Explore Dublin

Q: I’m coming all the way to Ireland, what should I actually see while I’m there?
A: Ah, the million-dollar question. Dublin is a compact city with plenty of charm (and pubs). Some highlights:

  • Phoenix Park – One of Europe’s largest city parks (and a Kiernan family favorite).

  • Guinness Storehouse – Touristy but worth it. The pint at the top comes with 360° views.

  • Jameson Distillery – Whiskey drinkers, this one’s for you.

  • Trinity College – Home to the world-famous Book of Kells and the Long Room library, and also Jack’s alma mater.

  • Kilmainham Gaol – A look at Ireland’s history in a former prison.

  • Grafton Street & St. Stephen’s Green – Shop a little, listen to the buskers, and stroll the park.

  • Golf… so much golf – Dublin and the surrounding area is home to some of world’s most famous golf clubs. If you’re seriously interested, reach out to Jack for details (he’ll hate having to talk about it).

All of these are close together, you could cover them in a day or two if you’re ambitious.

Q: Temple Bar, yes or no?
A: Essentially the “Times Square” of Dublin. You’ll find fewer locals here, but if you want live Irish music and €9 pints, go for it. Just know a pint should be closer to a fiver.

Q: Where do the locals actually drink?
A: Some of the Kiernans’ favourites:

  • O’Donoghues (Merrion Row) – Important: only this location. Great live music.

  • Grogan’s – Order the ham-and-cheese toastie with your Guinness. Trust us.

  • Toner’s – One of the best snugs in Dublin.

  • Mulligans – One of the best pints in the city.

  • Kehoes – Perfect spot to stand outside with the after-work crowd.

  • Stag’s Head – A small but beautifully appointed pub.

  • The Gravediggers – A little out of the way but considered the best pint of Guinness in Dublin.

  • Brazen Head – Oldest pub in Ireland (nearly 1,000 years old).

  • The Palace – Gorgeous interiors and maybe the best pint in Dublin. (And also where Carmel, Vincent, Sue and Keith closed the place down the night they first met.)

Q: And if I don’t want to go home when the pubs close?
A: Then you’ll end up on Camden Street (plenty of late-night options) or at Coppers, the most infamous nightclub in Ireland.

Q: Where should I eat when I’m not drinking pints?
A: Dublin’s food scene is better than you might expect:

  • Mister S – Trendy, hard to book but worth it.

  • Row – Cute wine bar with tapas.

  • Marco Pierre White – Classic steakhouse.

  • Hawksmoor – Another top-tier steakhouse.

  • Dunne & Crescenzi – Cozy Italian.

  • Pi – Pizza done right.

  • Host – Italian spot near Ranelagh.

  • Hang Dai – Modern Chinese.

Q: I’m feeling ambitious—can I squeeze in a day trip?
A: Absolutely. A few options if you’re up for a little adventure:

  • Howth – Seaside town with cliff walks, seals in the harbor, and the freshest fish & chips. Only 30 minutes by train.

  • Glendalough (Wicklow Mountains) – A valley with ancient ruins, lakes, and hiking trails.

  • Galway – Might be a little far for a day trip, but if you’re thinking about extending your travels, it’s well worth seeing what the West of Ireland has to offer.

  • Belfast – Another great location for an extended stay. Take a Black Cab tour and experience Belfast and it’s history from one of the locals.

  • Cliffs of Moher – Ireland’s most famous cliffs. It’s a 3-hour drive, with lots of daily bus tours. If you want to extend your travels, consider a trip up and down the entire Wild Atlantic Way.

Q: Do I need to rent a car?
A: Not for Dublin itself—the city is walkable, and taxis, Ubers, and trains will get you around. If you want to explore the countryside or outside of Dublin, a car makes life easier. Just remember: they drive on the left.