The city of Dublin is the largest city in Ireland with an urban population of approximately 600,000 and is the capital of the Republic of Ireland. The city is located near the midpoint of Ireland's east coast, at the mouth of the River Liffey. The city of Dublin and the surrounding Dublin County has a total population of approximately 1.1 million people. Today, it is an economic, administrative and cultural centre for Ireland, and has one of the fastest growing populations of any European capital city.
Dublin County is the surrounding area of the city where you can find an abundance of picturesque seaside villages, rolling mountains and rural hinterland and all within half an hour of the city centre.
Dublin is the centre of Ireland’s transport system as the port is the country’s busiest sea port and Dublin airport being the busiest on the island. There are many low cost airlines such as Ryanair and Easyjet who fly to Dublin airport from all over Europe as well as larger commercial flight operators therefore flying would be considered the best option. Dublin Airport is located off the M1 Motorway (Dublin-Belfast road) approximately 10km (6 miles) north from the city centre and 2 km (1 mile) south of the nearest town, Swords. Currently there is a direct bus service from the airport to several destinations in the city centre along with many direct taxis available (usually priced €18 to €40, depending on traffic.) Plans are underway to construct an underground railway directly from Dublin city centre to Swords.
However if you fancy something different from flying and prefer the sea air then there is also a Ferry service from Liverpool to Dublin port with several journeys each day.
Dublin is becoming increasingly popular with tourists as the city has so much to offer such as the nightlife. Known as one of the most youthful cities in Europe - with estimates of 50% of inhabitants being younger than 25, so it’s great for those who like to party. St Stephen’s Green - especially Harcourt Street, Camden Street, Wexford Street - is a centre for some of the most popular nightclubs and pubs in Dublin. Also the internationally notorious Temple Bar area is famous for stag and hen nights, offering a wide range of pubs and clubs however generally can be considered as a tourist trap and pricey.
Ireland is also home to the world famous Guinness drink and the original factory is located just outside the city where you can take one of the many daily tours and taste “real” Guinness. For those who appreciate the Arts, Dublin has various galleries, museums and theatres which exhibit lots of traditional Irish work, from paintings, literature and theatrical performances. Of course you cannot forget traditional Irish music which is famous around the world and in the city of Dublin it is never too difficult to find live music on the streets or in one of the many bars around the city.
Dublin is definitely city filled with sports. The city hosts many sports like soccer, rugby and most famously, the traditional Irish sports; Gaelic football and Hurling. The home of Gaelic sports is Croke Park: the 4th largest stadium in Europe.
Apart from the previous attractions, Dublin is also a popular shopping spot for both Irish people and tourists. Dublin city centre has several shopping districts, including Grafton Street and Henry Street and the adjacent Stephen Green’s Shopping Centre, Jervis Shopping Centre to name a few and there are plans from the city council to invest more money into the expansion of many shopping areas.
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