Ah, the luck of the Irish.

Next Thursday (17th March) if you didn’t already have it marked on your calendar is St. Patrick’s Day, a day when everyone suddenly claims that they have a small percentage of Irish in their blood just as an excuse to drink pints of creamy Guinness, eat hearty stew and party with the best of them. Being half Irish myself I can confidently do all these things and then blame my hangover that hits the following morning on not having full heritage…

When I visited Dublin a few years ago I was blown away by the hospitality, friendless and cheeky charm of the Irish. There’s so much to see and do in this lively city that you could easily fill a few days here. However, if time or your budget is tight then here are my top 5 must-do Dublin Experiences:

Temple Bar

To kick off your trip in the way you will no doubt mean to go on, then head for a drink in the iconic Temple bar. You may bump into a friendly fiddler or an intimidating mauri rugby fella (I love how natural I’m trying and failing to be in this photo) in this 160 year old watering hole, either way the craic is infectious once the drinks start flowing.

Guinness Storehouse

No visit to Dublin is complete without a trip to pray at the feet of the Guinness Gods. In the heart of St. James Street Brewery is the Storehouse with seven storeys crammed full of the history of the drink, the fermentation process and what goes into making a pint of the legendary black stuff. After learning all about Guinness it would be foolish not to stop to taste the national tipple in the rooftop bar and take in views across the city, even on a grey cloudy day you’re treated to a stunning panoramic pint. Cheers!

National Leprechaun Museum

This cheeky imp is the symbol of Ireland so a visit to the museum dedicated in his honour is a must-do. Wander through rooms full of Irish folklore, enchanting stories and mythology. Experience what it’s like being leprechaun-sized as you climb on giant chairs and drink from mahoosive tea cups before following the rainbow to see if you can spot his pot of gold at the end. It is bordering on naff and cheese but that’s what gives this place its charm.

Ha’Penny Bridge

To walk off the booze head down to the banks of the River Liffey and take in the pretty ha’penny bridge in the hub of Dublin. Snap some photos, breathe in some fresh air and take a moment to enjoy your surroundings. Some of my fave moments when I travel is wandering the city and finding a quiet spot to stop and soak it all up. It’s important to appreciate the things you’ve been lucky enough to see and experience before you power through and explore some more.

Trinity College

If architecture is more your thing then you’ll be spoilt in Dublin. Be warned that you’ll probably get a sore neck as you’ll spend loads of your time looking up at the stunning buildings. One of these has to be Trinity College, this elite prestigious university oozes class and old-school charm. Perfect to escape the buzz of the busy high street and duck into the cool calm of the college to soak up gorgeous Georgian landscaping and features.

What have I missed off this list? I’m desperate to head back to this city soon so let me know what I need to do next time! Oh and Happy (early) St. Paddy’s Day!

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