@WhereinDublinTraveling is all about discovering places that speak to your heart, whether it’s through their history, their people, or their overall charm. Two cities that often pop up on travel lists are Dublin and Chester. Both are steeped in history, full of character, and have a charm that attracts visitors from all over the world. But if you had to pick one to visit, which should it be?
Let’s jump into this, think of this as a friendly, honest comparison between two cities that couldn’t be more different yet share a surprising number of similarities. Based on my overall experience, I’ll break everything down clearly, from culture and food to cost, vibe, and experiences.
General Vibe of Both Cities
Dublin: Buzzing, Welcoming, and Full of Life
Dublin is the kind of city that makes you feel alive from the moment you arrive. It’s busy but in a good way. The streets are full of chatter, music spills out from pubs, and there’s always something happening — whether it’s a street performer on Grafton Street or a spontaneous conversation in a local café.
It’s a city of stories, laughter, and that warm Irish charm that you can’t really find anywhere else. The people are friendly and open, often ready to share local tips or even a quick laugh with strangers.
Dublin has an urban feel mixed with old-world history. It’s modern but still carries the soul of Ireland — cobblestone streets, Georgian buildings, and a deep connection to literature and music.
Chester: Calm, Quaint, and Historically Rich
Chester, on the other hand, feels like stepping into a beautifully preserved postcard. It’s smaller, quieter, and more relaxed. The first thing that strikes you is the Tudor-style architecture — black-and-white buildings that look straight out of a medieval movie.
The city’s Roman heritage is everywhere — from the ancient walls that circle the city to the amphitheater ruins and the famous Chester Rows, which are unique two-tiered shopping galleries dating back centuries.
If Dublin is about energy and spontaneity, Chester is about charm and calm. It’s perfect for people who like walking through history, exploring at a slow pace, and enjoying peaceful evenings rather than late-night pub crawls.
Getting There and Getting Around
Reaching Dublin
Dublin is Ireland’s capital, so accessibility is easy. You can fly directly from most major cities in Europe and North America. The Dublin Airport is about 20–30 minutes from the city center, and transportation options are plenty — buses, taxis, and airport shuttles are efficient and reliable.
Once in the city, Dublin is walkable, especially around the main attractions. You can explore most of it on foot, but public transport is also convenient — buses, trams (LUAS), and trains (DART) connect you to surrounding areas easily.
Reaching Chester
Chester doesn’t have its own major airport, but it’s well-connected through nearby hubs. The nearest airport is Manchester Airport, about 45 minutes away by train. You can also reach Chester from Liverpool, which is roughly the same distance.
Inside Chester, walking is the best way to explore. The city is compact, and part of its magic lies in strolling through its narrow streets, walking the Roman walls, or crossing the old stone bridges over the River Dee.
So, while Dublin offers big-city transport and accessibility, Chester wins in walkability and ease of exploration.
The Cultural Scene
Dublin: Music, Literature, and Guinness
Dublin is all about culture that feels alive. It’s a city with deep literary roots — home to writers like James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and W.B. Yeats. You can visit The Dublin Writers Museum or stop by Trinity College Library to see the famous Book of Kells — a manuscript that’s over a thousand years old.
But it’s not just about books. Music is everywhere. From traditional Irish folk music in pubs to live bands performing in Temple Bar, the sound of Dublin is something you won’t forget.
And then there’s Guinness — Dublin’s unofficial symbol. Visiting the Guinness Storehouse isn’t just about beer; it’s an experience. You learn the history, the brewing process, and even get to enjoy a pint with panoramic city views at the Gravity Bar.
Chester: History, Heritage, and Architecture
Chester is more like an open-air museum. Its biggest strength lies in how well it preserves its past. The city walls, dating back to Roman times, are one of the best-preserved examples in Britain. Walking them gives you stunning views of the city, the River Dee, and the old cathedral.
The Chester Rows are another standout feature. These unique two-level walkways, lined with boutique shops and cafes, are something you won’t find anywhere else in the UK.
Chester also celebrates its heritage through annual events like the Chester Races and the Roman Festival, where people dress up in ancient costumes — a fun and interactive way to connect with history.
So, while Dublin thrives on music and conversation, Chester thrives on preservation and storytelling through architecture.
Food and Drink Scene
Dublin’s Food Vibe
Dublin’s food scene has grown a lot in recent years. You’ll find everything from high-end restaurants to casual street food markets. Irish dishes like Irish stew, coddle, and boxty are still popular, but you’ll also find a big focus on fusion and modern European cuisine.
If you love pubs, Dublin is heaven. There are over 700 pubs in the city, each with its own personality. Places like The Brazen Head, Dublin’s oldest pub, are iconic.
