Cosmopolitan, colourful and over a thousand years old, Dublin presents a fine starting point for visitors to Ireland. This capital city is split in two by the River Liffey, which gives form to the city and has no less than nine bridges spanning it. Central Dublin is easily explored on foot, and presents a wealth of historic landmarks, from ancient cathedrals to gracious Georgian buildings that pay testimony to days gone by. There are many attractions on both sides of the Liffey, ranging from gaols and castles to museums and the birthplaces of famous poets and writers. Dublin is also famous for its nightlife and the Temple Bar area is the highlight for those seeking out a party.<br /><br /> Not far from the city, in County Wicklow, are the Wicklow Mountains, where hills, glens, forests and waterfalls attract weekend walkers and nature-lovers. Dublin Bay, which lies between the mouth of the River Liffey and the Dalkey headland, is the site of several small coastal towns and the ferry port of Dun Laoghaire. County Kildare is a region of rich farmland and fine reputation for the breeding of thoroughbred horses, while the similar counties of Louth and Meath have evidence of early civilisations and a wealth of castles and monasteries. With all this on Dublin's doorstep the city is a great base for exploration further afield.<br /><br />

Trinity College Dublin

Address: College Green Dublin 2, Ireland Dublin

Admission: €11 Adults, concessions available. The Book of Kells is open Monday to Saturday 8.30am-5pm from May to September, and Sundays 9.30am-5pm. From October to April, it's open Monday to Saturday 9.30am-5p, and Sundays 12pm-4.30pm.

Telephone: +353 1 896 1000

Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university and counts Jonathan Swift, Samuel Beckett and Oscar Wilde, along with many other great thinkers and writers, among its past students. It was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. The complex is home to many glorious buildings, beautifully manicured lawns, cobbled squares and the campus of the University of Ireland.<br /><br /> The main attraction for many is the Trinity Library. It houses the celebrated Book of Kells, which dates from the 8th century and is considered to be one of the oldest books in the world. Other manuscripts taken from ancient monasteries are also on display. Note that photography in this gallery is strictly forbidden.<br /><br /> The library is also home to the remarkable Long Room which will delight the scholarly. The chapel on the grounds is absolutely beautiful and a must-see for anybody interested in ecclesiastical architecture. There are lots of sculptures, statues and monuments dotted around the grounds to investigate. One of the best things to do at Trinity, however, is to simply make like a student and lounge on the lovely green lawns!<br /><br />

Temple Bar District

Address: Dublin

The Irish capital is known for its nightlife and many visitors come to Dublin primarily to enjoy the great beer, food, traditional music, and friendly locals that make the pub scene so famous.<br /><br /> This quaint, cobbled district is the hub Dublin's toursit nightlight. There are shops, traditional pubs, theatres, cinemas and trendy clubs laid out on pedestrianised streets. Busking fiddlers, an overwhelming choice of restaurants, and beautifully restored buildings add to the feel of the place and make it worth a visit. The streets and drinking holes are always bustling in Temple Bar and the area has been immortalised by many photographers.<br /><br /> The area is bordered by the Liffey River on one side and Dame Street on the other. The main street running through the area is also called Temple Bar. The weekly Temple Bar Food Market takes place between 10am and 4.30pm on Saturdays at Meeting House Square and this is a must for foodies. There are also several regular book markets in the area, and lots of little gems for clothes shoppers. The area has become rather expensive and some find it too touristy but if you are young, fashionable and looking for a party Temple Bar is the place to be.<br /><br />

Dublin Castle

Address: Dame Street Dublin

Admission: One hour guided tour: Adults €10, Children under 17 €4. 30 minute self-guided tour: Adults €7, Children €3. Concessions available. Monday to Sunday and Public holidays 9.45am-5.15pm. Admission is by guided tour, with a self-guiding option available.

