Dublin City Guide: 23 Must-See Hotspots and Fun Things to Do

Dublin, you're so cute! The mix of narrow streets, Georgian houses, industrial buildings, and a pub on every corner creates a truly charming streetscape. I recently returned to Dublin for the first time in a long time and was incredibly surprised by the city's fantastic food scene. You can fly from Amsterdam to the Irish capital in just over 90 minutes, and if you time it right, you could be sitting in a cozy pub by lunchtime, just like me.

discover Dublin's hotspots

The great thing about Dublin is that you can easily explore everything on foot. The city center is compact, so you can see a lot of the city at once! The area around Exchequer Street is my favorite. Don't miss the side streets there, like Drury Street, for the best hotspots. Which sights, food spots, and shopping tips shouldn't you miss during your city break? In this new Dublin City Guide, I share my personal tips!

 |PS: Reservations at restaurants and attractions are essential, especially during this time. You can easily make online reservations for most of the tips in this guide.

George's Street Arcade near Exchequer Street

HAPPY ALMOST WEEKEND IN AMSTERDAM

Comment 'weekend' and I'll send you all 32 tips in the new Amsterdam Weekend Guide for December 4, 5, 6 & 7 ✖️✖️✖️

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𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱!

I've rounded up a complete list with the coziest and most festive Christmas markets in Amsterdam you don't want to miss this year. Think twinkling lights, mulled wine, food stalls, live music, unique gifts and lots of Christmas vibes all December long.

Whether you're planning a festive day with the fam or friends, or just want to soak up that holiday spirit. These are the markets in Amsterdam to put on your calendar now. 🎄✨

𝘿𝙧𝙤𝙥 “𝘾𝙃𝙍𝙄𝙎𝙏𝙈𝘼𝙎𝙈𝘼𝙍𝙆𝙀𝙏” 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄'𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝗮 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝙔𝙇𝘽𝘽-𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙩𝙨.

Send this list to your festive partner-in-crime, grab a hot chocolate (or mulled wine 😉), and have fun!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #christmasinamsterdam #amsterdammarkets #christmasmarkets #amsterdamguide thingstodoinamsterdam winterinthenetherlands festiveseason christmasvibes marketlovers amsterdamtips

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HOME ALONE 4 INCOMING 😅 My trip to NYC ends in a bad (Christmas) movie when the hotel gives my carry-on luggage with passport to an old lady who doesn't realize this and checks the luggage on a flight to the UK!

Now I'm stuck here in NY without a passport, and I missed my flight.

I've experienced a lot in all the years I've been traveling for Your Little Black Book, but this is a first 😅.

This chat video is purely therapeutic in nature 🤣🤣🤣. Because really: HOW?! 🫢

Note to self: it's better to carry your passport all day, instead of leaving it "safely" in the hotel, apparently... and from now on, attach suitcases with cables in the storage room. Even if you're staying in a luxurious and expensive hotel, everything is still done by humans.

Now I'm stuck in one of the world's coolest cities, but of course I just want to be home with Manuel, as planned. 😔

To be continued 🧳✈️

And thanks for all the sweet DMs ❤️❤️❤️❤️

✖️✖️✖️
Anne

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𝟳𝘅 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗺 𝗳𝗮𝗿𝗺𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗡𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗮𝗿 𝗷𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘀𝘂𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 ...�� 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄

How cool is this? There are places in the Netherlands where you can cut down your own Christmas tree! You don't hear about it very often, even though it's quite common in America (where I'm currently!).

Good to know: some of these places in the Netherlands are only open for a few days a year and you have to reserve a time slot.

💬 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 “𝗞𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗧𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗠” and I will send you the article with all the details and dates in your DM.

Have fun!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#christmasintheNetherlands #christmasouting #christmastree #christmasfarm #christmas2025 winterintheNetherlands Christmastips Christmasinspiration Netherlandsdiscover Decembertips winterweekend

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And do you also have a nice garden?

I want to thank you for your patience and help. 𝟳-𝗷𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲!

