The capital of the Emerald Isle is full of treasures waiting to be discovered. Stroll down Grafton Street for some window shopping and stopping to listen to the buskers, or wander along the banks of the Liffey and cross over the iconic Halfpenny Bridge. Whether you’re looking for a welcoming guest house or an apartment in Temple Bar, the self-catering holiday rental options are huge. All you need to do is pick your favourite!

Be sure to visit the 13th century Dublin Castle which has witnessed over a thousand years of Dublin’s history from Viking invasions to the establishment of the Republic. As you scan the cityscape, you’ll take in the castle’s Record Tower (still standing thanks to 4 metre thick walls) and the 11th-century St Patrick’s cathedral.

Trinity College was founded by Elizabeth I in 1592 and its beautiful grounds and buildings can’t fail to draw your eye as you explore. You’ll see the iconic campanile as well as picturesque Parliament Square. Trinity College Library shouldn’t be missed: it’s simply astounding with dark, polished wood everywhere, ladders to reach the highest shelves, and row upon row of old books. It also houses the Book of Kells, a rare and old volume that tourists flock to see.

You don’t have to stray too far from the university grounds to find museums aplenty. The National Museum of Ireland - Archeology reveals the country’s fascinating history with displays including Celtic artefacts. If you’re intrigued by history, Kilmainham Gaol and the General Post Office (where the Easter Rebellion of 1916 began) are definitely sights to see.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn how one of Dublin’s most famous exports is made: Guinness. Entrance to the Guinness Storehouse includes a tour of the factory, a lesson in pulling the perfect pint and a free pint of the black stuff. If you want the merriment to continue after you leave the Storehouse, you’ll find Dublin’s bars and nightlife hub in Temple Bar. It’s a labyrinth of narrow streets tucked behind the River Liffey and certainly the spot to seek evening entertainment.

Wicklow Mountains National Park, to the south of the city, is a haven of peace and wildlife. But if you don’t want to venture too far, Phoenix Park and St Stephen’s Green both offer some tranquillity within the city itself.