Telephone: (01) 645 8812

Dublin Castle is at the very heart of the historic city. It was founded in 1204 by order of King John, who wanted a fortress constructed for the administration of the city. It has been added to and rebuilt many times so that all that remains of the original structure is the Norman Tower. By the early 17th century the castle was fully developed with Law Courts, meetings of Parliament, the residence of the viceroy and a council chamber. The magnificent, gilded State Apartments were added in the 18th century and are still used for state occasions today.<br /><br /> Highlights of the castle include the Throne Room, St Patrick's Hall and the Ladies Drawing Room. The gardens are also great for a stroll or relaxing, and there are some interesting sculptures to investigate. The gardens can be accessed by the public for free. There is a restaurant and a Heritage Centre, as well as a gift shop. You can only explore the castle on official guided tours which start every 20 minutes and take about an hour. Groups are required to book in advance. There are plenty of attractions at the castle to explore in your own time though, like the Chester Beatty Library. Note that the castle is used for state functions and is sometimes closed on short notice - check the website to ensure it is open for your visit.<br /><br />

National Museums of Ireland

Address: Varied locations. Check website for details. Dublin

Admission: Free Tuesday to Saturday 10am-5pm, and Sunday 2pm-5pm. Closed Mondays.

Telephone: +353 1 6777444

The National Museum's permanent collection is broken up into four seperate museums, which have different locations in Dublin: The National Museum of Archaeology is on Kildare street; the National Museum of Decorative Arts and History is on Benburb street; the National Museum of Country Life is in Turlough Park; and the National Museum of Natural History is on Merrion street. All four establishments are great - and the Natural History Museum is particularly good for kids - but the most popular and impressive is the Archaeology Museum, where many of the treasures of ancient Ireland can be found. Included in this museum is jewellery dating back to the 8th century BC and medieval antiquities such as the Tara Brooch and the Ardagh Chalice. Also housed here is the 12th-century Cross of Cong, an ornate reliquary of wood, bronze and silver, said to contain a fragment of the True Cross. The museum showcases important exhibitions on Irish history including Prehistoric Ireland, Viking Ireland and The Road to Independence (1900-1921). There are also sections on Ancient Egypt and Life and Death in the Roman World. This is a truly world-class museum which brings ancient Irish history to life.<br /><br />

Guinness Storehouse

Address: St Jamess Gate Dublin

Admission: Adults €18 adults. Concessions and discounts for online bookings available. September to June: 9.30am-7pm July and August: 9am-8pm

Telephone: +353 1 408 4800

Guinness is now brewed all over the world but St James's Gate, in the heart of Dublin, was where Arthur Guinness set up the business in 1759. The Guinness Storehouse celebrates Ireland's favourite brew by taking visitors on a journey, floor by floor, through the past, present and future of the world-famous beer. The glass atrium is shaped like a pint glass and each floor explores a different aspect of 'everything anyone ever wanted to know about Guinness', from the brewing process to who drank the first pint. Although you can't view the actual brewing process you will be introduced to the machinery used through the ages and there are videos explaining how it all works. The tour finishes with a complementary pint of the famous stout in the top floor Gravity Bar, which is also the ideal place to watch the sunset over Dublin and admire the 360° views. During the July and August summer program there are also tasting sessions available, exhibitions and delicious Irish meals from a table d'hôte menu in the Brewery Bar or Source Bar. The shop on the premises also sells some really cool merchandise for Guinness lovers. There is very good wheelchair access to the whole facility.<br /><br />

National Library of Ireland

Address: 2 Kildare Street Dublin

Admission: Free Monday to Wednesday 9.30am-7.45pm; Thursday and Friday 9.30am-4.45pm; Saturday 9.30am-12.45pm.

