We arrived in Dublin via London’s Heathrow airport around midday Thursday. After picking up our car and checking into our hotel and having a late lunch we spent the rest of the afternoon exploring central Dublin on foot.

We looked around the Temple bar district:

Temple Bar

And saw the ha’penny bridge (the one that had all the locks attached to it – they are already making a comeback).

Ha’Penny Bridge

Locks of the Ha’Penny bridge

Today (Friday) we got off to a late start unfortunately since we over slept (we had been awake more than 32hrs by the time we went to bed). However we got to Trinity College by 11am and I got to see the Book of Kells in its home and then took in the atmosphere and splendor of the long hall in the library when I got to see Brian Boru’s Harp (which, for me, was just as exciting as seeing the Book of Kells).

From there we headed to the National Museum of Ireland. This was fabulous – got to see some of the best examples of ancient Irish treasures – another highlight for me was the Tara Brooch and the silver Ardagh Chalice.

Tara Brooch

After a quick afternoon tea we headed to Christ Church Cathedral to explore this lovely old (>1000 years) church.

inside Dublin’s Christ Church Cathedral

We then headed to Dublinia (an interactive museum tracing the history of Ireland from Viking times). Although interesting, I think this is probably a good one for the kids).

A walk back through Temple Bar and we found ourselves at The Oliver St. John Gogarty pub (where I am writing this post) – the first pub to play live Irish music – for some dinner, drinks and some great live Irish music! My day is complete! Fabulous.

Live traditional Irish music at Gogarty’s before the crowds!

I am sure a day and a half is not enough time in Dublin, but it’s been wonderful!