulation zones included. In addition, there are
These are Dublin’s main tourist attractions:
tickets for unlimited trips for 1, 7 or 30 days,
DUBLIN CASTLE
ideal for tourists. Operating hours are from
It was built in a strategic location on the banks
5:30am to 12:30am from Monday to Friday,
of the River Liffey, an area that was probably
and from 6:30am to 12:30am on Saturdays and
an ancient Galician fort previously, as well as a
7:00am to 11:30pm on Sundays.
Viking fort. Visitors may access the conserved
DART Dublin Area Rapid Transport is the city’s rapid train system that goes along the coast, and which connects with normal trains.
areas where artifacts are stored from the medieval period, starting in the XIII century.
DUFRY TRAVEL TIPS DUBLIN
VIKINGS
THE NATIONAL WAX MUSEUM PLUS
Located in the medieval part of the city,
Located in the heart of Dublin, the National
Dublinia is a place that offers attractions for
Wax Museum is a must-see attraction. The
those who are interested in Viking culture:
museum is in the Armoury Building and has
warships, houses, traditional streets and the
interactive installations that represent Irish
Medieval street market, a large merchant
culture, in addition to paying homage to great
house and many other attractions.
inventors. The building attracts visitors of all ages, with puppet shows, cinema, a recording
For those who like adventure and really want to feel like a Viking, theViking Splash Tour
studio, and scientific exhibitions.
is an excellent aquatic journey for learning
THE NATIONAL LEPRECHAUN MUSEUM
about the city’s marvels, both Viking and
The National Leprechaun Museum shows
other monuments.
visitors aspects of the Celtic culture that are
closely associated with fairies, traditional
JIG
dances, rainbows, pots of gold, etc. Through
Jig is a dance show that showcases the best of
interactive activities and installations that
contemporary and traditional dance. The show
represent historical episodes and beliefs, visitors
provides an overview of dance history, and its
can learn more about history and culture and
different steps, styles and cultural legacies, all
also experience what the world would be like
year round at the Powerscourt Theatre. Jig is
from the point of view of a Goblin.
performed close to Grafton Street, in the centre
ETIHAD SKYLINE TOUR In the guided Croke Stadium Tour it is possible
of Dublin. Tickets also include a pass to the Irish Dance Musem.
to see panoramic views of the city from 44
DRACULA’S CASTLE
metres off the ground, on the Stadium’s roof.
A visit to Dracula’s Castle can be an excellent
CROKE PARK STADIUM TOUR
nighttime activity. They may see different attractions, such as film clips, photos, posters,
The Croke Park Stadium is the symbol of Irish
in addition to meeting live actors who are
sports and cultural life. The stadium offers
there to guide visitors through tunnels, over
guided tours of all of its areas. A visit to the
bridges, and through stunning gardens and
GAA Museum is also recommended to learn
libraries. They can also see a mysterious
more about the history of the Galician Games,
theatre, where it is possible to see terror and
from antiquity to the present day. If a visitor
comedy shows.
buys a ticket for the stadium or the Etihad Skyline Tour, museum entry is free.
PHOENIX PARK The Phoenix Park is a historic park of great national importance. It is one of the biggest in Europe. It was originally created by the viceroy of Ireland, James Butler, the Duke of Ormond, in the name of Charles II, as a royal deer park in 1662. Every year, the park hosts an array of activities, mainly sporting events featuring national and international athletes, for triathlons, cross country competitions, and cycling races. The Dublin Zoo is also located in the park. Entry is free for all visitors.
GUINNESS STORAGE HOUSE Founded in 1959 by St. Jame´s Gate, the Guinness Store House is a mecca for beer lovers. Here visitors can learn about the history of the brand and the beer production
DUFRY TRAVEL TIPS DUBLIN
process, as well as visit a store with official products and enjoy all the other attractions the establishment offers. TheGravity Bar, on the
WHERE TO STAY
top floor, offers a panoramic view of Dublin, and is much appreciated by all visitors.
MUSIC AND ART
Dublin has a large number of affordable hotels that are close to the city centre and offer easy access to public transport. Two good options
For visitors who appreciate international
are the Castle Hotel – next to the Croke Park
music, Whelan’s, on Wexford street, is a great
Stadium and other tourist attractions – and the
place to have fun. For those that prefer more
Bram Stoker Hotel, which is perfect for visitors
alternative music, The Bernard Shaw, renown
who love the sea.
as one of the premiere nightspots in Dublin, is a good choice, as is the much vaunted Grand
If the aim is to spend less and meet new
Social. Other famous pubs include O’Neills, a
people, then hostels are the best lodging
popular place for traditional music, and the
option. The better known hostels include
Cobblestone, with music every day, as well as
Abraham House, Globe-Trotters and the Spire,
others such as Oliver John Gogarty and the The
which offers good prices for overnight stays
Temple Bar, both of which are a lot of fun.
and is less than 2 km from the centre of Dublin.
For art lovers, Dublin also offers an ample
If your budget allows for luxury
gamut of memorable galleries, such as the
accommodation, it is worth taking advantage
Parnell Square Hugh Lane Gallery, with national
of the comfort offered by the Merrion, Four
and international, modern and contemporary
Seasons or Ariel House hotels, all of which
art collections. The Irish Museum of Modern
offer excellent services and easy access to the
Art at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham has
city’s main attractions.
both permanent and temporary exhibitions (paintings, sculptures, photographs, videos,
For tourists who wish to avoid the hubbub of
etc.). The beautiful National Gallery, located in
the centre, West County Hotel or, for those with
Merrion Square, also should not be missed by
bigger budgets, the luxurious Castleknock Hotel
art lovers and collectors.
are excellent options. Another outstanding option is the Deer Park Hotel, next to Howth Castle.
