The north of the River Liffey is littered with shops and guesthouses, while the historic heart of the city lies south, unaltered in appearance since Georgian times, although the last decade of the 20th century saw major urban regeneration.
This makes the place buzz with excitement, especially around Temple Bar - the entertainment centre for Dublin's tourists and visitors. This upbeat part of the city got its name from Sir William Temple, the Provost of Trinity College. Today, the area boasts fashionable pubs, good places to eat, discos and inordinate joie de vivre.
There are several places to visit that a visitor to Dublin should not miss. Trinity College was founded in 1592 and is the oldest university in Ireland. The university currently has around 10,000 students and is a popular tourist attraction as well as a thriving University. The book of Kells is included in an exhibition in the Treasury Room.
The General Post Office building in O'Connell Street was the base for attacks against the English during the Easter Uprising of 1916. The leaders of the rebellion were taken to Kilmainham Gaol, where many were executed.
Soaring 120m over O'Connell Street is the Monument of Light, also known as The Spire. The monument is actually a gigantic knitting needle, paying homage to the Aran sweater of all things, and the tiny 15cm tip is a beam of light!
And of course, Dublin Castle. In the 9th century the Vikings built a hill fort on the site of the current castle and this was replaced with a Norman castle in 1204 on the orders of King John, although the Castle was badly damaged by fire in 1684. After the 17th century the castle was a palace for the Viceroys of Ireland and English Kings and Queens until the end of British rule in Ireland in 1922. The castle is still used for elections and official state events often involving Heads of State, including the inaugurations of the Presidents of Ireland.
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Guinness Storehouse ~ Take a journey through 250 years of brewing history, discover the pride and passion which goes into making this world famous beer and uncover a few surprises.
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Jameson Distillery ~ On the site of the original distillery, this is now open as a visitor centre, where you will be introduced to the sights and history of Jameson's Irish Whiskey.
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Dublin Castle ~ There has been a castle on this since the 9th century. Above the main entrance archway stands the Statue of Justice.
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Dublin Writers Museum ~ Celebrating the city's long role as a literary centre, including displays by Joyce, Yeats, Wilde and others.
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Kilmainham Gaol ~ The site for the mass executions after the 1916 Easter Rising, this gaol provides an excellent audio-visual display and a thought-provoking tour.
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Trinity College ~ Embark on a walking tour and see the Book of Kells, an elaborate manuscript containing the Latin text of the four gospels decorated by Irish monks in the year 800 AD.
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James Joyce Museum, Dun Laoghaire ~ The Martello Tower on the busy harbour provides the location or this museum, devoted to the work of the author.
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Activities ~ Experience the thrill of real racing on one of two indoor circuits, run by Kylemore Karting, the market leaders in indoor karting. Groups can be organised into Grand Prix participation! XL Ten Pin Bowling and Skirmish Paintball are two other activities available, as well as Dublin Waterworld, a waterpark for all ages.
