Dublin Guide
The Irish city of Dublin is the capital of Ireland and lies in the province of Leinster on the east coast of Ireland, at the mouth of the River Liffey. Dating back to the Viking age, Dublin began to rapidly expand in the 17th century. Today, the city attracts millions of visitors every year to experience everything the city has to offer. One of Dublin's oldest monuments is the 13th century Dublin Castle which was founded after the Norman invasion. Trinity College, Dublin is also a popular visitor destination in order to see the Book of Kells which is an illustrated manuscript created by Irish monks in around 800 AD. One of the most photographed sights in Dublin is the Ha'penney Bridge which is an old iron footbridge that spans the River Liffey. This is considered to be one of Dublin's most iconic landmarks.
Dublin Port is the busiest passenger ferry port in Ireland, serving 1.5 million passengers per year to destinations in the UK and Europe. The port has three terminals and lies at the mouth of the River Liffey, which is under 3 km from the city centre.
Holyhead Guide
The Welsh town of Holyhead is located on Holy Island in Anglesey. At one point Holy Island was connected to Anglesey by the Four Mile Bridge but was replaced by the construction of a causeway in the 19th century. The Cobb, as the causeway is named, now carries the main road and railway line that serves the town. The Church of St. Cybi is the heart of the town and was built inside one of Europe's few three-walled Roman Forts. Other Roman sites in the town include a watchtower on the top of Holyhead Mountain inside Mynydd y Twr which is a prehistoric hill fort. There are also signs that the area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with circular huts, burial chambers and standing stones all being found in the area. The current lighthouse is on South Stack on the other side of Holyhead Mountain and is open to the public. The area is also popular with birdwatchers.
From the Port of Holyhead, ferries depart to Dublin and Dun Laoghaire in Ireland.
Which is better Dublin or Holyhead?
Comparing Dublin and Holyhead depends on what factors are being considered. Dublin is the capital city of Ireland, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and thriving nightlife. It offers a wide range of attractions, such as the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College, and the Temple Bar area. Dublin also serves as a hub for international travel, with Dublin Airport providing connections to various destinations. On the other hand, Holyhead is a small town located in Wales, known for its ferry port that connects the island of Anglesey to Dublin. Holyhead is an important transportation hub for those traveling between Ireland and the UK. It offers beautiful coastal scenery and has some historical landmarks, such as St. Cybi's Church and the Holyhead Maritime Museum. Ultimately, choosing between Dublin and Holyhead depends on personal preferences and the purpose of the visit.
How many days in Holyhead is enough?
The number of days needed in Holyhead depends on individual preferences and the desired activities. Holyhead is a small town located in Anglesey, Wales, known for its stunning coastal scenery and historical sites. For those interested in exploring the town itself, one or two days might be sufficient. Visitors can wander around the charming streets, visit St. Cybi's Church, and explore the maritime history at the Holyhead Maritime Museum.
However, Holyhead's real appeal lies in its surrounding natural beauty. The town serves as a gateway to the stunning Isle of Anglesey, where visitors can spend several days exploring the coastline, hiking trails, and picturesque villages.
One popular attraction is South Stack Lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views and a chance to observe seabird colonies. The nearby Anglesey Sea Zoo is another must-visit spot, housing a variety of marine life. Additionally, nature enthusiasts can enjoy the beautiful beaches, such as Trearddur Bay and Rhoscolyn, which offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. For history buffs, a visit to Beaumaris Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is highly recommended. This impressive medieval fortress is worth spending a few hours exploring. Considering all these factors, a minimum of three to four days would provide a good balance of exploring Holyhead and experiencing the natural and historical attractions in the surrounding area.