Dublin, Ireland Port and Shore Excursion Reviews
Dublin, Ireland On Your Own Shore Excursion
Tom Ogg

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Dublin's Liffey (Ha'Penny) Bridge (Built in 1816)

Overview:

Dublin is the epicenter of Ireland's burgeoning economy and prosperity, while at the same time offers one the opportunity to enjoy Ireland's wonderful history and culture. Dublin offers a unique blend of medieval architecture with designer shopping, sophisticated restaurants and lively pubs. Throw in a gregarious and happy population and the result is a port that is well worth visiting and staying in. My wife and I were so mesmerized with Dublin that we ended up returning for about ten days to really get to know it. I suspect that you will want to too.

Dublin is the capital of Ireland and also Ireland's largest city. Even though Dublin is experiencing phenomenal prosperity and growth, the population of Dublin treasures its history and has taken every precaution to make sure that it is not only preserved, but enhanced, as well.

Ireland is a part of the European Union and the local currency is the euro. There are ATMs everywhere, as well as currency exchanges. June, July and August are the warmest months, but rarely get above 70 degrees. Also, it rarely freezes in Dublin making for comfortable weather year around. However, it can drizzle and rain during the summer months, so dressing in layers is suggested.

Cruise Port Location and Information:

The Liffey River Bridge

The port of Dublin is located just a little over one mile from downtown Dublin and is within walking distance from the port. However, after one exits the port and turns left towards the Liffey River there is not much to see. While the walk along the side of the Liffey River is somewhat picturesque (especially the East Link Bridge shown above) there is not much of consequence until you reach the very center of Dublin.

Sign Leading the Way to Dublin's Port

Because there is not much to see on the way to Dublin's inner city from the port, I would strongly suggest taking the ship's shuttle service to and from the center of Dublin. Believe me, you will want to spend your entire day exploring Dublin rather than walking to and from. If your ship is porting in Cobh, I would also suggest taking the ship's transfer into Dublin wasting no time. If you have time upon your return to Cobh, you can explore this quaint seaside village

Exploring on Your Own:

Dublin's HoHo Bus

Dublin is easy to explore on your own. In fact, this is the best way to see it as there are many pedestrian streets that can only be accessed on foot. I would suggest that you immediately take the Hop On Hop Off bus to become familiar with how Dublin is laid out and to mark the areas that you would like to visit in depth. If you do take the HoHo bus, be sure to stop at the Guinness Storehouse to tour the facility. This becomes quite crowded as the day progresses, so it is best done early.

Horse Drawn Carriage

You will also see horse drawn carriages throughout the older section of Dublin and while these are normally gimmicks in most cities, it is an excellent way to get around in Dublin.

The Duck Tour

Another perspective of Dublin can be gained by taking the local Duck tour. You will find the headquarters for boarding the tour adjacent to St. Stephen's Green Park at the top of Grafton Street.

Dublin's Dart Light Rail System

Between Dublin's Dart and Luas light rail system, much territory can be covered in a short amount of time. Use the Loas system to traverse the city and the Dart system to reach beyond the city itself. The trains are frequent and comfortable.

Bicycle Rentals

If you feel like taking a bike ride throughout Dublin, you will find bike stations that one can easily rent a bike from. Just deposit the appropriate amount and ride until your heart is content. When you are done, just return it to any other station that is nearby you. This is a great way to enjoy a nice day in Dublin

Dublin's Pedestrian Streets

Of course, nothing beats enjoying Dublin's wonderful old city area on foot. Virtually all of the shopping streets (and side streets) are pedestrian and are best accessed on foot. Once you get your bearings, exploring, Dublin offers a wealth of pedestrian delights.

Shopping Tips:

The Molly Malone Statue

Adjacent to Trinity College right in the heart of Dublin one will find the statue of Molly Malone. This marks the beginning of Crafton Street.

Crafton Street Shopping

Dublin offers fantastic shopping opportunities and there are two main shopping areas. The most interesting is the pedestrian Street known as Grafton Street and the streets that surround it. Crafton Street offers boutiques, shops, pubs, restaurants and unique stores of all kinds.

