What better time of year than to wander to Dublin, Ireland than during St. Patty’s Day week! Dublin is a vibrant city of working class people. I mention that because it’s unlike other European cities such as London, Rome and Paris where you will find upper class neighborhoods set apart from the pulse of the city. Dublin’s heartbeat, its core, is its people and their energy permeates everything from department stores, to restaurants, to transportation.
Getting there is easy with a flight from New York just 6-1/2 hours and a flight from London less than 90 minutes. It can be a great weekend destination but I have even done Dublin as a day trip from London. There is plenty to see in one day and you don’t leave feeling as though you wanted more time there.
My first tip when visiting any new city is to hop on a Guide Friday tour bus. They are popular throughout the EU and allow you to hop on and off at your leisure. I will generally ride the route all the way through to learn the lay of the land and then I have a good idea of where I want to visit during the day.
Illuminated manuscript the Book of Kells, circa 800
Dublin is a great walking town and it is small enough that you cannot wander far off the beaten path. In one day I managed to make stops at St. Patrick’s Cathedral; Trinity College to visit the Book of Kells; shop and stop for a spot of lunch in Temple Bar; and walk along the River before heading back to the airport to catch my return flight to London. However, if you prefer to stay over night, you can save up to 20% at InterContinental Hotels when you book now
“For each petal on the shamrock.
This brings a wish your way
Good health, good luck, and happiness For today and every day.” Irish proverb
