34th Annual FIRST Conference | Neart Le Chéile - Strength Together

Welcome to Dublin! Fáilte go Baile Átha Cliath!

About Dublin, Ireland

Precisely a hundred years ago, Dublin became the capital of the Irish Free State, later renamed to Ireland. Located on the east coast of the Irish isle, Dublin is the country’s chief port, center of financial and commercial power, and the seat of culture. It is the focal point of political union after a history of uneasy relations. The Irish flag itself represents unity, with each of the three colors together symbolizing peace and progress. The green represents Irish nationalism; the orange, Ireland's Protestant minority, and the Orange Order; and the white, lasting peace between the two.

Dublin is known for its harmony of historical and contemporary arts, culture, and industry. The city is famous for being warm and welcoming, with its people being known for their craic (“crack”) an Irish word with no direct English translation, meaning enjoying the company of others and having a good time. It’s this mix of humor and beauty that has attracted writers, intellectuals, and visitors for centuries.

With a rich heritage of literature, art, and history, Dublin is soaked with culture, and you can experience it walking its winding streets. Filled with stunning cathedrals, lively pubs, cozy cafes, and bustling food markets every dead end is a discovery. Situated at the head of a beautiful bay, the city boasts incredible views of the breathtaking Irish Sea and Wicklow Mountains. Historic sites include Dublin Castle, Christ Church Cathedral, Malahide Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and many humbling museums to explore.

With beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and thirst-quenching beer, there’s plenty to experience in Dublin!

Learn more about Dublin and Ireland at:

Traveling to and from Dublin

Dublin Airport is Dublin’s international airport and is located 7 km north of the city, in Collinstown, and 3 km south of the town of Swords. Dublin Airport serves a variety of airlines including Aer Lingus, Air Baltic, Air Canada, Air France, Air Moldova, Blue Air, Emirates, Etihad, Finnair, KLM, Lufthansa, Ryanair, SAS, Stobart Air, SWISS, TAP Air Portugal, Turkish Airlines, United Airlines and Qatar Airways.

Getting to the City Center

Taxis are available directly outside Terminal 1 & Terminal 2. Passengers arriving by taxi will be dropped off directly outside either Terminal 1 or Terminal 2.

All licensed taxis utilize typical taximeters as their charging system, with various variables further affecting final prices. The majority of a fare is generated through the following formula: Monday - Saturday; €3.80 initial charge and €1.14/km or €0.40/minute.

Bus. Dublin Airport is accessible by over 1,000 buses and coaches daily, reaching many areas in and around Dublin and towns and cities across Ireland. You can find a route that will take you directly to or from the airport.

Things to Do

After hours and in-between sessions, we hope you will take some time to traverse the beautiful city. With dozens of nooks and crannies to investigate, we have included a list of Dublin’s top attractions below. Additionally, we will plan to have representatives from local Dublin tourism agencies on-site for those interested in booking tours and excursions.

  • Temple Bar: Party like the Irish at this world-renowned bar, painted an inviting red, this pub is the most iconic bar in Dublin. With historical ties dating back to the 1300s, this pub is located in the heart of the city and is central to Dublin’s nightlife scene.

  • Guinness Storehouse Factory: Take a one-of-a-kind tour to see how Ireland’s famous beer is made and get a pint you will never forget. The tour ends on the 7th floor of the factory, aptly named the “Gravity Bar” where patrons enjoy 360-degree views of the city.

  • Spire of Dublin: The iconic structure stands proudly at the center of the city, towering 120 meters above the ground. The impressive monument toasts Dublin's bustling present and points forward towards a limitless, brighter, and more prosperous future.

  • Dublin Castle: Travel back in time as you walk the Dublin Castle grounds, with over 800 years of history ingrained in its acres. With both self-guided and instructed tours, it’s a marvel of antiquity.

  • St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Known as the largest church in all of Ireland, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is rich with architectural wonder and cultural significance, founded in 1191.

  • Trinity College Library: An incredible feat of architecture and knowledge, Trinity College boasts famous Book of Kells and the largest library in all of Ireland.

  • Wicklow Mountains: One of the best day trips out of the city – and a must-see during your trip to Dublin – is a tour of Wicklow Mountains. Famously known for the filming location of the popular romance film, P.S. I Love You, this unbelievably beautiful landscape looks even more magnificent in person.

Quick Facts

  • Taxes: The current value-added tax (VAT) rate is 23%. All visitors residing outside the EU are entitled to a VAT refund. More information can be found at: https://www.revenue.ie/en/companies-and-charities/dividend-withholding-tax/refunds-for-non-residents.aspx.

  • Tipping: Tipping in Ireland is at your discretion. A tip between 10-15% is welcome at restaurants, pubs, and cafes that do not include a tip/service charge on the bill.

  • Currency: The legal tender in Ireland is the Euro. For the latest exchange rates, please visit www.xe.com.

  • Climate: The climate of Dublin is oceanic: cool and humid throughout the year. The city is located on the east coast of Ireland. The average temperature ranges from 5 °C (41 °F) in January and February to 15.5 °C (60 °F) in July and August.

  • Dialing Country Code: +353

  • Emergency Number: 112 or 999

  • Time Zone: Irish Standard Time (GMT+1)

  • Electricity: The electrical supply in Ireland is 230v/50Hz. Plug type G

  • Common Language: English