What Are the 3 Best Things to Do in Dublin?
Today was low key as I spent the day preparing for my tour that begins tomorrow.
I want to thank those who have taken the time to send a note about the daily podcast. So far it's all positive. But I'm only on day 3…
I received a terrific question from a lady who will be on a tour I am hosting later this month. She is coming in a day early and wanted to know what are the three things I think every visitor to Dublin should do.
That's a bit of a loaded question because there are so very many terrific attractions, museums, and activities to experience in Dublin.
But I'm not afraid to cause a little controversy, so here goes…
This article is also available as a podcast. To listen please scroll to the player at the bottom of the page.
The 3 Best Things to Do in Dublin
Visit the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
Dublin has a number of terrific museums but the one I think every visitor should experience is the Museum of Archaeology. It covers the known history of Ireland – from the first Neolithic farmers, through the Bronze and Iron Age Celts, Viking invasions and the ‘Dark Ages', and through Ireland's Monastic splendor.
The first two floors of stunning Leinster House are devoted to these collections. The two I think everyone should explore are Kingship and Sacrifice to view the bog bodies and learn their stories and The Treasury, which is where Celtic metalwork – including the Tara Brooch and the Cross of Cong – is on display.
Take a Guided Food Tour
I think you can learn a lot about a place from its food. And when you pair food with a terrific tour guide you are going to have a terrific experience.
I love the Irish Food Trail – they have both a food tour and a whiskey tour with food pairings. Each tour has 3 stops, and along the way you learn about Dublin's history and legends. It's great fun.
Another food tour that I adore is Vintage Tea Trips, an afternoon tea experience on a vintage double-decker bus. While it's not exactly a guided tour you'll hear fun personal narration from your local hosts and get to see the city from a unique vantage point.
Visit Malahide Castle
It's about a 30 minute journey from the city centre to the village of Malahide via DART or bus. But Malahide Castle and Gardens are worth the journey.
The castle was in the same family for 800 years which means the history is fully recorded.
And what a history it is! The docents are wonderful storytellers who are terrific at keeping everyone engaged. And you may just encounter one of the resident ghosts.
Beyond the castle, the gardens are truly spectacular. The west lawn is 20 acres of trees, ornamental sculptures, and a charming fairy trail. It's also a perfect place to have photos taken.
The Walled Garden is filled with winding stone pathways where you can discover a rose garden, a pond, and the Victorian Conservatory. It is also home to the only Butterfly House in the Republic of Ireland.
Dublin Day 3
Today was mostly spent preparing for my tour tomorrow. Finalizing a few things, arranging transportation for a couple who were delayed out of the US by the hurricane, repacking my suitcase so I can stow one in the rear of the mini coach and not touch it until the tour ends…
But I did get out of my tiny room for a bit. I visited the Museum of Archaeology.
Don't forget! I would love to answer your questions on the podcast! Email your questions to jody@irelandfamilyvacations.com – write Podcast Question in the subject line. And be sure to let me know if I can use your first name and the first initial of your last name when I share the question.
Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 159
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