Dublin City Breaks Offer Family Fun

Dublin city breaks are enjoyed by the whole family. Dublin is the capital and largest city in Ireland, and was voted the friendliest city in Europe. The climate is never too hot or too cold, with temperatures in the 60s and 70s in June and July. Summer days lasting 18 hours allow tourists to enjoy many sites each day. Rain showers are unpredictable so an umbrella is a must.

Ireland is known for sports such as Gaelic football, soccer, rugby union, and hurling. There is Croke Park, which is known for being the largest sports stadium in Ireland and the fourth largest stadium in Europe. Other favorite sporting events include greyhound racing at Shelbourne Park and horse racing at Leopardstown.

Dublin is very kid friendly with sites such as Ark Children's Cultural Centre which features interactive programs in science, environment, and culture. Dublinia uses wax figures and hands-on displays to depict Medieval times. The Dublin Zoo is also a favorite for children and adults.

There are also many art galleries and museums such as The National Gallery which showcases Irish and European art and paintings. The Douglas Hyde Gallery features contemporary art. The three branches of the National Museum of Ireland include decorative arts and history in Collins Barracks, natural history on Merrion Street, and archaeology on Kildare Street.

The River Liffey divides Dublin into the south side and the north side. The south side is thought to be more for the middle and upper classes, and the north side is more for the working class.

Theatres on the south side include the Olympia Theatre which features musicals, comedy shows, plays, and concerts. Both the Abbey Theatre and Gate Theatre showcase plays.

Shopping districts include Stephen's Green Shopping Centre, Jervis Shopping Centre, Dundrum Town Center, and Blanchardstown Centre. The Liffe Valley Shopping Centre in Clondalkin is home to the Vue Cinema, the busiest cinema in Ireland and the UK.

Attractions on the north side include the Dublin Writer's Museum and the Hugh Lane Municipal Gallery of Modern Art Gallery showcasing mostly contemporary works by Irish artists. The famous St. James Gate Brewery has been brewing Guinness draft beer since 1759.

Dublin city breaks offer a multitude of entertainment and culture to fill the long days of summer. Upon arriving in Dublin airport, buses and railways take tourists to the many hotels and sites. Numerous pubs and cafes offer a rest in between all the fabulous attractions.