1. The Dublin Bikes Scheme
Speaking of exploring Dublin, a great little way to do so is by renting a Dublin Bike. Rentals cost only 5 for three days and you're free to whizz around and take in the Dublin backdrop. With the docking stations only 300 meters apart, you'll never have far to go to find one.
Pubs
A good puzzle would be to cross Dublin without crossing a pub mused Leopold Bloom, in James Joyce's Ulysses over 100 years ago. Although in 2014 a computer programmer did eventually did crack the puzzle. It is still safe to say Dublin has a lot of bars. Here are two watering holes worth hitting up.
2. The Church Bar
The church where Arthur Guinness himself was married. It was deconsecrated in the 1980s and became of all things a bar. The church organ is still located there along with the beautiful stainless windows that illuminate the ceiling. The food is super and there is a wide range of beers and yummy cocktails.
3. The Cobblestone
The Cobblestone is a must for lovers of traditional Irish music. Self-described as Rough round the edges lounge, this place has old Irish pub charm all over it. With free quality traditional Irish music 7 nights a week, you can't go wrong.
4. Trinity College
Built in 1592, Trinity College is Irelands oldest university. Two must-sees while there are of course: The Old Library and the Book of Kells. Completed in 1732, with over 300,000 books and 65 meters long, the Old Library is pretty impressive. Its most famous book, the Book of Kells takes pride of place there. A 9th-century gospel famous the world over. The Book of Kells is a testimony to the sheer skill possessed by the monks of its day.
5. The National Gallery
The National Gallery is a great free option to spend an hour or so. Boosting over 2,500 paintings & approximately 10,000 other works of art. There are also free audio guides for both adults and children along with free public tours at weekends. If you drop by on a Sunday, be sure to visit the Merrion Squares Open Art Gallery across the road. Dozens of artists congregate here every Sunday to sell their artwork. Well worth a wander about.
http://www.nationalgallery.ie/
6. Grafton Street
One of Dublin's fully pedestrianized shopping streets. Besides its shopping and its cafes what really makes Grafton Street special is its buskers & performing artists. Many famous Irish artists cut their teeth on this street, including the likes of Paddy Casey, Glen Hansard and Damien Rice. Always a fun street to walk down.
7. St Stephens Green
If you're looking for some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the Dublin streets, head to St Stephen's Green. A popular hangout spot for locals particularly on a sunny day. Why not grab an ice cream and lounge on the grass or feed the ducks in the pond.
http://www.heritageireland.ie/en/dublin/ststephensgreen/
8. Guinness Storehouse
It's a great way to learn about the history, the process of brewing and the advertising behind Irelands most famous stout. Lots of interesting exhibits help bring the experience to life. The ticket includes a free pint of Guinness, which you can enjoy at the end of your tour in the gravity bar with panoramic views of Dublin. Not a bad way to a tour, eh?
http://www.guinness-storehouse.com/en/Index.aspx
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