This time we went to @williams.farmhouse, one of my favorite lunch spots in Amsterdam Oud-Zuid. But is it also fun during the day with kids?

We ordered a 'plain' version of the Farmhouse burger 🍔: yes, really just meat + cheese 🤣… and together with the fries it was a mega success.

Happy child, happy us... and it was such a cozy, rainy afternoon. I mean, this interior makes me dream of the Cotswolds again!

Do you have a favorite 𝗸𝗶𝗱 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁 in Amsterdam or the Netherlands?

Let me know in the comments, I'll collect everything for the next 𝗞𝗜𝗗𝗦𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗘𝗙!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#amsterdam #amsterdamfood #amsterdamrestaurants #amsterdamfoodie #amsterdamguide amsterdamwithkids kidsproef familyfriendly amsterdamlunch amsterdamoudzuid yourlittleblackbook kidsproofamsterdam

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So happy to finally share this! @lefoodwalk is back this winter with four themed walks during the Amsterdam Light Festival, from November 27th to January 18th.

Perfect for a day out with friends, a date, colleagues, or family. From a Street Food Walk to an Oyster Walk, and from cocktails to an old-school Amsterdam drinks walk.

The Le Foodwalk team has listened to you and there is a different experience to book almost every day.

Tickets (which are even cheaper than last year 🔥) are now live! I've put a link in my bio.

I have a nice garden and a beautiful garden 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗘𝗧 𝗙𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Thurs-Sat
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁'𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗱: 4 bites + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @weareedn_amsterdam ⦁ @caferestaurantdebazel ⦁ @soulkitchen_amsterdam ⦁ @blackandblue_reguliers
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €43,50

𝗢𝗬𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Thurs-Sat
Package: 4 x 2 oysters + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ Soulkitchen ⦁ De Bazel ⦁ @bellyofthebeastbar ⦁ @vermeerswijnkamer
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €43,50

𝗖𝗢𝗖𝗞𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗟 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Wed-Sat
Included: 3 cocktails (also 0.0%) + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗖𝗼𝗰𝗸𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗯𝗮𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @feijoaamsterdam⦁ @lottisamsterdam ⦁ Belly of the Beast
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €35,50

𝗔𝗠𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗗𝗔𝗠 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Sun-Wed
Included: 3 Dutch drinks & 3 Dutch bar snacks + @amsterdamlightfestival app (worth €6,99)
𝗕𝗮𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @hetkarbeel ⦁ @proeflokaalvanwees ⦁ @beertemple_amsterdam
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €33,50

Who do you want to do a Foodwalk with this winter?

𝙇𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙞𝙣 𝙗𝙞𝙤 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙩𝙨 𝙤𝙧 𝙫𝙞𝙖 𝙒𝙒𝙒.𝙇𝙀𝙁𝙊𝙊𝘿𝙒𝘼𝙇𝙆.𝘾𝙊𝙈.

✖️✖️✖️
@anne_de_buck

#lightfestival #lefoodwalk #amsterdamlightfestival #amsterdamfoodguide #amsterdamfood #amsterdambynight #canalview

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I have a nice garden in my garden and 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 🎅🏼

The countdown to Christmas has officially begun, and I can tell you: this list will instantly get you in the holiday spirit. 🎄

📍In this new video, I've listed the most beautiful Christmas markets and winter fairs in the Netherlands, from Maastricht to The Hague.

Whether you're in the mood for mulled wine, raclette, Christmas carols, ice skating with your besties, or planning a cozy weekend getaway in December, now's the time to block your calendar.

Send the tips to your Christmas date ❤️ and comment "CHRISTMAS MARKET" to receive a link to ALL the Christmas market shortlists on Your Little Black Book.

Let the Christmas fun begin!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #kerstmarktnederland #kerstuitje #winterfair #kerst2025 #weekendtips #thingstodointhenetherlands #magischmaastricht #royalchristmasfair #kerstmarktamsterdam #winterinthenetherlands #kerstvibes #yourlbb #kerstmarkt #christmasmarket

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I have a nice garden – I have a nice garden in my garden

Did you know Bangkok holds a special place in my heart? 💛 If I were ever to live anywhere other than Amsterdam, it would be there. Right now, I'm seriously homesick, and I even have a ticket option open on another screen ☺️. Fun fact: I even got married in Thailand!

