O'Connell Street - Image 1
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O'Connell Street

4.6
·491k reviews·Limerick, Ireland

Dublin's grandest street, a historic heart with iconic landmarks like The Spire and GPO, bustling with shops and life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere

CrowdLow
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O'Connell Street - Image 1

O'Connell Street

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dublin's grandest street, a historic heart with iconic landmarks like The Spire and GPO, bustling with shops and life.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"O'Connell Street, Dublin - the greatest place on Earth?"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk the length

Explore O'Connell Street on foot to truly appreciate its scale and monuments.

🛍️ Shop 'til you drop

Don't miss the huge Penneys store for great deals and souvenirs.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Spire of Dublin

The Spire of Dublin

O'Connell Street

This iconic needle-like monument pierces the Dublin skyline, offering a modern landmark amidst historic architecture.

Instagram
GPO (General Post Office)

GPO (General Post Office)

O'Connell Street

A historically significant building, the GPO was a focal point of the 1916 Easter Rising. Its facade still bears the marks of conflict.

Instagram+1
Statues of O'Connell Street

Statues of O'Connell Street

O'Connell Street

Adorning the street are numerous statues, including those of Daniel O'Connell, James Larkin, and Michael Collins, each telling a part of Ireland's story.

Instagram
Penneys Flagship Store

Penneys Flagship Store

O'Connell Street

Ireland's beloved budget fashion retailer boasts a massive, recently renovated store here, a must-visit for shoppers.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating O'Connell Street

Dublin's main thoroughfare, O'Connell Street, is a bustling hub. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours and events. Public transport is the easiest way to get around, with numerous bus routes and the Luas tram line serving the area. TikTokInstagram

Respect and Awareness

While O'Connell Street is a vibrant center, it has also seen protests and unrest. Be mindful of your surroundings and any ongoing demonstrations. TikTokInstagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, street performers
Crowd
Medium
When
During festivals/events
Why
Vibrant energy, unique experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

From O’Connell Street to open fields. I’m ready for this change 🌱 #Ireland #IrishTikTok #Leitrim #MovingToTheCountry #CityToCountry #FarmhouseRenovation #CountryLiving #FYP #ForYouPage #EscapeTheCity #LifeReset #NatureSounds #BeforeAndAfter #SlowLiving #TikTokIreland
@marthagilheaney
38.3K likes • 505.3K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the length

Explore O'Connell Street on foot to truly appreciate its scale and monuments. Instagram+1

🛍️ Shop 'til you drop

Don't miss the huge Penneys store for great deals and souvenirs. Instagram

The clean up of O’Connell Street this morning, Dublin City Council and local businesses are working tirelessly to clean up after the senselessness that unfolded in Ireland’s most historic street last night. Seven vehicles were damaged by fire, including three buses, three Garda patrol cars, and one Luas tram, while eight further Garda vehicles were “extensively damaged”, and 13 properties in the a...
@lovindublin
26K likes • 309K views
O'Connell Street Dublin Last Night 🌧 #CultureNight #Dublin #Ireland #rain
in.ireland
4.5K likes • 87.8K views

📸 Capture the Spire

The Spire is a fantastic photo opportunity, especially at different times of day. Instagram

🚌 Use public transport

Buses and the Luas tram are the best ways to access and navigate the street. TikTok

Protesters have blocked parts of Dublin’s O'Connell Street Dublin to counteract a planned Muharram procession, which was due to end at the GPO today
dublinlive_
2K likes • 110.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the length

Explore O'Connell Street on foot to truly appreciate its scale and monuments. Instagram+1

🛍️ Shop 'til you drop

Don't miss the huge Penneys store for great deals and souvenirs. Instagram

📸 Capture the Spire

The Spire is a fantastic photo opportunity, especially at different times of day. Instagram

🚌 Use public transport

Buses and the Luas tram are the best ways to access and navigate the street. TikTok

🧐 Be aware of surroundings

Like any major city street, stay alert to your belongings and surroundings. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

O'Connell Street is a historically rich and vibrant central Dublin thoroughfare, praised for its iconic landmarks like The Spire and the GPO, and its extensive shopping opportunities, particularly the Penneys flagship. Some visitors note its bustling nature and occasional disruptions, advising awareness of surroundings. Instagram+2

What People Like

Iconic landmarks
Shopping variety
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Occasional disruptions
Busy atmosphere

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

O'Connell Street is Dublin's central artery and is easily accessible by numerous Dublin Bus routes and the Luas tram (Red and Green lines stop nearby). Taxis are also readily available. TikTokInstagram

While on-street parking is limited and often expensive, several multi-storey car parks are within walking distance, such as the Jervis Shopping Centre car park or the Arnotts car park. Reddit

Yes, O'Connell Street is centrally located. Many attractions like Trinity College, Temple Bar, and Grafton Street are within a 15-20 minute walk. Instagram

Walking is ideal for exploring the street itself. For longer distances or to reach other parts of the city, the extensive bus network and Luas tram are highly recommended. TikTok

The street is generally flat and wide, making it accessible. However, some older buildings or specific areas might have limited accessibility. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, O'Connell Street is a public thoroughfare and is free to access. You only need tickets for specific attractions located on or near the street, like museums or theaters. Instagram

O'Connell Street is always open as it's a public street. Individual shops and attractions along the street will have their own operating hours. Instagram

The Spire of Dublin is a monument and does not have an entrance fee. You can admire it from street level. Instagram

Yes, the GPO is a functioning post office and also houses a museum detailing its role in Irish history. It is open to visitors during its operating hours. Instagram+1

