Welcome to Dublin, a capital city with a long history but a youthful outlook. The city is the political and cultural center of Ireland and has a dynamic energy that acknowledges the traditions and events that have shaped the present. From being a provincial outpost in the early 20th century, the city is now a thriving, cosmopolitan hub that attracts people from all over the country and beyond. The past looms large, with a history that dates back to medieval times and ancient buildings line the streets, some still welcoming guests to enjoy a pint of Guinness. Dublin is many visitors’ gateway to an Irish vacation, but with its thriving culinary, music and literary scenes, it easily merits its status as a destination in its own right.

Here are some starting points for the Emerald Isle's capital:

Why visit Dublin?

Dublin is a proud city, and one that balances its reputation for good times and ‘the craic’ with a genuine appreciation of its intellectual heritage. The Temple Bar is full every weekend with jolly revelers and the locals aren’t shy about pub life, but literature, politics and the arts are equally important. The names of James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, Lady Gregory and Samuel Beckett loom large in the collective consciousness here, and maverick artists are as celebrated as sports or movie stars.

The organic history of the architecture stops the pace of life from getting too frenetic. Enjoy a serene walk on the grounds of Trinity College Dublin, the country’s oldest seat of learning, or into St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral Dublin, the latter of which can trace its origins back almost one thousand years. Parliament House and Dublin Castle add to the historic heft of the landscape, and you can’t help but pick up on the importance of the city’s past.

The oldest pub in the nightlife district of Temple Bar (The Brazen Head) also dates back almost a thousand years, but it’s here that the city’s bright future is evident. This is reflected in the boutiques of Grafton Street, the city’s busiest shopping thoroughfare, and the Powerscourt Centre is a good representation of Dublin’s character: a modern, elegant shopping mall in a historical Georgian townhouse.

Visitors will find it easy to tap into the city’s enthusiastic pursuit of leisure time, from enjoying traditional Irish music tin pubs to experiencing the diverse theater scene and trendy cocktail bars. Start by raising a glass (or two) while looking out over the beautiful River Liffey from The Morrison, a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel. Sit back and people-watch at any of the city’s green spaces, most notably ST/ Stephen’s Green or Phoenix Park – conveniently located right next to the Dublin Zoo.

While The Temple Bar is an easy and accessible tourist spot, the bars and restaurants around South William Street and George’s Street Arcade are quieter and more affordable.

When is the best time for your trip to Dublin?

Dublin has a temperate climate, and so the best of the weather is easily between the months of June and August. This is also the busiest time, so prices for hotels will likely be higher. It’s more affordable in winter, but you’ll need to bring suitable clothing — at least a heavy coat — for the drop in temperatures.

There are happy mediums observed in spring and fall, and while there are no real extremes, the weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly. September to November are when the bigger cultural and arts festivals happen, and St Patrick’s Day on March 17th is a public holiday. If the written word is where your passion lies, consider visiting in May to attend the International Dublin Gay Theatre Festival and International Literature Festival Dublin, two of the largest spring events in the city.

Getting to and around Dublin

Dublin Airport is around 6 miles north of the city center, and it serves international and domestic flights. Dublin Bus operates a shuttle service into the center, which takes about 30 minutes with low traffic. You can also hop in a cab at the airport, just check the fare before you set off, it shouldn't be more than $30 euros (around $42 USD).

Dublin is a small capital city, so you’ll likely be able to walk to most of the main attractions. Car rentals are unnecessary, and the streets get easily clogged with traffic. For greater ease of mobility, there are also great bus and tram systems. Dublin Bus has comprehensive routes throughout the city and the trams (Luas) run across two lines that connect major locations. Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) runs overland trains to similarly important hubs, and beyond. Travel passes known as TFI Leap Cards are available at most general stores and are good value if you plan to use the travel network. Oh, and let's not forget bicycles — there are more than 115 miles (185 kilometers) of scenic cycling paths to explore during your stay.

The biggest joy in Dublin, though, is traveling on foot and being able to appreciate the architecture, sights and sounds of this vibrant city.

Dublin culture and customs

Dublin is a friendly city, and the charm of the Irish isn't overstated. Only a small proportion of the country speaks Gaelic, so English is fine everywhere. Don’t be offended if strangers gently make fun of you, it’s all part of ‘the craic,’ a general term for the wit and humor of the locals.

Dublin has inspired so many people, and when you visit, it’s easy to understand why. The city mixes Irish history with sharp and creative modern attitudes, and the locals adore good times and pursue them with a genuine friendliness that’s hard to resist. Bring that same openness along with you and you’re guaranteed a trip that will have you returning to the Irish capital time and time again.

Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana in the United States. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guide books/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.