The fashionable capital of Dublin is a destination with tourists from outside of Ireland and natives, known for its laid back and indisputable attitude. The Irish people are famous for being sociable and friendly, and most enjoy any opportunity for a dance, a song and a beer. The city centre itself is full of historical Dublin accommodation like cheap hotels close to the smoky Irish pubs where you can enjoy a Guinness and listen to the reputable Irish music along with the Dubliners. You will have a good time saying ?Slainte? at any local pub, but do not be surprised if you suddenly find yourself pulled up and made to do a little dance! Along with the typical hotels, shops etc an excellent number of bars and pubs tightly bunched together, especially along the banks of the river and in the cobbled streets of Temple Bar. This is a lively and interesting place to spend your holiday time. Many established hotels are within easy reach of Temple Bar. If you do not want to sleep or need to sober up, there are many new coffee houses opening up where you can experience a real Irish coffee.

Dublin is a thriving city, full of colour and character in its history, cuisine and traditions. The city itself is pretty flat and if staying at a hotel in the city centre then you will be within walking distance of most of Dublin's attractions, shopping areas, bars and restaurants. It is relatively simple to get your bearings, just use the river as a pointer as to where you are. Some of the major tourist attractions not to miss include The National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin's Writers Museum with letters, notes and personal items from the likes of Behan, Stoker and W.B. Yeats, and the James Joyce Museum. Lovers of architecture should head to Merrion Square, laid out between 1762 and 1764, a superb example of Georgian Architecture and the ideal place to immerse yourself in Dublin's history. Take a walk over Dublin's most famous bridge, The Ha'penny.

The political history of Dublin is just as fascinating, across the river in the northern half of Dublin, make your way to O'Connell Street, and up to the city's most political monument, the General Post Office. Patrick Pearse stood on its steps, on Easter Day 1916, to read a proclamation declaring a free Irish Republic. It is possible to put your fingertips into the bullet holes that riddle the columns and the fa?ade. Alternatively, take a guided tour of Ireland's most famous disused prison, Kilmainham Gaol. When open it held many famous prisoners, including the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising, executed here. In addition, here in the northern half of the city are several cheap hotels where you can stay.

Within a short distance from Dublin city are the Wicklow Mountains, full of beautiful lakes and reservoirs, especially beautiful in the winter months with the tops covered in snow. If you have the energy then it is possible to walk along the Wicklow Way, breathe in the pure fresh air and captivated by the stunning views. Alternatively, visit Glendalough, in the heart of the mountains national park and one of the most important sites of monastic ruins in Ireland.

Ensure you book your Ireland accommodation before you arrive in Dublin as the city is a popular destination and the better hotels can be booked up before you know it, especially if you are planning to visit at the weekend or in a holiday season. There is a huge choice of accommodation in the city, from quality hotels and holiday villas to bed and breakfast and youth hostels. Everyone who visits Dublin comes away with a story to tell. It is a city that lives up to its reputation and don't be surprised to find yourself caught up in its energy and rhythm.