With more and more cruise itineraries departing from Dublin, there is no better opportunity to take the time to admire this wonderful city.

With many renowned cruise lines such as Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea set to operate cruises from Dublin, there is no better time to visit this iconic city. If you are tempted by any of the itineraries sailing out of Dublin, you could make the most of your time in the city by enhancing your cruise with a pre or post-cruise stay. With warm and inviting locals and many cultural relics to be discovered, the Irish capital offers plenty for visitors to see and explore.

Landmarks and Museums

Dublin has an extensive history and a culture of literature and music - all of which can be explored through the many landmarks and museums. Many of these venues are free to enter, including the Chester Beatty Library, which was awarded the title of European Museum of the Year in 2002 and houses a wide collection of sacred texts and manuscripts. There are two cathedrals in the city: St Patrick's Cathedral holds the status as the largest church in Ireland, while Christ Church Cathedral is regarded as the oldest building in Dublin - both date back to the 11th century.

Visitors can gain a glimpse into the history of Ireland at Dublin Castle, which was once the seat of British rule in the country. When it comes to museums, visitors have plenty of choice in Dublin, with a wide range of themes and cultural areas to explore including the Dublin Writers Museum, the Irish Museum of Modern Art, and the Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship Museum.

Guinness and Jameson

For many, no journey to Dublin would be complete without sampling a Guinness - undoubtedly, the city's most famous drink. The Guinness Storehouse is a self-guided exhibition that spans seven floors, culminating on the seventh floor at the Gravity Bar. From here, visitors will be able to enjoy a complimentary pint (included in the entry price) and admire mesmerising views over Dublin. The museum also provides the chance to learn how to pour the perfect pint of Guinness.

If whiskey is more your preference, you may enjoy a tour of the Old Jameson Distillery. Although this an ex-distillery and no longer produces whiskey full time, you will be able to see a recreation of the process and enjoy a tasting session afterwards.

Pubs

Sticking on the subject of beverages, it is no myth that Dublin is home to many pubs. There are more than 600 pubs situated across the city, many of which offer beer that has been brewed on site. Visitors are quite literally spoilt for choice when it comes to drinking venues and many pub crawl routes have subsequently been devised.

One of the most renowned areas of the city is Temple Bar - which refers to a venue that was once a sand bar, as opposed to a drinking establishment. Today, however, the building is home to a fully functional bar, while the surrounding area is networked by a series of cobbled streets that collectively lead to a wide selection of food, drink, shopping and music establishments.

Shopping

Grafton Street is one of Dublin's most famous shopping districts. Running along an expansive pedestrianised area, it takes stretches from St. Stephen's Green to Trinity College and has received status as an Architectural Conservation Zone. Visitors will be able to enjoy a number of shops dealing in fashion, antiques, and much more. In addition to Grafton Street, there are many other shopping streets available including Nassau Street, Dawson Street, O'Connell Street and Henry Street.

To find out more about adding a pre or post-cruise stay in Dublin onto your cruise, Contact our friendly sales team via the freephone number above or complete the online enquiry form.