Temple Bar, photography. Vitaly Mazur on Unsplash
Dublin has always been known for its literary giants, historic streets and famous friendly energy; however, after spending just 24 hours in the Irish capital, we discovered how effortlessly it blends tradition with a new creative pulse. Tucked behind Dublin Castle, in the old Italian quarter once known as Little Italy, The Chancery Hotel is right at the centre of this mix. It’s close to everything but hidden enough to feel like a sanctuary. With one of the best suites in the city, a wrap-around terrace and easy access to Dublin’s most famous sights, it’s the perfect base for a quick but full day of exploring.
What to See
A short walk from the hotel will lead you to Dublin Castle, which offers a deep dive into the city’s complex history. It was once the seat of British rule in Ireland; however, it now stands as a symbol of Irish statehood and culture. The courtyards and towers are atmospheric, and wandering through the rooms and halls gives a vivid sense of the city’s past. Nestled just behind it is the Dubh Linn Garden, which is named for the “black pool” that gave Dublin its name. It’s a peaceful green space, ideal for a quiet moment before rejoining the urban pace.
Lou’s Lot, George’s Street Arcade, photography. Fionn Davenport courtesy of Fáilte Ireland
From there, check out George’s Street Arcade, the oldest shopping arcade in Ireland. Visitors will find vintage shops, local businesses, boutiques and stalls selling everything from jewellery to handmade crafts. It’s the perfect spot to pick up something unique before heading through the side streets toward Temple Bar. While it’s often associated with nightlife, during the day, Temple Bar is full of energy, from the aspiring singers busking to small galleries, bookstores and more, showcasing Dublin’s lively street scene.
Busker on Grafton Street, photography. Therese Aherne courtesy of Tourism Ireland
Trinity College is a ten-minute walk from there. The beautiful campus is filled with grand old buildings that frame manicured lawns, attracting a considerable number of tourists, many of whom are familiar with it thanks to TV show ‘Normal People’. From there, stroll down toward Grafton Street, Dublin’s shopping avenue, where buskers, crowds and bright storefronts create a constant sense of movement.
The library at Trinity College, photography. Jonathan Singer on Unsplash
One of Dublin’s most photographed landmarks is Ha’penny Bridge. Crossing over it will bring visitors into the older part of the city, filled with cobblestone streets, a picturesque river view and pubs, such as Merchant’s Arch, which offers classic Irish pub atmosphere, making it the perfect place to stop before continuing the loop back toward the hotel. Alternatively, for those who want a pint with an experience included, the Guinness Storehouse offers a self-guided journey through seven immersive floors, ending with a drink at the Gravity Bar. There, you’ll find panoramic views of Dublin with your pour.
Ha’penny Bridge at sunset, photography. Gareth McCormack courtesy of Fáilte Ireland
Where to Eat & Drink
Soren & Son is ideal to start the morning. The cosy, minimalist cafe, renowned for its high-quality brews and understated charm, serves delicious hot and cold drinks to get you going. Proving not to be just TikTok hype, the smooth and perfectly balanced oat lattes are highly recommended.
If you want to try authentic local comfort food, check out Xian Street Food for a classic Irish spice bag. The folks in Dublin take this dish seriously, and this halal version definitely didn’t disappoint. It’s packed with perfectly seasoned chicken and chips, doused in curry sauce and bursting with flavour. It’s outstanding value at €10 and as fun and satisfying as it is quintessentially Irish.
Guinness Storehouse, photography. Diageo courtesy of Tourism Ireland
Daata is excellent for dinner. It showcases some of the city’s best South Asian flavours. The vegetable samosas are crispy and comforting, the okra bhindi bhaji rich with ginger and tomatoes and the prawn coconut curry creamy, mild and deeply satisfying. The garlic naan deserves a special mention for being incredibly soft, buttery and perfect for soaking up the curry sauces. Every dish is full of colour, aroma and a generous spice, creating a warm, homely meal to end a long day of travelling.
Treatment room at The Chancery Hotel
Where to Stay
The Chancery offers top-notch hospitality with a strong focus on sustainability and is proudly certified LEED Gold. What stands out most is the sense of calm and sophistication woven into every corner. The Terrace Suite is the hotel’s top-tier offering, featuring an airy and refined design with a chic, dark green and gold palette, herringbone floors and thoughtfully placed lighting that makes the space glow. Floor-to-ceiling natural light fills the room during the day, and the spacious layout makes it feel instantly welcoming and comfortable.
Every detail feels intentional, from the plush bedding with an ultra-comfortable mattress to high-quality toiletries and sleek tech touches, such as VDA-controlled blinds and an automatic bathroom door that opens at the push of a button. The terrace is the highlight of the suite, offering sweeping views of Dublin’s rooftops, modern skyline and the silhouette of Dublin Castle.
Coffee dock at The Chancery Hotel
Breakfast at the hotel’s Fawn restaurant is a standout experience. It’s stylish yet relaxed, with attentive service. The beautifully presented buffet includes all the essentials, from eggs and waffles to pastries, fruit, juices and more. We sampled an iced oat latte that could give some of the cafes a run for their money.
In just 24 hours, Dublin proved itself to be a city of contrasts: historic yet modern, buzzing yet easy-going, compact yet richly layered. With The Chancery as a base location and a route that weaves from castle gardens to street food to iconic bridges, this quick trip offers a taste of Dublin’s best, leaving you wanting to come back and explore even more.
Georgian buildings line the quays of the River Liffey, photography. Alexandra Mitache on Unsplash
words. Naureen Nashid
editor. Huma Humayun
