When you’re considering relocating for a semester or two abroad, there’s a lot more to think about than just finding student accommodation in Dublin. While this is an exciting time, it can also feel a bit overwhelming. This is exactly why we have prepared this guide, packed full of the information that you will need as an incoming international student.

Since you’ll be doing more than studying, you’ll also find information on some of the best attractions, including museums, castles and art galleries. Plus, getting around in Dublin is simple, especially when you know the ins and outs of the public transportation system. Read on to get to know more about your new home, and you’ll be feeling like a local in no time!

The largest city in Ireland is Dublin, and it is also the capital of the Republic of Ireland. The entire Dublin Region includes what is known as the City of Dublin, along with the area once known as County Dublin. In its entirety, it’s about 922 sq km and home to over a million residents.

The primary language in Dublin is English. However, you’ll find that both street signs and any official buildings will be in both English and Gaelic, which is the indigenous language of the Irish people. Yet in the city center, don’t expect to hear Gaelic spoken on the streets, especially by any young people.

The temperatures in Ireland are fairly moderate. In Dublin, you can expect it to average around 16°C (60°F) in July, which is the hottest month. Things can also really cool down in January to about 5°C (41°F). The month with the most rainfall is August, averaging around 80mm.

• January 1 - Monday - New Year’s Day

• March 17 - Monday - St. Patrick’s Day

• March 30 - Friday - Good Friday

• April 1 - Sunday - Easter

• April 2- Monday - Easter Monday

• May 1 - Tuesday - May Day

• May 7 - Monday - May Bank Holiday

• June 4 - Monday - June Bank Holiday

• August 6 - Monday - August Bank Holiday

• October 29 - Monday - October Bank Holiday

• December 25 - Tuesday - Christmas Day

• December 26 - Wednesday - St. Stephens Day

• December 27 - Thursday - December Bank Holiday

• December 31 - Monday - New Year’s Eve

Two of the most popular of these holidays are St. Patrick’s Day and Good Friday.

St Patrick's Day - This exciting day is all about Irish heritage and culture, remembering St. Patrick, who is one of Ireland’s patron saints. Of course, St. Patrick’s Day parties are legendary across the globe, so just imagine the celebration that Dublin throws. There are also several different parades, so be sure to check the public transportation schedule if you need to get from one side of the city to another in a hurry and want to avoid the parade routes.

Good Friday - This is not an official public holiday in Ireland, but you’ll find that schools and pubs are all closed. Plus, you are not allowed to purchase any alcohol on this day, but if you’re staying at a hotel, you may have drinks at the bar. Some small shops may also be closed, so be sure to plan accordingly.

1. Dublin boasts over 1,000 pubs.

Dublin, of course, is known all over the world for its vibrant nightlife scene and its wide variety of traditional pubs. Therefore, you probably won’t be shocked to learn that it’s home to over 1,000 pubs. Plus, Dublin also plays home to one of the oldest pubs, dating all the way back to 1168, called The Brazen Head, which is near the Guinness Brewery.

2. The Guinness Brewery is most definitely here to stay.

Guinness is one of the most well-known city icons, along with being one of Dublin’s oldest businesses and its national brew. Additionally, the Storehouse is also becoming a major tourist attraction. Guinness is such a sure bet that its original lease was set for a 9,000-year term.

3. Phoenix Park is the largest in Europe.

Dublin is also popular for its beautiful green spaces, boasting over 2,000 hectares of parks, along with cycling and walking paths. Phoenix Hill is actually Europe’s largest park, also containing the Dublin Zoo. With over 707 hectares, after New York’s Central Park, it’s also the largest urban park in the world.

4. You are surrounded by art.

Dublin is just packed to the brim with art, whether it be in museums, galleries or displayed outdoors. Some of the most popular include the Irish Museum of Modern Art, the National Gallery and the outdoor installations at the Dockyards. The city’s street art is also diverse, creative and bold. There’s even graffiti inspired by James Joyce. Be sure to see Bloom’s Hotel in Temple Bar or Windmill Lane Studios in Camden Street for some more wonderful examples.

5. This is a "sports town."

When you think of Dublin, you might envision lively rugby or soccer games. However, "Gaelic football" has become widely popular in the city. It’s a fun-filled blend of soccer and rugby, which some say is the best of both worlds.