Mini Travel Guides

I remember one of my first experiences in Dublin, crawling from bar to bar during the Guinness Blues Festival which takes place each year between the months of May and June. Pubs across town host acts small and large — all blues related — and Irish and blues enthusiasts alike have yet another excuse to go out pubbing.

Not that you need excuses in Dublin, really. If anything you need an excuse not to go pubbing, because there are few institutions like the Irish pub and few traditions as easy to learn and love as drinking, singing, whipping out a bodhran and dancing on the tables. I remember when that first happened to me, in Cork. And then again in Dingle. And in Doolin and in Dublin twice and then in Strabane … great craic, although I’ve never used that word because it sounds funny coming out of anyone but an Irishmen.

The pub and the dancing are so ingrained in the culture that I don’t have to come up with “my favorite pub crawl” (which is great, because I remember little anyway). There are dozens of different crawls to choose from, including:

A Literary Dublin Pub Crawl, hosted by Colm Quilligan, which looks like a whole lot of fun and this James Joyce-inspired pub crawl that meanders all over town. I like the definition of a pub crawl given by the James Joyce fan:

” a pub crawl… is a controlled (?) drinking spree with the simple intention of sampling a drink in as many hostelries as possible.”

Now that we’ve mentioned bodhran’s and table dancing, we might as well include a traditional Irish music pub crawl, hosted by two musicians with an excellent tolerance for stout beer. Ireland is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been in my life and a lot of my appreciation for the country comes through the music – impromptu concerts at 3am outside of a pub in Doolin, jam sessions in Belfast and of course blues in Dublin (blues actually is a mixture of African and Irish music, but that’s another story for another time).

But not all of us want to go from pub to pub listening to obscure quotes or melancholic tunes. For the part animal just looking to get sauced, then perhaps the New Dublin City pub crawl is for you. Or perhaps you want to meet backpackers and fellow travelers, if so then the Original Backpacker pub crawl might be your glass of Guinness. Just looking for Ye Olde pub crawl – no required reading or listening, no requirement to “suck down that Irish Carbomb!” – just good beer and good friends? Then check out the Dublin City pub crawl, a classic affair.

Having a guide on your pub crawl is nice, because you can learn a little about the city and you won’t have to deal with maps and itineraries. And when you get tired of the guide you can always slip away. But the downside is that the adventure is taken away from the experience a bit. Pub crawls are often spontaneous events (especially after the second pub) so why not just grab a Dublin City pub map, or write down these lyrics from a Merry Ploughboys song and take to the streets. This is Dublin after all and you can’t walk more than 100 meters without passing a pub …

Written by Sascha Matuszak for EuropeUpClose.com

Related posts:

1. Dublin: September Up Close City of the Month
2. Celebrating St Patrick’s Day in Dublin
3. Discover Dublin

This post is sponsored by InsureAndGo.com, a leading provider of travel insurance. Visit them today for excellent rates on European travel insurance.

When you truly love a city, one of the hardest questions to answer is: what are the must-see sights? My answer often depends on my mood and the person asking. There’s climbing to the top of the Sugar Loaf Mountain, exploring locals-only parks, and finding the last few independent bookstores. But if you’re visiting Dublin for the first time, there are some essentials to see first. These must-see sights form the core of an understanding of Dublin, and will reveal a great deal about the local culture.

For a first-timers weekend in Dublin, here are five of my fmust-see sights for a weekend in Dublin:

1. Grafton Street

Every first-time visit to Dublin should begin on Grafton Street. This pedestrianized road is not only geographically at the center of Dublin, but is also considered by many locals to be the heart of the city. A stroll along here will introduce you to the local architecture, provide the opportunity to listen to musicians and street performers, and enjoy Irish food and drinks.

Grafton Street is an incredible place for people watching. Start your day at Bewley’s Cafe, preferably on the second floor overlooking Grafton Street. Here you can enjoy pastries and a pot of tea before beginning your first day in Dublin.

Grafton Street is also home to the upscale department store Brown Thomas as well as many other shopping options. If you can’t wait to get your first pint of Guinness, there are many authentic pubs just off Grafton Street including Davy Byrne’s, Kehoe’s, and McDaid’s.

2. Museums

A trip to Dublin should include a visit to one of the city’s fantastic museums. Choosing will depend on your individual preferences. Travelers with a literary interest will want to visit either the National Library of Ireland (with its famous exhibit of the work of W.B. Yeats, complete with touch-screen technology) or the Dublin Writers’ Museum.

If you’re interested in art, check out the Jack B. Yeats exhibit at the National Gallery of Ireland or more contemporary work at IMMA, the Irish Museum of Modern Art. Families might want to check out the Museum of Natural History, with a collection that includes a wide range of animals indigenous to Ireland, such as skeletons of giant Irish deer with surprisingly wide antlers.

