From ancient castles to Harry Potteresque libraries, Musement shares eleven of the most Instagrammable places in Dublin
Although Dublin has plenty of great places worth taking a day trip out of the city to, nothing compares to exploring its magical city center. With its cultural quarters to famous pubs and charming parks, there are so many things to do in the Irish capital that deserve Instalove.
For St. Patrick’s Day this year, Musement shares 11 of the most Instagrammable places in Dublin to help you navigate through the city.
1. Guinness Storehouse
Beer lovers delight. Located in the heart of St. James’s Gate Brewery, the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin is a must visit and will warrant a place on your Instagram feed. Learn about the 250-year history of Ireland’s favorite brew, ranging from the founder, Arthur Guinness, to the ingredients that make up the beer and more. Its seven stories offer different interactive experiences to take part in. Don’t forget to make your way up to the Gravity Bar on the seventh floor and sip on a glass of the good stuff as you enjoy the panoramic views of Ireland’s capital. If you want to pull your own pint, you can do so at the Perfect Pint bar. Cheers!
2. Anne’s Lane Umbrellas
These colorful umbrellas on Anne’s Lane will surely brighten up your Instagram page. Located on a small side street, these umbrellas are a true hidden gem in Dublin. Belonging to the Zozimus Bar, they can serve as a little canopy for those who are just passing by or as the perfect setting for a picture. You won’t be able to channel your inner Mary Poppins, but you can definitely get a good flick to make your followers jealous.
3. Trinity College Library (The Long Room)
Considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, this 18th-century library will have you snapping pictures from the moment you step foot inside. The Long Room at Trinity College looks like it comes straight from a scene of a Harry Potter film. With its high arches, dark oak walls, and two levels of floor-to-ceiling bookcases, the library is one of Dublin’s most popular attractions. Over 200,000 of the library’s oldest books fill the shelves of this long corridor, a true sight to see. This library also houses the Book of Kells, one of the oldest and most important manuscripts from the Middle Ages. Open to visitors seven days a week, make sure to pass by when in Dublin.
4. Stephen’s Green Shopping Center
Shopaholics are in for a real treat here. From restaurants to gift shops to clothing stores and more, Stephen’s Green Shopping Center has it all. Since opening in 1988, the iconic shopping center has been a hot spot for those looking to get their shopping fix. Part of Dublin’s most known shopping quarter, it is located just across from St. Stephen’s Green Park. This architectural gem consists of three floors of shops, a beautiful glass dome and is home to Ireland’s largest clock. Make your way to the top floor to really take in the beautiful views of this masterpiece.
5. Doors of Dublin
On the south side of the River Liffey, the Georgian quarter in Dublin is known for its vibrant colored doors. What once started as a trend has become a trademark of the city. The beautiful Georgian architecture and its doors are worth a visit so take a stroll through the quarter to see the old, yet elegant doors. Dublin’s most photographed and famous door can be found at 46 Fitzwilliam Square. The vines with their amber leaves border the doorway entrance during the autumn months, making it the best time for a visit and a photoshoot.
6. Temple Bar
Temple Bar, a district off the River Liffey and home to some of the best pubs in Dublin, is a tourist magnet. This bustling part of the city includes a buzzing nightlife with live music and will provide its visitors a good time. The Temple Bar, a bar named after the city’s district, is a sure Instagram favorite. With its cobbled streets, brightly red painted exterior, overflowing flowers and draped fairy lights, the bar provides you the perfect backdrop for a picture. They say you haven’t been to Dublin if you haven’t visited the Temple Bar, so let your followers know you visited the capital.
7. Street Art in Dublin
One of the top things to do in Dublin is to walk the streets and admire the dynamic street art. On both sides of the Liffey, you will come across many quarters that have amazing art work. The different murals and designs covering the streets are worth seeing, especially in Smithfield. Every so often new fine art pops up in these quarters so it’s necessary to have your camera ready at all times.
8. St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Not to get confused with the one in New York, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a true Dublin icon. It’s hard to miss the largest and tallest church in Ireland. Its spire alone stands at a towering 140 feet tall and can be seen above the Dublin skyline. The cathedral that is present today began construction in 1220 and took 39 years to complete. Explore the beautiful gardens that surround the church and admire the stunning architecture before you head inside. Once inside, marvel at the beautifully stained-glass windows and the historical statues that decorate the cathedral’s interior, a place worthy on your Instagram feed. Learn about St. Patrick, the patron Saint of Ireland, and the rich history of this medieval cathedral with a guided tour. The perfect place for a true Dublin experience.
9. Dublin Zoo
Opened in 1831, the Dublin Zoo covers over 69 acres of the beautiful Phoenix Park. Over 500 rare, exotic and endangered animals from over 80 species call the zoo home. The zoo is divided into nine parts, each representing a different habitat ranging from the Fringes of the Arctic and Antarctic to the African Plains. Capture some of the rarest animals in the world as you explore the zoo grounds. When you are done visiting, don’t forget to stop in Phoenix Park, Europe’s largest enclosed public park in a capital city.
10. Ha’penny Bridge
Ha’penny Bridge, or “Triangle Bridge” as it’s known to the locals, is a pedestrian bridge that crosses over the River Liffey. It was constructed in 1816 and used to cost a penny to cross, hence its name. Each day, over 30,000 pedestrians cross the bridge that splits Dublin into the north and south. The best time to take a stroll over the bridge is in the evening when it is lit up and reflects off of the river. You will be able to see beautiful views of the Dublin skyline, truly romantic.
11. Dublin Castle
Built in the early thirteenth century on a Viking fortress, the Dublin Castle is truly historic and one of Dublin’s most important landmarks. In fact, it is one of Dublin’s top attractions today. Up until 1922, it served as the headquarters for the English and British Government’s administration in Ireland. Nowadays it is used for Presidential Inaugurations and important State events. The castle’s Dubh Linn Garden and its exquisite designs of sea serpents cut into the lawn are worth an Instagram post, let alone the fairylike medieval castle. Dive into the capital’s history when in Dublin!