Dublin

Although founded in the 9th Century by the Vikings, little remains of Dublin's early history but its cobblestoned streets which showcase layer upon layer of history with Medieval era cathedrals and castles alongside the elegant Georgian facades from its heyday in the 18th Century as the British Empire's second city. Today, the capital city of Ireland boasts a cosmopolitan vibe, with restaurants catering to the diverse tastes of its increasingly multicultural populace. Dublin's pubs remain, however, the highlight of its nightlife and social scene, with the amiable natives mingling with tourists over pints of the legendary, local Guinness. For those with a taste for more genteel epicurean delights, Dublin also harbors Michelin starred restaurants. The city's penchant for revelry is balanced by its repute as a UNESCO City of Literature, associated with literary luminaries like Yeats, Joyce and Beckett. From architectural monuments like the Saint Patrick's Cathedral and historic sites like the Kilmainham Gaol to several fine museums, art galleries and theaters, Dublin envelops a wealth of culture and history into its relatively modest embrace. Child-friendly attractions like Dublin Zoo are quite popular as well, as are the city's designer boutiques and lovely parks.