Telephone: +353 1 603 0200

The highlight of this historic library is the great domed reading room, which has been home to many Irish students, including James Joyce. This is a light-filled, peaceful and inspiring place to work, write or read and should be on every scholar's bucket list. The reading room is open from 9.30am to 7.45pm between Monday and Wednesday, 9.30am to 4.45pm on Thursday and Friday, and 9.30am to 12.45pm on Saturday. Anybody is allowed to enter but they are strict about the observance of silence and this is an area for work.<br /><br /> The library also contains a heraldic museum, which exhibits coats of arms and banners, but of most interest to tourists may be the genealogical office, where staff can help trace any Irish roots. Its consultation service on ancestry is available Monday to Wednesday 9.30am - 5pm, and Thursday to Friday 9.30am - 4.45pm. It's a free service and no appointment is required.<br /><br /> One of the library's most famous and popular attractions is the award-winning Yeats exhibit: The Life and Works of William Butler Yeats. The exhibit is magical and compelling, taking visitors through Yeats' fascinating life. The collection includes rare material which has been generously donated by Mrs George Yeats, the poet's wife, and Michael Yeats,his son, over several years. The library hosts other wonderful temporary exhibitions but the Yeats exhibit has been on show since 2006 and has become a permanent addition due to popular demand. There is also a cafe on the premises.<br /><br />

St. Patricks Cathedral

Address: St Patricks Close Dublin

Admission: Adults €6. Concessions available. March to October: Monday to Friday 9am-5pm; Saturday 9am-6pm; Sunday 9am-10.30am, 12.30pm-2.30pm, 4.30pm-6pm. November to February: Monday to Saturday 9am-5pm; Sunday 9am-3pm

Telephone: + 353 1 453 9472

St Patrick's Cathedral is Ireland's largest church. It's erected on the site where St. Patrick is believed to have baptized his converts to the Christian faith when he visited Dublin. The current building dates back to the 12th century, although it has been restored and altered over the years. Jonathan Swift was dean of St. Patrick's from 1713 to 1745, during which time he penned Gulliver's Travels. Visitors can still see his tomb and pulpit. There are many tombs and memorials in the cathedral and it is interesting to get a guided tour to learn more about all the history on show. The cathedral has a nice little gift shop and really lovely grounds to enjoy. Right next to the church there is Marsh's Library, which is worth a visit for anybody interested in old, rare and unusual books. The cathedral still has daily services, which are open to the public - the church has a particularly impressive Boys Choir. Tourists have to pay a small fee for entry and all admission fees go towards maintenance of the magnificent building. If, however, you want to attend a service to worship you don't have to pay admission. The cathedral is sometimes closed for special services - check the website for details.<br /><br />

Glendalough

Address: 18 miles (30km) south of Dublin Dublin

Admission: Adults €5.00, Children and Students: €3.00. Concessions available. Visitor Centre opening hours: Mid-October to mid-March: 9.30am-5pm Mid-March to Mid October: 9.30am-6pm

Telephone: +353 404 45325

Glendalough is just south of Dublin and a very popular destination for day-trippers. Although it gets busy, the site has a very tangible spirituality that can be experienced whilst standing amidst the remains of the monastic settlement. The Gaelic name translates to 'valley of the two lakes' and there are beautiful walks around the ruined monastery and along the clear-as-glass lakes.<br /><br /> St Kevin founded the monastery in the 6th century and it became a great European centre for learning. His body lies in the 9th century cathedral. The site is adorned with St Kevin's Cross, carved in about 1150. Other buildings here have survived from the 8th and 12th centuries, the most famous of which is the round tower, standing 112ft (34m) high with a base measuring 52ft (16m) in circumference.<br /><br /> Glendalough is a remarkable place both in its profound history and its natural splendour. Photographers will be in heaven with the scenery and the romantic ruins. It is a place that fires up the imagination. There is a Visitor's Centre, but although it does give some interesting context, the real attraction is the countryside and the incredible monastic complex.<br /><br />

