Dublin City

Ireland's capital and its biggest city, Dublin is a cultural centre, an economic hub and a vibrant metropolis. It is the land of Guinness, Bram Stoker, Oscar Wilde and U2. And it should be on the itinerary of anyone backpacking across Ireland. Dublin blends the urban and old world effortlessly - it is a destination that promises loads of fun and memorable experiences. So, when you land in Dublin, what do you do? Visit the Guinness Storehouse or get a taste of medieval history in Dublinia? Or perhaps head to one of its top horse races? The good news is you can do all this and have a whale of a time - just make sure your backpacking in Dublin plan extends to at least three days.

In no particular order, here are some of the best Dublin sights and activities that you can experience when backpacking in Ireland.

Trinity College

Let's start with an institution that is steeped in history, and is the pride and joy of the city - Trinity College. A 16th century structure, the college was founded by Queen Elizabeth. The college, located in the city centre, is a premier tourist haunt, where older architecture and modern facilities co-exist. Despite the tourist buzz, the college retains a typically 'campus' ambience. Famous alumni of Trinity College include author Jonathan Swift, and playwrights Samuel Beckett and Oliver Goldsmith. The Old Library which houses the ‘Book of Kells’ is a very popular attraction.

Kilmainham Gaol and Dublin Castle

Kilmainham Gaol is an 18th century prison that offers an insight into Irish Republicanism. It has served both as a home and an execution centre for republicans and nationalists. Dublin Castle is an ancient 13th century structure that serves as an important government complex, with ceremonial inaugurations of the country's Presidents and state receptions taking place here. The Undercroft, State Apartments and Chapel Royal are some of the attractions at Dublin Castle that visitors flock to. Filming of the award-winning movie Michael Collins and popular TV series ‘The Tudors’ took place in Dublin Castle.

Temple Bar

Any backpacking Dublin traveller would have planned a night of merrymaking at central Dublin’s Temple Bar, which is characterised by its cobbled streets. Hailed as the city's 'cultural quarter', it has emerged as a trendy zone for nightspots, shops and restaurants. The club scene here is especially popular with people on Ireland tours. There is a distinct buzz and liveliness to this area. The Irish Film Institute, Irish Stock Exchange, Central Bank of Ireland, and Project Arts Centre are all based here.

The Guinness Storehouse

Guinness is synonymous with Ireland, and when on your trip to Dublin, it would be ridiculous not to visit the Guinness Storehouse. Open to the public since 2000, the Guinness Storehouse boasts of visitor count in the millions and from the far ending corners of the world. A lot of thought has gone into designing the building, which has seven floors flanking a glass atrium, in the shape of a pint of, what else but Guinness! On each floor lie exciting discoveries and trivia- what goes into the beer, the craft involved, and indeed the history of this world-famous drink. The Gravity Bar is a firm favourite with visitors. Located over the roof, it is the city’s highest bar. Here, you can enjoy a pint of the black stuff with panoramic views of the city.

Getting Around

Getting around Dublin is cheaper than you may imagine. The public bus network covers all parts of the city as well as the County Dublin. Tram services (known as Luas) also run within the city and a train known as the DART runs from north to south.