Literary Dublin Uncovered Curated with The HISTORY Channel
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Port
Dun Laoghaire (Dublin), Ireland
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$189
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 6¾ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Departing from Dún Laoghaire, your journey begins with a panoramic drive through elegant Georgian Dublin, where grand squares and graceful terraces once formed the backdrop to the city's vibrant 18th- and 19th-century literary scene. Pause at Merrion Square for a photo stop at the colorful Oscar Wilde statue, set just across from his childhood home. Step off the coach to capture the moment and hear how Wilde's early life and surroundings shaped one of Ireland's most celebrated voices.
Visit the Museum of Literature Ireland, located in historic Newman House beside St Stephen's Green. This landmark museum celebrates Ireland's literary heritage through multimedia exhibits that bring the nation's stories to life. Explore the relationship between literature and the formation of the Irish State, and discover how James Joyce's Dublin continues to shape this modern city. Highlights include Joyce's personal copy of Ulysses and his handwritten notebooks — rare windows into the creation of one of the world's most influential novels.
Your panoramic drive continues past Trinity College, founded in 1592. The writers who studied, taught, or found inspiration here include Swift, Wilde, Beckett, and Joyce. Take a break for a refreshment in the Old Town area. The Liberties, one of the city's oldest and most atmospheric quarters, is home to St Patrick's Cathedral.
Explore St Audoen's Church — Dublin's oldest parish church and a rare survivor from the medieval city. Dating to the 12th century, this peaceful respite offers a glimpse into Dublin before its Georgian expansion. Inside, timeworn stone walls reflect centuries of worship and change, while outside, the medieval porch and nearby city walls hint at the area's former importance. Local lore lingers here, too — the nearby Lucky Stone is said to grant wishes to those who turn it.
Return to Dún Laoghaire and the ship.
Notes:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Tour requires walking and standing. Shore excursions curated with The HISTORY Channel are offered and administered exclusively by Holland America. The HISTORY Channel is a trademark of A&E Television Networks, LLC.