James Joyce Museum

Address: Sandycove Dublin

Admission: Free Summer: 10am-6pm Winter: 10am-4pm

Telephone: +353 1 280 9265

Nine miles (14km) south of Dublin, the Martello Tower is one of 34 towers built in 1804 to protect Ireland against a possible Napoleonic naval invasion. The tower was demilitarised in the 1860s and is now home to the James Joyce Museum. In 1962 Sylvia Beach, the Paris-based publisher of , founded the museum here. It was the place where Joyce stayed in 1904 and where he was inspired to set the opening chapter of his famous book.<br /><br /> The exhibition hall contains first editions of most of Joyce's works as well as other interesting memorabilia, including one of the two official death masks made of Joyce, and reproductions of how the rooms would have looked when Joyce wrote the book. This is essentially a museum for Joyce fans, and it will delight lovers of Ulysses in particular, but those who are not in the know may not be overly captivated. Having said that, everybody who visits will be astounded by the lovely views and picturesque setting of the tower and many find the historical structure interesting in its own right.<br /><br /> The museum is now run by volunteers who are wonderfully friendly and enthusiastic. There is no charge for admission but donations are welcome.<br /><br />

Clonmacnoise

Address: Clonmacnoise, Shannonbridge, Athlone, County Offaly. Dublin

Admission: Adults €8, Children and Students €4. Concessions available. November to mid-March: 10am-5.30pm Mid-March to mid-May: 10am-6pm June to August: 9am-6.30pm September to October: 10am-6p

Telephone: +353 90 9674195

Clonmacnoise is Ireland's most important monastic site, and it's situated in Shannonbridge, west of Dublin in County Offaly. It was founded by Saint Ciaran in the 6th-century, on the banks of the River Shannon. It includes the ruins of a cathedral, eight churches (10th to 13th-century), two round towers, and three high crosses.<br /><br /> The site is extremely atmospheric, with some beautiful ancient stonework, and it provides the visitor with a real sense of what monasteries must have been like in their day. Everything still feels authentic and the spirit of place has been preserved. The Visitor Centre displays a large collection of grave slabs, hosts numerous exhibitions and provides further interest with an audio-visual show. It is a good idea to start with a browse around the museum to get some historical context before exploring the ruins, many of which are remarkably intact. There is lots to see and explore and Clonmacnoise offers some really glorious photographic opportunities. Although it is ideal to visit in good weather, as you will want to stroll around the whole site, even in mist and drizzle the ancient monastery ignites the imagination. As this is a very popular attraction, visitors may experience queues during the summer months.<br /><br />

Dublin Zoo

Address: Phoenix Park Dublin

Admission: Adults €17.50, Children (3-16) €13. Concessions available. Open from 9.30am Monday to Sunday. Closing times vary between 4pm and 6pm, depending on the season.

Telephone: +353 1 4748900

The Dublin Zoo is one of Ireland's most popular attractions for children. It takes visitors on a voyage of discovery from the Arctic to the Plains of Africa via an Indian Rainforest. The zoo houses more than 600 animals and the habitats are impressive, with lots of information provided on each species.<br /><br /> The zoo iprovides plenty of entertainment for kids, with free arts and crafts activities like face painting, and a number of little playgrounds dotted around the park. See lions and tigers, Asian elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees and orangutans, rare monkeys, rhinos, hippos, giraffes and many more exotic and endangered species, including extremely rare species like the snow leopard. There is also a pet's corner for children, a city farm and a safari train ride around the African Plains.<br /><br /> Although it is an old zoo, it is recognised as one of the most modern in Europe, and it places emphasis on learning about wildlife and conservation. The Dublin Zoo is a registered charity and all your money will go towards maintenance and improvement. There are a number of snack stalls and a restaurant on the premises, but you can also bring your own picnic.<br /><br />

The Old Jameson Distillery

Address: Bow St, Smithfield Village Dublin

Admission: Adults €14, Children under 18 €7.70. Concessions available. Open daily: Monday to Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday 10am-6pm (last tour at 5:15pm). Closed Good Friday and Christmas holidays.