Coffee culture has also taken off. Independent cafes are everywhere, and they’re perfect for relaxing between sightseeing.
Chester’s Culinary Charm
Chester’s food scene might be smaller, but it’s surprisingly good. You’ll find cozy local spots serving hearty British classics like fish and chips, Sunday roasts, and steak pies.
What’s special about Chester is its mix of traditional pubs and fine dining restaurants housed in old Tudor buildings. Many places source ingredients locally, giving the food a fresh and homemade touch.
You’ll also find charming tea rooms offering afternoon tea — a classic British experience that pairs perfectly with Chester’s old-world vibe.
In short: Dublin gives you variety and buzz, while Chester offers comfort and authenticity.
Nightlife
Dublin: Lively and Full of Energy
If nightlife matters to you, Dublin wins this round easily. The Temple Bar area is world-famous for its lively pubs, live music, and friendly atmosphere.
But beyond Temple Bar, there are tons of lesser-known local bars where you can experience genuine Irish hospitality without the tourist crowd. Dublin’s nightlife is about connection — people chatting, laughing, and singing together.
Chester: Relaxed and Cozy
Chester’s nightlife is quieter. It’s more about wine bars, pubs with fireplaces, and small live-music venues. You won’t find the same wild energy as Dublin, but if you prefer a laid-back evening with good drinks and better company, Chester has that charm.
Cost Comparison
Dublin is known for being more expensive. Accommodation, food, and drinks can be pricey, especially in central areas. However, you can still find good deals if you book early or stay outside the city center.
Chester, in comparison, is more affordable. You can get cozy accommodations for less, and dining out won’t stretch your budget as much. If cost is a big factor, Chester gives you more value for your money.
Best Things to Do
Top Things to Do in Dublin
Visit Trinity College and the Book of Kells
Explore Dublin Castle and St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Tour the Guinness Storehouse
Stroll along Grafton Street for shopping and street performers
Relax at St. Stephen’s Green
Take a day trip to Howth or the Cliffs of Moher for scenic views
Top Things to Do in Chester
Walk the Roman Walls
Visit Chester Cathedral
Explore the Chester Rows
Take a boat ride on the River Dee
Visit the Roman Amphitheatre
Enjoy Chester Zoo, one of the UK’s best zoos
Attend Chester Races if you visit during the racing season
Which One Has Better Shopping?
Dublin offers big brands, department stores, and a lively shopping atmosphere. Grafton Street and Henry Street are the main shopping hubs, with a mix of international names and Irish boutiques.
Chester’s shopping experience is smaller but more charming. The Chester Rows make it special — walking through timber-framed galleries with independent stores, antique shops, and local crafts is an experience in itself.
If you’re into designer brands and busy shopping streets, Dublin wins. But if you love unique finds and quaint boutiques, Chester feels more personal.
Overall Atmosphere and Experience
If you love big cities with lots of action, Dublin is your pick. It’s dynamic, friendly, and full of life. There’s a sense of adventure around every corner — from spontaneous pub sessions to street art and festivals.
Chester, on the other hand, is a place for peace and nostalgia. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time but without losing modern comforts. It’s great for history lovers, couples, and anyone who enjoys slow travel.
From My Own Personal Experience
From my own personal experience, Dublin gives you a rush of excitement — it’s lively, social, and full of energy. But Chester brings peace — it’s quieter, more scenic, and ideal for a relaxing getaway.
If I had to describe it simply:
Dublin feels like a celebration.
Chester feels like a storybook.
Both are beautiful, both are worth visiting, but for completely different moods.
So, Which Should You Visit?
It depends on what you want from your trip.
Choose Dublin if you love big-city vibes, music, nightlife, and meeting people. It’s perfect if you want a trip full of laughter, culture, and lively energy.
Choose Chester if you prefer quiet charm, history, and scenic walks. It’s great for couples, families, or solo travelers who want to unwind and take in beautiful architecture.
If time and budget allow, visiting both is the best option. You could start in Dublin for excitement and end in Chester for relaxation.
Final Thoughts
Dublin and Chester may seem worlds apart, but they each offer something unforgettable. Dublin dances to a lively Irish rhythm, while Chester whispers stories of the past through its ancient walls.
Both cities are worth visiting — it just depends on the kind of trip you’re after. Whether you’re clinking glasses in a Dublin pub or walking under Chester’s timbered arcades, you’ll find something to love in both places.
In the end, travel isn’t just about choosing the “better” city. It’s about finding the place that feels right for you — and both Dublin and Chester have that magic in their own way.
