Five places to visit in/around Dublin during the weekend
Kilmainham Gaol
If you are someone with very deep interest in history and loves to explore the historical side of almost every place you visit then Kilmainham Gaol trip is a must for you. This building has an important place in Ireland’s painful path to Independence. Many Irish revolutionaries were imprisoned and executed by the British in the prison which is now a museum run by office of public works. Convicts from many parts of Ireland were held here for long periods waiting waiting to be transported to Australia. First built in 1796, Kilmainham Gaol was called the “New Gaol” and was decommissioned as a prison by Irish free state government in 1924. Located at a distance of 3.5km from the city centre, this site is easily accessible by the Dublin bus, Dart and Luas. Gaol is accessed by guided tours only from 09:35 am to 05:30 pm with the last tour commencing at 04:30 pm. Ticket price for an adult is 9 euro and 8 euro if you buy online.
Guinness Storehouse
Guinness storehouse is very popular among the visitors here in Ireland. The Guinness Storehouse explains the history of Beer. The story is told through various interactive exhibition areas including ingredients, brewing, transport, cooperage, advertising and sponsorship. The Storehouse covers seven floors surrounding a glass atrium shaped in the form of a pint of Guinness. See how the world-famous drink is made through seven-storey tour and then enjoy it in the Panoramic Gravity Bar with a 360 degree view of the city. The Guinness Storehouse remain open 7 days a week from 09:30 am to 7 pm and is easily accessible by a bus from dublin city centre and luas.
Phoenix Park
Founded in 1662 by the Duke of Ormond James Chester on behalf of King Charles II, this park is one of the major tourist attractions of Dublin. Lying 2–4 km west of the city centre, its 11 km perimeter wall encloses 707 hectares (1,750 acres). It is also one of the largest enclosed recreational spaces within any European capital city. Dublin zoo is one of its major attractions with around 400 animals from almost 100 different species. The 203-foot tall Wellington Monument at the Kilmainham and River Liffey edge is the largest obelisk in Europe. Hire a bike and ride across the park or plan a picnic with your loved ones. You can spend an entire day here living life to the fullest.
Wicklow mountains
If you want a break from the daily hustle of city life and come close to mother nature then head towards wicklow mountains. Beautiful landscape, unbelievable scenery and wonderful spots will blow your mind. Glendalough, Sally Gap, Lough Tay, Lough Dan, Roundwood, Indian Sculpture Park among others are the main attractions. Book a B&B for the weekend and explore various forms of mother nature at its best. Ideal place for trekking and camping during the summer season.
Ladies’ cove, Greystones
About 45-min drive away from Dublin this beach is ideal for beach lovers and for those who just want to a day-off by the beach. Ladies’ Cove offers rocks to jump off, sand for the kids, and lots of beachcombing and anemones at low tide. Greystones is a charming seaside town home to two sweeping Blue Flag beaches, and this little gem of a cove sits pretty right in the middle. Greystones is famous for its culinary appeal, with an array of restaurants to choose from. Sunsets or Sunrise at the beach will definitely take your breath away.
