Exploring Dublin: From Ancient Bars to Timeless Cathedrals with The Go Collette Tour
Uncover the magic of Dublin.
Uncover the magic of Dublin, a city steeped in history and culture that offers an unparalleled journey through time. Click here for the Go Collette tour, which brings this unique charm to life and reveals the city’s oldest bars, majestic cathedrals, and cobblestone streets.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!But there is much more than this to explore: friendly locals, lots of great shops, museums, and, of course, local culinary experiences mixed with worldwide cuisines.
Join me as I share the highlights of my unforgettable trip to Dublin. It’s not just a historical adventure but a personal one that uncovers the magic of Dublin: A Historical Adventure Awaits!
Discover the Historical Charm of Hotel RIU Gresham Dublin
A Stay Steeped in History at Hotel RIU Gresham Dublin
Go Collette Tour selects unique hotels like Hotel RIU Gresham Dublin, a historical landmark dating back to 1817. The hotel’s fascinating history begins with Sir Thomas Gresham, a prominent figure in the Hotel industry, who was left as a baby on the steps of London’s Royal Exchange. His life and achievements are a testament to our hotel’s rich history.
After growing up in Dublin and serving as a butler, Gresham saved enough money to open his small hotel on Sackville Street (now O’Connell Street). Today, the Hotel RIU Gresham Dublin thrives, embodying its founder’s vision and perseverance. The hotel offers a range of modern amenities, including large rooms, a restaurant, a lounge, and many seating areas to ensure our guests’ comfortable and convenient stay.
Prime Location and Modern Conveniences
Located on O’Connell Street, it’s a stone’s throw away from major public transit lines, coffee shops, and stores. The River Liffey offers a picturesque view, with reflections and the iconic Ha’Penny Bridge adding to the charm. And if you’re looking for a taste of local cuisine, you’ll find an excellent economical restaurant next to the hotel at Madigan’s on O’Connell Street.
Unique Connectivity and Local Charm
Like a TV screen connecting Dublin and New York City, the visual portal recently opened, joining the two cities in a live view, and is located a block from the hotel. This addition to the hotel’s allure and accessibility makes the area a unique place to stay and explore. Read more about the Dublin portal here.
Exploring Dublin: A what to do Guide to Historic Adventures in Dublin
Go Collette Tour Experience in Dublin
You’ll also enjoy a guided bus tour around the city, stopping to view the interior and surrounding area of Christ Church Cathedral and the unique reception in a crypt—our evening—followed by a delightful evening dinner at Roly’s Bistro. Go Collete’s tour agenda is prepared for you in advance, selecting the finer activities for guests to experience.
Must-See Spots in Dublin
Uncover the magic of Dublin and visit The original Temple Bar, the Brazen Head, one of the area’s oldest pubs, and the Papal Cross erected for the 1979 Papal visit. Graffiti Alley is home to many of Dublin’s unique graffiti, like the wings in the image below. Explore and discover on your own time!
Temple Bar Area Experience
Across the River Liffey, there’s the world of the Temple Bar and the Temple Bar district. Yes, most have Temple Bar in their name, but it’s because of the district they are located in. We did participate in a fun afternoon of local music and a brew. What an experience it was.
Savoring Dublin: Where to experience your next Culinary Adventure
Start Your Day with a Hearty Breakfast
While staying at the RIU Hotel Gresham, we enjoyed a delicious hot breakfast buffet each morning. It included blood pudding, eggs, beans, cold meats, and cheese. This breakfast will set the tone for our day as we explore Dublin.
Indulge in Sweet Treats
For lunch, we indulged in treats from The Rolling Donuts, a local favourite since 1978. Serving sourdough and vegan donuts, we visited the location at 8 O’Connell St, one of their seven locations—a delicious stop I didn’t regret.
Delight in Authentic Irish Dinners
Dinner was a delight at Roly’s Bistro (view menu), an Italian-style eatery at 7 Ballsbridge Terrace, Dublin 4, Ireland. Our evening dinner consisted of a 3-course meal, some of the freshest bread I’ve had, and a well-curated wine pairing.
Images below: Madigans Turkey & Stuffing Sandwich, Roly’s crab cakes and white fish, lastly, Rolling Donuts
Exploring Dublin’s Historical Libraries
A Journey Through Time
Have you ever considered visiting libraries? I couldn’t believe how many of Dublin’s libraries are steeped in history. Book your tour here for The Trinity College Library, home to the Book of Kells, among Ireland’s most famous libraries. This 9th-century gospel manuscript is renowned worldwide (though we missed it during our stay; tickets start at 25 Euros for adults).
Discovering Marsh’s Public Library
Marsh’s Public Library, established in 1707, is the oldest public library in Ireland. Check out these images! Get your tickets early: there are only 7 Euros for adults or 15 Euros for a combined ticket to the cathedral and the library.
When visiting the library, ask many questions, filled with knowledge, the team of skilled librarians and assistants. My question was, “When did the last librarian live on-site?” The answer will surprise you.
Interestingly, the late Dr. Muriel McCarthy was the first female and the first Roman Catholic keeper of Marsh’s Library, adding another layer to its rich history.
I’ve attached the Marsh’s Public Library map. It is next door to St. Patrick’s Cathedral at Dublin 8, D08 FK79, Ireland.
Your Go Collette Adventure
Consider a Small Group Tour
Have you considered a small group tour? It was my first experience, and I’m happy I chose the small group option. The camaraderie and shared experiences within the small group made it a unique adventure. It gave me a better understanding of how it works, and it was easy for the small group to be on time for each departure.
Expert Guidance and Well-Planned Activities
Our tour guide, Fiona, was a true expert in her field. Her knowledge and organizational skills ensured we all had the same information and made each activity a well-planned and enjoyable experience.
Our group was always on time, allowing us to see some extra locations. We explored many places, and Fiona’s historical knowledge kept our minds inquiring. It was one tour I will not forget. Have you booked yours yet? Or will you look at booking one soon?
Allow Time to Explore and Uncover the magic of Dublin.
If you plan a visit, give yourself time to explore, tour, and taste the local culinary scene. It’s important to take your time with your adventure. Stay in Dublin for a few days before beginning your adventures with the Go Collette tour.
This head start gave us a day to battle jet lag, rest up, and enjoy a bit of our earlier adventure.
I was a guest on the Go Collette tour, and my opinions about the experience are my own. Stay tuned for a second post on the Go Collette tour experience.
Now, it’s your turn to uncover the magic of Dublin, a unique experience like the one I just completed.
Join me on my next adventure!
Roland
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