Dublin: Five Must See Sites

With a population of approximately 1.8 million people within the greater area, Dublin the most populous city in Ireland. The capital city, Dublin is located at the mouth of the River Liffey, near the midpoint of Ireland's east coat. It was originally founded as a Viking settlement and eventually evolved into the Kingdom of Dublin. The city attracts more than 5.5 million visitors each year where visitors can enjoy an authentic Irish vacation and enjoy the culture while sight-seeing in Dublin. Here are the top five tourist attractions not to miss in Dublin.

Phoenix Park

Located west of the city centre, this urban park is the largest enclosed municipal park in the world. It is home to many Irish tourist attractions, such as the Irish President's residence and the residence of the Ambassador of the United States. Phoenix Park consists of 1,750 acres that includes large grassland areas and tree-lined streets. Of all the attractions in Dublin, this park allows visitors to get an up-close look at nature and wildlife, including a herd of wild Fallow deer that have taken residence in the park since the 17^th century.

Guinness Storehouse

Ireland is known for many things such as potatoes, leprechauns, and folk dancing. Arguably, however, Ireland is most notable for Guinness beer. While taking in the various Irish tourist attractions, tourists can visit a Guinness-themed attraction located at St. James's Gate Brewery. The Guinness Storehouse opened in 2000 and welcomes more than four million people each year. While enjoying an Irish vacation, people can take a tour of the brewery and learn the history of Guinness advertising. Once the tour is over, visitors can travel to the Gravity Bar located on the seventh floor and enjoy a complimentary pint of Guinness and panoramic view of the city.

St Patrick's Cathedral

Also known as The National Cathedral and Collegiate Church of Saint Patrick, Dublin, this cathedral was founded in 1191. It is one of two Church of Ireland cathedrals and is also the largest church in Ireland. Many famous Irishmen are buried on the grounds of the cathedral, including John Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels and many former archbishops. While sight-seeing in Dublin, visitors can view these graves, as well as the neo-gothic cathedral.

Kilmainham Gaol

Now a museum, the Kilmainham Gaol once served as Europe's most notorious prison. The prison was preserved in working condition in order for the museum to be opened in the mid-1980s. After enjoying the various attractions in Dublin, visitors can take a tour of the museum and find out what it was like to be one of the Irish rebellion leaders that were imprisoned and executed here in the early 1900s. This attraction will give a unique and historical twist to any Irish vacation.

Dublin Castle

Sight-seeing in Dublin is not complete without a trip to the Dublin Castle. Unlike some of the other attractions in Dublin, this castle is still used by the Irish government. It was originally commissioned as the fortified seat of British rule in Ireland until 1922. While taking in the Irish tourist attractions, visitors can tour the state rooms, massive tower, gardens, and Royal Chapel that take residence at this attraction.