Flowers For Sale on Grafton Street

The side streets offer coffee houses, boutiques restaurants, flower stalls and much more.

Stephen's Green Shopping Center

At the top od Crafton Street one finds the entrance to the Stephen's Green Shopping Center. This is a fantastic shopping Center selling every thing under the sun.

Stephen's Green Shopping Center Interior

As a modern shopping center wedged in between historical sights, Stephen's Green does a wonderful job of being non-invasive. While the architecture is almost overwhelming, the mall houses many of the bramds thaat you would expect to find in any U.S. mall.

The Spire as Seen Crossing Liffey River

Across the river one sees a high spire that sits a few blocks from the river. The Spire can be seen by walking just a few blocks away from Crafton Street.

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Henry Street Shopping

This marks the intersection of Henry Street and O'Connell Street, both pedestrian shopping streets. There is much to see and do in this area and shopping on Henry Street is one of them. While Crafton Street offers many unique boutiques and shops, Henry Street is home to department stores and many local shops too.

A Side Street Market off of Henry Street

The area that surrounds Henry Street is inundated with little markets that the locals patronize. Flowers, vegetables, fruit and just about everything else is offered.

More Markets off of Henry Street

Even the local shops offer a unique blend of products within their category and are well worth a visit.

Fresh Pastries

Specialty Meat

Enjoying the local shops is just one of the best things about shopping in Dublin. You will have a wonderful time.

Port Highlights:

My Wife Joanie Enjoying a Guinness at the Guinness Storehouse

While there is a ton to do and see in Dublin, no trip would be complete without visiting the Guinness Storehouse.

The Guinness Storehouse

World famous Guinness is made right here in Dublin and has been for hundreds of years. You can visit the Guinness Storehouse and bask in the history of the beverage and explore how it is made.

The Guinness Brewing Vats

The tour leads you from the ground floor all the way to the top of the storehouse introducing the brewing process as you make your way through the facility. There is a thorough explanation of the history and brewing process of Guinness and it is quite interesting.

The View From the Top of The Guinness Storehouse

Once you have climbed to the very top of the storehouse, you arrive at a large room with incredible views of the surrounding area and of course, a bar. Your admission includes a free glass (well not free, since you paid to get in) of Guinness. Excellent!

Jameson's Irish Whisky Distillery

Jameson's Irish Whisky is another long time Dublin product that was founded in 1780 and continues distilling its Irish Whisky today. You can tour the distillery and sample their products at the end and it is well worth your time to do so.

Entering Trinity College

Located right in the center of Dublin near the foot of Crafton Street, the Trinity College has its roots all the way back in 1582 when it was founded. Today, Trinity College attracts students from all over the world and is a vibrant and exciting addition to Dublin's eclectic culture.

The Old Library and the Book of Kells

Dating back to 1582, the old library at Trinity College has some famous works in it. This includes the Book of Kells, which can be see daily. The interior of the Old Library is completely stacked with books from floor to ceiling in ornate wooden shelving. It is very much worth your visit. The collection of books is impressive, as is their presentation.

Christ Church Cathedral

While Dublin has numerous churches and cathedrals, the Christ Church Cathedral is well worth a visit. It is easily located just beyond Temple Bar. While this is the oldest building still standing in Dublin, it is an active cathedral, so make sure that you go when mass is not being performed.

The Bridge to Christ Church Cathedral

Most interesting is the bridge that is used by leaders in the church to cross from their housing to the cathedral itself.

Side Street Church

Church Off of Crafton

Another Church Along the Way

Just about everywhere you look you will find a church taking up residence. The architecture in Dublin is simply breath taking and is a visual treat upon every turn.

Customs House

Well worth a mention is Customs House. This was the original customs clearance structure for generations and is now a museum that documents Dublin's wonderful history. There is no entrance fee and it is well worth your time to visit.