3. The Guinness Storehouse

The recipe for Guinness, Dublin’s most famous drink, has gone unchanged for over 250 years. It has been brewed in the same Dublin location, at St. James’s Gate, since the beginning when Arthur Guinness was in charge. Today, the Guinness Storehouse is one of the most fascinating attractions in Dublin, whether or not you even like the beer.

First of all, the museum was designed as an interactive experience. Purchase your tickets online in advance to skip the line, and once inside, you will be smack in the middle of a working brewery. From learning about the ingredients and history to hands-on learning about how to pour the perfect pint, this museum will reveal why Guinness is so beloved in Dublin.

The best part comes last at the Guinness Storehouse. At the top of the brewery is a space called the Gravity Bar, offering 360-degree views all around Dublin. A complimentary pint is included in the price of your ticket, so sit back, relax, and take in the views.

4. The Long Room at Trinity College

Trinity College is a large, architecturally impressive university in the center of Dublin. It is also home to two of the most popular attractions in the city: the Book of Kells and the Long Room Library. While this attraction is definitely worth your time, you MUST arrive early in the morning (or a few minutes before closing) to avoid long lines.

Once inside, you will have the chance to view the ancient Book of Kells, and then it’s on to the Long Room library, a stunning two-story library that is home to countless rare manuscripts and books.

5. The Temple Bar Market

If you’re in Dublin on a Saturday, one activity you must do is attend the Temple Bar market. Other attractions on this list offer the chance to experience local culture while the market offers the chance to taste it. Go straight for all the most authentic Irish offerings, including artisan Irish cheese, freshly shucked oysters, and sandwiches filled with roasted lamb.

You will encounter many locals doing their weekly shopping while digging into these delicious treats. The market also offers a very affordable way to eat for families traveling to Dublin on a budget.

From markets to museums, libraries to look-out points, Dublin is full of appealing attractions. This is a city known for its warm hospitality, so don’t spend all your time packing in the attractions. Instead, pull up a stool and soak in the atmosphere at a local pub while engaging with the friendly people. And remember, when traveling, even for a weekend, you might want to look into travel insurance. Short-term travel insurance can take away the worries, even on a short holiday.

Written by by Jessica Colley for EuropeUpClose.com

This post is sponsored by InsureandGo, for all your Travel Insurance needs.

Related posts:

1. Celebrating St Patrick’s Day in Dublin
2. First Time Visitor’s Guide to Dublin
3. Discover Dublin

Ancient cultures, wildlife, outdoor adventure … pick a Dublin day trip category and enjoy. While Ireland’s capital city has enough to keep visitors engaged for weeks, it can be illuminating to get outside the city center and see exactly what the picturesque countryside is so famous for.

During the years I lived in Dublin, I took many day trips, some of them spectacular, and all of them inspiring. Here are five of my favorite day trips outside the city, all of which have lured me back for at least a 2^nd round of exploration.

Newgrange

During any trip to Ireland visitors are sure to discover that this is an island with well established links to prehistoric times and deep, long-ago traditions. Visiting Newgrange, a prehistoric monument in County Meath about an hour’s drive north of Dublin, solidifies this idea even further. Upon arrival at Newgrange, it is hard to wrap your head around the idea that this monument was built in 3200 BC.

When I first boarded the small shuttle from the welcome center to the ancient site, I couldn’t believe I was about to set my eyes on something over 5000 years old. Even more impressive is the fact that this monument reveals just how clever and advanced people were at the time.

The ancient burial mound has two striking features. The first is spirals carved into rock at the monument’s entrance. The second is the incredible fact that the chamber was built with such precision that on the winter solstice the room fills with brilliant light at sunrise. During your tour, you will witness a reenactment of this phenomenon.

Belfast

Some people may take the position that  Belfast is beyond a day trip from Dublin, but I quickly realized during my time in Ireland that this isn’t true. There are a number of trains each day that run directly between Dublin and Belfast, and it is more than feasible to catch an early morning train and in just under two hours, be in Belfast for a day of exploring.

Whenever I travel to a new destination, my favorite way to get oriented is to simply stroll, eat, drink, and soak in the surroundings. Upon arriving in Belfast for the first time, I put away my map and wandered around the historic, cobbled cathedral quarter. I stopped for a pot of tea in one of the oldest pubs, and leisurely read the newspaper. To gain a bird’s eye view of the city, I took an elevator to the top of the Victoria Square Shopping Center.

A quick day trip can serve as an introduction to Belfast and to Northern Ireland and whet your appetite for an extended visit. Once back on the train, it will be almost impossible not to compare and contrast Belfast with the capital city of the Republic of Ireland, Dublin.

