WHY DUBLIN?
Dublin, The Fair City
The legend has it that Dublin’s name comes from the Old Irish Dubh Linn, meaning “black pool,” a reference to the dark waters where the River Poddle once met the Liffey. But Dublin would come to be known not just for its geography, but for its spirit. Its nickname, “The Fair City,” was made famous by the 19th-century ballad Molly Malone — a name that speaks to the city’s charm, beauty, and the warmth of its people. Once a Viking stronghold, Dublin grew into a thriving capital rich in history, culture, and rebellion, with echoes of its literary greats and revolutionary past still felt in every corner.
Today, Dublin is a city where past and present blend effortlessly. Beyond the modern storefronts and tech campuses, you’ll find Georgian squares, cozy pubs with traditional music, and stone bridges arching over the Liffey. There’s a rhythm to Dublin — in the laughter on the streets, the pages of a Joyce novel, the clink of pint glasses — that continues to draw people in. In this fair city, history lives side by side with creativity, and the welcome is always genuine.
CAFÉS
My favourite cafés in Dublin
3fe
A pioneer of Dublin’s specialty coffee scene, 3fe is known for its expertly roasted beans, precise brewing, and minimalist design.
Address:
32 Grand Canal Street Lower, Dublin 2
What I like about it
Every time I go to 3fe, I’m reminded what great coffee really tastes like—smooth, balanced, and always made with care.
Two Boys Brew/h4>
Blending bold Australian brunch culture with top-tier coffee, Two Boys Brew is a vibrant, modern café loved for its creative menu and welcoming atmosphere.
Address:
375 North Circular Road, Phibsborough
What I like about it
This place is my go-to for a lazy weekend brunch—the coffee’s spot-on, and the food never misses.
Clement & Pekoe
An independent café and tea house on South William Street, Clement & Pekoe offers quality brews in a relaxed, stylish space perfect for slow mornings and people-watching.
Address:
50 William St S, Dublin 2
What I like about it
I love slipping into Clement & Pekoe for a quiet moment; the tea selection is thoughtful, the coffee’s excellent, and the front window seat is a dream on a rainy day.
Attractions
Top 10 Places to Visit in Dublin
| #1 Trinity College and the Long Room Library | #2 Guinness Storehouse | #3 Dublin Castle | #4 Phoenix Park | #5 Temple Bar District | #6 Kilmainham Gaol | #7 National Museum of Ireland | #8 Christ Church Cathedral | #9 Howth Village and Cliff Walk | #10 The Little Museum of Dublin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| See the stunning library and the famous Book of Kells manuscript. | Explore the history of Guinness brewing with interactive exhibits and enjoy a pint with panoramic views at the Gravity Bar. | A historic fortress with beautiful gardens, museums, and state apartments to explore. | One of Europe’s largest urban parks, perfect for walks, picnics, and spotting wild deer. | Dublin’s lively cultural quarter packed with pubs, live music, restaurants, and art galleries. | A former prison turned museum that offers deep insight into Ireland’s struggle for independence. | Offers fascinating exhibits on Irish history, archaeology, and culture (multiple locations, but the Archaeology branch on Kildare Street is a highlight). | One of Dublin’s oldest landmarks with impressive medieval architecture and crypt tours. | A charming fishing village just outside Dublin, great for seafood and scenic coastal walks. | A quirky, intimate museum that tells the story of Dublin in the 20th century through engaging exhibits and personal stories. |
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