Dublin’s creative and cultural core is best seen through libraries and lamp-lit pubs; matcha breaks and museum nooks. Wander from Trinity’s Long Room to the rare finds at Marsh’s Library and Chester Beatty, pausing at Kaph for a midday pick-me-up and people watching. Later, sip your way through the city’s whiskey scene – Pearse Lyons and Teeling distilleries are two of the best – before a Guinness finale. For dinner, Bastible is seasonal, sincere and worth booking ahead. Retreat to Wilder Townhouse for quiet charm and lilac walls.

A breezy DART ride (Dublin’s coastal train service) lands you in Howth, the harbour town where Dubliners come to exhale. Snack your way through Howth Market (think chowder, falafel and sugared crêpes) then follow the cliff walk past bracken-covered bluffs and views of Dublin Bay. Don’t skip the Ye Olde Hurdy Gurdy Museum , a quirky trove of vintage radios and maritime lore. Linger for sundowners and seafood by the shore or return to the city on the evening tide.

Ease into the rural rhythm with breakfast at Shoda Market Café – eggs, sourdough and sunshine, if you’re lucky – then stroll among the collegiate spires of Maynooth University and its neighbouring seminary, St Patrick’s College. In Straffan, The K Club blends country house-charm with spa facilities and championship greens, making it the perfect spot for whiling away the afternoon. Come evening, Avenue serves up polished Irish cooking without the fuss.

Naas wears its race-day glamour lightly. Check into The Club at Goffs – a modern bolthole with sharp interiors and equestrian touches – then stroll into town for a flat white from Hey Darling and a browse of the local boutiques. If the timing’s right, Punchestown or Naas Racecourse will deliver a dose of pageantry and sport. In the evening, book into Neighbourhood for seasonal plates, low-lit interiors and a well-stocked bar.

Round off your trip in Ireland’s thoroughbred capital, County Kildare. Start strong with a stop at Square Coffee before heading to the Irish National Stud – part working stud farm, part serene retreat thanks to the Japanese Garden’s stepping stones and koi ponds. If it’s race day, The Curragh offers front-row drama. For dinner, Fallons delivers warm service, refined comfort food and open fires – all in a former coach house. BRAND NAME is a short drive away and known for blooming gardens and big-hearted hospitality.