Dublin's best views from the Guinness Storehouse.
Please excuse our absence. We've moved and experienced some technical difficulties as a result. But all should be back to normal now. Thanks for your patience.By all accounts, Dublin is one of the European Union's great success stories. In barely more than a decade, Ireland -- and particularly Dublin -- has transformed itself from gloomy outpost to the economic powerhouse known as the "Celtic Tiger."
Today's Dublin is one of the most vibrant, culture-forward cities in Europe. And Aer Lingus has affordable fares from six U.S. gateways.
There aren't many must-sees in Dublin. Trinity College, Temple Bar, O'Connell Street, St. Stephen's Green, and the Chester Beatty Library are all worth the effort. But no trip to Dublin is complete without a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. It is, after all, Ireland's number one tourist attraction.
If you're walking from town, which is possible, it will take at least 20 minutes. Despite what local maps indicate, the brewery can't be entered from the gates on the River Liffey and it‘s virtually impossible to see from the street.
The entrance is at St. James Gate -- not hard to find, but not well marked. If you set out on foot, just make sure you know where you're going. Otherwise, you'll walk an extra 20 minutes or so.
At €15.00, it's not cheap. But the 360-degree view from the 7th-floor Gravity Bar is the best in town. And admission does include a pint of the best "Black Stuff" you'll ever taste. The tour shows you the history of the brand, including their advertising from the 1930s to the 1960s.
The Brewery Bar is a great place for lunch. Although the €15.00 cover charge does run up the bill. Brie and bacon baguette and chicken tikka masala are standouts. And if you're lucky enough to snag a window table, you'll have Dublin at your feet.
If you buy tickets in advance, you won't have to wait in line. But the queue moves pretty quickly. Purchase your tickets online and save 10% at http://www.guinnessstorehouse.com
