Romantic Restaurants, Getaway Places in Maynooth

"Dublin Castle is a fine choice and way to begin the first day of your 2 days in Dublin itinerary. Dublin Castle is steeped in history and you will definitely want to take their guided tour, admission fee required. You can opt out and tour the grounds by yourself, but you will not have access to the staterooms on the second floor. I took the tour and found it fascinating."

"Built in 1204, Dublin Castle was the seat of power for British rule for over 700 years. In April 1684, a fire ripped through the castle, destroying much of the structure. A stunning Georgian palace was built in its place."

"As the stronghold of British power in Ireland for more than 700 years, Dublin Castle has played a central - and often adversarial - role in the history of the nation. A mix of buildings from..."

"The buses will take you past the major sights and, depending on which tour you choose (grab some leaflets the evening before or do some research on the internet), even far-flung attractions like the Guinness Brewery, Kilmainham Gaol, and Phoenix Park will be seen. The main thing to remember here: get a good seat on top, enjoy the view, listen to the commentary, and snap away... but do not get off the bus. This is your city tour."

"Before it's closure in 1924, Dublin's Kilmainham Gaol housed some of the most famous political and military leaders in Irish history. The prison is considered a must-see in Dublin and offers a panoramic insight into some of the most profound, disturbing and inspirational themes of modern Irish history. Pre-booking online is essential."

"The attraction which is furthest from the centre in our two day Dublin itinerary is Kilmainham Gaol. Don’t worry though, this 18th century gaol no longer operates as such, and is today run as a museum by Ireland’s Office of Public Works."

"Situated in an 18th-century Georgian town house located on St. Stephens Green and described as “Dublin’s best museum experience” by the Irish Times. The museum tells the story and history of Dublin, Ireland’s capital city. Suitable for both adults and children, tour guides give children special attention throughout their tour of Dublin as they fill in worksheets, quizzes and in return get a prize and a badge for their participation."

"The Little Museum of Dublin is as quirky and eccentric as the city itself. Set in a gorgeous Georgian townhouse on the periphery of Stephen’s Green, this museum will take you on a path through the last century in Dublin. And it’s far from a lackluster historical lecture—U2, and the puppets Podge and Rodge, are given as much billing as James Joyce."

"Located on St. Stephen’s Green in Dublin, this is one of the lesser-known “hidden gems” on the Dublin museum scene. The attraction shares in the history and heritage of the capital."

"Unexpected and splendid: the Chester Beatty Library, with its remarkable collections of Oriental, Islamic and Western art and books, is simply one of the finest museums in Ireland. This collection was gifted to the Irish State by Chester Beatty, an American mining magnate. The permanent 'Arts of the Book' and 'Sacred Traditions' exhibitions showcase the Library's treasures, which include Chinese jade books and Biblical papyri in state-of-the-art galleries; other exhibitions change regularly."

"These include the Irish government state apartments, which are used for official state engagements, as well as the Garda (Irish police) Museum and the Chester Beatty Library museum. All of these can be visited. Visiting the main Castle, which includes the State Apartments, requires a ticket, and you can either do a self-guided tour or a guided tour. The former is free for holders of the Dublin Pass."

"Nestled behind Dublin Castle, the Chester Beatty is the only museum in Ireland to have won the European Museum of the Year award. Its vast collection of religious artifacts from across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North Africa is unparalleled. Works from 2700 B.C."

"Based in a renovated 17th century hospital, the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) hosts different exhibitions from Irish designers such as Elieen Gray to international artists like Philippe Parreno. The IMMA is a mix between old and new culture which makes it unique. It’s a really original gallery we recommend you to visit it."

"Housed on the grounds of the Royal Kilmainham Hospital, not only does IMMA offer renowned permanent and temporary exhibitions but it is also a fine setting for a stroll on a sunny day."

"Out in Kilmainham, IMMA is worth a visit for the striking building and gardens alone. Contemporary art is spread throughout the former hospital, with free guided tours available too."

"Discover that what it means to be Irish expands far beyond the borders of Ireland through the stories of Irish emigrants who became scientists, politicians, poets, artists and even outlaws all over the world. Discover Ireland from the outside in and find out why saying “I’m Irish” is one of the biggest conversation starters, no matter where you are."

"EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is an interactive experience. Step through 20 themed galleries on a journey to discover the stories of Irish emigration around the world. Find out why people left, see how they influenced the world they found, and experience the connection between their descendants and Ireland today."

"This restored soldiers barracks is today a state-of-the-art exhibition space and venue that pays tribute to its colourful history and Ireland’s heritage."

"Heavily restored after the heavy shelling of 1916, the General Post Office is just about the only remarkable building on O'Connell Street - but it is far more important for its historical significance. Here Patrick Pearse read out the Proclamation of the Irish Republic (and declared war on the British Empire) at the start of the Easter Rising. A few days later the building was a burnt-out hulk and Pearse stood in front of an execution squad."

