We begin our journey with Ireland's capital city of Dublin, home to some of the country's most famous and oldest pubs.

The Brazen Head is a true legend among Irish pubs. Founded in 1198, it boasts the title of Ireland's oldest pub. Located at 20 Lower Bridge St, this pub offers not only a wide selection of beers and whiskey, but also delicious traditional dishes. The interior of The Brazen Head impresses with its authentic medieval character, with stone walls and cozy nooks and crannies. The pub is famous for its excellent atmosphere, regular live music performances and rich history - such literary giants as James Joyce and Jonathan Swift are said to have frequented the place.

Moving on to another iconic Dublin pub, it's impossible to overlook The Temple Bar Pub. While it may not boast as long a history as The Brazen Head, it has become one of the city's most recognizable pubs since the 1960s. Located in the heart of the Temple Bar district, it draws crowds of tourists with its distinctive red facade and interior full of Irish accents. The Temple Bar Pub is famous for its huge whiskey collection (more than 450 types) and daily traditional music concerts. However, it's worth remembering that popularity comes at a price - it's one of the more expensive pubs in Dublin, with the price of a pint of Guinness reaching almost €10.

Last, but not least, the last stop on our Dublin wanderings is The Long Hall. This Victorian pub, in operation since 1766, impresses with its original period decor. Red velvet upholstery, gold-framed mirrors and a distinctive long bar create a unique atmosphere. The Long Hall attracts locals and tourists alike, offering excellent beer and whiskey in a truly unique setting. It's the perfect place for those who want to feel the spirit of old Dublin.

When comparing these three Dublin pubs, several aspects are worth noting. The Brazen Head offers the richest history and the most authentic medieval interior. The Temple Bar Pub stands out as having the largest whiskey collection and the most popular location, but also the highest prices. The Long Hall, on the other hand, is the perfect compromise - combining historic character with affordable prices and a less touristy atmosphere. All three pubs offer live music, but it is at The Temple Bar that concerts take place most often. When it comes to food, The Brazen Head has the best reputation among local foodies.

Leaving bustling Dublin, we set out to explore the lesser-known but equally fascinating pubs of the Irish countryside. The first stop on our tour is Sean's Bar in Athlone, located in the heart of Ireland.

Sean's Bar is a place that boasts the title of the oldest pub not only in Ireland, but in the world. Founded in 900, this pub is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest continuously operating tavern in the world. Located at 13 Main Street in Athlone, Sean's Bar offers visitors a remarkable journey back in time. The pub's interior retains many original features, including wall fragments dating back to the 10th century. During restoration work, old coins were discovered here, which can now be admired in a display case. Sean's Bar is famous not only for its history, but also for its excellent Guinness and friendly atmosphere. Guests can enjoy traditional live Irish music, which regularly resounds in the pub.

Another spot on our map is Johnnie Fox's Pub, located in the picturesque village of Glencullen in the Wicklow Mountains, not far from Dublin. While it can't compete in age with Sean's Bar, Johnnie Fox's boasts the title of 'the highest pub in Ireland.' Founded in 1798, this pub offers a unique experience combining traditional Irish hospitality with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Johnnie Fox's is famous for its 'Hooley Nights' - evenings filled with music, dancing and good food. The interior of the pub is filled with fascinating artifacts and memorabilia from Irish history, making a visit here like a trip to a museum with a pint of beer in hand.

Comparing Sean's Bar and Johnnie Fox's Pub, there are a few important differences. Sean's Bar offers a more authentic, medieval experience, perfect for history and archaeology lovers. Its central location in Athlone makes it easily accessible for tourists traveling through central Ireland. Johnnie Fox's Pub, on the other hand, while younger, attracts visitors with its unique location in the mountains and wider entertainment offerings, including its famous music and dance nights. It is an ideal place for those who want to combine a visit to the pub with enjoying the beautiful scenery.

In terms of atmosphere, both pubs offer an authentic Irish experience, but in different styles. Sean's Bar is more intimate and history-focused, while Johnnie Fox's focuses on entertainment and a wider variety of food. Prices at both places are moderate, much lower than at popular Dublin pubs like The Temple Bar.

Accessibility is also worth mentioning - Sean's Bar, due to its central location, is more easily accessible to most tourists. Johnnie Fox's requires a bit more planning, but a trip to the Wicklow mountains can be a great diversion for a stay in Ireland.

Both pubs offer traditional Irish live music, but Johnnie Fox's stands out for its more extensive entertainment program. Sean's Bar, on the other hand, boasts a more authentic, spontaneous musical atmosphere, typical of traditional Irish sessions.

Our tour of Ireland's oldest and most atmospheric pubs has come to an end, but this is only the beginning of your own adventure into the world of Irish hospitality. Each of the pubs described - The Brazen Head, The Temple Bar Pub and The Long Hall in Dublin, as well as Sean's Bar in Athlone and Johnnie Fox's Pub in the Wicklow mountains - offers a unique experience, combining history, culture and tradition with great beer and whiskey.

In conclusion, there are a few key aspects worth noting to help you plan your visit to Irish pubs:

1. history and authenticity: If you are primarily concerned with an authentic, historic experience, The Brazen Head in Dublin and Sean's Bar in Athlone should be at the top of your list. These oldest pubs offer an unparalleled atmosphere and the opportunity to literally touch history.

2. Atmosphere and entertainment: For those looking for a lively atmosphere and regular musical performances, The Temple Bar Pub in Dublin and Johnnie Fox's Pub in the Wicklow mountains would be ideal choices. Keep in mind, however, that the popularity of The Temple Bar comes with higher prices.

3. location and accessibility: pubs in Dublin (The Brazen Head, The Temple Bar, The Long Hall) are easily accessible and ideal for exploring one by one. Sean's Bar in Athlone is a great stop while traveling through central Ireland, and Johnnie Fox's Pub offers the opportunity to combine a pub visit with a trip to the scenic Wicklow Mountains.

4. prices and budget: pub prices outside of Dublin are generally lower. The Temple Bar Pub is by far the most expensive, while The Long Hall in Dublin offers more affordable prices while maintaining its historic character.

5. cuisine: most of the pubs described offer traditional Irish dishes. The Brazen Head and Johnnie Fox's Pub are particularly noted for the quality of the food served.

Practical tips:

• Reservations: For popular pubs, especially in Dublin, consider reserving a table, especially on weekends and during the tourist season.
• Opening hours: Check opening hours before visiting, especially if you plan to visit pubs outside Dublin.
• Transportation: Johnnie Fox's Pub is best reached by cab or organized tour, due to its remote location.
• Live music: If you're interested in listening to traditional Irish music, check the performance schedule at your pub of choice.
• Dress code: Most Irish pubs have a relaxed dress code, but it's a good idea to avoid athletic shoes and hats in more elegant places.

Remember that the essence of a visit to an Irish pub is not only to taste the local beverages, but more importantly to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere, strike up conversations with the locals and experience true Irish hospitality. Each of the described pubs offers this opportunity, although each in its own unique way.

Whichever pub you choose, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. Sláinte! (Cheers to the Irish way) and have a great trip through the Green Island's finest pubs!