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This powerful looking building with its grand entrance was designed in 1771 by Robert Mack as a home for the third Viscount Powerscourt. The first-floor reception rooms, by Michael Stapleton, and the elegant hall can still be appreciated even though the house was imaginatively converted into a shopping precinct in 1981.

Irish designer labels and antiques shops cluster around the indoor courtyard of this 18th-century converted townhouse. Products range from handmade jigsaw puzzles to antique jewellery and Irish silver. The Design Centre is upstairs, with the cream of Irish fashion. When you’ve had enough, there are plenty of cafés here too.

Built in the 18th century for Viscount Powerscourt, this fine building was converted into a shopping precinct in 1981. The main, grand entrance opens into a fine hall and staircase. The Georgian Room on the first floor, now turned into a shop similar to the other reception rooms, has exquisite plasterwork created by Michael Stapleton. There is a variety of stores here, including jewellery designers, trendy boutiques, craft outlets, coffee specialists and greengrocers. When you have exhausted your shopping cravings, there are plenty of places to eat and drink.

Born as a spin-off project to the Gate, the Project is perhaps the most vibrant centre of performance art in the city, with enthusiastic young companies exploring innovative dance, music, drama and poetry. U2, Liam Neeson and Gabriel Byrne were all rising stars here.

For murdering his father, the sun god Lugh demanded that the three sons of Tuireann give him magical objects and perform difficult feats. Their last task was to make three shouts from the Hill of Miochaoin; these shouts summoned supernatural warriors who killed them.

Finn MacCoul asked King Cormac for the hand of his daughter Grainne, but she eloped with Finn’s nephew Diarmait. For a year and a day Diarmait and Grainne fled as enraged Finn pursued them around Ireland.

The best choice in town for vegetarian dishes, this harbour-side restaurant is also well known for its fresh fish, lobster, crab and steaks.

A privately owned, converted Victorian house, set in the heart of Ballsbridge’s elegant residential district. Guests are encouraged to relax together in front of the fire in the lounge, but the bedrooms are comfortable and stylish if you’re feeling less sociable.

“Rajdoot” translates as “ambassador”, and this multi-award-winning restaurant near Grafton Street has been a fine ambassador for tandoori cuisine since its establishment in 1966 as the first such restaurant in Europe. With chefs regularly sent back to India to train, the food is authentic north Indian, with a variety of inspired Moghlai presentations.