Powerscourt Estate

Not all day trips from Dublin require a train journey. The Powerscourt Estate, a 30-minute drive south of Dublin in County Wicklow, is a great option for a local day trip. Here visitors will get a glimpse of the lush, green countryside that Ireland is renowned for.

The Powerscourt Estate is home to several attractions. There’s the Powerscourt Waterfall, a 400-foot waterfall that is an ideal background for an afternoon picnic. For golf enthusiasts, there are two award-winning courses, both with incredible views of the nearby Sugar Loaf Mountain. The Powerscourt Gardens are another lovely place to admire the views of the Sugar Loaf. And you won’t want to miss the great little café, Avoca, for tea and sandwiches after working up an appetite.

If you’re interested in an overnight daytrip from Dublin, the Powerscourt Estate is also home to the five-star Ritz Carlton Powerscourt. Here you can dine in a Gordon Ramsay Restaurant, indulge in the spa, or hit the hotel-guest-only hiking trail to encounter some of the local wildlife.

Sugar Loaf Mountain

After a few days in the city, sometimes I’m itching to get outdoors. One of the best options for an invigorating hike outside of Dublin is the Sugar Loaf Mountain. It is possible to reach the top in about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on your pace. Most of the climb is more of a walk on an incline, with the final ascent requiring a bit of finesse over rocks.

Once you reach the top, you are rewarded with incredible 360-degree views. There are the ancient stone fences and grazing sheep below. And the Bay of Dublin unfolds like a map in front of you, with the city of Dublin in the center of a C shaped bay. On a sunny, clear day, there is almost no better view of Dublin than you will find at the top of the Sugar Loaf Mountain.

Pack a picnic in advance and you won’t feel compelled to rush back down to refuel.

Glendalough

Glendalough is another fascinating day-trip from Dublin. This 6^th century monastic settlement is known not only for its medieval ruins, but also for its beautiful setting. After exploring the monuments and learning about this historic destination, your trip to this site in County Wicklow won’t be complete until you take full advantage of this perfect place for a scenic walk.

There’s a reason that monks in the 6^th century chose this location to build a settlement, and you will discover why when strolling around the idyllic walking trails and two lakes. Be sure to stop at the information office and pick up a map to help you pick a trail for your stroll. Trails vary in difficulty and length, but all are rewarding when it comes to views.

Simple Day Trips

Not all day trips outside of Dublin require an entire day. Some of the best day trips consist of simple explorations of outlying neighborhoods or villages. The DART train, or commuter train, is a great way to spend a few hours exploring beyond the city center. Board the DART train for Howth to take a walk along the village’s pier and watch seals playfully swim around the harbor.

Other options include boarding the DART train in the southern direction for Dun Laoghaire, another coastal village with a pier that jets out into the Irish Sea.

Choosing day trips will depend on the weather, your energy level, and your interests. Once you venture beyond the center of Dublin you are sure to discover, as I did, that there is always one more reason to return to this delightful  city.

Written by Jessica Colley for EuropeUpClose.com

Related posts:

1. Dublin: September Up Close City of the Month
2. Must-See Sights for A Weekend in Dublin
3. Living Truly Green in Dublin, Ireland

There are many things I wish I had known before that first trip to Dublin. Information that would have helped me see more, manage my time better, and delve deeper into the city’s history and culture.

The first time I landed in Dublin, Ireland it was 7am on a sunny September day. I remember leaving the airport behind, closing in on the city center, seeing the classic pubs and bright Georgian doors. I remember crossing the River Liffey for the first time, bound for the heart of Dublin; St Stephens Green.

Yet, this very first day in Dublin, even through bleary 7am, just-off-an-overnight-flight-eyes, the city made a firm enough impression on me to want to call it home for over two years.

Here is my first time visitors guide to Dublin, full of the insights I wish I had when my plane first touched down in the capital city of the Emerald Isle.

Getting Around Dublin

There are many ways Dublin is different than other capital cities of Europe, and transportation is definitely one of them. Upon arrival at the airport, a visitor will find there is no train or subway service into the city center (there are no subways at all here). You have two main choices: take a taxi or hop a bus service called the Aircoach.

On the Aircoach, each individual person will pay a 12 euro return fare. Yet if you’re traveling in a group, a taxi to the city center will cost only about 20 – 25 euros. The taxi will save you time and money if you’re traveling with 3 or more people. Otherwise, you might want to hop the Aircoach for a 20 – 30 minute ride into the center of Dublin.

Once in the city center there are several ways to get around. Some visitors depend on taxis while others are more creative. Dublin is home to a bike share program, where for 2 euros (you must use a credit card) you can rent a bike and cycle around the city. Alternatively, check out the Dublin Bus website in advance to research central routes or hop the tram system, called the LUAS, to get around without needing a taxi.

