Dublin

In Dublin, locals live and breathe sport. That means there is loads for students to get involved in, with its universities offering everything from football and rugby to more unusual pursuits such as camogie, windsurfing, and even martial arts.

The infectious energy of Dublin means there’s always something happening. Venture to Temple Bar and its array of bars, boutique shops and eateries as a starting point and see where the night takes you. For live music, head to Whelan’s and Sin É, or feel Dublin’s pulse on Grafton St, the central hub of the city. Finish things up in Copper Face Jacks, a popular pub and club that stays open long after everything else has closed.

For something a little quieter, Dublin’s array of galleries will satisfy curious minds, while Phoenix – Europe’s largest inner-city park – lets visitors wander freely amongst the wildlife.

With so much going on by night, don’t forget to check out the Dublin of old by day. The city has over 1,000 years of history and heritage under its belt, meaning there are some truly inspiring landmarks and architecture to explore. Take Dublin Castle, for instance. This 13th-century structure offers a glimpse into the past, while a roam around the hallowed halls of St. Patrick’s Cathedral takes in over 800 years of Irish history.

Renowned the world over, Dublin’s culture has been boosted by centuries of literary, religious and musical prowess. For bookworms, art lovers and history heads, Dublin’s culture cannot be beaten. Head to The Dublin Writers Museum and celebrate the city’s amazing array of authors, dig up some hidden gems at the National Museum of Ireland, or take in a show at Smock Alley, the oldest theatre in the city.

Dublin’s ever-popular bike scheme, Dublinbikes, makes getting around the city straightforward. Bike lanes are becoming more and more common, and there’s plenty of places to lock up when you’re done. Thanks to the city’s relative flatness, cycling the same streets that wordsmiths Wilde, Yeats and Beckett walked on is always a joy.

Public transport links are excellent too. Invest in a Leap Card, top it up with the amount you need, swipe it on any bus, train or tram and you’re good to go without having to reach for cash.