Telephone: +353 1 807 2355

Jameson, who was actually a Scotsman, moved to Dublin to start a whiskey distillery in the 1770s and clearly made a lasting impression on the industry, despite the many distilleries making fine Irish whiskey in Dublin at the time.<br /><br /> The Old Jameson Distillery is located in the heart of Dublin. Visiting is a treat for whiskey lovers, and there's a taste of Irish culture and history thrown into the bargain. This museum illustrates the history of Irish whiskey, known in Irish as (the water of life) and the expert guides will answer any questions whiskey lovers might have. The tour takes visitors through the triple distillation process that sets Jameson apart. In the beginning there is a film explaining the 'Angel's Share' which is very interesting. A free glass of Jameson Whiskey is included in the tour and visitors can choose to partake in a whiskey tasting in the bar after their tour and sample different Irish, Scotch and American whiskeys (be sure to raise your hand if they ask for volunteers!). The tour lasts just over an hour, but you can stay afterwards to enjoy the bars, restaurant and gift shop. A popular souvenir from the gift shop is a personalised bottle of whiskey, which will delight any whiskey drinkers back home.<br /><br />

Airfield House and Farm

Address: Overend Way, Dundrum. Dublin

Admission: €10 adults; €5 children. Concessions available September to June: Monday to Sunday 9.30am-5pm July and August: Monday to Sunday 9.30am-6pm

Telephone: +353 1 969 6666

Kids love nothing more than farms and farm animals, and what better place for them to explore than an actual working farm. Airfield is the only working farm left within Dublin's city boundary and the owners aim to connect people of all ages to nature through farming and gardening, and to instill a respect and love for the natural environment. The sheep, horses, goats and pigs will provide endless entertainment for young ones and, with plenty of space to run around and activities for children to get involved in, parents will enjoy themselves too.<br /><br /> The farm has learning programmes for primary school children, secondary school children, and adults. Children participate in seasonal activities and help tend to and feed the animals (they may even be lucky enough to witness a lamb being born!). The adult courses teach sustainable living skills like how to cultivate a vegetable garden, how to keep chickens, and how to make one's own cosmetics. The Airfield House and Car Museum are also great to explore and there is a lovely little cafe on the premises as well. Airfield hosts art exhibitions and the like for entertainment and many visitors come just for the pleasure of a stroll around the farm.<br /><br />

Imaginosity

Address: The Plaza, Beacon South Quarter, Sandyford Dublin

Admission: Adults and Children (over 3 years) €8, Toddlers (1-2 years) €6 toddlers, Babies (6-12 months) €2. Concessions available. Mondays 1.30pm-5.30pm Tuesday to Friday and Bank Holidays 9.30am-5.30pm Saturday and Sundays 10am-6pm

Telephone: + 353 (1) 2176130

Imaginosity is an innovative children's museum aimed at stimulating children's imaginations and curiosity. The two-storey climbing structure is a favourite, while the art studio, theatres and galleries provide endless hours of fun. Parents will be thrilled to sneak some education in without them even realising it! The museum is designed for kids under nine, but the idea is to engage in creative play as a family, with parents and older siblings.<br /><br /> Imaginosity is great for a rainy day in Dublin, or just a chance for the kids to take a break from traditional sightseeing and blow off some creative steam. The museum holds numerous events and competitions - things like Superhero Training Camps and storytelling competitions.<br /><br /> Book ahead to avoid disappointment, particularly on holidays and weekends, as they only accept a certain number of children per session. If you are booking for a group of kids, note that for every five children there must be an adult guardian.<br /><br />

St Patricks Day Festival

Where: City Centre,Dublin

When: 16 - 19 March 2017

Nowhere else in the world is St Patrick's Day observed with more fun and celebration than in Dublin, which is just as it should be! The St Patrick's Day Festival has become a five-day party filled with craic - or good times - with a varied programme of events, including lots of traditional and contemporary Irish music.<br /><br /> Each day of the festival offers a number of events: there are themed poetry readings, craft beer competitions, and walking tours of the city, as well as lots of live music and performance art. The Big Day Out carnival includes street performers, clowns, games, a funfair and lots of singing and dancing, and promises an enchanting performance involving giant inflatable characters. Other highlights include the team Treasure Hunt, the spectacular Skyfest fireworks event, and a huge celebration of traditional Irish dance (Céilí Mór) where everyone can participate in a range of foot-tapping dances. The grand finale of the festival is the spectacular street parade that is a themed procession of colourful floats, marching bands and fantastic performers.<br /><br /> There is no better time or place in the world to don your greenery and celebrate Irish culture!<br /><br />

