It's an endurance test in the 'Emerald City' experiencing the intoxicating atmosphere. Take your group through a journey to the outstanding Temple Bar or opt for endless hours ingesting the finest Guinness, but you'll need a strong constitution to overcome the Celtic 'Craic'. Dublin is a remarkable place for a mass party and a memorable place to see, to retrace the steps of the pissed up James Joyce and recite the words of Ulysses Sightseeing Dublin may not be one of Europe's most visually stunning cities but what it lacks in aesthetics it more than makes up for with its myriad attractions. Most of the sights are located south of the River Liffey in a district of gracious Georgian mansions and leafy avenues centred around Grafton Street and elegant St Stephen's Green. The main landmarks here include Trinity College, the National Museum, Leinster House (the home of the Irish Parliament) and the National Gallery of Ireland. Near by, The Temple Bar district, once the site of Viking Dublin, has recently reinvented itself. After its promising 1980s resurrection, Temple Bar suffered under the weight of countless British stag and hen nights, scaring off locals and tourists alike. The tourist board and local publicans have since worked hard to deter the worst ravages of the pre-nuptial hordes. Nightlife
The nightlife scene in Dublin has changed beyond all recognition in the last few years. Alongside the traditional Irish pubs are a new breed of style bars and buzzing pre-club haunts. Pubs are generally open Monday to Saturday 1100-2330 and Sunday 1200/1600-2300, although some serve until 0200. Bars close between 2330 and 0100, while clubs stay open until the early hours. The minimum drinking age is 18 years. The best nights to go out tend to be Thursday and Saturday. The mainstream clubs prefer a smart-casual dress, with no trainers or jeans. Anything goes at the funkier, more cutting edge venues. Only those over 18 years are allowed to purchase alcohol in bars and clubs and drinks cost in the region of €5. One tip: If you are out in a large group, split into smaller, mixed groups and the usually strict doorstaff will have no problems letting everyone in.
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