Rooftops in Ireland: the capital seen from above
A green island on the edge of the Atlantic
A parliamentary republic of around 5 million inhabitants, Ireland covers more than 85% of the island of the same name, or twenty-six of its thirty-two counties; in the north-east, Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, the Celtic Sea and the Irish Sea, which separates it from Great Britain, the country joined the European Communities in 1973 and uses the euro. Its capital, Dublin, is also its largest city: around 40% of the Irish live in the Greater Dublin Area.
In the south-west, the Cliffs of Moher tower over the Atlantic, not far from the Aran Islands, which face Galway Bay. Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford complete the map of the best-known cities of a country renowned for its landscapes, its pubs and its music.
Why head up to the rooftops
In a country where social life happily revolves around the pub, rooftops offer another way of seeing the city: behind large picture windows or on covered, heated terraces, you can enjoy the view and the evening light, whatever the weather.
Dublin, the first stop
A capital between river, bay and mountains
Crossed by the Liffey and opening onto its bay, Dublin combines Georgian architecture, the pubs of Temple Bar and the glass buildings of the Docklands. You will find a panoramic room at the top of the Guinness Storehouse, a restaurant on the top floors of the former Central Bank, hotel rooftops in the Docklands, on Harcourt Street and in the Liberties, and a glasshouse above the village of Ranelagh.
Sheltered terraces
The oceanic climate, mild and damp, brings rain in every season: most of Dublin's rooftops are glazed or covered, and open all year round; open-air terraces, on the other hand, depend on the weather.
Practical tips
Prices, bookings and opening hours
Prices are displayed in euros. The most sought-after tables go quickly at weekends and at sunset: book when possible. Bring a jacket, even in summer, and check opening hours before you go: some restaurants up high only welcome guests for just a drink late in the evening.
