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O'Connell Bridge: Dublin's Bustling Landmark

Cross the iconic O'Connell Bridge in Dublin, a historic landmark connecting the city's vibrant north and south while offering scenic river views.

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O'Connell Bridge, spanning the River Liffey in Dublin, is more than just a crossing; it's a central landmark steeped in history and bustling with city life. Connecting O'Connell Street to the south quays, this wide bridge offers stunning riverfront views and serves as a major hub for vehicles, trams, and pedestrians alike.

A brief summary to O'Connell Bridge

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and capture beautiful photos in the soft light.
  • Explore the nearby streets, filled with shops and cafes offering local delicacies and a taste of Dublin's culture.
  • Consider a guided walking tour that includes O'Connell Bridge to learn more about its historical significance and hidden stories.
  • Use Dublin's efficient public transport to reach the bridge easily, with numerous bus and tram services stopping nearby.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    O'Connell Bridge is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many popular spots in Dublin. From Trinity College or Dublin Castle, walk north towards O'Connell Street. The bridge is situated at the end of O'Connell Street, crossing the River Liffey. The walk is approximately 15 minutes from both locations, offering scenic views along the way.

  • Public Transport

    O'Connell Bridge is well-served by Dublin's public transportation. Numerous Dublin Bus routes stop near the bridge, including routes 151, 27, 70, E1, and E2. The Luas (tram) also has stops nearby at Abbey Street and Westmoreland. A single adult fare on Dublin Bus or Luas is approximately €2.00 - €3.10, depending on the distance and whether you pay with a Leap Card or cash. A TFI 90-Minute fare, allowing transfers between Dublin Bus, Luas, DART, and Commuter Rail, is available for €2.00 when using a Leap Card.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Dublin, including near O'Connell Bridge. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between €8 and €15. Taxi fares are calculated based on distance and time, with a standard initial charge of €4.40 and a rate of €1.32 per kilometer during the day. Note that fares may be higher during nights, Sundays, and public holidays.

Unlock the Best of O'Connell Bridge

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Discover more about O'Connell Bridge

O'Connell Bridge, located in the heart of Dublin, is a significant landmark that connects the north and south sides of the city. Spanning the River Liffey, it links O'Connell Street to D'Olier Street and Westmoreland Street. The bridge is not only a vital transportation route but also a historical site that has witnessed many important events in Irish history. Originally named Carlisle Bridge after the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Frederick Howard, 5th Earl of Carlisle, the bridge was designed by James Gandon and built between 1791 and 1794. The original structure was a humped, three-arch bridge made of granite and Portland stone. In 1880, the bridge was reconstructed and widened by Bindon Blood Stoney, an engineer for the Dublin Port and Docks Board. It was then renamed O'Connell Bridge in honor of Daniel O'Connell, a prominent Irish political leader. O'Connell Bridge is famed for being as wide as it is long, though it is actually wider by five meters. The bridge is adorned with intricate details, including carved keystones representing Anna Liffey and the Atlantic. Twenty-four lanterns light up the bridge at night, creating a beautiful spectacle with green lights illuminating the river below and golden lights accentuating the balustrades. Today, O'Connell Bridge remains a central point in Dublin, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant culture.

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