Dublin

The first challenge for the first-time visitor to Dublin is how to stay close to the heart of the action. Kelly's nails the location to the maxim and throws a great bar and restaurant into the mix.

The Fumbally is a delectable mash-up of food, friends and creatives hatching their next big idea. From occasional morning comedy to evening screenings, this is where to go to be in the know about the hipster heart of Dublin. The porchetta is a signature lunchtime dish.

Traditional thoughts of Irish design will lead you to Aran knitwear and tweeds. However, this design store expands upon this notion by showcasing a truly eclectic range. From wonderful prints of the city to herringbone scarves, this is the ideal place to pick up something affordable and truly special.

Dublin has been on a superior caffeine high for some years now with a splurge of reputable cafés opening, up around the city. Barista Colin Harmon is one of the originators and instigators and a Godfather of the scene. What started out on the third floor of his apartment has now expanded into a roastery and distribution business with its own free sheet in this slickly designed hub.

The queues at lunchtime are an indicator of how cherished the Green Bench is. How they fit so many people behind the counter and satisfy your hunger so quickly remains a mystery. Start salivating by simply reading their menu 'Black pepper baked ham with avocado, aioli, red pepper, spring onions, tabbouleh, cheddar and mixed leaves'. And that is even before you tuck into their spectacular salads. 

Has the internet drained your attention span? Then the Little Museum is the perfect pit stop for those of us who like our history with a speedy twist. You can whizz through the decades in their unorthodox history of Ireland taking in the most peculiar and amusing memorabilia of Irish life.

For the ultimate urban adventurer, Tribe is where to pick up your threads and accessories. With a focus on skate and surf inspired gear, you'll find yourself endlessly browsing or merely just hanging out and shooting the breeze. Make it your quest to get to Tribe.

Grogans is the bar stool of choice in the city centre. Boasting the fastest service known to man, a hodge-podge of art on the walls and the guarantee of curious conversation, this is the mecca of any pub pilgrimage in the city. Hang around outside to soak up the atmosphere at the crossroads of cool!

Whether it's a Friday night kick-off to the weekend or a Margarita Monday pow-wow debrief of it (2 for €12), Mexican restaurant 777 is the top chihuahua in town. Beyond the frosted glass and unassuming exterior lies the beats and the bedlam. Grab a stool at the counter and tuck into the tostados and taquitos.

In this part of town, the name "creative quarter" really does fit the owner. The block that stretches from South William Street to George's and from Lower Stephen's to Exchequer Street is a genuine hub for artisanal boutiques, cafés, creative studios and some damn funky street art.

The ever-inventive Bodytonic boys took over this down-at-heel bar and turned it into an essential hang-out haunt. Expect exhibitions, launches, DJs, art battles and the ever-popular mainstay - The Big Blue Bus serving up moreish pizza in their buzzing beer garden.