We arrived in Dublin from Galway around noon. So after leaving our luggage at the hotel we went to Dublin Castle. The first thing we did was purchase the Heritage Pass. http://www.heritageireland.ie This is such a great deal, especially if you are spending time in multiple areas of Ireland. You pay a fee (30 euro each for us) and it’s good for a year. It allows you free entrance with a guided tour to lots and lots of historical sites all over Ireland. It paid for itself in our first week in Ireland. http://www.dublincastle.ie
So with our pass in hand we opted for the guided tour of Dublin Castle. Fascinating place spanning many time periods in Dublin’s evolution.
After touring the castle we went next door to the Chester Beatty Library. Great exhibits of books from Islam, India and China with some early Christian books as well. They include some early letters to the Christian Church. We enjoyed tea at the very nice cafe at the library. http://www.chesterbeatty.ie
Then we headed to the Temple Bar area. Probably a not to be missed stop if you’re interested in bar hopping. Very colorful and crowded with lots of pubs. We had reservations at the Gallagher’s Boxty House, a restaurant that specializes in Boxty which is like a potato pie with different fillings. We had a two for one deal through Groupon Ireland that included a flight of beer each with a three course dinner so off we went. Registering for Groupon Ireland a couple of months before our trip was great. We took advantage of several restaurant and hotel deals that definitely helped the budget.
Had a great conversation with the couple seated next to us who were from London. Then back to the hotel.