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Dublin Live
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Brian Dillon

The most common complaints about popular Dublin tourist attractions

Dublin offers an array of attractions and things to do for tourists who visit here.

While things like the Book of Kells and Temple Bar are hugely popular destinations for people who are visiting the Irish capital, not everyone is always impressed by what they experience.

Here are some common complaints from tourists about popular Dublin attractions.

Read more: How to easily spot Irish tourists on holidays

Crowds at the Book of Kells

The Book of Kells is described by Trinity College as "Ireland's greatest cultural treasure". While it's a mega popular attraction, especially for history buffs, not everybody is impressed with their visit to the artefact.

Among the reviews on the poorer side were people pointing out the crowds.

"We were released into the exhibit only to be bombarded by throngs of people," one Tripadvisor reviewer claimed in June 2022.

Another said: "Those who have earlier timed tickets should vacate so that the ones who come in later will have space to browse."

Prices in Temple Bar

This one doesn't come as a huge surprise to Dubs, who know that the tourist hotspot that is Temple Bar is known to be home to rather expensive pints.

While the area is home to many worthy attractions, the biggest impression on some visitors is the high prices, along with the slew of stag and hen parties.

One Tripadvisor user wrote: "Prices are exorbitant; quality is low and it's as representative of Ireland as Las Vegas is of the USA."

Another said: "Food in the area is great but watch out for overpricing in the pubs."

Smirking tourists at the Molly Malone statue

Many of the negative reviews of the Molly Malone statue aren't actually about the statue itself. Rather, they point out the behaviour of the tourists around the statue.

One Tripadvisor reviewer wrote: "The tourists groping the statue of Molly was absolutely cringeworthy! Really what are you trying to achieve? Sexualisation of a fictional, hard done by woman is pathetically sad."

Another wrote: "All you're gonna see is an endless procession of smirking male tourists having their picture taken with their hands on her bronze cleavage. Somewhat old hat to be honest, and a bit awkward for anyone with children or just a desire to actually look at the statue."

The Ha'penny Bridge just being a bridge

Some tourists seem to be surprised that, when they reach the Ha'penny Bridge, it is indeed a bridge.

One person said: "Ok, so we walked across the Ha'penny bridge, took some obligatory photos, not sure what all the fuss about. Many more interesting and beautiful bridges in cities around the world."

Another said: "Like a typical tourist I probably expected too much. It was just a tiny random bridge."

View of Ha'penny bridge on bright sunny day. (2011 David Soanes)

The Spire

"Nothing you need to see. Its a metal thing that goes up in the sky," one person said of The Spire on O'Connell Street.

Another said: "It is not exactly the Eiffel Tower. If you happen to be in the area all well and good but would not go to see it especially".

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