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Why?  Those who holiday in Dublin are always keen to raise a glass of Guiness (the famous Irish brew) and toast this 1,000-year-old city that is synonymous with the jollity of the Irish culture and tradition. It may be a little down-at-heel in some areas, but Dublin remains the epitome of the indominatable Irish spirit and the gateway for most who travel to Ireland. If you see a leprachaun or two after downing a few pints in a Dublin pub, never fear; it is all part of the magic of this city.

When?  Early and late summer are the best times to travel to Dublin, the height of the season being rather crowded with tourists and the locals increase prices to take advantage of the crowds. Weatherwise these are pleasant months too, though in general Dublin is wet and cool to cold. A popular time for a Dublin holiday is around St Patrick's Day at the end of March when festivities honouring the Irish patron saint turn into crazy parties.

Who for?  Party animals form the bulk of visitors who opt for a holiday in Dublin, but the serious sightseer will not be disappointed in the range of interesting historic attractions and experiences on offer.

More Info:  To get the most out of a Dublin holiday read our comprehensive Dublin travel guide, which gives an overview of the city and detailed information of attractions, events and excursions, as well as useful basic facts for a holiday in Dublin.

Overview

Cosmopolitan, colourful and over a thousand years old, Dublin presents a fine starting point for visitors to Ireland. This capital city is split in two by the River Liffey, which gives form to the city and has no less than nine bridges spanning it. Easily explored on foot, central Dublin presents a wealth of historic landmarks, from ancient cathedrals to gracious Georgian buildings that pay testimony to days gone by. There are several attractions on both sides of the Liffey, ranging from gaols and castles to the birthplaces of famous poets and writers and guided literary trails.

Not far from the city in County Wicklow are the Wicklow Mountains, where hills and glens, forests and waterfalls attract weekend walkers and nature-lovers. Dublin Bay, which lies between the mouth of the River Liffey and the Dalkey headland, is the site of several small coastal towns and the ferry port of Dun Laoghaire. County Kildare is a region of rich farmland and fine reputation for the breeding of thoroughbred horses, while the similar counties of Louth and Meath have evidence of early civilisations and a wealth of castles and monasteries.