Ireland’s spirited capital

Both the Republic of Ireland’s capital and largest city, Dublin is truly larger than life. A kaleidoscope of history and modernity, it is generous in its architectural and cultural offerings. Just a quick turn down a cosy laneway could lead you to the bustling restaurants and pubs of Temple Bar, or towards the ancient, yet indominable walls of Dublin Castle.

Medieval treasures are plentiful around this city, such as the grand St Patrick’s Cathedral and the Book of Kells, arguably the world’s most famous medieval manuscript. For a city so rich in historic treasures, its bold spirit has not been left in the past. Renowned for their lively spirit and fun-loving attitude, Dubliners certainly know how to grab the present with both hands. So, while you are on the southside of the River Liffey, be sure to fully immerse yourself in the prevalent live music scene which characterises Dublin’s nightlife.

When the sun eventually comes up, experience Ireland’s most distinct tastes from the source at the Guinness Storehouse or at the Jameson Distillery.

When it comes to cultural experiences, Dublin doesn’t disappoint. It is filled with world-class galleries and museums, such as the National Gallery of Ireland featuring European art from the 14th right up to the 20th-century. However, if it is modern art that speaks to your soul, The Dublin City Gallery is famed for its exhibitions by contemporary Irish artists.

One of the most unique and most loved aspects of Irish culture, comes in the form of the native sport, hurling. Head down to Croke Park, to celebrate the sole national team of this prehistoric game, for an experience exclusive to Ireland.

An extremely multifaceted city, Dublin certainly proves a compelling microcosm of Ireland as a whole. Its most enduring features stand bold amongst the bustle of contemporary life, allowing you to discover the story of Ireland and its people, right from the beginning.

From our experts

Experiences picked by our destination specialists

  • Play Gaelic games with locals preview image
  • Draw whiskey from the cask at Jameson Distillery preview image
  • Watch a sheepdog handler at work preview image

Play Gaelic games with locals

toggle accordion

Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of Gaelic Games, such as Hurling and Gaelic Football

Draw whiskey from the cask at Jameson Distillery

toggle accordion

Explore Jameson Distillery, the oldest distillery in Ireland, where you’ll have the opportunity to draw and taste whiskey straight from a Jameson cask.

Watch a sheepdog handler at work

toggle accordion

Enjoy a live demonstration from a renowned sheepdog handler of working border collies in action.

Luxury accommodation in Dublin

There are many incredible places to stay in Dublin. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Dublin

The Shelbourne
Situated south of the river in the heart of Dublin city centre, The Shelbourne thoroughly encapsulates classic Irish charm and elegance. First opened in 1824, this stately hotel has remained a perennial favourite for visitors to the city and enjoys a prime location overlooking St Stephen’s Green. Catching your eye upon arrival are the delicate touches of gold leaf and ornate chandeliers, a visual promise of the luxury found within these walls. The warmth of deep mahogany and pastel green found throughout the hotel evoke Ireland’s quintessential greenery. Yet while these natural hues pay tribute to Ireland’s vast natural offerings, the Shelbourne is far from rustic. The 246 rooms and suites are classic and elegant and designed to emulate a homely yet luxurious hideaway. Balconies overlooking the natural beauty of St. Stephens Green can be found in some of the rooms while deep bath tubs are perfect for slipping into after a day exploring the city. The food enthusiast in you can rejoice over the choice of award-winning restaurants. The Lord Mayor’s Lounge offers a classic high tea experience while the Saddle Room restaurant specialises in hearty steaks and succulent seafood. The hotel’s most recent addition, the 1824 Bar, lures you in with its sophisticated style. Featuring a 19th-century Kilkenny limestone fireplace and oak bookshelves filled with books by famous Irish authors, it is reminiscent of a stately home gallery and library. The hotel’s facilities range from a state-of-the-art fitness centre and indoor heated pool to a full-service day spa. Exclusive to The Shelbourne and cementing the hotel’s bond between past and present, is the unique services of the genealogy butler. This allows you to delve deep into your own history to discover where your true ancestral roots lie.
Discover more

Why book with Jacada?

Personalised design illustration image

Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

Authentic experiences illustration image

Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

Responsible travel illustration image

Responsible travel

Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Trip inspiration

Get inspired with our Dublin example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure

All-encompassing Ireland

21-Day Trip

All-encompassing Ireland

From
$0 pp

21-Day Trip

All-encompassing Ireland

An intensive full-circle journey through some of the very best places Ireland has to offer, from Dublin to Galway, Belfast and beyond
From
$0 pp
Scotland and Ireland Adventure

14-Day Trip

Scotland and Ireland Adventure

From
$0 pp

14-Day Trip

Scotland and Ireland Adventure

From Edinburgh to Cork and beyond, discover historic towns and beautiful national parks
From
$0 pp
A Luxury Discovery of Ireland

12-Day Trip

A Luxury Discovery of Ireland

From
$0 pp

12-Day Trip

A Luxury Discovery of Ireland

Experience Ireland at its most opulent, onboard the Belmond Grand Hibernian and from the skies
From
$0 pp
Ready to plan your adventure?

Whatever you want from your Dublin adventure, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Where to go in Ireland

Belfast thumbnail

Belfast

Shaped by the turbulent events of the 20th century, the capital city of Northern Ireland is both historically and politically important. Yet over the years, Belfast has been shaking off its troubled reputation and today is a vibrant and exciting city with lots to offer.

Read more
Cork thumbnail

Cork

Sitting snug inland on the River Lee, you’ll find Cork’s buzzing city centre. Awaiting you is a wealth of historic attractions of medieval, early modern and Georgian origin.

Read more
Donegal and the Causeway Coast thumbnail

Donegal and the Causeway Coast

Here you will find a beautiful array of historical and geological treasures, on a shared and seemingly endless coastline.

Read more
Galway and the West Coast thumbnail

Galway and the West Coast

The West Coast is home to some of Ireland‘s most dramatic scenery. This is where sheer cliffs drop down into the ocean, shimmering lakes sit under towering mountain peaks and the waters of the Atlantic lap against golden sands.

Read more
Killarney National Park and the South West Coast thumbnail

Killarney National Park and the South West Coast

West of Cork and is where you’ll find the tranquility of Ireland’s oldest national park. Killarney National Park is divided by both the Ring of Kerry and the River Laune, which runs down from Lough Leane. It is home to bountiful herds of majestic red deer and Ireland’s largest native forest.

Read more
The Ancient East thumbnail

The Ancient East

This vast and changing landscape of the east offers such a wealth of historic sites, you can journey through the country’s historic narrative, starting right from the dawn of civilisation.

Read more

Meet your Europe team

When to visit

With some careful planning, Ireland can be a charming destination at any time of the year. The best months to visit are April to early June, when the landscape erupts into a vivid emerald green as the weather becomes warmer. July and August are good times to visit too, but this is the height of the summer season and the country can become congested.

St. Patrick's Day

March 17th

Explore museums

All year round

When Is the Best Time to Go to Ireland?

When Is the Best Time to Go to Ireland?

Read more

Plan your trip to Dublin

Whatever you want from your adventure in Dublin, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Start Planning

Don't take our word for it

Your trip, your story

We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.