Dublin Practical Information

The currency in Dublin is the euro. There are several ways to get local currency upon arrival, including ATMs, foreign exchange at the airport, or walking into a local bank in Dublin to make an exchange (this doesn’t carry the same hefty fees as foreign exchange at the airport).

Another important piece of practical information concerns tipping. In restaurants where you are served at a table, a 10% tip is sufficient. If you’re ordering drinks at the bar, no tip is necessary, and the bartender will not expect one. A nice tip for a taxi is 10% although don’t be surprised if a driver provides you with all your change.
Click here for additional  Ireland Tourist Information.

Where to Stay in Dublin

Dublin is divided by the River Liffey: the north side and the south side. Generally, visitors stay on the south side of Dublin, and this is what I would recommend. While a few attractions are on the north side (such as the Abbey Theatre and the Dublin Writers’ Museum), most of the attractions, and certainly the most pleasant areas to walk around and explore are on the south side.

That being said, you are going to want to stay in a hotel with a Dublin 2 (very central) or Dublin 4 (next best central) post code. St Stephens Green is often considered the heart of Dublin, so one way to determine whether a hotel is right for you is its proximity to this park.

Two classic hotels are located right near St Stephens Green: the  Shelbourne and the Merrion, both 5-Star properties. If you’re looking for a boutique experience check out the5-star  Dylan Hotel or the 4-star Aberdeen Lodge in heart of Ballsbridge or the Schoolhouse Hotel. If you’re traveling on a budget, check out the 3-star Sandymount Hotel.

Many hostels are located on the north side of Dublin, but the truth is, since the crash of the Celtic Tiger there are many affordable hotel rooms to be found in this city without needing to book a bed in a hostel. See Andy Hayes suggestions for more Dublin hotel choices.

Must See Sights in Dublin

There are a few central sights that will form the core of a first trip to Dublin. The first I’ve already mentioned, St Stephens Green. From here, it is easy to take a stroll along Grafton Street, a pedestrianized shopping street known for street performers and department stores.

Dublin is a city with an impressive literary history, and there are many museums where you can learn a bit about Dublin’s literary past. A great place to start is the National Library of Ireland, with its fantastic interactive exhibit on the Nobel-prize winning poet W.B. Yeats. If you’re interested in art, check out the National Gallery of Ireland or the Irish Museum of Modern Art. For history, you will want to arrive at Trinity College early one day to see the Book of Kells and the Long Room Library. To see all that Dublin has to offer at a discount, be sure to purchase a Dublin Pass.

Other than literature, Dublin is well known for another great export: Guinness. The recipe for Guinness is older than the United States of America, and it has been brewed in the same place, St James’s Gate, for all this time. Buy your tickets in advance to skip the line at the Guinness Storehouse, and after taking in the museum, sip on a perfect pint while enjoying an incredible view over the rooftops of Dublin from the Gravity Bar.

While Dublin might not have a reputation as a culinary city, if you go to the right places you’ll discover the truth. Ireland is home to a range of culinary artisans and talented chefs that have redefined the idea of Irish cuisine. You’ll find great examples of this fresh, exciting food at the Temple Bar Market, where you can sample Irish cheeses and just-shucked oysters. Two of my favorite restaurants for trying out local cuisine are the Winding Stair (set in a former bookshop) and the Ely Winebar (set in the basement of a historic Georgian building).

A little research in advance will make for a smooth first trip to Dublin. Familiarize yourself with public transportation, keep an open mind regarding Irish food, and choose a central location for a hotel so all the delights of this friendly city will be right at your fingertips.

Written by Jessica Colley for EuropeUpClose.com

Related posts:

1. Dublin Dining Guide
2. Insiders Travel Guide to Dublin
3. Celebrating St Patrick’s Day in Dublin

Maybe you’ve noticed…Every month we focus on a different European city and this month, September, Dublin, Ireland is the star. We post our city of the month articles on Mondays, so you can look forward to these exciting, informative, new articles each week. Next Monday, Jessica Colley, who lived in Dublin for two years, provides tips for the first-time visitor to Dublin.

On subsequent September Mondays, you can read about day trips from Dublin, what to do if you only have a weekend in Dublin, and finally – can you guess? – choosing the best Pub Crawl in Dublin.

But wait, here’s more info on Dublin that you can dig into right now!

Insider’s Guide to Dublin

Discover Dublin

Best Dublin Hotel Recommendations

Related posts:

1. Mattie’s Guide to Finding Month-to-Month Rentals in Europe
2. Reykjavik Up Close City Guide
3. First Time Visitor’s Guide to Dublin

Usually, the thought of a tasty, ice cold brew at the end of a long trek is what keeps even the most intrepid traveler fueled and focused when life on the road gets a little hard going. Thankfully, pretty much everywhere you go in Europe you’re up to your waist in world-class brew, and better yet, a veritable variety of amazing venues in which to relax, unwind and meet great people while you enjoy that well-earned ale.