Bloomsday Festival

Where: ,Dublin

When: 11 - 16 June 2018

James Joyce fans around the world celebrate Bloomsday on 16 June every year, but nowhere as creatively as in Dublin, the birthplace of the famous novelist. The festival commemorates his masterpiece , one of the most highly acclaimed literary works of the 20th century, in which Joyce captured the soul of Dublin in the tale of Leopold Bloom and his adventures on Thursday, 16 June 1904. The celebrations include re-enactments of Bloom's day as people visit the places where the novel was set, as well as readings, performances, breakfasts, look-alike contests and visits to the pub. It is wonderful fun to join a Bloomsday Walking Tour of Dublin - even if you haven't read the book - and these walks usually include readings and enactments. Places which draw Joyce fans on Bloomsday include Saint Mary's Abbey (featured in the book), Lincoln's Inn (frequented by Joyce), Rathgar Village (where Joyce was born), and the James Joyce Museum in Sandy Cove (the spot that inspired the opening chapter).<br /><br /> For Joyce fans visiting Dublin, it is worth checking out what events are being held by the James Joyce Centre during your stay. They host lectures, walking tours and all sorts of activities to promote the work of the author throughout the year - check the website for details.<br /><br />

Irish Derby

Where: Curragh,Dublin

When: 39 June - 1 July 2018

The Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Day is one of the most prestigious horse racing events of the year. Held at The Curragh, one of Europe's oldest sporting grounds, this event attracts the attention of horse-lovers from across the globe, and especially in the horse-mad country of Ireland itself. The race is also a social occasion and it is very well supported. The total prize money for the contest comes to €1.25 million and there is an eight race programme. Another enthusiastically awaited competition held at the event is the Most Stylish Lady contest, held in association with luxury jeweller Boodles. The race is the main event of a three-day festival, one of the highlights of which is the Derby Food Village at Curragh Racecourse, which showcases a mouth-watering selection of delicacies from some of Ireland's leading restaurants, hotels and cookery schools. Entrance to the Food Village is free and open to all and it provides a wonderful opportunity to soak up the thrilling racecourse atmosphere for those who don't want to buy tickets. On the other hand, for the really enthusiastic who want front row seats there are a number of VIP hospitality areas at the event - check the website for details.<br /><br />

Irish Music and Dance Show

Where: The Merry Ploughboy Pub, Dublin City Centre,Dublin

When: Nightly throughout the year.

This banquet and show is a highly entertaining performance of live traditional Irish music, ballads and Irish dancing which takes place at the Merry Ploughboy Pub. Guests can enjoy a banquet of wonderful Irish food while relaxing with a pint of Guinness and being entertained by the very best of Irish ballad bands, such as Dublin's very own Merry Ploughboys. The Merry Ploughboys have been performing to rave reviews in Dublin for over 20 years and this live concert is widely regarded as the best traditional music show in Dublin. The Irish ballad session is usually interrupted midway by a spectacular dance routine incorporating the best of contemporary and traditional Irish dancing. Once the dancing comes to an end, the band begins to let loose and a night of authentically Irish entertainment is guaranteed, with both musicians and dancers involving the entire audience in their high energy performance. It is a wonderful introduction to the famous Irish nightlife and makes for a merry evening out. The show is popular with locals and tourists, which attests to its authenticity. For those needing transport, the pub offers a shuttle service from six centrally located stops in Dublin - check the website for details.<br /><br />

Fáilte Ireland Dublin Horse Show

Where: Royal Dublin Society complex,Dublin

When: 8 - 12 August 2018

The Fáilte Ireland Dublin Horse Show is a summer event not to be missed. The show features five days of international competition, social functions, shopping and live entertainment. This horse show is held annually in the RDS (Royal Dublin Society) complex, with top events including the Nations' Cup and the Aga Khan Challenge Trophy. Additional events, such as the Blossom Hill Ladies' Day and an arts and crafts exhibition, take place outside the main arena.<br /><br /> Entertainment includes live performances by wonderful bands and musicians, and there are many restaurants, bars and food stalls to enjoy. The event is a delight for shopping fanatics, with 300 trade stands selling books, clothes, jewellery, art, antiques and pretty much anything else you can imagine. There's fun stuff for the kids as well, with a Kids' Zone sponsored by Hamleys that offers things like jumping castles, pony rides, face painting, and children's shows.<br /><br /> Of course, the equestrian events are world class and the main attraction, but there is lots to occupy and excite all members of the family and the horse show is really a huge festival.<br /><br />

