Beer. Ireland is renowned for it. For such a simple brew, its cultural impact runs deep. They say even the fish of Dublin swim in it – and honestly, you’ll feel like you do too after a few nights here. The Dublin beer experience is not only rich in flavor, but also in history and culture. When you visit the city, you’re gonna want to fully immerse yourself in the keg culture. Here’s how to do it:
The Guinness Storehouse is one of Dublin’s cornerstone experiences. Seven floors of Guinness history, centuries of taste, and tons of foam. It is a fascinating self-guided tour that all beer lovers must check out. The payoff? Each tour ends with a free pint of Guinness, freshly poured at the Gravity Bar – a top-floor taproom that offers a 360° view of the city.
The Guinness Open Gate Brewery is a pub that pours refreshingly unique drafts. This spot is just a short walk from the Guinness Storehouse, and serves rare drinks like whiskey-flavored stouts and watermelon spritzes – tastes you will only find at this experimental brewery. Beer tasting flights won’t wreck your budget (€10), and are best enjoyed in their newly revamped beer garden. Open Gate’s vibes are relaxed, inviting, and carefree.
The Jameson Whiskey Distillery Tour is a riveting journey through Jameson’s origins. For just 45 minutes, switch your focus from beer to whiskey on this exciting, fully-guided tour. Guides (a.k.a ‘Whiskey Ambassadors' – yes, that’s a real title) lead you through the story of Jameson. Whiskey tastings are offered along the journey, and a post-tour complimentary drink can be enjoyed at JJ’s bar, the distillery’s on-site pub.
Dicey’s Garden is the place to be. It is the best nightlife in town … with the cheapest drinks around. Pints usually cost just €2 at this multi-floor venue. DJs light up the energetic crowd, and the dancefloor is moving all night. A brew is best enjoyed on the balconies overlooking the beer garden. Even better – during the day, they serve €5 student lunches. Put this one at the top of your list. Dicey’s is a must-visit.
Doyle’s is a classic Celtic pub that offers more than just a great beer - it serves a traditional Irish experience. When you think of Dublin bars, this is the old-school, no frills, rustic spot that would be on your postcard. You feel the history right as you walk in. Both locals and tourists love this place. Doyle’s is quaint and cozy during the day, but transforms into a nightclub after 11 PM. Swing by on Live Music Tuesdays.
O’Reilly’s Bar is a top three spot in Dublin. Grab a €4 pint, lose your voice singing along, and feel the train rumble overhead while the DJ keeps the crowd jumping. The energy is off the charts, and there is never a cover charge.
Beyond just beer, Dublin is loved for its pubs and parties. So get out there and swim in it like the fish do – one pint too many, one pub too late, and one story you’ll only half remember.
Written by: Nick Faggio
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