Dublin is the capital of Ireland and one of the great literary, musical, and social cities of Europe — a city whose cultural output far exceeds what you would expect from a metropolitan area of 1.3 million people, and whose pub culture is not a tourist performance but a genuine social institution around which the city organizes a significant portion of its communal life. VV calls at Dun Laoghaire, the historic harbour town 12 kilometers south of Dublin city center, accessible by DART rail in 20 minutes.
The City
Dublin’s historic center is compact and walkable — Trinity College (founded 1592, home of the Book of Kells), Grafton Street, St. Stephen’s Green, the Merrion Square Georgian squares, and the Guinness Storehouse are all within 30 minutes on foot or tram from the city center. The Docklands area to the east has been transformed with contemporary architecture. The Liberties district south of the Liffey has the Guinness Storehouse and the oldest pub streets in the city.
The Book of Kells
The Book of Kells — an illuminated manuscript Gospel book created by Celtic monks around 800 AD — is displayed in the Old Library at Trinity College. It is one of the great artistic achievements of the early medieval world and viewing it in the stunning Long Room of the Old Library, with its 200,000 ancient books and marble busts, is one of the great cultural experiences in Ireland. Book entry in advance.
The Pubs
Dublin’s pub culture is genuine and not primarily tourist-oriented. Neary’s on Chatham Street, The Long Hall on South Great George’s Street, Mulligan’s on Poolbeg Street, and Kehoe’s on South Anne Street are all historic Victorian pubs still serving their neighborhoods. The Guinness Storehouse is a tourist experience but the rooftop Gravity Bar has the best view in the city.
Dun Laoghaire
The pier town itself is worth exploring — the two granite piers extending into Dublin Bay are among the finest Victorian maritime structures in Ireland, with extraordinary views of the Wicklow Mountains to the south and the Dublin skyline to the north.
Insider Tips from Joel and Erin
- Book the Book of Kells before sailing. Walk-in queues at Trinity College can be 90+ minutes. Pre-booking online eliminates the wait.
- The DART is the best way into the city from Dun Laoghaire. Runs every 10–15 minutes and takes 20 minutes to Pearse or Connolly stations in the city center.
- Allow the full day. Trinity College, one great pub, the Guinness Storehouse, and St. Stephen’s Green together make for a genuinely full Dublin port day.
Ready to Sail to Dublin?
Joel and Erin are certified First Mates. Dublin is a highlight of the British Isles itinerary from Portsmouth.
Book your Virgin Voyages cruise at CruisePlanner.pro — and raise a pint in the fair city
