
Visiting Dublin for the First Time? Here's What to See and Do
Here's where to go to get the most out of your first trip to the Irish capital.
The statue of Molly in a long dress with her cart is a popular meeting point for groups in central Dublin at the corner of Grafton Street and Suffolk Street. The folk song that tells her story is an unofficial Dublin anthem and she is celebrated each year on June 13, National Molly Malone Day. While there is some debate as to whether or not Molly Malone is a true historic figure, the statue remains a beloved piece of public art. It is included in the itineraries of several walking tours in Dublin.
The Molly Malone statue is located on the south side of the River Liffey at the corner of Grafton Street and Suffolk Street. It is easy to reach via public transportation; take the LUAS tram to the St. Stephen’s Green stop or bus to Trinity College. The statue is near several popular Dublin landmarks including Trinity College, St. Stephen’s Green, and the National Gallery of Ireland.
It is possible to visit the statue at any time of day or year. The area around the statue is busiest on Saturday and Sundays, when Grafton Street fills up with shoppers and buskers. This section of Dublin is particularly pretty during the holiday season when Grafton Street is decked out in festive lights.
Visitors to Dublin may be familiar with the Molly Malone statue; it is featured prominently in one of the most famous Christmas advertisements by the Guinness Brewery. The commercial shows several Dublin landmarks quiet at midnight under a light snowfall. The Molly Malone statue is seen covered in a light dusting of snow.