@WhereinDublinIf you love cities that feel like they’ve stepped out of a storybook, then Dublin and Wells are two places you’ll never forget. Both have their charm, but they couldn’t be more different. Dublin buzzes with energy, full of music, laughter, and history on every street. Wells, on the other hand, is small, quiet, and straight out of a postcard with its cathedral and cobblestone streets.
This isn’t a dry travel comparison. Think of this as a friendly chat, if you were sitting across from me, coffee in hand, and asked, “So, which one should I visit first, Dublin or Wells?” Well, let’s dive in. I’ll walk you through what makes each city special, from my own personal experience, so you can decide which has the best charm for you.
The Vibe: Big City Buzz vs. Small-Town Magic
Dublin: The Heartbeat of Ireland
Dublin is alive. The city moves at a rhythm that’s impossible to ignore — a mix of laughter, live music, and the chatter of people spilling out of pubs. There’s this contagious warmth that makes you feel like you belong, even if you’ve just landed.
The streets are full of stories. You can walk from the historic Trinity College to the lively Temple Bar in less than 20 minutes, yet each corner feels like a new chapter. Locals are chatty, curious, and always ready for a good conversation, whether about football, folklore, or politics.
If you love social energy, Dublin wins hands down. You can spend an entire evening in one pub, chatting with locals, listening to live music, and still feel like you haven’t scratched the surface.
Wells: Quiet Beauty with a Soul
Wells feels like a hidden gem. It’s the smallest city in England, but it doesn’t feel small in spirit. The air is calm, the streets are clean, and there’s a sense of peace that’s hard to describe until you experience it.
The centerpiece, of course, is Wells Cathedral — a masterpiece of medieval architecture that looks breathtaking at sunrise. Then there’s Vicars’ Close, said to be the oldest continuously inhabited street in Europe. When you walk there, you can almost hear the whispers of the past.
If Dublin is a song, Wells is a poem.
Architecture and Atmosphere
Dublin: History Woven into Every Brick
Dublin’s architecture is an open history book. You’ll find Georgian townhouses with bright doors, stone bridges over the River Liffey, and pubs that have been standing for centuries. The mix of old and new creates a layered feel — one moment you’re in a centuries-old castle, the next you’re sipping coffee in a modern art café.
One of the most striking things is how Dublin balances progress and tradition. The city has embraced modern life without erasing its roots. You’ll see sleek offices beside old brick buildings, and it somehow just works.
The atmosphere? Warm, social, and full of life. Dublin is the kind of place where even the rain feels friendly.
Wells: An English Fairytale
In Wells, time slows down. The architecture tells a story of centuries, untouched and proud. The cathedral stands tall, a reminder of faith, art, and history. The moat surrounding the Bishop’s Palace adds to the fairytale setting, complete with swans gliding gracefully across the water.
The streets are lined with charming houses and small shops that seem frozen in time. You won’t find high-rise buildings or modern glass towers here. Instead, you get authenticity — the kind that feels rare today.
When you’re in Wells, you don’t rush. You stroll, you pause, you look up. The beauty is quiet but powerful.
Food and Drink: Pub Culture vs. Cozy Cafés
Dublin: Where Every Pint Comes with a Story
If you love good food and even better company, Dublin won’t disappoint. The Irish pub scene is unmatched. You can’t talk about Dublin without mentioning Guinness — and yes, it really does taste better there.
Beyond the pubs, Dublin’s food scene has grown massively in recent years. From hearty Irish stews to Michelin-star restaurants, there’s something for everyone. You’ll find food markets like Temple Bar Food Market or cafes tucked away in quiet lanes serving some of the best scones you’ll ever eat.
But the real magic is in the atmosphere. Eating and drinking in Dublin isn’t just about the food — it’s about the people. The laughter, the music, the shared stories — they all add flavor.
Wells: A Taste of Tradition
Wells may be small, but it’s full of charming eateries. You’ll find family-run cafés, tearooms with homemade cakes, and pubs that feel like your grandma’s living room.
There’s something heartwarming about having afternoon tea overlooking the cathedral or eating a Sunday roast in a centuries-old pub. The pace is slower, the portions generous, and the smiles genuine.