The Old World attracts considerable tourism through its magnificent architecture, rich history and vibrant array of culture, yet it’s drinking tradition is second to none in terms of breadth, quality and abundance. From Western Spain to Turkey, from Morocco to the crisp Baltics, every nook in Europe prides itself on its own flavors and cozy settings in which to enjoy them.

Ultimately, distilling a comprehensive Best Pubs Guide for the whole of Europe is an immense task. For your consideration and abundant drinking pleasure, I present the following brief, sample quencher which features just a few of the finest watering holes on tap:

Germany—Munich—“Hofbrauhaus”
Picture a bustling, cavernous barn hall filled with drinkers from every part of the world chanting national songs, while dancing and drinking to their hearts’ content. Picture busty froelines ferrying stein after stein to an endlessly thirsty clientele while oom-pa-pa bands in lederhosen blow Bavarian tunes on brass, fueling the night’s conviviality. If Bavaria is a beer connoisseur’s paradise, and Munich is Bavaria’s beer-drinking consciousness, then Hofbrauhaus is surely the region’s lifeblood. It is an institution providing patrons with an unforgettable experience. Beers here are plentiful and arrive in traditional one liter steins bigger than one’s head. Select from a hearty range of authentic Bavarian Weisse and dark beers, and soak it all up with some rich plates of traditional bratwurst and Hofbrauhaus sauerkraut.
Platzl 9
80331 Munich, Germany

Ireland—Dublin—“Grogan’s Castle Lounge”
Seventies décor, well worn bar stools and threadbare sofas, a friendly crew of old timers and a magnificent pint of Guinness—this is the real Dublin. The craic is mighty at Grogan’s, a well-heralded local institution and ‘auld fella’s pub if ever there was one. Leave all pretensions at the door; Grogan’s is warts n’ all a ‘real’ pub—what you see is what you get, and as far as bar experiences go, it’ll be more unique than anywhere else in town.
15 William St South
Dublin 2, Ireland

Ireland—Dublin—“The Guinness Storehouse”
More a tourist spectacle than a pub per se, we couldn’t overlook the inspired glory the Dublin Storehouse’s amazingly fresh, creamy to perfection pint of Guinness. With stunning panoramic views, the freshness of the brew and the aesthetic experience will beat any other in Ireland, or the world for that matter. This truly is the home of the perfect pint.
St James’s Gate
Dublin 8
Co. Dublin, Ireland
01 408 4800

Ireland—Dublin—”Temple Bar”
By far the most frequented tourist nook in Dublin, it’s hard to miss Temple Bar, the central hub and core drinking quarter of the city. Cobblestone walkways and alleys line a lively, decorated collusion of traditional Irish pubs (or as the Irish call them, “Pubs”). It is, indeed, a bustling, jovial and wild scene, pretty much every night of the week. It’s an easy pub-crawl at Temple Bar. Take your pick of the bunch and soak up the vibe of Dublin’s historical drinking epicenter.

UK—London—“The White Horse”

Airy ceilings, Chesterfield leather sofas and a slightly upmarket Victorian feel mark this gem as one of London’s finest. Perched in the leafy neighborhood of Fulham, the “Sloany Pony,” as it is known to locals, is an institution with over eight different brews on tap, comfortable surrounds and an ever-diverse clientele. This grande old mare guarantees a tremendous night, and an even greater afternoon session. Sunday’s are big at the WH, and in summer, the outdoor burgers on the barbecue provide a delicious accompaniment to the glorious selections of traditional and organic brews.
1-3 Parsons Green,
Fulham,
London,
SW6 4UL

UK—London—“Dublin Castle”
Nestled in the guts of the action in edgy Camden, Dublin Castle is a classic olde English watering hole and is well known as the spiritual home of local two-tone upstarts. With oversized portraits and signed photos of the band lining the interior, Dublin Castle is essentially their spiritual home, but all are welcome to revel in the glory. Offering a hearty selection of brews, the Dublin Castle is straight-up pub charm with a cozy vibe, a smattering of history and the perfect, cloistered setting for a good night’s worth of English drinking. The pub also operates as a band venue, with a rear band room, so be sure to check out local listing guides for current gigs and concerts.
94 Parkway,
Camden,
London,
NW1 7AN

Czech Republic—Cesky Krumlov—“Horror Bar”
In the quaint, foggy, medieval town of Cesky Krumlov, there lurks an underground cavern on a bed of stone, adorned with bluestone stairs and very little natural light. Folks, this is the Horror Bar—a gothic drinking dungeon fit for humans and the walking dead alike. One can enjoy Halloween all year round with an ample regime of local Pilsners at very little cost, blood red shots in test tubes and the deathly green concoction “Becherovka” that is guaranteed to leave a dent in the morning. Use caution when thanking the bar staff, as even the humblest nod of the head here seems to translate to “another round, please.” There’s nothing horrible about drinking at the Horror Bar.
Nebeské pastviny
Másna Ul.
Ceský Krumlov

