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Where the Guinness is frothy, the mountains glow green and a constant hum of live music spills from nearly every doorway, Dublin delivers a rare blend of vibrant culture and deep-rooted history. A nonstop Aer Lingus flight launching this April from RDU gives Raleighites direct access to everything The Dubs has to offer, from quaint cafes and boutiques to lively eateries and festivals.
As the Irish blessing goes, may the road rise to meet you—and in Dublin, it usually leads to a pub. Framed by mountains, edged by the Irish Sea and fueled by the luck of the Irish, it’s a city where a good time awaits around every corner—and where anyone can find their rhythm, perfect for pulling up for a pint, catching a local band and settling into the city’s buzzing pub scene. Sláinte!
DO
Guinness Storehouse
Consider this the mother ship of stout. Dublin’s most famous pint awaits inside St. James’s Gate (also a great photo op), where the Storehouse pours out the history, craft and culture behind the world’s most iconic dark beer. Master the perfect pour, snap a Stoutie and cap it all off with a fresh Guinness at the Gravity Bar—360-degree skyline views included.
guinness-storehouse.com
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
For an ~epic~ crash course in Ireland’s past, the three-time winner of Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction brings the country’s story to life through interactive exhibits, immersive storytelling and rotating events—from Irish journalism to JFK’s famed visit. epicchq.com
City Kayaking
Trade cobblestones for currents via City Kayaking, leading paddlers from Liffey Boardwalk under the Ha’Penny and O’Connell bridges and past some of the Fair City’s most recognizable landmarks. In warmer months, the Music Under the Bridges series turns the river into a floating concert hall—accessible only by kayak. citykayaking.com
EAT
Keogh’s Cafe
Rise and fry—full Irish, please. Keogh’s classic Irish breakfast—bangers, black and white pudding, eggs, tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast—has fueled Dublin mornings for more than 30 years from its cozy city-center perch. Beyond brekkie, expect strong cuppas, sandos, pastries and hearty farm-to-plate fare like Guinness & beef stew.keoghscafe.ie
Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud
For when a pint won’t cut it, the two-star Michelin resto turns out a seasonally rotating French-Irish menu featuring the likes of Celtic Sea black sole, roasted foie gras, blue lobster ravioli, and Comté cheese soufflé—all served inside a striking space crowned by soaring ceilings and intricate lighting. rpgmenu.ie
The Stag’s Head
Blink and you might miss it. Tucked down a narrow passage off Dame Street, Dublin’s landmark Victorian pub opens into a dimly lit den of dark wood, stained glass and plush lounges. The comfort-food menu delivers the goods: ham and cheese toasties; Irish cottage pie; fish and chips (er, fries); and a burger piled with smoked bacon, aged Dubliner white cheddar cheese and a beer-battered onion ring—best paired with a pint and a long linger. stagshead.ie
DRINK
The Temple Bar
Yes, it’s touristy—go anyway. Dublin’s bright-red foliage-draped Temple is one of the city’s most recognizable pubs for a reason—boasting Ireland’s largest whiskey collection (read: 350+), a deep bench of Irish beers, and live music daily that keeps the craic on tap long after the last pint is poured. thetemplebarpub.com
The Brazen Head
Older than most countries, pints have poured here since 1198. Ireland’s oldest pub—and the world’s fifth oldest—pairs centuries of history with weekly live music in its historic Music Room and a steady stream of draughts, from Guinness to Kilkenny to Rockshore cider. brazenhead.com
BAR 1661
Irish spirits, front and center. Dublin’s cocktail game runs deep at 1661—voted Ireland’s Bar of the Year 2025—pouring inventive ’tails built around a range of distinct ingredients—think the Crystal Clarity made with Weavers vodka, Aperol, rhubarb, custard and cava, or the famed Belfast Coffee feat. Bán Poitín, cold brew, cream, demerara and nutmeg—a fitting finale for a night out. bar1661.ie
STAY
The Schoolhouse Hotel
Class is in session. Set inside a restored 19th century schoolhouse, the red-brick facade exudes a mini Hogwarts-esque vibe along the Grand Canal in Ballsbridge. Cozy yet refined, the stay pairs historic charm with 31 freshly refurbished en-suite rooms—perfect for a charming night in. schoolhouse.ie
The Westbury
Where Dublin does glamour, The Westbury feels more art gallery than hotel, oozing with museumworthy works and elegant design touches. Its 205 rooms and suites deliver contemporary comfort—marble bathrooms, oversize windows, calming palettes—while on-site Wilde restaurant channels 1930s Parisian elegance amid an abundance of lush greenery. Sanctuary found. doylecollection.com
Clontarf Castle Hotel
Sleeping in a castle? When in Ireland… obviously. Just outside the city center, Clontarf’s 12th century fortress mixes medieval character with modern luxury, from stone corridors and grand staircases to the lively Knights Bar. Expect historic details, plush accommodations and award-winning restaurants and bars where you can dine—and drink—like royalty. clontarfcastle.ie
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