Dublin

If you want to get a feel of the essence of Ireland, then there cannot be a better place to visit than Dublin. It is the capital of the Republic of Ireland and is arguably one of the oldest cities in the whole of Europe. A host of wonderful experiences are right at your feet in Dublin starting at the World Famous Guinness Factory & St Stephen’s Green area. Hear about the heroic fight for Irish freedom on one of the magnificient Easter Rising Tours or at Kilmainham Gaol and finish your day at a traditional Irish session in the Temple Bar area!

The National Museum on Kildare Street is the finest of a portfolio of jointly run museums – including Collins Barracks, which focuses on the decorative arts, and the National Museum of Country Life in Castlebar – and a must-see for visitors to Dublin.

The National Gallery hosts a fine collection of Western European art dating from the Middle Ages to the twentieth century, which will happily engage you for several hours. The gallery’s old building, divided into Beit, Milltown and Dargan wings and entered from Merrion Square West, has now been joined by the Millennium Wing, giving access from Clare Street, which hosts major temporary exhibitions around its striking, sky-lit atrium.