All Abroad

Dublin: Five places to see

Dublin is a great city just to wander round. Its center is compact and there’s always another little shop to look at, or a café or a pub. Georgian Dublin is the most attractive area with Trinity College at its heart.

Trinity College: It may seem strange to recommend a university as a place to see, but with more than four centuries of history, this town within a city is not to be missed. Wander through its grand buildings, cobbled paths and gardens enjoying the tranquility. Finish up in the beautiful Grand Library where the Book of Kells is displayed. This 1200-year-old illuminated manuscript is one of the world’s great art treasures.

Guinness Storehouse: Lovers of what is arguably Ireland’s greatest gift to the world can try out the perfect pint at the place of its birth. The Storehouse in the St. James’s Gate Brewery is a spectacular temple to the cream and black drink. Tours end up at the Gravity Bar, which offers a great view of the city to go with your glass of stout.

Kilmainham Gaol: One of Europe’s largest unoccupied prisons, this is a place steeped in history. Some say it over-romanticizes the leaders of five rebellions from 1798 to 1916 who were jailed here. But it provides an unforgettable way of seeing how modern Ireland was shaped.

Phoenix Park: At twice the size of New York’s Central Park, Phoenix Park can make other city’s green spaces look little more than oversized backyards. As well as gardens, lakes and sports pitches, it has its own castle and contains the official residence of the Irish president. It’s also home to the once-dilapidated Dublin Zoo, which has benefited from some of the cash flowing into the city and now has a leading lion-breeding program and other attractions.

Mother Redcap’s Market: The city’s largest indoor market is a great place to pick up something genuinely Irish to take home. It has huge range of items including furniture, clothes and dolls, most of which are made locally. Open Friday to Sunday, the market is surrounded by pubs famous for their traditional music sessions.