Ireland Study Abroad Day 5: Belfast to Dublin with Ancient Wonders along the Way!
Today we said goodbye to Belfast, packed up our things, and hit the road toward Ireland’s bustling capital, Dublin. But we couldn’t head straight there without diving into the ancient wonders along the way. Our journey south brought us face-to-face with some of Ireland’s most significant prehistoric and spiritual sites: Knowth and Newgrange, both part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Brú na Bóinne.
Our first stop was Knowth, a Neolithic treasure known for its extraordinary collection of megalithic art—more than any other site in Europe. The site features one large mound and several smaller satellite tombs, with an impressive number of engraved kerbstones. The chance to walk among these ancient stones and even climb to the top of the main mound for sweeping views of the Boyne Valley made this a powerful start to our journey through time. The guides shared insights into the spiritual, astronomical, and ceremonial importance of the site, sparking plenty of curiosity among our group.
Next, we explored the world-renowned Newgrange, a passage tomb that’s more than 5,000 years old—older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids. This massive structure is famous for its winter solstice phenomenon, when a beam of sunlight perfectly illuminates the inner chamber. Even though we only experienced a simulation, the effect was still awe-inspiring. The tomb’s white quartz and granite façade, along with the intricate carvings, made it clear why this place has captured imaginations for millennia.
With our minds buzzing from all the history, we completed the drive to Dublin, arriving in the afternoon. We checked into the Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre, a modern hotel perfectly located right along the River Liffey. The convenience and views can’t be beat—it’s an ideal base for exploring the city on foot.
After everyone settled into their rooms, I led a short orientation walking tour to get our bearings and give the students a sense of the city’s layout. We passed by:
EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum, a state-of-the-art interactive experience that tells the stories of Irish emigrants who shaped the world.
The Jeanie Johnston, a replica of a 19th-century famine ship that gives powerful insight into the hardships of those fleeing Ireland during the Great Famine.
The neoclassical Custom House, one of Dublin’s architectural gems.
The iconic Ha’penny Bridge, a picturesque cast-iron pedestrian bridge with a rich history.
The always-lively Temple Bar district, known for its pubs, music, and colorful street scenes.
And finally, Dublin Castle, once the seat of British rule in Ireland and now a symbol of Irish sovereignty and resilience.
Once the students had a sense of the city and a few ideas for where to explore, I gave them the rest of the evening free to discover Dublin for themselves. Meanwhile, I took a little solo time to unwind.
I started with a drink at The Bank on College Green, a stunning bar set in a former Victorian bank. The ornate ceilings, marble columns, and opulent décor make it one of the most atmospheric spots in town. After that, I wandered over to Bobo’s Burgers for a casual dinner. Let me tell you—Irish beef doesn’t mess around. My burger was stacked with juicy beef, aged Irish cheddar, and smoky bacon. Absolutely top-tier, and easily one of the best burgers I’ve had in Ireland!
Tomorrow, we dive deeper into Dublin’s culture and history, so stay tuned for more stories from the heart of the Emerald Isle!