While Dublin thrives on energy, Wells thrives on coziness. It’s food made with love, served in places that feel like home.
Culture and Festivals
Dublin: Music, Stories, and Soul
If culture is what you’re after, Dublin wins big. Music is everywhere — live bands in pubs, street performers, and festivals that keep the city buzzing year-round. St. Patrick’s Day is obviously the biggest, but even on an ordinary night, you’ll find something happening.
Literature is deeply rooted in Dublin too. It’s the home of James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and Samuel Beckett. The city even has a UNESCO City of Literature title. You can visit their favorite haunts or take a literary walking tour to feel the creative energy that shaped their works.
And let’s not forget the people. Dubliners have a gift for storytelling — every conversation feels like a mini performance.
Wells: Classical, Calm, and Artistic
Wells has a quieter cultural pulse, but it’s just as special. The city hosts the Wells Festival of Literature, one of the UK’s most respected literary events, and the Wells Cathedral concerts that attract musicians from all over.
The city’s film festival also adds a creative spark, drawing filmmakers and audiences into its historic charm. You won’t find massive crowds or loud celebrations here — instead, it’s all about intimacy and appreciation.
Culture in Wells feels personal, like you’re part of something small but meaningful.
Nature and Scenery
Dublin: Parks and Coastal Escapes
Dublin isn’t all about buildings and pubs — it’s surrounded by stunning natural spots. You can walk through Phoenix Park, one of the largest city parks in Europe, and even spot wild deer.
Just outside the city, you’ll find the breathtaking coastal views of Howth and Dun Laoghaire. A short train ride gets you fresh sea air, cliff walks, and fish and chips by the harbor.
That’s the charm of Dublin — you can go from city life to nature escape in minutes.
Wells: Countryside Serenity
Wells sits right on the edge of the Mendip Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You can hike, bike, or simply sit and soak up the peaceful countryside. The scenery feels untouched, with rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and charming villages nearby.
Cheddar Gorge is just a short drive away — a natural wonder that takes your breath away. The mix of cliffs, caves, and winding roads feels like an adventure waiting to happen.
If you crave calm, Wells is your dream.
People and Hospitality
Dublin: Warm and Witty
Dubliners have a reputation — and it’s a good one. They’re friendly, witty, and never short of conversation. If you ever get lost, someone will happily point you in the right direction (and probably tell you a story along the way).
It’s the kind of warmth that feels genuine. You’re not just a visitor; you’re part of the moment. Whether you’re in a pub or a bookstore, people talk to you like an old friend.
Wells: Kind and Welcoming
Wells locals are quieter but just as kind. You won’t get the same boisterous banter as in Dublin, but you’ll feel cared for. There’s a politeness and sense of pride in their city that shines through in every interaction.
It’s friendliness in a softer tone — sincere, humble, and comforting.
Cost and Travel
Dublin: Fun but Pricey
Let’s be honest — Dublin can be expensive. Accommodation, food, and drinks all cost more than in many other European cities. But you’re paying for the energy, the culture, and the experience.
There are ways to do Dublin on a budget though. Walking tours, free museums, and affordable pubs make it manageable if you plan smartly.
Wells: Affordable and Relaxed
Wells is much easier on the wallet. Hotels, meals, and attractions cost less, and you get great value for your money. It’s also less crowded, so you never feel rushed or overwhelmed.
If you’re after peace and savings, Wells takes the crown.
So, Which Has the Best Charm?
This is the part where you probably expect me to pick a winner — but truthfully, it depends on what kind of charm you’re after.
If you love energy, music, and endless stories, Dublin will capture your heart. It’s a place that celebrates life loudly and warmly. Every night feels like a party, and every conversation feels like poetry.
But if you crave peace, beauty, and the feeling of stepping back in time, Wells will enchant you. It’s a place where you can breathe, reflect, and feel grounded.
Based on my overall experience, both cities shine in their own way. Dublin gives you excitement; Wells gives you calm. One feeds your spirit, the other soothes your soul.
So maybe the answer isn’t choosing one over the other — it’s visiting both. Experience the laughter of Dublin and the serenity of Wells, and you’ll understand how charm wears two very different faces — one lively, one quiet, both unforgettable.
