Although the Abbey Theatre looks quite contemporary, even swanky with its glass front and the theater name bathed in blue light, the performance venue has turn-of-the-century origins. Famed poet, W.B. Yeats, along with another Irish writer, Lady Augusta Gregory, opened the national theater in 1904. It's since been rebuilt and now features 628 seats and a continuous playbill of Ireland's most promising playwrights.

Visitors raved about the venue, describing it as the premier place to see quality theater in Dublin, adding that performances never disappoint. Many recommend taking the 90-minute backstage tour, which includes an up-close look at the theater's current production, as well as its portrait collection. Reviewers described the tour guides as friendly, informative and funny, and said the tour enriched their theater experience. Ticket prices vary by show, as do hours. Tours, which are scheduled to coincide with the running dates of performances, cost 12 euros (about $14). Located north of the Liffey on Lower Abbey Street, you can find performance information on the theater's website.