Bangkok is one of those cities where you can return so many times and still discover something new every time.

In this mini-guide, I share some of my favorite neighborhood hotspots—from fun neighborhoods and coffee spots to ultimate hotels, street food, and night markets.

The list could easily have 200 tips, but this is a good start!

📍 Prepare your next trip to Thailand with our travel guide & luxury travel planner for your next trip to Thailand.

𝗡𝗘𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗗𝗦
⦁ Talad Noi – creative, raw & surprising
⦁ Songwat & Chinatown – street food heaven
⦁ Ekkamai – laid-back & trendy
⦁ Ari – boutiques & brunch
⦁ Bang Rak – culture meets cool

𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗦 & 𝗖𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗘
⦁ Charmkrung – trendy restaurant in an old shophouse
⦁ Hong Sieng Kong – riverside coffee spot
⦁ Potong – fine dining in Chinatown
⦁ Baan Rim Naam – cocktails during sundown
⦁ Ann Guay Tiew Kua Gai – comfort noodles, Bangkok style

**Illegible**
⦁ Four Seasons – ultimate luxury
⦁ Mustang Blue – unique & arty
⦁ ASAI – affordable boutique
⦁ The Standard – design & rooftop pool
⦁ Anantara Riverside – riverside resort vibes

I & I
⦁ Sundown on the Chao Phraya River = magical
⦁ Cycle through the city with Co van Kessel
⦁ Big Buddha – new must-see
⦁ Eat street on Banthat Thong Road – local favorite
⦁ What Saket at golden hour – view!

(𝗡𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧) 𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗞𝗘𝗧𝗦
⦁ Yaowarat – food, food, food
⦁ Sampheng Market – for your best finds
⦁ ChangChui – creative chaos
⦁ Asiatique – family fun night market on the river
⦁ Train Night Market – vintage & food

📌 Save this guide so you have it with you when you go to Bangkok
💌 Send it to that friend you're making Thailand plans with

Have you ever been to Bangkok?

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

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Amsterdam, get your skates ready — ice skating season has officially begun! ⛸️

The first rinks, like @skabaanmuseumplein, are opening this weekend and we are so ready for it.

I already planned a mom & son date — that's how excited we are to hit the ice. 💙

This year, there are some new links to discover across the city too. And who knows... maybe we'll even get lucky with natural ice again. Until then, these are the 7 best ice skating rinks in Amsterdam you don't want to miss.

Whether you're planning a festive date, a day with friends, or skating with the kids — this guide has you covered.

📍All details are in the Amsterdam Ice Skating Listicle on Your Little Black Book (link in bio).

Send this to your skating buddy and start planning your first winter weekend on ice! ❄️

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #yourlbb #amsterdamwinter #iceskatinginamsterdam #amsterdamchristmas #thingstodoinamsterdam #amsterdamguide #winterinthenetherlands #amsterdamlife #cityguide #amsterdamcheck #wintervibes #travelamsterdam #weekendinams #holidayseason #skating

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𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗧𝗼 𝗗𝗼 (𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟯, 𝟭𝟰, 𝟭𝟱 & 𝟭𝟲)

Another cozy November weekend in Amsterdam is here — and the city's buzzing with festive fun, winter vibes, and new openings.

Think: the return of ice skating at Museumplein, vintage treasure hunting in Noord, Sinterklaas magic at Muiderslot, and cocktail week collabs between top chefs and bartenders.

From fondue nights, film festivals, and Sunday markets — I've listed 31+ tips on Your Little Black Book.

