Georgian Dublin, the national museums and Trinity College
6 stops- 09:00
National Library of Ireland
The library's domed Reading Room on Kildare Street is one of the handsomest rooms in Dublin, and there is usually an exhibition from the collections on show. A short look suits most visitors before the walk to St Stephen's Green.
- Walk, 7 min
- 09:55
Saint Stephen's Green
The Victorian park at the top of Grafton Street has a lake, a bandstand and memorials to figures from Irish history. A slow loop fills the hour before the museum.
- Walk, 6 min
- 11:05
National Museum of Ireland
The archaeology branch on Kildare Street holds prehistoric gold, the Ardagh Chalice, the Tara Brooch and the preserved bog bodies. The National Gallery is a three-minute walk away.
- Walk, 3 min
- 12:40
National Gallery of Ireland
The national collection of Irish and European art includes Caravaggio's The Taking of Christ and a strong room of Jack B Yeats. Ninety minutes is enough for the highlights before the short walk to Trinity College.
- Walk, 6 min
- 14:25
Library of Trinity College Dublin
At Trinity College, the Book of Kells, a ninth-century illuminated gospel book, is shown together with the Old Library. Timed tickets often sell out, so book before you travel, and walk east along the river afterwards.
- Walk, 15 min
- 15:40
Samuel Beckett Bridge
Santiago Calatrava's cable-stayed bridge, shaped like a harp lying on its side, crosses the Liffey in the Docklands. It is a quick stop for a look and a photo, so walk back along the quays toward the centre to round off the day.