Abbey Tavern

Address: Abbey St., Howth, Northern Suburbs Dublin

Food Type: International

This 16th century tavern is renowned for its traditional music ballad sessions. The building, complete with blazing fires, original stone walls and gas lights, features a wonderful restaurant upstairs. The menu changes on a seasonal basis but features such culinary delights as (seafood crepes), roast duckling with ginger and pineapple, or spinach and ricotta tortellini. After the meal, guests can enjoy the live entertainment downstairs in the form of some traditional Irish music. Bookings are recommended and credit cards accepted.<br /><br />

Mao

Address: 2 - 3 Chatham Row Dublin

Food Type: Asian

Mao has been a firm favourite with Dubliners for over 20 years. The chef's prepare fresh, healthy food with a sophisicated Asian flair. The exposed kitchen lines an entire wall and the rest of the space is wide open, which makes this an excellent people-watching spot.<br /><br /> The menu comprises everyone's favourite Asian dishes, such as Thai fish cakes, chicken hoisin and salmon ramen, to name a few. Everything on the menu is delicious and it is hard to go wrong when dining here. It's open daily for lunch and dinner, and reservations recommended.<br /><br />

LEcrivain

Address: 109a Baggot Street Lower, Grand Canal Dock Dublin

Food Type: French

L'Ecrivain is one of Dublin's finest restaurants, offering diners a relaxed and unpretentious experience. Chef Derry Clarke's food is absolutely mouth-watering, from his seared wild Irish venison loin with caramelized pear, or Bere Island scallops with lobster strudel.<br /><br /> Menu prices are changed regularly and it's not very affordable, but L'Ecrivain gives guests the opportunity to sample some of its dishes in the form of a two-course lunch menu at a more reasonable price.<br /><br /> The restaurant is open Monday to Saturday for dinner. They're open for lunch Wednesday to Friday, and they're closed Sunday. Reservations are essential.<br /><br />

Bad Ass Cafe

Address: 9-11 Crown Alley Dublin

Food Type: American

This loud and busy restaurant has been a much-loved eatery with Dublin's locals for over 20 years. The menu serves old favourites such as burgers, pasta, steaks and salads, appealing to just about everyone.<br /><br /> Orders are clipped to a wire before being whizzed off to the kitchen, and there's an outdoor terrace looking over the lively Temple Bar scenes. It's also known as the place where Sinead O'Connor used to wait tables. It's open daily.<br /><br />

Yamamori Noodles

Address: 71 - 72 S. Great Georges St Dublin

Food Type: Japanese

Yamamori Noodles has a casual but lively atmosphere with an exciting menu. It's popular at lunchtime, and prices range from bargain to complete over-indulgence. If you don't want to break the bank, go for meals like chile chicken ramen or the with its mound of wok-fried noodles piled high with prawns, squid, chicken, and roast pork.<br /><br /> It's open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations only for parties of four or more.<br /><br />

Yamamori Sushi

Address: 38 - 39 Lower Ormand Quay Dublin

Food Type: Japanese

With its long wooden bench tables, stone pillars, clean lines and light, airy atmosphere, this spacious eatery lends itself perfectly to the ritualistic art of eating sushi. Yamamori Sushi is one of Dublin's favourite Asian restaurants, and for very good reason.<br /><br /> Feast on Karubi beef, salmon teriyaki and Yamamori Ramen, which is made up of char-grilled chicken, king prawns and char shu with crispy tofu, egg, wakame, menma and spring onion in a chicken and pork stock.<br /><br /> It's open daily for lunch and dinner, and reservations are recommended.<br /><br />