Czech Republic—Prague—“Tiki Taky Bar”
In a city brimming with outstanding pubs and incredibly affordable beer prices, it’s inherently difficult to choose the best from the best. This quaint little expat bar, however, certainly sticks out from the rest. You’ll swear you’ve landed in Hawaii circa 1967. This place is a charming nook adorned with bamboo interior, tiki motifs, colorful décor and friendly staff. With a 5 am closing time, cheap, tasty fruit cocktails, and smooth lounge tunes, Tiki Taky is a completely incongruent drinking experience against the Old Bloc feel of the backstreets of Prague 3.
Cimburkova 22
Praha 3, Žižkov

Scotland—Edinburgh—“The Nicol Edwards”
Arguably the most haunted venue of all Edinburgh if not the most famous, this underground cavern is extremely popular with locals and students for it’s handsome drink prices and curiously spooky vibe. Shady, claustrophobic and connected to an underground network of medieval vaults that lurk beneath the street level, the Nicol prides itself on its somewhat dank, dingy reputation. But it’s all a part of the experience, with several hidden nooks, vault crannies and a downstairs bar with live music, the cloistered vibe here satisfies, keeping spines tingling, hairs on end, and pint glasses ever full to the brim.
35 Niddry St
Edinburgh EH1 1LG
United Kingdom

Spain—Barcelona—El Raval District
The Spanish know good cerveza, good wine and good times. Ultimately, there are just too many excellent hole-in-the-wall bars, pubs and cafes to mention in Barcelona, but for a good cluster of options in a concentrated nook, check out the lively multicultural El Raval district adjacent La Ramblas. Smooth, chilled out sunset sessions, communal cervezas in the wee hours in cloistered tapas bars, El Raval provides a vibrant hub of nightly excitement that buzzes with action.

Belgium—Brussels—”Au Bon Vieux Temps”
Positioned neatly a good distance from the tourist buzz of the Belgian capital’s many bars and brasseries, Au Bon Vieux Temps is a favorite with locals and visitors in the know. Showcasing a modest yet ample selection of Trappist brews and infused beers, if not the extensive list of hundreds present in some other Belgian venues, the staff is warm and attentive, dedicated to fine brew and providing a relaxed atmosphere. A former monastery in the 1600’s, this really is a pub for locals that features a gorgeous old-style bar with tons of charm.
Impasse St. Nicholas 4,
off Rue Marché Aux Herbes 12

Belgium—Bruges—”‘t Brugs Beertje”
A Bruges (in Dutch it is Brugge) specialty beer house since 1983, ‘t Brugs Beertje is a big attraction for tourists passing through, with it’s over 300 different beer selections, a charming, centuries old setting, and sincere dedication to a truly memorable drinking experience. Not far from the main town square, ‘t Brugs Beertje knows how to pour an excellent beer, with humble, helpful service, a regularly rotating draft beer roster and a thoughtful selection of pub snacks.
Kemelstraat 5
B-8000 Brugge

Written by Cam Hassard for EuropeUpClose.com

Related posts:

1. York, England: Castles and Churches and Pubs, Oh My!
2. Düsseldorf: Germany’s Party Central
3. European Beer: Tipple Across Europe on St. Paddy’s Day

There are plenty of great things to do in Dublin, and they don’t all involve drinking Guinness! Like many Australians, I’ve got a decent chunk of Irish blood in me (my grandmother was a Murphy) and I’m sure that’s why places like Dublin are so attractive to me. I’ve compiled some of the best tips we’ve had on Europe a la Carte to help you plan your trip to Dublin.

Dublin Post Office and Spire

Podcast on Things to Do in Dublin

Subscribe to the Europe a la Carte Podcast in itunes or audioboo

Famous Dublin Sights

Dublinia houses an interactive history of Dublin during the age of the Vikings and Medieval times. Marcus visited and suggested it would be an especially good outing for families with children.

Next to Dublinia is the beautiful Christ Church Cathedral. It’s the oldest building in Dublin (dating back to the 11th century) and you can get a combined ticket with Dublinia if you want to save some money.

Christ Church Cathedral by Marcus Cederstrom

I’m always a fan of libraries and was pleased to hear that Karen particularly liked the Chester Beatty Library on her trip to Dublin. It is situated inside the gardens of Dublin Castle (another great place to visit!) and it’s one of Dublin’s free attractions.

Chester Beatty Library

Karen’s favourite Dublin sculpture was Phil Lynott of Thin Lizzy Fame.