Here's your WEEKEND shortlist:

MARKETS & CULTURE
– Nov 15 & 16: IJ-hallen – Europe's biggest flea market in Amsterdam-Noord @ijhallen
– Nov 16: Sunday Museum Market on Museumplein (grab a bite from Mr Brasa!)
– Nov 13–23: IDFA 2025 – hundreds of documentaries across the city's best cinemas @idfafestival

DRINKS & EVENTS
– Every Thursday this winter: Cheese fondue night at Badhuis Javaplein (€26 pp with unlimited crudités & bread). @badhuis.ams
– Save the date! Nov 17–23: Woodford Old Fashioned Week — 10+ cocktail bars, 3 top chef x bartender collabs @woodfordreserve @sidney_schutte @florisvstraalen @dirkmooren

NEW SPOTS
– Café Bica on Weesperzijde – coffee hotspot from the Bam Boa team @cafebica.ams
– Petit Charcuterie on Singel – perfect for bites, drinks & brioche sandwiches @petit.charcuterie.singel

FAMILY & FESTIVE FUN
– Nov 15: Ice skating season officially opens at Museumplein ⛸️ @iceamsterdam
– Nov 16: Sinterklaas parade sails into Amsterdam via the Amstel 🎁
– Nov 16 – Dec 5: Sinterklaas at Muiderslot (meet the Sint in person on Nov 22–23 & 29–30) @muiderslot

Want all 31 tips?

Comment 'WEEKEND' and I'll DM you the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide — or check the link in bio.

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #AmsterdamWeekendGuide #AmsterdamTips #ThingstoDoAmsterdam #AmsterdamEvents #AmsterdamMarkets #AmsterdamRestaurants #WinterInAmsterdam #SinterklaasAmsterdam #IDFA2025 #WoodfordOldFashionedWeek

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𝟱 𝘅𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘂𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝘂𝘁 𝗵𝗲𝗯𝗯𝗲𝗻.

From new hotspots to low spots and from hand-pulled noodles to an intimate Mediterranean bistro, I've listed 5 new favorite restaurants for you that you definitely want to try.

Save this guide for your next dinner date 🍽️

📍 Orchid House (East)
Vibe: all-day dining at Oosterpark, family-friendly and good vibes.
Must orders: ceviche, angel hair pasta with sea urchin and picanha.
@orchidhouse.ams

📍 Omri (The Pipe)
Vibe: Small and cozy corner space with a warm interior and dimmed lighting. Perfect for a date night.
Must orders: the dolmas and lamb shawarma tostada with watermelon.
@omri_amsterdam

📍 Chingu (The Pipe)
Vibe: Mainly focused on takeaway, but trust me: you'll want to go out of your way for these Taiwanese rice balls.
Must orders: Jumeok Bap with king crab or mayak egg, so delicious.
@chinguamsterdam

📍 Leonardo's Ravioli Bar (De Pijp)
Vibe: Italian bistro full of cozy nooks in the always lively Pijp neighborhood. Now also open for lunch on weekends.
Must-have orders: as many as possible. And share everything. I can be brief about that.
@leonardosraviolibar

📍 Yellow River Handpulled Noodles (Center)
Vibe: like stepping into a Chinese canteen. You order at the kiosk and wait for your number to be called.
Must-try orders: choose your favorite thickness of noodles + the minced meat noodles. The dumplings are also definitely worth trying.
@yellowrivernoodles

Please let us know where you're going first.

Or where you recently had the best meal, I'm curious!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#amsterdamfood #amsterdam #amsterdamrestaurant #amsterdamlife #amsterdamtravel #amsterdamrestaurants #hotspots

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The most beautiful Christmas displays at garden centers throughout the Netherlands are now open! 🎄

Only seven more weekends until Christmas... and this cozy and free Christmas outing is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Trust me, I've been there myself ;-).

Do you have a favorite that's not in this video? Let me know in the comments! You can also find the complete list of 30 tips via the link in my bio ✨.

