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Discover Dublin

Hotels, halal food, prayer spaces, things to do, and itineraries in Dublin.

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Dublin
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Must-see attractions in Dublin

From headline landmarks and heritage icons to parks, waterfronts, and major museums, discover 28 standout sights to build into your time in the city.

For the last few decades, the population of Dublin city-proper has hovered around 500,000.  Today an additional million people live in the metro area.  Recent years have seen unprecedented growth in Dublin and throughout Ireland, known as the 'Celtic Tiger'.  Between 1995 and 2008, the economy grew quickly, at rates approaching 10% annually.  Unfortunately, the recent economic crisis has ravaged Dublin and the rest of Ireland.  The near future seems bleak.

Halal restaurants in Dublin

Dublin’s food scene is part of the city experience. Choose from 42 restaurants and food districts with location notes and planning tips.

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Shanahan’s

Cuisine - American Considered to be one of the most priciest and classiest restaurants in Dublin, Shanahan’s is favourite among tourists who want an elegant night out, or for business dinners. Located in a 250 year old building, the restaurant oozes out the history of magnificent Irish Georgian lifestyle. The restaurant is known for it’s variety of steaks and seafood, served in delicious sauces and blends of flavours. Customers can also choose a number of side dishes to go with the main course, like vegetables, potatoes, corn etc, all prepared in a unique way. Shanahan’s offers the perfect mix of traditional Irish flavours with a modern blend of gourmet fine dining. The restaurant can also be booked for large corporate meals of 30 persons or more, and there are private rooms available as well, on request. Monday - Friday from 5.30pm Saturday from 6.00pm Open for lunch every Friday from 12.30 to 2.00 pm.

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L'Ecrivain

Cuisine - French/Irish/Continental Famous celebrity chef Derry Clarke is the proprietor of this popular restaurant. L’Ecrivain is known for its specialty in combining the best of two worlds, French and Irish cuisine. It’s relaxed, yet classy ambience, allows diners to feel comfortable while enjoying their perfect meal. The restaurant strives in perfecting the art of dining, by collaborating old-fashioned recipes with a contemporary minimalist design and approach. The restaurant is open Monday to Friday from 10am until 11pm, and Saturday 4pm to 1am.

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Patrick Guilbaud

Address: 21 Upper Merrion St., Southeast Dublin, Dublin, Co. Dublin, Dublin 2 Phone: 01/676-4192 www.restaurantpatrickguilbaud.ie Cuisine: French French food with a contemporary twist; the chef uses some Irish ingredients to mix up traditional French recipes. Its no wonder then that this restaurant has been awarded two Michelin stars. Located inside the Merrion Hotel, the décor is as impressive at the food. According to reviews, even the simplest of food with basic ingredients tastes absolutely divine. Lunch menu here is slightly more affordable.

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Chapter One

Anyone visiting the Dublin Writers Museum must stop to have lunch at Chapter One. Located in the stone-walled basement of the museum, the restaurant serves heavenly food. Especially well-known is the bread-and-butter pudding served here.

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Unicorn

Very posh and chic, the Unicorn serves Mediterranean cuisine and is possibly one of the more popular restaurants with the locals. Reservations are needed and mobile phones have to be on silent before seating. If you can, try to get a table on the terrace so you can dine with a lovely view of Merrion Court.

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The Tea Room

If you want to catch a glimpse of celebrities, possible Bono or The Edge, here’s you chance. Since the U2 men own the Clarence Hotel, many celebrities (including the two of them) have been spotted here. Although the menu isn’t very extensive, the food here is delectable. Also, with a chance to bump into a celebrity, what’s not to love?

Where to stay in Dublin

Choose where to stay by trip style, from landmark luxury and family bases to central, airport, and neighborhood-led stays.

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The Shelbourne

Centrally located, The Shelbourne is one of Dublin’s most distinguished hotels. Dating back to 1824, the hotel has been restored with a complete modern network, while still holding strong to its vast history. The luxury 5 star hotel reeks of tradition and is located in close proximity to many historical and cultural sights of Dublin, like the St. Patrick’s Church to Trinity College. Guests are offered plenty of business services, 24 hour laundry, baby sitting, car rental and room-service.

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Westin Dublin

Situated in the perfect location of the capital city, the Westin hotel in Dublin is the perfect stay for people who wish to explore the city. The hotel is just minutes away from the shopping high street, the best restaurants in town and also the bus stations and railway lines. Guests are offered full room service, laundry and dry cleaning services, medical and secretarial services. The hotel has a lounge, a bar and a restaurant on its premises and offers the best in fine dining.

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Four Seasons Hotel Dublin

One of the most popular restaurants in Dublin, The Four Seasons is known for it’s warmth and exquisite hospitality, making guests feel as comfortable and luxurious as possible. The hotel offers plenty of services, from event coordination and planning, to bookings and reservations. It is a very popular spot for families to celebrate milestones like birthdays, weddings and anniversaries. Guests can also make use of the fully equipped gymnasium and swimming pool, and take a stroll to the nearby shops and restaurants.