For an entertaining evening with lots of laughter, visitors to Dublin can go to one of its famous comedy clubs. The Ha’Penny Bridge Inn is one of the most well-known of these clubs (with open mics on Tuesdays and
DINING OUT
Thursdays), or the International Comedy Club and The Laughter Lounge - both of which are
Irish gastronomy has an array of influences,
very lively and feature famous comedians.
but its main influence is the British culinary tradition. One of the most common ingredients
DUFRY TRAVEL TIPS DUBLIN
in Irish dishes is the potato, a rich source of energy and minerals. Gallagher’s Boxty House is a restaurant that specialises in this ingredient, and in addition to serving their own beers, also offer Coddle (a soup containing pork sausage and potatos). For those who prefer something more refined and innovative, the modern version of Fish and chips served at Dobbins is unforgettable. whiskey; The Dawson Lounge, the smallest Irish coffee is another classic and unique
pub in Dublin; The Bar with no Name, popular
experience. Meals, which are very similar to
for its mojitos and other drinks; as well as
British ones, generally include eggs, bacon,
Bowe’s, which offers live music on Saturdays.
meats, beans, sausages, etc. in generous
The popular Grogans Castle Lounge has been
portions, accompanies by tea or coffee, which
serving beers and snacks to the Irish and
always has cream, sugar, and a little bit of Irish
visitors from abroad since 1899. The historic
whiskey. O’Neill’s Bar & Restaurant, is not just
Brazen Head shouldn’t be missed either:
famous for its drinks, but also for its delicious
founded in 1198, it’s the oldest pub in Ireland.
breakfasts. Other superb buffets include Queen of Tarths and the The Lovinspoon. Both have
It is important to remember that tips (from
pleasant atmospheres and excellent service.
10% to 15%) are included in bills for groups of six people or more.
Dublin is a paradise for barhopping. The famous Temple Bar area has many pubs, but this is not the only pub zone. There are other bars outside of it, such as the The Palace
SHOPPING
Bar, with an ample selection of beers and For those interested in shopping in Dublin, it’s worth visiting Antique Quarter Francis Street and Georges Street Arcade, with over 50 stores with all types of products, from traditional clothing brands to collectibles. For top brand lovers, Grafton Street, is one of the most important streets in Dublin. This street features internationally renown brands, such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, among others.
Other important shopping centres include the
attractions and food. The Blackrock Market is
Jervis Centre - with popular brands such as Diesel
one of the most well known in the city, and
and Forever 21, as well as electronics and other
on weekends it’s famous for selling almost
types of stores, and the DunDrum Town Centre -
everything under the sun.
open until 9pm. The Shopping Ilac, though small, also has a variety of stores and restaurants.
In the Temple Bar Zone, there are also two famous street markets: one specialising in food
It is important to remember that most of the
that is open on Saturdays, and one for books,
stores in the city are open from 9am to 6pm
which is open on Saturday and Sunday.
from Monday to Saturday, and from 12pm to 6pm on Sundays. However, on Thursdays,
Another traditional market is the venerable
stores are open until 8pm.
Christ Church Cathedral Lunchtime Market,
STREET MARKETS
in the vicinity of the Christ Church Cathedral. Since medieval times, people of all classes
Street markets are very popular in Dublin
have gathered there to buy, sell and eat. At
and don’t only offer goods to buy, but also
present, it is open on Thursday and Saturday,
DUFRY TRAVEL TIPS DUBLIN
offering consumers fresh produce and delicious
determine which banks offer the best rates,
street food from all over the world.
and it is also best to always request that withdrawals or charges be made in the local
The Ballymun Farmers Market is an initiative
currency (and not in dollars), both in stores and
to support the development of the Ballymun
at ATMs, since exchange rates can vary.
region through the direct sale of fresh agricultural products by local producers.
However, pre-paid travel cards are less
Another option for people looking for fresh
advantageous than credit cards due to the
produce is theSuperNatural Food Market, that
IOF tax, although they are still a safe way to
also offers fresh natural and organic products.
transport money and to plan the maximum limit of money to be spent on a trip.
The Dublin Flea Market has been one of the most popular markets in Dublin since 2008. It is held on the last Sunday of every month and has over 60 stands, offering vintage clothes, retro furniture, exclusive items, and an infinity of second-hand items. In addition, it offers great street food and attractions, such as DJs and live bands.
CURRENCY The local currency in Dublin, as in all of Ireland, is the Euro. Euro notes come in seven denominations: 5,10,20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros, and 8 coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 centimes and 1 and 2 euros. In Dublin, as in all of Ireland, cash is the preferred form of payment in most cases. However credit cards may also be used (mainly Visa and Mastercard), although in most establishments a minimum charge of â‚Ź10 is required. Most cash points (known as ATMs) accept credit card cash withdrawals. However, it is advisable to check before with your card operator to
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
999
or
EMERGENCY/POLICE/FIRE DEPARTMENT
112
INFORMATION AND TOURIST SERVICES
1890 365 700 BAGGOT STREET HOSPITAL
+353 1 668 1577 ST. VINCENTS HOSPITAL ACCIDENT & EMERGENCY
353 01 209 4358