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#Christmasshows #Christmasshow2025 #Christmasdecoration #Christmasinspiration #gardencenter #weekendtip #thingstodo #discovertheNetherlands #winterouting #cozyoutings #Christmasholiday #Christmasfeeling #Christmasmarkets #Decembertips

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favorite hotel in Dublin

The Dean Hotel

The Dean is more than just a hotel. Of course, you can also sleep here, but as they say themselves: "We don't do conventional. We do fun." And I can tell you, it's a hotel close to my heart with a wonderful atmosphere. The rooms are modern, and you'll find beautifully curated items in them, like a record player and a minibar full of original items. If you enjoy working out, the hotel's Power Gym is a must-visit. Of course, you can also just go there for the spa and the (small) pool. So be sure to bring your swimwear if you're staying here. Breakfast is served at Sophie's Rooftop bar, and it's so delicious that you definitely need to make time for it, even if only to wake up peacefully with a fantastic view of the city! On weekends, the cocktail bar is open late, so when you return after dinner, be sure to... The Dean definitely take another look.
33 Harcourt Street, Dublin 2

View the rates

The Dean Hotel

food & drinks in Dublin

Peruke & Periwig

If there's one thing I've truly enjoyed in Dublin, it's the cocktail bars. Peruke & Periwig is a fantastic Victorian-style cocktail bar. Think velvet sofas, plush cushions, classic paintings, and ornate wallpaper. Drinking cocktails here is like stepping into a different world. Their cocktail menu is inspired by music. So, tell them: are you in the mood for soul, alternative, or blues? Add some small bites, and you've got the perfect spot for a late-night drink.
31 Dawson Street, Dublin 2 – peruke.ie

Peruke & Periwig

Loose Canon Cheese and Wine

Looking for a great wine bar? You've found it! Loose Canon Cheese and Wine excels at two things: natural wine and the tastiest toasted sandwiches in town. Not just any toasted sandwich, but toasted sandwiches made with Dublin's finest local cheeses. Prefer a regular cheese board or a charcuterie platter with your drink? We've got you covered! Get advice from the team and discover the stories of the local artisans!
29 Drury St, Dublin – loosecanon.ie

Loose Canon Cheese and Wine

More hotspots in Dublin

Fade Street Social Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

This restaurant, run by chef Dylan McGrath, is a prime example of a Michelin-starred chef taking a different approach. It's located in one of the city's most charming neighborhoods, and this winter they have a cozy Rooftop Winter Garden where they cook over an open fire. The menu features pure and robust dishes made with the finest local ingredients. We shared the Chateaubriand, one of their signature dishes and definitely recommended for sharing.
6 Fade Street, Dublin 2 – fadestreetsocial.com

Fade Street Social Restaurant

Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace

This fantastic panoramic restaurant is located on the top floor of The Dean Hotel, where I stayed during this city break. It's a beautiful, modern rooftop restaurant with ample glass, offering 360-degree views of Dublin. They serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a wide selection of cocktails. The menu is delightfully diverse, featuring both Irish and international dishes.
33 Harcourt Street, Dublin 2 – sophies.ie

Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace

More hotspots in Dublin

Cafe en Seine

Dawson Street is home to several trendy restaurants, including Cafe en Seine. It's a large establishment, but its diverse layout creates a cozy atmosphere. Cafe en Seine boasts a stylish restaurant, an iconic cocktail bar, and a Parisian-inspired indoor street garden. We had lunch in the street garden before heading to the Jameson Distillery, and if you want to fuel up for all the cocktails there, I highly recommend the burger!
40 Dawson Street, Dublin – cafeenseine.ie

Cafe en Seine

Fallon & Byrne Wine Cellar OR restaurant

There's really nothing about Fallon & Byrne I don't like! From the food hall to the wine cellar and the restaurant. Go down the stairs and you'll find the candlelit wine cellar, perfect for drinks or sharing some delicious dishes. They serve wines from small wineries around the world. For a more elaborate meal, the restaurant above the shop is the place to be. The menu features classic dishes made with local, seasonal Irish ingredients.
11-17 Exchequer Street, Dublin 2 – fallonandbyrne.com/restaurants/exchequer-street-wine-cellar

