While the Irish (and music fans) recognized Glen Hansard from the popular Irish band the Frames, the two main actors were largely unknown to wider audiences. The film was shot for an incredible €130,000 and won an Academy Award in 2007 for Best Original Song, “Falling Slowly.”

In the backdrop of the success of the film and the moving music that the real-life couple (now split up) made together, is Dublin itself. One of the most memorable scenes of the film is Hansard alone, with his guitar, on Grafton Street at night. He is playing seemingly to no one, and then, “girl” (Marketa Irglova) shows up.

The film captures something true about life in Dublin, and at the same time, depicts some of my favorite places in the city. If you want to retrace the footsteps of these two characters, all you have to do is visit a few key sights. In some of them, don’t be surprised to hear musicians, or buskers, playing for a few coins.

1. Grafton Street

The pedestrian shopping area of Dublin’s south side, Grafton Street is often considered the heart of the city. It also has a reputation for quality street performers, and many of the same musicians/bands play at the same time in the same place each day.

In the film, several scenes take place on Grafton Street, both in Glen Hansard playing his songs, and bumping into “girl” later on in the film. Memorably, there’s also the scene where a junkie attempts to steal his guitar case full of coins, resulting in a chase to nearby St. Stephen’s Green.

2. Walton’s

http://www.waltons.ie/

Viewers are introduced to the Academy Award-winning song, “Falling Slowly” in Walton’s, Dublin’s music store. This legendary Dublin music shop on Georges Street is where the two musicians sit down at a piano and discover their shared love of music. This spot also happens to be located on one of the prettiest streets in Dublin’s south side.

3. Killiney Hill

After the all-night recording session that results in some incredible musical collaboration between the two, the musicians all get in the car to listen to their new album. They drive south, to one of Dublin’s most scenic places, Killiney Hill.

In the film, you can see guy and girl looking out to the Irish Sea, with the famous Sugar Loaf Mountain behind them. This is one of my favorite places in Dublin for a picnic or a hike. You don’t need a car to get here – hop on the DART train to Dalkey and it’s a 10-minute walk away. (Read our guide to Dublin day trips for more information.)

4. Mountjoy Square

“Girl” lives in a lovely Georgian square in Dublin with the signature bright color doors. There are several parts of the city known for Georgian architecture, but this specific spot is Mountjoy Square, on the north side of the River Liffey. While it isn’t as immaculately maintained as say Merrion Square on the south side, it is still a beautiful spot to visit.

If you’re planning a trip to Dublin, watch “Once” carefully before you go. Seeing these places with your own eyes might bring new context to a favorite film.

Also in our guide: If you’re planning your trip to Dublin right now, you should swing by our reviews of budget hotels in Dublin at least, well, Once! Our editors have visited, inspected and reviewed affordable hotels all over town and have selected only the very best. Read more in our Dublin guide.

The post Once in Dublin: Movie locations from the movie “Once” appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

A train that runs along the coastline of Dublin can change all that. This affordable option, called the DART, has stations spread throughout the center of the city. For a €2 ticket and a 20-minute train ride, Cheapos can gain a whole new perspective on the Irish capital.

I have a few favorite day trips from Dublin. I choose between them depending on how adventurous (or hungry) I’m feeling at the time.

Killiney Hill
DART south to Dalkey stop.
Web site

This day trip is for the day you wake up free of a Guinness-induced headache and have lots of energy. Climb aboard the DART heading south for the village of Dalkey. From here, consult the map at the station and walk 10 minutes to the entrance of Killiney Hill Park.

Take that “hill” part seriously–it will be a bit of a climb up to the top of the park. Views at the top are the reward. Pass blooming wildflowers and keep following the incline to emerge at the top of the hill, with incredible views north to Dublin and south along the craggy coast of the Irish Sea. (This hike can be challenging at times–good shoes are essential).

Howth
DART north to Howth stop.
Web site

This day trip is for when you’re feeling more like a serious meal than a challenging hike. Board the DART train heading north for Howth, a coastal village known for fresh seafood. After a walk on the scenic pier, it will be time to get down to the business of eating. On weekends, there is a small outdoor market, but if you plan a trip during the week there is still plenty of seafood to be had.

Cheapos might want to fill up on fish and chips from Beshoffs (17 – 18 West Pier, Howth). There are some outdoor picnic tables to soak in the views or you can take a seat at the Oyster Bar in Beshoffs Market for a few just-shucked bivalves. Some visitors might not be able to resist the classic combination of fresh oysters and a pint of Guinness.

Dun Laoghaire
DART south to Dun Laoghaire stop.
Web site

The Dublin day trip for the best of both worlds is Dun Laoghaire. Head south on the DART to this coastal village that offers two lengthy piers where you can go out for a good walk (no climbing over rocks or serious inclines required) and once you return to the village, there’s plenty to eat.

One of the best-kept secrets is a tiny pizza shop called Don Mimi (5 Old Dun Laoghaire Road, Monkstown). After your walk to the end of the pier (where you can see across the water to Howth) dig into affordable pizzas at one of three tables in this authentic shop and chat about the sailboats, seals and fishermen you saw from the pier.

North or south, for a hike or a hearty meal, a ride on the DART train will reveal Dublin’s gorgeous coastal location.

Your favorite day trips from Dublin?

Have you taken any of these day trips — or would you recommend another? Tell us about it in the comments section.

The post Dublin: 3 Cheapo day trips from Dublin appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.