Phill Lynott sculpture in Dublin

My personal tip for something to do in Dublin is to head to the Dublin Writers Museum – obviously Ireland is home to many famous authors and this museum showcases the lives and literature of writers such as George Bernard Shaw and W. B. Yeats.

Tours in Dublin

For many travellers, visiting Dublin is synonymous with drinking Guinness, and Marcus decided to tour the home of Guinness in Dublin. The tour goes through the Guinness Storehouse and basically covers the history of Guinness (but unfortunately doesn’t show the brewing in progress) – but the highlight comes at the end when all tour participants receive a freshly brewed pint of Guinness.

St James Gate Brewery by Marcus Cederstrom

There are numerous different walking tours to take around Dublin. Marcus took a free walking tour (tips appreciated of course) with a New Europe Tour guide and was impressed that they really ran the tours no matter what the weather, and he considered it a good basic introduction to the city’s sights if you hadn’t been to Dublin before.

Trinity College Dublin

Karen went on the “Original Tour” with a Historic Walking Tours of Dublin guide which cost 12 Euros at the time, but seemed to be well worth it. It takes in sightseeing spots like Old Parliament House, Trinity College, Temple Bar, City Hall and so on and lasts about two hours.

Dublin Ghost Bus Tour by Lindsay Sydenham

For a tour of a rather different kind, you might try the Dublin Ghost Bus Tour. Lindsay took the tour and found it a little more on the silly side than the scary side, but said it was actually a fun way to learn about some of Dublin’s history in a completely different way.

Shopping and Eating in Dublin

Karen has some excellent tips on where to shop in Dublin in her unique shopping venues in Dublin post from her last trip there. Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre sounds lovely, as does the Powerscourt Centre, built around an 18th century mansion.

Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre

If you’re looking for a good meal, Karen also wrote up reviews of a couple of good restaurants, including Bewley’s Cafe and Restaurant in Grafton Street and the Church Cafe and Bar near the Jervis Shopping Centre. This photo of the Church’s Irish stew is making me hungry!

Irish stew and soda bread

Find the Best Deals on Hotels in Dublin

Click here to check out the best deals on Dublin hotels using the HotelsCombined price comparison site.

On her last trip to Dublin, Karen stayed at the Arlington Hotel near O’Connell Bridge, which has a very central location and friendly staff.

Arlington Hotel entrance

Your Dublin Tips

Before Karen went to Dublin back in 2009 she received a bunch of fantastic Dublin tips from Europe a la Carte readers and Twitter followers, including visiting St Michan’s Church, the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Kilmainham Gaol, the Chester Beatty Library, and trips to Newgrange, Knowth and Howth.

If you’ve got any more tips for things to do in Dublin, we’d love to hear them so please leave us a message in the comments below.

Best of Dublin Tips

Browse through our travel tips to find the best places to visit in Europe. Content published on Europe a la Carte.

There’s an old joke in Dublin that says the Irish only drink one day of the year: St Patrick’s Day. The rest of the year they spend ‘practicing’ for the big day.

Every March 17 the Irish capital city becomes a sea of green in celebration of the patron saint of Ireland. Dublin’s famous black brew – Guinness – fills glasses in pubs throughout the city and the day is spent listening to traditional music, attending a parade in the center of the city, and telling stories. Traveling to Dublin for the biggest holiday of the year offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in a tradition that reveals the warmth of the Irish.

The Big Day

Unlike some American destinations that celebrate St Patrick’s Day on the weekend closest to March 17, Dublin celebrates on the day itself. The main spectacle is a parade full of musicians, marching bands, floats and balloons that winds its way down the main thoroughfare of Dublin, O’Connell Street, and around the entrance to Trinity College. This area is the best place to pick a spot and watch the parade.

The creativity and good spirit of the Irish will be on display with the costumes of parade-goers. Roads are closed to traffic, and simply strolling through the pedestrianized streets checking out the creative costumes is a lot of fun. The parade is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, and this continues in the pubs following the parade as well.

The Perfect Pint of Guinness

Beyond the parade and listening to traditional music, the best way to celebrate St Patrick’s Day is with the perfect pint of Guinness. You won’t find any green beer here, just perfect pints of the black stuff. There are other Irish beers to try as well during your visit, but on St Patrick’s Day, all the locals will be drinking Guinness. Pubs in Ireland are like an extended living room, and therefore welcome families to their tables. Don’t be surprised to see multiple generations of families stomping their feet to the beat of the fiddle in the pub.

I experienced this family-friendly atmosphere in a pub during my first St Patrick’s Day in Dublin. A toddler, all decked out in green, was the star of the show as he danced to the music, entertaining the crowd. Visitors to a Dublin pub will find that conversations are easily struck up with the people at the next table. The Irish definitely have the gift of gab, and the day can easily disappear over stories told while enjoying a fresh round of pints.

