Discover Dublin
All you need to know about travelling to Dublin and its glorious Georgian architecture.
Book your flight to Dublin
But this city also embraces the diversity of its current population. This combination of history and modern multiculturalism, sprinkled with some Irish craic, makes for an irresistible city break destination.
Festivals and events
St Patrick’s Day
Ireland’s most famous annual party, St Patrick’s Day (17 March) celebrates the country’s patron saint, who spread the word about Christianity and supposedly chased all the island’s snakes into the sea. Dublin goes all out, with a huge street parade featuring top theatre companies and extravagant costumes, as well as cultural events throughout the city, from opera to art exhibitions.
Visit during St Paddy’s, as it’s affectionately known, and you’ll need to pack something green. The whole city, even its buildings, turns emerald, olive or moss-coloured on the day of the saint’s death.
International Literature Festival Dublin
Each May, the world’s top literary figures come to Dublin for a fortnight of readings, debates and lectures on all things book-related. Past events have seen talks on how to get published, as well as readings by leading authors, poets and playwrights such as Will Self, Colm Tóibín and Ruby Wax.
Dublin Fringe Festival
Since 1995, every September has seen emerging performers congregate in Dublin for the annual Fringe Festival. Visit during this city-wide party and you’ll be treated to dance, theatre and music performances in a variety of venues, from Dublin buses to tiny cafés.