Dublin Castle on Dame Street in the heart of the city is a magnificent building standing at the junction of the River Liffey and its tributary The Poddle. The original fortification here is thought to have been an early Gaelic Ring Fort. Subsequently, a Viking Fortress stood on these grounds, and a part of this is still on view to visitors. Currently, Dublin Castle house the State Apartments which are used for State Functions and Presidential Inaugurations. There is a restaurant, craft centre and gift shop open to visitors at Dublin Castle. Opening hours are 1000-1645hrs Monday to Friday, 1400-1700hrs Saturdays and 1400-1645hrs on Sundays. Admission is E4.50 with a small reduction for students and senior citizens. For more information about Dublin Castle phone +353 1 677 7129 or visit www.dublincastle.ie.

For a glimpse of medieval life in the city, check our Dublinia at St Michael's Hill, Christchurch, Dublin 8. This is an award-winning exhibition which allows visitors to really get a feel for life in the Middle Ages at close quarters. You can walk through the old streets and laneways of the city, visit a merchants house or board a ship a Wood Quay. Dublinia goes to extremes to get the detail correct in its recreation of Dublin of 800 years ago, and is a great place for the whole family to visit. Guided Tours are available, but must be booked in advance. Between April and September, Dublinia is open 1000-1700 daily, and for the rest of the year from 1100-1600hrs Monday to Saturday. Admission is E6 for adults and E3.50 for children. For more information, phone +353 1 679 4611 or log on to www.dublinia.ie.

Dublin Hotels in Dublin