If you want to have a truly Irish, cosmopolitan experience, Dublin is the best place to be. The city centre is just four kilometres from the UCD campus and conveniently connected by public transport. It's a great city to explore on foot or on bicycles. You can enjoy a morning coffee in the peaceful surroundings of St Stephen's Green on the 'south side' and check out the amazing MoLi museum. The nearby shopping district of Grafton Street, the quirky Drury Street and the stately Powerscourt Shopping Centre are all within easy walking distance.

Across Dame Street, you will find yourself stepping on the cobblestones outside the world famous Temple Bar. A few steps away is the River Liffey, and a short walk across one of the many pedestrian bridges will bring you to the 'north side'. Here you'll find the famous Spire, the historic GPO and James Joyce sculpture, the Dublin Writers Museum and Hugh Lane gallery.

You don't need to worry about finding your way back to UCD - you can follow these simple instructions.

If you're spending a weekend in Dublin, don't miss out on the Guinness Storehouse and Kilmainham Jail - and of course our infamous Dublin pubs. There are a huge range of cosy, friendly pubs where you can listen to live music, watch live comedy acts and really get to know the friendly Irish people!

There are so many reasons that international students choose to study abroad in Ireland. And when you study at UCD, you'll find that Dublin is the gateway to exploring Ireland, with numerous bus and train connections to the North, South and West of the island if you're planning a weekend trip. Find out details on Bus Eireann and Irish Rail websites.

Check out Raelene's video below for more tips on great things to do as an international student in Dublin.