Widely known as one of the mote notable museums in Europe, the Chester Beatty Library is often overlooked by tourists. The library is home to an extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts and drawings dating back to 2700 B.C. The museum includes religious and artistic collections from across Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and Europe.

This beautiful park (known for remaining green throughout the year) is a great place to spend a day outside without leaving central Dublin. It's been enjoyed by locals and visitors since 1880 when Arthur Edward Guinness re-opened it as a public park after it served as a private community for the wealthier residents of Dublin for more than century.

If you're an art lover, make sure to save some time for this extensive (and free!) museum, which has housed Ireland's national art collection since 1854. Here you'll find numerous works by such renowned artists as Caravaggio, Vincent van Gogh and the French impressionists. But the main attractions are works from some of Ireland's masters, with an impressive collection of works by notable residents as William Leech, Roderic O'Conor and Jack B. Yeats. The National Gallery also hosts notable traveling exhibitions as well as concerts and lectures.

When you need a break from all the museums and historical sites, head to Grafton Street. This pedestrian street – which runs from Trinity College to St. Stephen's Green – is Dublin's premier shopping district. Here, you'll find everything from familiar brands to more unique items like quirky shoes and used books. There are also two shopping centers in the area, the Stephen's Green Shopping Centre and the upscale Powerscourt Centre. So, if you're looking for a place to exercise your credit card, this would be it.

Often compared to Bourbon Street in New Orleans, this neighborhood is Dublin's famous party hub. During the day, this district thrives on artistic vision, featuring numerous independent galleries and performance art venues. At night, dozens of pubs open their doors to those looking to share a pint of Guinness and click their heels to spirited Irish music.