However, not all pints in Dublin are created equal. Fierce debates can break out between locals over which pubs pour the best pints, and I have a few favorites of my own. O’Donoghue’s is known for its traditional music and they always serve a great pint. John Kehoe’s is another traditional option, and its multiple floors allow for plenty of seating for patrons. For a classier pint, head into the bar of the Shelbourne Hotel, where you can peer out the windows and watch the revelers stroll by along St Stephen’s Green.

St Patrick’s Festival

In recent years, St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Dublin have extended beyond the 17th. In 2011, the St Patrick’s Festival will stretch from March 16th – 20th and feature comedy, music, children’s crafts, scavenger hunts, and more. This festival keeps the celebration going beyond the day itself, and is a perfect way for visitors to maximize their trip to the Irish capital.

From walking tours to music sessions, the festival is full of options for celebrating. Most events are free and open to the public, making them even more enticing if you’re trying to travel on a budget.

Dublin Up Close

The small city of Dublin can easily be explored on foot. Besides sampling the local brew and listening to music, there are several other ways to celebrate Irish culture during your visit. Two of my favorite exhibitions in Dublin are the W.B. Yeats exhibit at the National Library, and the Jack B. Yeats exhibit at the National Gallery.

Both of these attractions are free, and offer the chance to see the work of two extremely talented brothers. The poetry of W.B. Yeats can be explored by electronically flipping through the pages of his manuscripts. The bold, colorful paintings of Jack B. Yeats make up one of the most striking exhibitions of art in Ireland.

When you travel to Dublin for St Patrick’s Day, you will wind up discovering a city that is rich in culture and heritage, and knows how to throw a damn good celebration too.

Written by and photos by Jessica Colley for EuropeUpClose.com

Related posts:

1. Discover Dublin
2. Insiders Travel Guide to Dublin
3. Celebrating Bastille Day Parisian-Style

Dublin is known to be a haunted city with a great history of supernatural occurrences. The Dublin Ghost Bus Tour is one of my Europe travel tips as it takes brave visitors on a tour of the darker side of Dublin. Riders on the bus will learn the legends about how Dracula came to be, they will visit the infamous haunted steps and have an opportunity to stand in the middle of Dublin’s most haunted graveyard as they learn about the art of body snatching. The tour lasts a little over two hours and costs 25 Euros per person. Tours can be booked online or up to an hour before departure.

There are many beautiful and interesting places to see in Dublin, such as the Guinness Brewery Tour and even plenty of free Dublin attractions but if you’re one for spooks then this will be one of your Dublin favourites.

In my opinion, the spooks offered on the Dublin Ghost Bus Tour are more cheesy rather than scary. My girlfriends and I took the tour and had ourselves a hoot. The hokey ghost stories and the live storyteller made us laugh which made our experience quite pleasurable. The highlight of the tour takes place in a cemetery where the storyteller shares tales of body snatching and robbery. While the tour may seem a bit silly, it was a great way to learn the history of Dublin from a different perspective. The legends shared are ones that have been shared among the Irish for centuries. And the information about Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula, is completely factual and quite interesting.

If you’re only in Dublin for a few days, I wouldn’t worry yourself with trying to get on the Ghost Bus Tour. However, if you’re in town for longer and are looking for a fun evening activity then I would suggest hitching a ride on Dublin’s only haunted tour bus.

I had seen the New Europe Tour guides playing the Pied Piper in Berlin in the spring of 2009.  Actually, I just wandered by as the tour guide was making a final pitch for tips.  When I saw the company was offering tours in Dublin, I was intrigued.  Mostly because they bill the walking tours as free and historical.  And if there’s one thing I love while traveling it is free history.

The tours start every day at 11 and 13 and meets at City Hall.  No matter the weather the tour must go on.  We tested this theory on the icy streets of Dublin, and while the city itself was running out of grit, the 20-25 of us in the group managed to trek through town with no broken limbs.

The walking tour of Dublin focuses on the main attractions such as Dublin Castle and Trinity College.  It is a cursory glance at the sights themselves, but the stories and history told give a great overview of the city, everything from the Viking history of the 800s to the 1916 Easter Rising.

Our guide, Christopher, did an excellent job of mixing the history of Dublin (and Ireland) with a healthy dose of pride in the city he grew up in.  In the end, they stay true to their word, and the tour is free.  Of course, tips (as mentioned above) are greatly appreciated and after a nearly three hour tour of the city, I was more than happy to give a few Euros.

The tour gave a great introduction to the city and helped to focus the remainder of the trip.  Plus, having never been to the city before before, the tour was a great way to get comfortable with the streets of Dublin and which sights were worth revisiting.