The fashionista’s guide to Dublin

From the quirky to the essential we discover where to shop, wine, dine and sleep in Dublin.

  AvocaWhere to shop
If quirky present picking is what you're after, pay family-run Avoca a visit, a haven of kitsch girlie gifts and beautiful clothing. The ‘washroom' section lined with pretty perfume bottles and trinkets reads like a beauty junkie's wish list.

Drury Street is the home of boutiques with perfect party dresses, and be sure to browse Castle Market for an eclectic mixture of unique accessories.

Grafton Street and Henry Street are the well trodden paths where buskers perform for shoppers. Being greeted by the luxurious Crème de la Mer counter at Brown Thomas department store sets the tone for a supreme shopping spree. Arnott's department store is similarly sufficiently stocked with a huge selection of chic brands.

Where to wine and dine
For a night of elegance and a marvellous Michelin Star meal head to L'Ecrivain on Lower Baggot Street where you'll leave more than satisfied.

Intoxicatingly yummy cocktails and Irish dishes with a contemporary twist are on the menu at The Clarence Hotel, Wellington Quay, where you may even spot the owners (and Irish royalty) Bono and The Edge of U2.

A less well known gem is the restaurant on board MV Cill Airne; the refurbished Irish navy vessel docked on the river Liffey in Dublin's Docklands area. It serves wonderful wines and fresh, local seafood at its best. 

There is also of course, the famous Temple Bar, where you'll find menus from all over the world between the vibrant pubs and bars on every street corner.

What to do
Steeped in culture and history but fast gaining cool cosmopolitan credentials - there's something for every girl in Dublin.

If you fancy a girlie activity with a difference take the Girl's Night Out cookery class at The Kitchen In The Castle. Make and enjoy easy chic cuisine in the stylishly restored Georgian kitchen at Howth Castle - perfect for stylish hen dos with no L-plate policies.

  Grafton StreetAlternatively, fashion fans can while away the hours in one of the city's beautiful old luxury department stores or boutique-lined back streets.

Temple Bar, the ‘old city' brimming with young trendies, is home to cafés, bars, galleries and music venues. Strolling its cobbled streets and soaking up the bohemian buzz is a must.

For drinkers up for the craic, a visit to the seven-storey pint-shaped Guinness Storehouse is essential. You'll learn everything there is to know about the world famous beer as well as sampling a traditional pint or Black Velvet (Guinness and champagne) - it's much more delicious than it sounds.

Serious culture vultures should take a walking tour with renowned Dublin author, artist and historian Pat Liddy where you'll learn about Dublin's vibrant history.

Where to sleep
Like most European cities, discovering it by foot is the best way, so checking in somewhere central is important. We stayed at the stylish five-star Westin Dublin Hotel which is just steps away from Temple Bar. The beautiful 19^th century building is equipped with every mod con you'll need, including indulgent in-room spa treats.

Getting there
We flew with Aer Lingus who operate direct flights to Dublin from London, Scotland, Birmingham, Manchester and Newcastle. For further information on Aer Lingus fares and schedules, and to book, visit www.aerlingus.com

For more information on Dublin tourism visit the official online tourist office www.visitdublin.com or visit www.discoverireland.com for more information on holidays to Ireland.

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