the hapenny bridge in dublin ireland at sunset

Dublin Holidays

Flight + Hotel

Discover the delights of Dublin

Dublin holidays unlock the magic of Ireland’s capital – a proud city that has a passion for its history and heritage, along with life itself.

The Ha’penny Bridge spans the famous River Liffey, connecting the two halves of the city. Make a beeline for the lively Temple Bar district where local bands belt out traditional folk music.

Discover the secrets of stately Dublin Castle, or head to the National Museum of Ireland in search of stories from the nation’s past.

You'll find the famous Irish hospitality on show in Dublin’s many restaurants and cafes, where traditional dishes sit alongside international flavours. 

The city is also blessed with beautiful green spaces, from the vast lawns of Phoenix Park to the arches and artworks of St Stephen’s Green.

Discover all this and more on your holiday to Dublin with Etihad.

aerial view of dublin skyline at night

Things to do in Dublin

Dublin holidays allow you to explore some of the Emerald Isle’s most enchanting folklore and impressive historical monuments, all delivered with plenty of Irish charm. 

exterior of turrets of dublin castle

Step back in time

Dublin is a city with history on every street corner. The Gothic parapets of Dublin Castle were once the seat of British government in Ireland and now provide a spectacular window into the nation’s eventful past.

View the stunning State Rooms, once reserved for visiting British royals. Take to the walls to explore the fortifications, the castle defences remaining much as they once stood centuries ago. 

You can xxplore Ireland’s more recent history at Kilmainham Gaol, the notorious former prison that's now a museum dedicated to the history of Ireland’s fight for independence.

 

Where to stay in Dublin

Architectural gems

The Georgian core of the city is a great spot to base yourself during a Dublin city break.

Wander down the cobbled streets and feast your eyes on row after row of 18th-century charm.

Enjoy the stately homes of Fitzwilliam Square, the enchantment of Merrion Square Park and the lush greenery of St Stephen’s Green. 

The five-star Fitzwilliam Hotel makes a great option for a romantic holiday in Dublin and is just minutes from picturesque Trinity College. 

exterior of trinity college dublin
saint stephens park in dublin

Trendsetters

To the south of the city is the effortlessly cool Portobello neighbourhood.

A hip hangout for the trendiest Dubliners, the streets here are lined with progressive restaurants and contemporary galleries.

A treat for foodies, this area is home to some of the most innovative and creative cuisine that Dublin has to offer. 

Iveagh Garden Hotel is located on the edge of Portobello’s pretty parkland, just a short walk from central Dublin.

Buzzing Temple Bar 

Undoubtedly Dublin’s most famous area, Temple Bar delights visitors with lively entertainment during both day and night.

Located between Grafton Street and Trinity College, this central spot is popular with tourists and locals alike.

The Morrison, a Doubletree by Hilton Hotel sits just across the river from the famous district. 

By day explore pop-ups, exhibitions and independent cinema. Come nightfall, experience the legendary Irish atmosphere.

temple bar dublin lit up at night
ha penny bridge in ireland at night

All you need to know about Dublin

Local currency 

The local currency in Dublin is the euro. Credit cards are widely accepted and there are plenty of ATMs across the city.

Languages spoken

The main language spoken in Dublin is English, but you may hear the Irish language of Gaelic and see signs written in both.

Getting around

Dublin is a compact city and can easily be explored on foot. There are plenty of taxis and it’s also served by the LUAS tram system, buses and trains.

Public holidays

The most vibrant festival in the city is St. Patrick’s Day, typically falling in mid-March. Dublin also celebrates several religious festivals, including Easter and Christmas.

More about Dublin

Local cuisine 

Dublin’s food scene has something for everyone. You’ll find popular restaurants throughout the city offering flavours from around the world, from authentic wood-fired pizza to delicious noodles. 

There’s fine dining to be had at the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants, such as the ever-popular Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud. 

For a more traditional experience, be sure to sample some of the dishes that are firm favourites with the locals. Hearty Irish stew is a wholesome dish, often served with lamb or mutton.

Try a Dubliner’s breakfast of boxty – fried potato pancakes often topped with herbs and eggs.

Potatoes are also the main ingredient in moreish colcannon, a dish of mashed potatoes served with butter and kale. 

bowl of creamy irish stew
hurling equipment dublin

A city of culture

Irish culture is known for its rich folklore, lively traditional music and influential literary legacy.

Dublin showcases the best of this through its art galleries, vibrant music scene and wonderful festivals. 

For an authentic Irish experience during your stay, be sure to catch a live band in action.

Traditional Irish music is bound to have your feet tapping, with its lively jigs, fiddles and folk influences. 

For something more hands-on, visit Experience Gaelic Games and have a go at a 3,000-year-old Irish sport in the shape of hurling, or the country’s most popular sport of Gaelic Football.

Dublin's proud traditions

Ireland is rich in traditions and festivals which have been celebrated for centuries. The most famous of these festivities is St. Patrick’s Day, the feast day of Ireland’s Patron Saint. 

Now a celebration with global popularity, time your Dublin holiday right to catch the original St. Patrick’s Day parades in March and see the streets filled with crowds and floats that turn the city into a sea of green.

Another tradition is that of Halloween, known as the festival of Samhain, which was first celebrated in Ireland around 1,000 years ago.

two young women celebrating st patricks day in dublin
garland of irish flags

Why we love Dublin

“Dublin is a place where you know you’re in for a good time. From the beautiful green parks to the buzzing vibe of Temple Bar, prepare to be swept away by this charming city and the warm welcome of the locals.”

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