St Stephen's Green Park Entrance

Located at the very top of Crafton Street is the entrance to St. Stephen's Green. This park is dazzling and difficult that it resides in the very center of Dublin. A visit to ST. Stephen's Green should be mandatory, as it introduces you to Ireland's fabulous flora and fauna.

St Stephen's Green Ponds and Trees

Like many urban parks, what St. Stephen's Green lacks in size, it makes up for absolute beauty. Be sure to make time to visit it.

Dublin Castle

I am including Dublin Castle as it is a highly recommended tourist attraction. However, we chose not to visit it. It was crowded and expensive to enter and just didn't seem worth it...maybe it was just us.

Liffey River

The Liffey River cuts Dublin into two parts and there are several bridges that pedestrians and automobiles can use to traverse the river.

Liffey River Boat Tour

Another way to see Dublin is from the river itself. Boat tours can be booked and taken right from the downtown area.

Temple Bar

 Temple Bar is the area of restaurants, clubs and bars......and lots of them. We simply loved Temple Bar and could have stayed here a month. Everyone knows that the Irish love to drink and party, but, Temple Bar is the very epicenter of Irish evening festivities.

Temple Bar at Night

When night comes to Dublin, Temple Bar is where everyone convenes to start their evenings. Students, housewives, businessmen.....everyone. It is a party atmosphere that could not be replicated anywhere else on Earth (in my opinion).

Pub Scene in Temple Bar

The bars are crowded every night and you will see just about everything possible if you spend the evening strolling around Temple Bar.

Ha'Penney Bridge From Temple Bar

Temple Bar is an old section of Dublin as attested to by the nooks and crannies one finds. One alley way leads to Ha'Penny Bridge, a pedestrian bridge that was established so that folks living on the other side of Liffey River could get to and from the bars (I suspect).

Dublin's Architecture is Breathtaking

Dublin offers so many museums, historic buildings, churches and cathedrals that it would be impossible to see them all during one port call. Dublin is a city of great diversity and culture and your day in port will only whet your appetite to return again for a longer period of time.

Off the Beaten Path:

There is so much to see and do in Dublin that it would be difficult to think that anyone would want to leave this fabulous city. But, a visit to the Waterford Crystal factory in Cobb, Ireland is an easy trip from Dublin. Simply take the train to Cobb (frequent departures) and then a taxi to the factory. The tour is quite interesting and you can generally save some money by buying right at the factory if you collect it.

Dining and Drinking Suggestions:

The MV Cill Airne Restaurant

About half way back to the port on the northern side of Liffey River is the MV Cill Airne Restaurant. Unlike most ships converted to restaurants that feature more atmosphere than quality food, this place offers both. There is a restaurant, the Quay 16 Restaurant and also the Blue River Bistro Bar.

The MV Cill Airne Blue River Bistro Bar

We dined in the Bisto Bar for lunch and it was to die for. Excellent wine, great fish and salads made it a special treat for us. We did not have reservations and the bar was not that crowded, however the restaurant was. While we didn't dine in the restaurant, the food in the bar came from the same kitchen and it was excellent. We spoke to several local people who were waiting in the bar to dine in the restaurant and they raved about it as being one of the best in Dublin.

The BADASS Cafe

Another eatery that came highly recommended was the BADASS Cafe in Temple Bar. The food was excellent, but it lacks the traditional Irish atmosphere, but if you have kids with you, this is the best choice without question. It offers a full menu including items that would please any child.

A Typical Irish Pub

While Temple Bar must have hundreds of pubs, they are also located throughout the city. Each pub offers its own fare and ding in the pubs is a wonderful experience, especially if you find a local pub that is patronized by locals for lunch. They all post menus outside so that you can see exactly what they offer.

Must Do List:

The Bank of Ireland

Dublin is an amazing place and I would say that you must do it all. Definitely hit the Guinness Storehouse, dine in a pub, walk the length of Crafton Street, visit Trinity College, explore Temple Bar and if you are lucky enough to be in port late, pub crawl in Temple Bar's fabulous nightlife.

 

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