20 Must-Visit Attractions in Dublin, Ireland

The Abbey’s cutting-edge shows often tackle controversial subjects, which is unusual for a national state theatre. WB Yeats and dramatist Lady Gregory opened the theatre in 1904, with the manifesto “to bring upon the stage the deeper emotions of Ireland”. It certainly did that. Abbey productions triggered riots in 1907 and 1926. In the second instance, Yeats leapt onto the stage to scold the audience. Things have calmed down these days, but you can still enjoy top-class Irish theatre or a backstage tour.

The one-hour tours of this Grafton Street museum are an enjoyable, interactive romp through the history of Irish whiskey. Engaging guides illuminate the Irish people’s deadly first attempts at distilling and explain the rise and fall of the whiskey industry in a faithfully recreated Irish bar. Tours finish with a tasting that will educate novices and experts alike. Tongue-in-cheek jokes are a hallmark, and Scottish guests can expect to be good-naturedly teased about their “inferior” product. If you want to take your experience to the next level, pair your tour with a whiskey-blending class.