1. Shopping
Everyone knows that the Christmas sales are the optimal time to find bargains, so why not indulge in some retail therapy while in Dublin? Fast becoming a renowned shopping destination, Dublin has everything from vast department stores to chic boutiques to outdoor markets on offer. Spend the day in Dundrum Town Centre, wander the plush surroundings of Brown Thomas, explore the hidden gems in Temple Bar or go bargain hunting on Henry Street. Whatever your tastes, there’s something for everyone.
2. Leopardstown Christmas Festival, 26th – 29th December
This annual horseracing fixture is a favourite among sporting fans and socialites alike. With easy access to and from the racecourse, four days of premier racing fixtures and numerous bars and restaurants, the Leopardstown Christmas Festival has become the ideal spot for post-Christmas get-togethers. Experience first-hand the thrills of the races and find out what makes horseracing one of Ireland’s top international exports. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the sport or a novice punter, a day out at the Leopardstown Races promises to be exhilarating and entertaining.
3. Killiney Hill Park
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and pay a visit to Killiney Hill Park. Overlooking the villages of Killiney and Dalkey, this public park is a favourite with walkers for its breathtaking views of Dublin City, Dublin Bay, Dun Laoghaire and more. The park boasts a plethora of walkways, so why not enjoy an excursion to the serene wooded areas or a peaceful walk on the beach?
4. National Gallery of Ireland
The National Gallery of Ireland is open 361 days of the year, which makes it the perfect activity for anyone visiting Dublin during the New Year period. Located in the heart of the city centre, the gallery exhibits works from European artists such as Picasso, Monet, Van Gogh and Rembrant, as well as Irish artists such as William Orpen and Jack B. Yeats. With free admission and the country’s national collection of Irish and European fine art, a visit to the National Gallery is a must for anyone wishing to cleanse their cultural palate.
5. Guinness Storehouse
A trip to Dublin isn’t complete without a stop by the Guinness Storehouse. One of the city’s most iconic attractions, the Guinness Storehouse is seven floors and offers visitors a unique and unforgettable insight into the heritage of the Guinness brand and tradition. Learn how to pour your own pint of “the black stuff” or enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the city from the Gravity Bar. Open seven days a week and 361 days of the year, there is no excuse to not visit Guinness Storehouse.
6. Howth
Situated just ten miles out of Dublin City is the charming coastal village of Howth. A seaside paradise, Howth offers visitors the chance to walk down the pier and drink in the spectacular views that greet them. Howth also boasts a number of restaurants and bars. Renowned for its seafood, it is the perfect place to sample the best in fresh Irish fish.
7. Kilmainham Gaol
One of the country’s most fascinating historical attractions, Kilmainham Gaol operated between 1796 and 1924, and housed some of the country’s most important historical figures, including leaders of the 1916 Rising and Charles Stewart Parnell. One of the largest unoccupied prisons in Europe, Kilmainham Gaol offers visitors a realistic insight into life in the prison. A visit to Kilmainham Gaol includes a guided tour, an audio-visual presentation and an exhibition. It is an experience that won’t soon be forgotten.
8. Science Gallery
Since it opened its doors in 2008, The Science Gallery has quickly become one of the city’s leading attractions. Hosting a series of quirky events and exhibitions, The Science Gallery is unique in that it doesn’t hold a permanent collection, which means that there is always something new and exciting on offer. With impeccably curated exhibitions that will appeal to science boffins and novices alike, a visit to The Science Gallery is a must.
9. Jameson Distillery
Whiskey is one of Ireland’s leading exports, so why not find out more about Ireland’s leading whiskey brand and pay a visit to the Old Jameson Distillery? Located in Smithfield on the original site of John Jameson’s distillery, this is a favourite among tourists. With a guided tour, a complimentary whiskey and a whiskey tasting, this is the perfect place to learn and appreciate the history and legacy of the Jameson brand.
10. Temple Bar
One of the focal points of Dublin City, Temple Bar is bursting with energy, creativity and vibrancy. A hive of activity, its cobbled streets are home to everything from burrito bars to traditional pubs to contemporary art galleries to vintage boutiques. And with markets and various events taking place each weekend, it is the perfect place to explore and get lost in.
