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Dublin, capital of the Republic of Ireland, is a popular place to learn English thanks to its rich literary heritage, fascinating history, musical traditions and thriving pub, club and night scene.

The city has many historical landmarks, like the 13th century Dublin Castle, the Ha’penny Bridge, Mansion House, Poolbeg Towers, Christ Church Cathedral and many ancient churches.

The National Gallery of Ireland houses a renowned collection of Irish paintings, including works by Jack B. Yeats, and every major European school of painting is also represented, including works by Caravaggio, Titian, Vermeer and Goya. Another must-see is the Book of Kells, written around 800 AD, one of the most beautifully illuminated manuscripts in the world. It can be seen in the library of Trinity College, which is also worth a visit.

Birthplace of James Joyce, William Butler Yeats, George Bernard Shaw and Samuel Beckett, it is also home to several national museums, concert halls and theatres.

One of Dublin’s popular attractions is the Guinness Brewery, which was founded in 1759. The Guinness Storehouse® tour is a regular excursion for language school groups. This world-famous ale is enjoyed in the many pubs across the city, in the areas around St Stephen’s Green, Harcourt Street and the ‘pub hub’ of Temple Bar, where live music is often performed. For those who prefer a cocktail in a trendy, modern bar, Lower Leeson Street has a good choice of stylish venues and night clubs.

For food-lovers, Dublin offers traditional dishes with local ingredients from both land and shore.

Dublin’s location near the sea means fish and seafood dishes are always on the menu, such as “Dublin Lawyer” - lobster cooked in whiskey and cream.

Dublin is part of the Eurozone and a popular shopping destination for both locals and tourists, who flock to areas such as Henry Street and the Jervis and Ilac Shopping Centres. It also has more green areas per square kilometre than any other European capital city: St Stephen's Green is right next to one of the main shopping areas, Grafton Street. Ireland’s capital also has a thriving market culture, the most historic of which is Moore Street.

The countryside beyond Dublin is beautiful and it is easy to travel on to other parts of Ireland.