By Caroline Cullern
Where to stay
For a touch of sheer elegance you can't get much better than the opulent surrounds of The Shelbourne Hotel. Built in 1824, the hotel recently experienced a design revamp that saw the original Georgian sophistication mixed with cutting edge design flare - making it a bustling hotspot for the cities chic set. In fact, the Horseshoe Bar is a vibrant part of Dublin's social scene and is the most famous bar in the city with iconic curved counter and killer cocktails. Head to the sleek and stylish Saddle Room restaurant where we eagerly tucked into slabs of perfectly cooked Irish dry aged steak and devilishly tasty rack of Wicklow lamb. If you have space left we can highly recommend the hot, runny gooiness of the sumptuous chocolate fondant. Overlooking leafy St. Stephens Green and just a short amble to the bankruptcy-inspiring shopping on Grafton Street, you will find it hard to find a better location.
What to do
Any trip to Dublin wouldn't be complete without a sup on the black stuff. For what we are told is the "finest pint in the city" head to where it all began - the Guinness Storehouse. After a surprisingly interesting insight into the history of the Guinness empire, head up to the top-floor Gravity Bar which affords glorious 360 degree panoramic views over Dublin. Not being the hardcore Guinness drinking types we opted for the aptly named Black Velvet cocktail - a more lady-like combination of Ireland's favourite brew and our tipple of choice - champagne.
Although most of Dublin's sights are within walking distance of each other, a Hop-on Hop-off bus tour is a great way to fit in all of the city's sights whilst gleaning some local knowledge from one of the experienced and highly entertaining tour guides. Sights include the Dublin Zoo, James Joyce Centre or visit the Kilmainham Gaol - the site of many films, including the original Italian Job.
Where to shop
Dublin is far from lacking in the shopping department, having enough choice to keep even the pickiest fashionista happy. Those with plenty of Euros to spend should head to Grafton Street. Here you will find top-end shopping, such as Brown Thomas (a high-fashion department store which showcases many designers, both international and local). Those looking to up their bling status should head to Weir's, Dublin's leading and most exclusive jewelers.
City-centre shopping is based around the main throughfare of O'Connell Street which is home to Clery's department store, whilst fabulous one-off and unusual clothing can be found at the Cow's Land Fashion And Design Market. Every Saturday, Irish and Ireland-based artists and designers come together in Old City, Temple Bar, to display handmade and designer pieces.
Eating, drinking and going out
Undoubtedly, the most popular choice for a lively Irish-style night out has to be the maze of cobbled streets that makes up Temple Bar - Dublin's Cultural Quarter. Although it is generally awash with raucous stag and hen parties of a weekend, the street entertainment and lively atmosphere pretty much guarantee a fun night on the tiles.
Head to The Clarence Hotel, owned by U2, and join the city's cool set for a cheeky cocktail at the Octogon Bar whilst overlooking the Liffey.
Traditional Irish food is quite hard to come-by in Dublin, as many restaurants have turned into modern bistros. However, Gallager's Boxty House serves up hearty Irish fare in a traditional pub-styled surrounds. Try the Arigna Gammon Boxty - gammon steak marinated in honey served with the infamous carbo-coma inducing potato cakes.
Getting there
We flew with Aer Lingus direct from London Gatwick to Dublin. Flights are priced from £120 return*. To book visit www.aerlingus.com or call 0870 876 5000.
(*Prices correct at time of publication, and based on flights departing on 2 May and returning 5 May.)