One Pico

Address: 5 - 6 Molesworth Place Dublin

Food Type: Irish

One Pico has become something of an institution when it comes to dining out in Dublin. This multi award winning restaurant serves delicious local fare including organic smoked salmon with pickled cucumber, remoulade and herb crème freche. A firm favourite on the menu is the filet of Irish Hereford Beef served with a white onion puree, parmesan fondue and crispy tempura onion.<br /><br /> One Pico is open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations are essential.<br /><br />

Gallaghers Boxty House

Address: 20-21 Temple Bar Dublin

Food Type: Local

Gallagher's Boxty House specialises in traditional Irish food like fish and chips, soda bread, and especially the boxty, a quintessentially-Irish potato pancake. It's one of the most popular restaurants in the Temple Bar District. Their slogan is "The Humble Spud, Made BEautiful", and they live uup to that. Gallagher's goes through a tonne of potatoes every week, serving them up to buzzing crowds who come for the filling food and lively music.<br /><br /> They're open for lunch and dinner daily.<br /><br />

One of the most vibrant and youthful cities in Europe, Dublin has a bustling nightlife that has survived the ages. Known for their love of all things that involve drinking, the Irish take their pubs and pints very seriously and it's little wonder traditional old pubs and bars dominate the nightlife scene.<br /><br /> The Temple Bar district is by far the most popular place to start and the hub of Dublin's nightlife scene with around 24 bars and 73 cafes and restaurants to choose from. Most evenings finds Temple Bar buzzing with trendy restaurants, pubs, musicians, hotels and shops creating a stir. Many of the trendier clubs have a cover charge.<br /><br /> The Grafton Street side of things provides a much quieter and more relaxed alternative to the chaos of Temple Bar, attracting a different type of crowd. Wine bars are also becoming a popular addition to the entertainment scene, providing patrons with a wine list and reasonably priced meals. The gay scene in Dublin is taking off too and there are many gay clubs and bars springing up everywhere. Most pubs and bars close early, around 11pm, but some have official permission to stay open late, including the Capitol on Aungier Street, and Major Tom's in South King Street.<br /><br /> On just about every night there is something happening and rock, jazz, blues and traditional Irish folk concerts can be found at theatres, sports stadiums, churches, clubs and castles. If you're in the mood for a show, head down to Dublin's Northside and see what's on.<br /><br />

Dublin may be small, with its two main shopping districts located no more than a 20 minute walk away from each other, but it offers wonderful opportunities for shopping sprees with some of the world's top shops and brand names.<br /><br /> The largest of Dublin's shopping centres, the Jervis Shopping Centre, is located on the north side of the River Liffey and offers 2 floors of shopping decadence, while the top floor is a food hall where shoppers can stop to refuel. The Blanchardstown Centre is the largest shopping centre in Ireland, spanning two floors, four wings and a plethora of shops and boutiques selling just about everything.<br /><br /> On the south side of the river is Grafton Street, where some of Dublin's most expensive shops can be found, such as Weir and Sons, an up-market jewellery shop offering wonderful Celtic souvenirs in silver and white gold. The Blackrock Market is popular with tourists looking for locally produced arts, crafts and food; the Temple Bar district also has several markets for books and locally-produced foodstuffs. The House of Ireland on Nassau Street is the place to go to buy some of the finest quality souvenirs Ireland has to offer, from crystal to knitwear and Irish linen, which is still regarded as some of the best in the world. Other popular Dublin souvenirs are the cheap tinwhistles found in many shops.<br /><br /> Most shops in Dublin are open from 9am to 6pm or 7pm from Monday to Saturday, while they're only open from 12pm to 6pm on Sundays. Value added tax (VAT) of 21 percent is levied on most goods and services but non-European visitors can apply for a tax refund on any goods bought that are being exported. Not all Dublin shops participate in the Tax-Free Shopping programme, so tourists are advised to look out for the logo displayed in shops windows.<br /><br />