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Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel

This is the only Irish castle hotel in close proximity to Dublin – miles or 20 minutes to downtown Dublin. The hotel is stunning and has been upgraded, at the same time keeping its history and stone-structure intact. Guests who book one of the hotel suites can enjoy phenomenal, sweeping views of Dublin Bay right from their bedroom window. Wireless broadband is available in most of the hotel with complementary Wifi in the hotel rooms. Prices include Breakfast.

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The Penthouse at Merrion Hotel

The Penthouse at Merrion Hotel is the epitome of luxury, with stunning views of the Wicklow Mountains, Dublin city and the hotel’s gardens landscaped in 18th century style. The penthouse has a capacity of 8 people and offers the utmost privacy with a private access to the apartment. Guests also have access to the private rooftop terrace with a hot tub that overlooks the hotel’s gardens. Regular guests here include celebrities and politicians.

History and today in Dublin

Read the city today, its history, residents, culture, and character before planning your route.

When to go

When to go

Dublin has a cool and wet climate, with rainfall and temperatures moderated by the water. Peak tourist months are July and August, when the weather is at its best.

City Information

Fast Facts

-Location:: Dublin is the capital of Ireland, and is located around the midpoint of the Irish East coast. It is at the centre of the Dublin Region and at the mouth of River Liffey, which flows through the centre of Dublin. The city covers an area of about 115 square kilometers.; -Dialing code:: +353; Police:: 999 or 112

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City Information

Public holidays

January 1: New Year’s Day March 17: St. Patricks Day Good Friday: Although not a public holiday, many businesses and shops are closed. Easter Monday May 1: May Day First Monday in June: Bank holiday First Monday in August: Bank holiday Last Monday in October: Bank holiday December 25: Christmas December 26: St. Stephen’s Day

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City Information

Annual Temperature

Month Average Min. Temp C Average Max. Temp C January 3 8 February 3 8 March 3 9 April 4 12 May 7 14 June 9 17 July 12 19 August 11 19 September 9 17 October 8 14 November 4 10 December 3 8

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Dublin Residents

The population of Dublin in 2006 was 505,739 and at the rate at which it is growing is expected to hit 2 million by the year 2021. In the 1990’s when employment levels stated to rise rapidly and people’s income levels and standard of living increased, a lot of foreigners, not only from other European countries but from all over the world, started moving into Ireland, specifically to Dublin. It is no wonder then, that even today the population is a mix of various cultures and ethnicities. 10% of the population are foreigners, mostly from the UK and Poland, while the non-European crowd includes Chinese, Australian, Brazilian, Nigerian and other Asians. Today more than 60% of Asian immigrants in Ireland live in Dublin. Because of the vibrant art and music culture, today Dublin is known as the ‘youngest city in Europe’ with the large number of the population being 25 or younger. But even with all the new events and festivals taking place, Irish stay true to their culture and history. You will still find horse-drawn carriages available for hire down a cobbled street.

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Dublin Today

For the last few decades, the population of Dublin city-proper has hovered around 500,000. Today an additional million people live in the metro area. Recent years have seen unprecedented growth in Dublin and throughout Ireland, known as the 'Celtic Tiger'. Between 1995 and 2008, the economy grew quickly, at rates approaching 10% annually. Unfortunately, the recent economic crisis has ravaged Dublin and the rest of Ireland. The near future seems bleak.

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City Information

Dublin History

The first mention of Dublin in history books date back to 140AD, when the Roman astronomer Ptolemy wrote about an ancient Irish settlement known as Eblana. Modern Dublin dates back to the the mid-ninth century as a Viking settlement known as Dubh Linn (meaning 'black pool'). The Vikings controlled the area for three hundred years, until the Norman invasion in 1169.

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City in a Day

Start your day with a hearty Irish breakfast at one of Dublin's many pubs. The traditional Irish breakfast sausage, bacon, blood pudding, fried eggs, and if you're feeling adventurous, a pint of Guinness. Walk your meal off at Dublin's museums. The National Gallery, Museum of Natural History, and Museum of Decorative Arts and History are all within walking distance of each other.

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Shopping in Dublin

Explore 26 shopping stops, from malls, markets, and book bazaars to fashion streets and souvenir finds.

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Dundrum Town Centre

One of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in Europe, Dundrum is an exclusive an new addition to the shoppers paradise. With over 3,400 parking spaces available and enormous floor space, the venue has attracted over 70 million visitors to date. The centre also has an in-house radio station headquartered on its premises, along with a television studio and production house. Some of the outlets you will find here include Aldo, Dune, Zara, The Body Shop, Pull and Bear, Next and Massimo Dutti.

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Brown Thomas

Brown Thomas is located on Graftton Street in Dublin, close to Trinity College is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Dublin. It is known to be Ireland’s most beautiful lifestyle store that stocks exclusive designer clothes, shoes and household items such as Calvin Klien, Georgio Armani and Balenciaga, Chanel and Alexander McQueen. 88 Grafton Street Dublin Republic of Ireland 2 http://www.brownthomas.com/

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Anastasia Boutique

This is a chic boutique for all the fashion savvy female shoppers. With an diverse variety of local as well as international brands, this small boutique has exclusive designs for every occasion. Being a small store, the shop attendants are helpful, friendly and will you personalized style advice. 114 Ranelagh, Dublin 6, Ireland. Contact: +353 (01) 491 2037 http://www.anastasia.ie

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Royal Hibernian Way

A small shopping complex, the Royal Hibernian Way is home to hi-end and exclusive designers and boutiques. Here you will find Leonidas that sells delicious, lip-smacking Belgian chocolate; Swalk which sells unique, one-of-a-kind cards for all occasions as well as beautiful wrapping paper and Monoghan’s which is Ireland’s best-known men’s store.

