Article Intent:
This photographer’s itinerary is designed for travellers with limited time who want to experience the authentic heart of Dublin. Curated by a 2024 TMAC Gold Medalist, it highlights iconic historical sites like Trinity College and The Brazen Head, provides 2026 logistics for staying at the Hotel RIU Gresham, and offers professional tips for capturing the city’s atmospheric “Slow Travel” soul.
Transparency Matters: This guide features recommendations for my favourite travel tools and services. If you book through the links below (such as Expedia, Stay22, or GetYourGuide), I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This support allows me to keep creating award-winning travel photography and guides. Thank you for being part of the journey!
A First Glimpse of Dublin
Dublin has a rare way of making history feel alive. It’s in the conversations overheard in pubs, the music drifting through narrow streets, and the pride locals take in their stories. I loved how the city balances reverence and humour—gothic cathedrals one moment, laughter over a perfectly poured Guinness the next. Dublin doesn’t rush you. It invites you to slow down, listen, and connect, which is exactly the kind of “Slow Travel” experience that stays with me long after I’ve left.
1. The Liffey Walk: O’Connell Street to the Ha’penny Bridge
Our journey begins at the Hotel RIU Gresham, perfectly positioned on O’Connell Street, one of Dublin’s most historic arteries. From here, it’s a short stroll to the River Liffey.
Photographer’s Tip: Aim to reach the Ha’penny Bridge at dusk. As the city light softens and the street music begins to fill the air, the bridge becomes a perfect subject for capturing the transition from day to night in the Irish capital.
2. Step Inside Dublin’s Oldest Pub: The Brazen Head
Founded in 1198, The Brazen Head isn’t just a pub—it’s a time capsule. With dark wooden interiors and stories literally taped to the walls, this is where Dublin’s heart beats loudest. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for the “authentic” Dublin away from the polished tourist traps.
3. Silence and Stone: Christ Church Cathedral
One of Dublin’s most striking landmarks, Christ Church Cathedral offers a reflective contrast to the city’s energy. The medieval crypt beneath the cathedral is especially memorable—atmospheric, intimate, and deeply rooted in Dublin’s layered past.
4. The Creative Pulse: Temple Bar & Graffiti Alley
While Temple Bar is famous for its pubs, I encourage you to look deeper. Beyond the crowds, you’ll find vibrant street art and hidden alleys. Graffiti Alley, in particular, showcases Dublin’s modern creative voice, layered over centuries-old stone—a dream for street photography.
5. Literary Treasures: Marsh’s Library & Trinity College
Dublin’s libraries are the world’s cultural treasures. While the Book of Kells at Trinity College is a breathtaking 9th-century masterpiece, don’t overlook Marsh’s Library. As Ireland’s oldest public library, it feels quieter and more personal, offering a glimpse into the human stories behind the history.
Where to Eat Between Adventures
If you love food that feels like home, Dublin’s culinary scene is a delight:
- Madigan’s Restaurant: Conveniently located next to the Gresham, perfect for comforting Irish classics.
- Rolling Donuts: A Dublin staple since 1978; the ideal casual stop while walking the city.
- Roly’s Bistro: For those seeking refined Irish dining with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
Plan Your Dublin Trip (2026 Logistics)
With the 2026 travel surge, Dublin is busier than ever. Strategic planning is key to a smooth experience.
Pro Tip: Dublin is a walking city. Pack comfortable shoes and a light rain jacket. Even in 2026, the weather remains famously unpredictable!
Flights & Stays: I recommend using Expedia to compare flights and booking the Hotel RIU Gresham for its unbeatable central location—spending less time commuting means more time experiencing.
Guided Experiences: To skip the lines at the Book of Kells or secure a guided tour of the Cathedral, I suggest booking via GetYourGuide for the top tours available.
Why I Love Dublin
Dublin has a rare way of making history feel alive. It’s in the conversations overheard in pubs, the music drifting through narrow streets, and the pride locals take in their stories. I loved how the city balances reverence and humour — gothic cathedrals one moment, laughter over a perfectly poured Guinness the next. Dublin doesn’t rush you. It invites you to slow down, listen, and connect, which is exactly the kind of travel experience that stays with me long after I’ve left.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dublin
Yes. Dublin’s layout is compact. Staying centrally along O’Connell Street allows you to reach almost every major site within a 20-minute walk.
While not mandatory, I found that small-group tours added incredible depth to the history of the medieval crypts and the 1916 Rising sites.
For the best results, aim for the “Blue Hour”—about 20 to 30 minutes after sunset. This is when the bridge’s white arches are illuminated, the sky turns a deep indigo, and the city lights reflect beautifully off the River Liffey without the harsh glare of midday sun.
Yes, but only if you book in advance. As a 9th-century masterpiece, it is breathtaking, but the lines can eat up half your day. If you are on a tight schedule, consider Marsh’s Library nearby; it offers a similar historic atmosphere with far fewer crowds, perfect for “Slow Travel” enthusiasts.
It is a very easy 10-minute walk. Simply head south on O’Connell Street, cross the O’Connell Bridge, and take a right along the quays or through the narrow, atmospheric side streets. Dublin is extremely walkable, so no taxi is needed for this route!
About the Author
Roland Bast is a Canadian travel photographer and visual storyteller. The 2024 Gold Medal winner for Photo of the Year with the Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Roland specializes in capturing the emotional essence and cultural character of destinations across Europe and Canada.
Keep exploring the Emerald Isle:
Roland’s Guide to the Countryside of the Emerald Isle ·
Uncover the Magic of Dublin: A Historical Adventure Awaits!
Ha’Penny Bridge on my gram
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