Top Rated Attractions in Dublin

Step into a world of fantasy where your dreams come alive at the National Leprechaun Museum. Learn the history and fables behind the myth (or perhaps truth) of leprechauns. Children will enjoy playing in a room with over-sized furniture, where even adults can feel like the "wee people." Although you won't leave with a pot of gold, you will leave with a smile and a whole lot of magical memories.

At a first glance, the black exterior of this place may not look appealing. But as you step inside, you are sure to be surprised with what this popular venue has on offer. The Grand Social has four eclectic venues. There is The Parlour where one can quench your thirst with beer or The Ballroom that is pulsating with DJ nights and themed events. The breezy Garden hosts regular live gigs while the upstairs Loft allures visitors with its circus-themed decor and its wonderful line-up of burlesque acts, fashion shows, reading sessions and film screenings. Saturday is the most awaited as The Grand Social transforms into a weekly flea market selling fashionable clothes, furniture, accessories, books and more. All in all, there's never a dull moment at The Grand Social.

Grafton Street and the surrounding area is the most upmarket shopping district in Dublin. Grafton Street itself is pedestrianized and runs from Trinity College up to St Stephen's Green. It is home to some of Dublin's signature businesses, including the city's most elegant department store Brown Thomas. Grafton Street is also home to many familiar high-street names, and the upper end of the street is anchored by the sunny, glass-roofed St Stephen's Green Shopping Centre. In the surrounding area, Dawson Street features Waterstone's, the city's best book store. Wicklow Street boasts some funky shoe shops and Clarendon Street is home to the upmarket Powerscourt Townhouse Centre. In all, this district should supply most, if not all, of your shopping needs.

One of only two Anglican cathedrals in Dublin, this venerated church stands alongside the serene meadows of the symbolic Saint Patrick's Park. Constructed in the year 1192, the cardinal cathedral of Glendalough is an architectural masterpiece whose multiple spires soar over the urban landscapes of the Coombe, Warrenmount, and Portobello. The main attractions within St Patrick's are the tombs of Jonathan Swift and his companion, which are located in the nave. The cathedral also contains the longest medieval nave in Ireland and a stone slab engraved with a Celtic cross that covers the well from which St Patrick blessed his subjects. The adjoining garden is a welcome oasis in this densely built-up district of the city.

Designed by Francis Johnston in 1818, the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street is known as the site of the 1916 Easter Rising. Irish Volunteers seized the building on Easter Monday and for six days held out against the British until the GPO was set on fire. The building was completely restored in 1929. Inside, stands a bronze statue depicting the death of the mythical Irish warrior Cuchulainn, dedicated to those who died in the uprising. The GPO has acquired iconic status; demonstrations and protests are often held outside.

Located at Stephen's Green, this little non-profit museum revives 20th Century Dublin for visitors. The little museum focuses, among other things, on the cultural transition that took place during the entire existence of the nation. There's a surprising amount of things to discover here, such as the Golden Age of Dublin, contribution of women in significant socio-economic movements, and a special exhibit dedicated to U2, Ireland's biggest rock band. Overall, it is a great way to acquaint yourself with how far the great city has come, and it is highly recommended to join one of their super engaging tours.