"Highlights on and around O'Connell Street include: The historic General Post Office where the 1916 rebellion started, the Hugh Lane Art Gallery, the popular shopping area Henry street and the vibrant market stretch Moore Street, with colourful street traders and ethnic shops. The main drag is very busy, but the best parts are on the side streets surrounding it!"

"Head to the General Post Office to learn about the revolution that happened here in 1916. It’s now the headquarters of the Irish Post Office, but it’s also the place where the Irish and the British got into a battle over Britain’s rule right in the streets of Dublin."

"Coppinger Row is mid-range mediterranean cuisine at its best, featuring exciting takes on the usual mains you would expect of a similar establishment. Menu highlights include Foie Gras terrine with spiced apple and brioche, salt marsh duck breast with fondant potato, spinach and roast pear or spiced lamb flatbread with red onion and rosemary. This Mediterranean style of eating is fresh and seasonal and promises to have you stuffed."

"Hidden in Dublin’s cultural quarter, just off the bustling South William Street is where you will find Coppinger Row, a restaurant that promises a culinary experience of the highest order. Amazing food in generous portions coupled with friendly helpful staff make this a firm favourite among Dublin diners so booking in advance is advised. Oh, and their cosy terrace is ideal for eating and people watching in the summer!"

"Located on a buzzy pedestrianised cobblestone street in Dublin’s stylish Creative Quarter, Coppinger Row is well regarded as one of the coolest and most stylish dining experiences in the city. A favourite of visiting celebrities and locals alike.Coppinger Row is known for delivering consistently...See More"

"St Stephen’s Green is located about 10 minute walk (with children) from Maldron Hotel Pearse Street. Adults will be charmed by the stunning Victorian park in the city centre whilst kids will love the playground and duckpond. Look out for free outdoor lunchtime concerts in the summertime."

"St. Stephen’s Green – Located in the centre of the city, it is a great place to unwind for an hour after your hectic week. There is a famous statue of Oscar Wilde in the park, the renowned Irish poet, novelist and playwright."

"Looking for wonderful photo spots in Dublin with flowers in spring?. Then definitely check out St Stephen's Green!. St Stephen's Green is a public park in the center of Dublin."

"Address: 18 Grangegorman Lower, Arran Quay, Dublin, D07 WF44, Ireland Site: https://www.kaleandcoco.com Phone: 353-861603093 $$. Founded by friends Jenny and Rebecca, Kale & Coco is inspired by the pair’s international travels, by the farm to table movement, and by emerging health trends. With a mission to engage the Irish population in a new conversation about food and to cultivate a conscious eating culture in their community, Kale & Coco offers its guests flavors from both home and abroad – hence the name Kale & Coco(nut)."

"What started out as a stunning little smoothie bowl pop-up a few years back has now become one of the trendiest and most Instagrammable cafés in Dublin. Taking influence from the Sydney and LA food scene, the decor consists of hanging pots, white gleaming walls with murals of tropical plants, quirky cushions, marble-top tables and swinging seats. The flavours in the acai bowls work so well together and the Acai has this brilliant bright pink colour to it."

"Kale & Co. is a wonderful little stand serving up all kinds of healthy, delicious bowls. Check it out if you’re in the mood for a loaded smoothie — packed with oats, berries and other items — or a “nourish bowl” scattered with spinach, miso and more. 📍 18 Grangegorman Lower, D07 WF44"

"If you appreciate a good, strong cup of coffee, then you need to get yourself to One Society in Dublin. It has some of the nicest tasting coffee we’ve ever tried anywhere in Ireland, and we’ve tried a LOT of places. Not only are their drinks phenomenal, but their food is out-of-this-world grade, too."

"You’ll regularly see One Society top guides to the best brunch in Dublin, and for good reason. The food on offer in this Lower Gardnier St. haunt is the absolute business. Order their “not so classic Irish breakfast” and you’ll be full for the rest of the day!"

"With a 1st-floor terrace view of the Ha'Penny Bridge, this might be the city's coolest pizza joint. Add that it serves excellent drinks (pizza and Aperol, anyone?) and its credentials are rock solid."

"Price: €0.95Look: 2.5/5Texture: 3.5/5Taste: 3/5Value: 4/5Total: 13/20. Verdict: The old Dublin bakery makes a simple and honest croissant. There is nothing pretentious about it, it doesn’t look perfect."

"Manning’s Bakery is a traditional, family-run bakery in Dublin. They make hand-made cakes on a daily basis. This way, they can be sure that all their clients are getting the best products possible."

"You can get the doughnuts (and any other delicious baked good you can think of) at their Thomas Street, Blanchardstown and Tallaght bakeries. And it’s all gluten free as well."

"The ethos of Bite caf� is that of 'Uptown Food, Downtown Vibe' and it's basically recreating your average fish and chip shop into a more upmarket fish experience with some interesting reinventions along the way. Gone is the greasy batter in a brown bag, replaced with hake in a vodka and beer batter accompanied with mushy peas and pancetta fries. The usual pre-theatre menu has been replaced with a 'Pre-Gig Menu', seeking to resonate with the modern diner."