1.    Dublin Castle
The Normans, who invaded Dublin in 1169, first made their own fortifications on the site of Dublin Castle. King John of England expanded the structure in 1204. Dublin Castle features crystal chandeliers and elaborate painted ceilings.

2.    Christ Church Cathedral
This building, dating to 1038, was built by King Sitric Silkenbeard, the Danish Viking King of Dublin. Christ Church Cathedral is one of two medieval cathedrals in Dublin, the other being St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

3.    Trinity College
Trinity College is Dublin’s oldest university, built in 1592. Besides producing alumni including Jonathon Swift, Oscar Wilde, and Samuel Beckett, it is also home to the famous Book of Kells which is an illuminated edition of the Christian Gospels that dates to the 9th century. Originally featuring a valuable jeweled cover, the book’s manuscript was left behind by invading Vikings in 1007.

4.    Guinness Storehouse
This top tourist attraction was reopened in 2000 and features tours, history of the famous beverage, and even a pod cast of an audio tour of the facility.

5.    Pint of Guinness
You’re bound to want to try a pint of this world famous dry stout after touring the Storehouse. The company’s history dates from 1759, and today the product is sold in over 150 countries around the world.

6.    National Gallery of Ireland
The National Gallery of Ireland boasts fine artwork from all over Europe, including works by Picasso and Monet. It is also known for its collection of Italian baroque and Dutch Masters paintings.

7.    Smithfield Village
This newly renovated village is full of places to eat, drink, and shop. Even if you’ve already spent your shopping money, you can climb up the Chimney Viewing Tower for a great view of the city.

8.    Temple Bar
Temple Bar is not one single place, but rather an entire area on the south bank of the River Liffey. Though the area maintains a medieval street pattern, with narrow cobbled paths, the nightlife is anything but old fashioned!

9.    Grafton Street
This is the place for serious shoppers to go in Dublin. Grafton Street features department stores and local craft shops. Most of the district has been reworked for pedestrian traffic, and sometimes features street musicians and mime artists.

10.    Irish Grand National
The Irish Grand National is Ireland’s premiere steeplechase event. Started in 1870, the Irish Grand National is traditionally held on Easter Monday.

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