World Travel Awards: Europe’s Best Tourist Attraction Isn’t What You’d Think

When thinking of Europe’s best tourist attraction, most travelers would think of the Colosseum, the Sagrada Familia, the Eiffel Tower or Buckingham Palace. It turns out they would be way out, as a surprising attraction in Dublin just came out tops at the World Travel Awards. In fact, the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Ireland is officially the top tourist attraction in Europe.

Guinness Storehouse in Dublin and the World Travel Awards

Quite a few surprises came out at the recent World Travel Awards gala, which has celebrated the best of travel, tourism and hospitality each year since 1993. However, this one is a gem. Standing in line with nominations for Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia, Athens’ Acropolis and the UK’s Buckingham Palace, the winner for Europe’s Best Tourist Attraction was a surprise to some.

Many travelers would consider these and other options like the Eiffel Tower, Rome’s Colosseum or Stonehenge as being major contenders. Despite this, one attraction has beaten all the usual contenders for the top spot as Europe’s leading tourist attraction and it’s likely not what you would imagine.

The Guinness Storehouse in Dublin is a winner

According to the World Travel Awards, the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin is the leading tourist attraction in Europe. However, this isn’t the first time the Guinness Storehouse has won this prestigious award. It won for the first time at the World Travel Awards in 2015. Moreover, the attraction ranks as the very best tourist attraction overall in Ireland.

The Guinness Storehouse is located in the heart of iconic Dublin, a city renowned for its culture and history. For those who love Guinness, this place is a Mecca for the black beverage which has been brewed here for 250 years. However, besides being the brewery, this popular attraction features a behind-the-scenes look into the ways of brewing and pouring this popular pint.

In fact, the storehouse features a cinema room that is dedicated to screening vintage Guinness ads. Moreover, the Guinness Storehouse also offers a recently renovated Gravity Bar. Here, travelers and locals alike can enjoy a pint or six of their favorite brew while gazing out at the lovely views over Dublin itself. Meanwhile, the Gravity Bar is up on the seventh floor and gives an idea of why this attraction has come up top in the World Travel Awards. Meanwhile, besides imbibing Guinness, visitors can also enjoy a hearty meal.

What else does Dublin have to offer travelers?

Of course, Ireland’s iconic capital city has many other great attractions to explore, including some of Dublin’s atmospheric pubs to enjoy a pint of Guinness. Dublin is nestled on the eastern coast of Ireland at the mouth of the River Liffey. Among its historic attractions is the St. Patrick’s Cathedral, founded in 1191. Meanwhile, Dublin Castle dates back to the 13th century and is also a worthy visit.

Moreover, the city has plenty of green spaces to enjoy, including the beautifully landscaped St. Stephen’s Green and the sprawling Phoenix Park. The latter is known for hosting the Dublin Zoo, always a popular option for families. Moreover, travelers can learn more about the country at the National Museum of Ireland, with exhibits covering Irish culture and heritage.

Make sure to visit the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Ireland on your next visit to enjoy the brew and the views across the city.