Fallon & Byrne Restaurant

Bear Market Coffee

They know what good coffee is here! And the best part is that they have multiple locations throughout the city, so you can find this coffee bar in almost every neighborhood. Another great thing: the coffee at this third-wave coffee bar is made with sustainable beans. You can sit inside or outside, and they have a variety of (vegan) pastries for those sweet tooths.
3 South Great George´s Street & Pembroke Street Lower & 19 Main St. Blackrock, County Dublin & Unit 2, George's Dock, Mayor Street Lower, North Dock, Dublin – bearmarket.ie  

More hotspots in Dublin

Vintage Cocktail Club

Dublin boasts several speakeasy cocktail bars, but one of the best, in my opinion, is the Vintage Cocktail Club. Tucked away behind a nearly hidden door in Temple Bar, you'll find a cocktail bar that takes you back to the 1920s. A fantastic interior where time seems to have stood still, complete with a crackling fire! It's quite difficult to choose from the cocktail list, but it's here that I had the best Whiskey Sour in the city. They also have bar bites that are perfect for sharing before a more elaborate meal.
15 Crown Alley, Temple Bar, Dublin 2 – vintagecocktailclub.com/

Vintage Cocktail Club

The Pigs Ear

Looking for a modern Irish gastropub? Then The Pigs Ear is a place to remember. Here you'll find authentic Irish dishes with a contemporary twist, in a casual and bright interior with classic details. A fun fact: this restaurant is the proud holder of a Michelin Bib Gourmand: the ultimate proof of excellent food at an affordable price.
4 Nassau Street, Dublin 2 – thepigsear.com

Gallagher's Boxty House

Boxty is an Irish pancake with all sorts of toppings that used to be a typical "poor man's food" during the recession. At hotspot Boxty House, they've put this potato dish on a pedestal and given it all sorts of variations and modern twists. Order an Irish-brewed beer with it, and you've got a truly Irish evening.
20-21, Temple Bar, Dublin 2 – boxtyhouse.ie

Gallagher's Boxty House

The Market Bar Restaurant

You'll find several interesting restaurants around Fade Street, and The Market Bar is definitely one of them. Here you can enjoy an evening of tapas, perfect for sharing. On weekends, they offer brunch, where you can choose from classic brunch dishes like eggs Benedict and delicious brunch cocktails. Later in the evening, head upstairs to The Black Market cocktail bar!
14A Fade Street, Dublin 2 – marketbar.ie

The Market Bar

Etto

Etto means small, and that's exactly the name this cozy restaurant lives up to. Unfortunately, they weren't open the days I was in Dublin, but otherwise we would definitely have eaten there. The lunch and dinner menu is mouthwatering and changes slightly every day. And did I mention they're listed in the Michelin Guide? Booking ahead is essential.
18 Merrion Row, Dublin 2, Ireland – etto.ie

Jameson Distillery

Things to See & Do in Dublin

Jameson Distillery

A visit to Dublin isn't complete without a whiskey distillery. We went to the Jameson Distillery, and I highly recommend it if you love good cocktails. Then be sure to book the Whiskey Cocktail Making Class, just like we did. Since then, I've been completely obsessed with whiskey sours, and you'll learn how to make them perfectly there! You can also take a tour with a tasting or even sample a glass of whiskey straight from the barrel.
Bow Street, Smithfield, Dublin 7 – jamesonwhiskey.com

Cocktail workshop at Jameson Distillery

Fab Food trail

Personally, I always love taking a food tour in a different city. In Dublin, Fab Food Trail is the place to be. During this food tour, you'll take a two-and-a-half to three-hour stroll past food scene hotspots known for using locally sourced ingredients. Spread across six different eateries, you'll sample authentic Irish flavors and learn more about the food culture.
fabfoodtrails.ie/dublin-tasting-trail

food tour with Fab Food Trail

Guinness Storehouse

When you think of Ireland, you think of Guinness. Right? Although touristy, it's something you simply must see and taste. Simply because Guinness and Ireland are inextricably linked. Spread across seven floors, the story of Guinness's history is told. The highlight is the stunning panoramic view of the city from the Gravity Bar. During your visit, you can have your photo taken and printed on a freshly tapped Guinness that you can enjoy at the bar. There, you can also sample other Guinness specials, such as a surprisingly delicious Prosecco and Guinness cocktail.
St. James's Gate, Dublin 8 – guinness-storehouse.com

Gravity Bar at Guinness Storehouse

Georgian urban design

What will immediately strike you when you arrive in Dublin are the beautiful front doors in every color of the rainbow. The area around Fitzwilliam Square boasts some of the finest examples! This architectural style is also reflected in the beautiful Merrion Square Park, where you'll find, among other things, the famous statue of Oscar Wilde.