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Weirs

A top-market and exclusive jewellery store, Weir & Sons caters to the most elite shoppers. Popular among tourists and locals who wish to purchase antique Celtic ornaments in gold, diamonds and silver and also modern designs, the store gives a unique experience. With excellent customer service and selected merchandise, customers are treated like royalty. Clientele can choose from jewellery, ornaments, antiques, accessories, watched, leather goods, silverware and china. Some of the brands at Weirs include Lladro, Omega, Cartier, Mont Blanc and Gucci.

Signature sights in Dublin

A curated pick of the city's standout sights, led by the strongest editorial recommendations.

Festivals and events in Dublin

Plan around 24 festival seasons, public events, Ramadan/Eid periods, book fairs, art cycles, and winter food activity.

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Dublin Chinese New Year Festival 2010

Feb 12-21 Venue: Dublin City Centre What began two years ago (2008), the Chinese New Year Festival has become extremely popular among the locals. The 2010 Festival will celebrate the year of the Tiger and aims to promote integration and strengthen Ireland’s multicultural society. The festival will showcase cultural parades and dances, exhibitions, art and music. The highlight of the event is the Chinese Carnival, on the 14th of the month, to commemorate Chinese New Year Day as well as Valentine’s Day. Entry is free for all. For more information, check out www.dublin.ie/cny

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Festival of Russian Culture Dublin

Feb 15-21 Aiming to promote culture and heritage, the festival includes Russian storytelling, photographic exhibits, musical performances and food stalls selling authentic Russian cuisine. Entry is free. For more information, check out http://www.dublincity.ie/russianfestival

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Jameson International Film Festival 2010

Feb 18-28, 2010 Venue: Various city centre cinemas Film screenings, glitz, glamour, interviews with celebrities and panel discussions, the film festival takes place over the course of eleven days.

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Dublin Book Festival

March 6-8, 2010 The Irish, known for having contributed some of the most important works in classical and contemporary literature and art, choose to celebrate by holding the Dublin Book Festival on the 6th, 7th and the 8th of March. Held at the historic City Hall, the event is packed with readings, interviews, talks, debates, book launches and workshops for all ages, and featuring over 100 Irish writers and publishers. Also available at the festival are books for sale. For more information, www.dublinbookfestival.com

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Dine in Dublin – Restaurant Week

March 22-28 With over 50 restaurants participating in the Dine in Dublin week, this is truly a culinary and gastronomic adventure. Discounted rates of E25 to E30 per person covers a three-course meal (including tea or coffee) at any of the restaurants on the list. Some of the hotels also offer customers 10% off on the lowest quoted rates on their rooms. For more information on the types of cuisines on the menu, http://www.dineindublin.ie/

Dublin tours and experiences

Heritage walks, food crawls, coastal trips, museum circuits, family days, and guided ideas for an easier day out.

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1916 Rebellion Walking Tour

Tours run daily and begin at 11:30 am Mondays to Saturdays, and at 1 pm on Sundays. The tour goes at a lesiurley pace and ends in about two hours. It is recommended by all who have taken it and is quite education and iinformative on the history of Ireland. The tour ends with a lively discussion at the International Bar with fellow tour members.

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Historical Walking Tours of Dublin

Graduate students at Trinity College conduct this historical tour of Dublin. Walking around Dublin is the best way to see and absorb the rich heritage of the city. It includes tours of Trinity College, Old Parliament House, Temple Bar, City Hall, Dublin Castle, Wood Quay, Christ Church Cathedral and Four Courts. Individual tickets cost 12 EUR.

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Dublin Bike Tours

The tour runs from April 1-October 31 and is good, quiter alternate to taking a bus tour of the city. The tour takes a slightly different route by avoiding the main streets, showing a different side of Dublin. The tour price includes a bike and insurance. Advance booking is recommended.

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Dublin Bus Tours

The best way to see Dublin if you’re only visiting for a few days is to take the Dublin Bus Tour. The bus takes you to Trinity College, Dublin Castle, National Gallery and much more. Although the comlete tour lasts well over an hour, you can get an All Day Pass and hop on and off the bus anytime you want.

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Viking Splash Tour

See Dublin by land and by water! Board one of the amphibious World War II vehicles and see a whole new side of Dublin. On the tour not only will you get to see the Viking artifacts and buildings but also other monuments like the St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity College and Georgian Dublin. You can either sign up for a regular tour or one that includes a meal at the famous Beshoff’s of O’Connell Street. Timings vary but the tour runs throughout the year. Advance booking is advised in order to avoid disappointment.

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Dublin travel guide sections

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