Dublin is one of those destinations that’s on most people’s must-visit list – regardless of their age or lifestyle. Renowned for its immersive culture, its natural beauty, and the sheer number of pints of Guinness that are consumed in the city on any given day, Dublin isn’t just somewhere to head for St Patrick’s Day.
For those lucky enough to call Dublin home during their university years, there’s a lot to see and do throughout the year; from drinking to exploring the city and its plethora of landmarks and icons. Here’s an introduction to some of Dublin’s highlights and why this is considered one of the best cities in the world to live in…
Fun Facts About Dublin
It is believed that around 10 million pints of Guinness are consumed every day. Of course, the student population cannot be totally blamed for this – Guinness is a popular drink with consumers of all ages, inside and outside of Dublin. However, it is super interesting to learn more about the origin of Guinness – especially the way the brand and its famous drink were born in the heart of Dublin.
For those who enjoy a pint or two of the dark bitter drink, Dublin offers tours and immersive experiences including at the 7-storey Guinness Storehouse where you can pour your own pint and even have your face printed in the froth.
Other fun facts about the city come to light as you walk its streets. O’Connell Street in Dublin is the widest street in Europe, at an impressive 49m in width. Popular TV show ‘Vikings’ was also filmed in and around Dublin (look out for fans in cosplay as you wander the city), several bands have started their careers in Dublin including The Script and of course the mighty U2!
Universities in Dublin
For those considering or looking forward to student life in Dublin, one of the most interesting facts worth noting is that the city is home to four of the UK’s best universities – with three of them named on a list of the world’s top 500 universities.
The four main Universities in Dublin are:
- Trinity College, the oldest of the four situated right in the heart of the city. Trinity College is known as a historical piece of architecture and has gifted the world with literary greats like Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett as well as more modern and recent celebrities.
- University College Dublin
- Dublin City University
- Technological University Dublin, covers a series of locations and campuses around the city with a focus on technology.
The different universities and sites offer different experiences and opportunities for students, while all offering a portal to the city of Dublin and its plethora of experiences.
Entertainment and Culture in Dublin
Did you know that the University library at Trinity College is the largest and oldest library in Ireland? Not only that, but it’s home to the Book of Kells which is one of Ireland’s national treasures (well worth a visit).
Dublin is also home to the largest park in Europe, which measures in at 707 hectares – the equivalent of 990 football pitches. Called Phoenix Park, this site is an outside space that offers footpaths, running trails, diverse parks and green spaces, and several integrated attractions including Dublin Zoo and the President of Ireland’s property.
You won’t be surprised to learn that for every one of the hectares covered by Phoenix Park, there’s somewhere to enjoy a drink and something to eat. The tourist buzz around Dublin is largely centred around eating and drinking, with many of the Dublin students frequent pubs, bars, restaurants, and cafes during their time off.
Lots of these eating and drinking sites offer entertainment, especially around Dublin and Ireland’s national holidays – think the Dublin fringe festival, St Patrick’s Day, the Great Ireland Run, and Dublin Pride, among others.
Arts in Dublin
Dublin is known for its great writers and some spectacular architecture, its friendly demeanour and of course the various outside spaces and monuments that tourists and locals alike can enjoy.
The National Gallery is situated right in the heart of the centre of Dublin, offering access to Irish and European art and providing insight into various periods of history through the eyes of some of the country’s most famous painters.
The Giant’s Causeway is an incredible outdoor experience made up of over 40,000 columns rising from the sea, while Dublin Castle combines historical prominence with the excitement of being a part of countless TV and movie backdrops.
You might even find yourself drawn towards Dublin’s ‘Dead Zoo’, which celebrates natural history in an experiential way with visitors able to see and discover whale skeletons and exotic taxidermy.
Living in Dublin
Being a student means juggling the surrounding experiences and cultures with life at University, finding somewhere to call home, and of course, being able to support yourself financially and from a University work viewpoint.
The beauty of student life in Dublin is that you can live as affordably or as expensively as you like, depending on your budget. Many cultural experiences and attractions, shops, and eateries offer student discounts to ensure that students are able to enjoy their surroundings and “live the Dublin life”. What’s more, you’ll find housing options and student accommodation to suit all manner of budgets and needs, including Liv Student which creates student packages including bills and rent under one single payment.
Whether you’re new to Dublin or have chosen a Dublin university based on an existing love of the city and all it has to offer, the great thing about Dublin is how much there is to do within and outside your campus – regardless of your lifestyle. Get in touch with Liv Student to find out more about housing in Dublin, or to discuss life in the city.