Oscar Wilde in Merrion Square Park

Dublin Castle

For over 700 years, this was the headquarters of the English administration in Ireland. Today, the Irish government uses this castle, which is unfortunately covered in scaffolding, for state visits and other official occasions. If you're in the area, it's worth a visit so you can tick it off your list of highlights.
Dame Street, Dublin 2

Dublin Castle

Trinity College

Remember the impressive library in the Harry Potter films? Part of it was filmed in the historic library of Trinity College. After visiting the exhibition about The Book of Kells, perhaps Ireland's greatest cultural treasure, you'll end your visit in the world-famous Long Room. Easily one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, in my opinion.
College Green, Dublin 2 – tcd.ie/visitors/book-of-kells

Long Room at The Book of Kells

St. Stephen's Green

Thanks to our hotel's location, we walked past St. Stephen's Green several times a day. It's a truly historic park in the heart of Dublin. There's a playground for children and several benches where you can completely relax. Tip: check the website for upcoming events before your city break. Upscale hotels like The Shelbourne are located around the park. If you're looking for a chic drink near the park, hotel bar 27 at The Shelbourne is a classic spot for a good glass of wine and oysters.
No. 27, The Shelbourne Bar, 27 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2 –  theshelbourne.com

Irish seafood platter at 27 at The Shelbourne

St. Stephen's Green

Shopping in Dublin

Exchequer Street and surrounding area

Fancy some shopping? Then walk along Grafton Street towards Exchequer Street, making sure to explore the side streets. Here you'll find the trendiest shops, from concept stores to fashion boutiques. Lovers of vintage design will be in their element here, as you'll find many charming vintage shops specializing in designer items. Exchequer Street, William Street, Drury Street and surrounding areas

Exchequer Street and surrounding area

Industry & Co

At Industry & Co, you can enjoy delicious food and drinks, as well as some fantastic shopping. Everything in this concept store is beautiful and you'll want to take it home with you. You'll find sustainable brands that make the world a little better in all sorts of ways. From home accessories to kitchen tools and from beauty products to stationery. A wonderful place to find inspiration!
41 A/B Drury St, Dublin 2 – industryandco.com

Industry & Co

Scout

Scout's collection ranges from women's clothing to home accessories and from children's fashion to natural beauty products. At this concept store, you'll find beautiful items that are timeless, functional, and sustainable. This is especially appealing because the collection features many items from Irish brands.
5 Essex Street West, Dublin – scoutdublin.com

Oliver Bonas

The colorful facade of the Oliver Bonas concept store is visible from afar, inviting you to pop in. Here you can shop for clothing, accessories for yourself and your home, and other must-haves that will instantly cheer you up. A little different, and also fun: despite being a chain, you won't find this store in the Netherlands!
22 Exchequer St, Dublin – oliverbonas.com

Oliver Bonas

Costumes

This high-end women's fashion boutique is located in the heart of Dublin's creative hub. Here you'll find the hottest online brands and beautiful accessories.
10/11 Castle Market, Dublin 2 – costumedublin.ie

Fallon & Byrne Food Hall

This foodpreneur is dedicated to discovering and sharing only the very best flavors. They do this, among other places, in their flagship store, located in a beautiful old building that also houses the restaurants I've mentioned before. Here you'll find everything delicious, and as a foodie, you'll likely be disappointed that you can't take everything home. Staying in an apartment in Dublin or planning a summer picnic in the park? Then this is the place to go for delicious treats.
11-17 Exchequer Street, Dublin – fallonandbyrne.com

Fallon & Byrne Food Hall

The Dean Hotel

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