My first stop was Dublin! With a 5am arrival and unable to achieve any sleep on the plane due to a few restless kiddies in front of me, I was ready to explore Ireland’s capital. I stayed in a cute boutique hotel in the bustling area of Temple Bar. My first few stops included Trinity College, the Molly Malone Statue, and Dublin Castle.
I stopped by Ireland’s Oldest Pub for a Kilkenny and Beef & Guinness Stew followed by a few tasty local oysters and a Fish Burger at The Fish Shop. I enjoyed the Guinness Connoisseur Experience where I tasted different types of Guinness in a private bar and learned how to pour the perfect pint.
I had dinner at Forest & Marcy where I tried their modern, seasonal Irish tasting menu.
I was up for almost 38 hours before finally getting some sleep my first night. I was up nice and early the next morning for a day trip that included the Barack Obama Plaza, the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, The Burren, and great pizza and ice cream in lovely Galway.
Later that night I enjoyed a rijsttafel – a medley of delicious Indonesian dishes. Then it was time to check out a pub for a couple beers and a shot with fellow travelers.
For my third day in Dublin, I was up early once again. It was time for another day tour. This trip included Belfast where I rode a black taxi with a local who lived through all the conflict of the area. I heard the stories, saw some murals, and had a chance to sign the Peace Wall.
We then headed to Giant’s Causeway, a geological wonder with over 40,000 basalt stone columns left by volcanic eruptions over 60 million years ago!
Afterwards we went to Dunluce Castle, also known as Castle Greyjoy for all you Game of Thrones fans!
Back in Temple Bar, I stopped by Bunsen for a damn good cheeseburger and hand cut fries.
For my final morning in Dublin, I enjoyed a yummy Irish Breakfast and Irish Coffee. I don’t even drink coffee, but I’ll make an exception once in a while.
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is a fantastic interactive museum that should not be missed. I then took a tour of Kilmainham Gaol which was super interesting.
Dinner consisted of an oyster happy hour and incredible Boxty Fries with a Jack Smyth stout.
I enjoyed my final night in Ireland with some pub hopping, live music, and beer with some cool peoples.
Ireland was beautiful and Dublin was lots of fun! I was off to Scotland the next afternoon! My Scotland recap is coming soon.
You had such a good time in Ireland. Read a lot about Dublin and Ireland in general. I can’t wait to visit the country.
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Yes, it was really cool!! Hope you have an incredible time when you go too! :)🇮🇪