To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings. Evenings and weekends tend to be busier, especially during shopping hours or events. Instagram

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Key sights include The Spire, the GPO, various historical statues, and the flagship Penneys store. It's also a central point for exploring Dublin. Instagram+2

The street is lined with significant statues, including Daniel O'Connell, James Larkin, and the Fianna Éireann memorial, commemorating important figures and events in Irish history. Instagram

Like any major city center, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings at night. It's generally well-lit and busy, but it's always good practice to stay vigilant. Instagram+1

The GPO was the headquarters of the Irish rebels during the 1916 Easter Rising and is a powerful symbol of Irish independence. Instagram+1

No, The Spire is a purely aesthetic monument and is not accessible to the public for climbing or viewing from the top. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, O'Connell Street and its immediate surroundings offer a wide range of dining options, from fast food and cafes to pubs and restaurants. Georgian Delight in Moore Street Mall offers Khachapuri. Instagram

You can find everything from traditional Irish pub fare to international cuisine. Moore Street Mall, just off O'Connell Street, has diverse food stalls. Instagram

Absolutely. Numerous cafes, fast-food chains, and the Penneys cafe offer affordable choices for a quick bite. Instagram

Several coffee chains like Costa Coffee and Starbucks have branches on O'Connell Street, alongside independent cafes offering quality brews. Instagram

While the heart of Temple Bar is nearby, O'Connell Street itself has pubs offering a more relaxed atmosphere, and many traditional pubs are just a short walk away. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Spire, the GPO facade, and the various statues are prime photography subjects. The street itself offers great urban photography opportunities. Instagram+1

Yes, it's generally safe to take photos. However, as with any busy urban area, be mindful of your surroundings and belongings, especially when engrossed in capturing a shot. Instagram

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer people. Evenings can be dramatic with city lights, and golden hour provides beautiful warm tones. Instagram

Drone usage in Dublin city center is highly restricted due to airspace regulations and privacy concerns. It's best to avoid flying drones in this area. Instagram

Try capturing the contrast between historic buildings and modern elements like The Spire, or the bustling street life. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

O'Connell Street offers a mix of sights that can engage families. The sheer scale of The Spire is impressive for children, and the GPO museum provides an educational glimpse into Irish history. The large Penneys store is also a hit for picking up souvenirs or fun clothing items. Instagram+1

Consider a ride on the Luas tram for a fun and practical way to experience the city. While the street itself is a thoroughfare, nearby attractions like the Dublinia Viking and Medieval Museum or a walk through St. Stephen's Green can complement a visit to O'Connell Street for a more family-oriented day. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

O'Connell Street is excellent for budget travelers. The street itself is free to explore, and The Spire and GPO (exterior and museum) are accessible without charge. The most significant budget-friendly attraction is the Penneys flagship store, perfect for affordable shopping. Instagram+1

For dining, look for the numerous cafes and fast-food outlets along the street, or explore the diverse food stalls in Moore Street Mall for inexpensive and tasty options. Instagram Utilizing Dublin's extensive bus network or walking between attractions will save on transportation costs. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Explorers

O'Connell Street is ideal for solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in Dublin's urban heart. You can freely wander, admire the statues, and soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. Instagram The GPO offers a chance for independent historical exploration, and The Spire provides a striking landmark to navigate by. Instagram+1

Solo dining is easy with many cafes and pubs offering casual seating. Consider using the Luas tram for efficient solo travel around the city, and don't hesitate to strike up conversations with locals in pubs for authentic insights. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of O'Connell Street

O'Connell Street, formerly Sackville Street, is Dublin's principal street and a cornerstone of Irish history. It has been the stage for pivotal moments, most notably the 1916 Easter Rising, with the GPO serving as the rebels' headquarters. The street's architecture reflects various eras, from Georgian elegance to more modern structures. Instagram+1

Named after Daniel O'Connell, a prominent 19th-century political leader, the street is adorned with statues commemorating him and other influential Irish figures. These monuments serve as constant reminders of the nation's struggle for independence and its rich cultural heritage. Instagram

Beyond its historical weight, O'Connell Street is a vibrant commercial and social hub. It's a place where locals and tourists converge, making it a dynamic representation of contemporary Dublin life, from bustling shopping to lively street performances. TikTokInstagram

Iconic Landmarks: The Spire and the GPO

Dominating the skyline is The Spire of Dublin, a sleek, 120-meter-high needle that has become a modern symbol of the city. While not climbable, its striking presence offers a fantastic focal point for photographs and a clear orientation marker. Instagram

Adjacent to The Spire stands the General Post Office (GPO), a building steeped in history. Its facade bears the scars of the 1916 Easter Rising, a testament to its central role in the fight for Irish independence. Today, it functions as a busy post office and houses a museum that delves into this significant period. Instagram+1

Together, these two landmarks represent the blend of modern ambition and historical reverence that defines O'Connell Street, offering visitors a tangible connection to both Dublin's past and its future. Instagram+1

Shopping and Dining on O'Connell Street

O'Connell Street is a shopper's paradise, anchored by the massive flagship store of Penneys (Primark), which underwent a significant renovation to expand its offerings. This iconic retailer is a must-visit for affordable fashion and souvenirs. Instagram

Beyond Penneys, the street and its surrounding areas offer a diverse retail experience. Nearby Moore Street Mall provides a more traditional market feel with various food stalls and shops, including Georgian Delight for Khachapuri. Instagram

When it comes to dining, O'Connell Street caters to all tastes and budgets. You'll find familiar fast-food chains, cozy cafes for a coffee break, and traditional Irish pubs just a short stroll away. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, the area has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Instagram+1

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