First Class Luxury in Ireland's Fairest City

Welcome winter with a visit to one of Dublin’s unique Christmas markets.

With four unique markets from which to choose, Dublin is an excellent option for those in the mood for some festive cheer. We have put together a guide to help you choose where to stay and how to sample some of the city’s established and emerging cuisine. We have also detailed the Christmas markets to ensure you get the most out of your time in this wonderful city.

Where to Stay

With a history dating back to the 1700s, The Merrion Hotel is five-star luxury accommodation in the heart of the city. Alongside its opulent furnishings, decadent afternoon tea and top-class spa, The Merrion houses a private collection of late 19th century and early 20th Century Irish Art. The location of the hotel is perfect for guests who want to be within walking distance of the city centre while enjoying world class comfort.

If you’d like to be King/Queen for a day, Clontarf Castle is the perfect mix of ancient architecture and modern decadence. This 12^th Century property was given a three million Euro revamp and its impressive entrance hall and lavishly decorated bedrooms stand as testament to the investment. Allow plenty of time for breakfast so you can juice your own carrots, sample the wild Irish honeycomb and savour the freshly-made waffles.

If you prefer a more understated experience, nothing says Irish hospitality like the welcome you will receive at Tara Hall. This beautiful period home is situated in Howth, a fishing village only 30 minutes from Dublin. The bedrooms have expansive views of the sea and are tastefully decorated. The garden is the perfect spot from which to watch the sun set. If you like to get your walking shoes on, there is a cliff walk around Howth Head, which was immortalised in James Joyce’s Ulysses.

'Five-star luxury accommodation in the heart of the city'

Where to Eat

The food scene in Dublin is constantly expanding. The city’s multicultural mix lends itself to interesting fusions and creative expression that will leave your taste buds tingling. However, you cannot come to Dublin without eating in Restaurant Patrick Guilband, an established, award-winning eatery and the only restaurant in the country to hold two Michelin stars. With a diverse seasonal menu and an impressive wine list, this dining experience does not disappoint.

The Winding Stair is one of Dublin’s best-loved restaurants, named in honour of a Yeats poem. It is situated above a bookshop, on the bank of the River Liffey. Here, you can sample delicious Irish cuisine featuring top quality local ingredients. Set aside some time to peruse the shelves of the independent book shop which is full of ancient and modern treasures.

If you are in the market for cutting edge cuisine, try 3 Leaves in Blackrock Market for affordable and delicious Indian grub, or Alma in Portabello, an Argentian Café quickly rising in popularity – their dulce de leche pancakes have caused a social media sensation.

Christmas in Dublin

Finally, the Christmas Markets.

The Dun Laoghaire Christmas Market in South County Dublin is a short train journey from the city centre. Not only is Dun Laoghaire a delightful seaside town, but the Christmas Market is well worth a day trip. It is open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday for most of November and December and every day of the week on the final lead up to Christmas Day. It has a magical atmosphere with lots of high-quality arts and crafts and some delicious food vendors.

Smithfield Square has one of the largest Christmas trees in the city and they often throw a party when the lights are turned on. The market boasts some of the best food in the city and lovely artisan stalls. They have even been known to put up an ice rink. Visit their website to find out when the market is on.

The MART Market in Rathmines takes place in an old fire station and is a unique experience. Expect paintings by local artists, fashion designers and jewellery makers. This is the spot to pick up something special for the one you love.

No trip to Dublin would be complete without a visit to Harvey Nichols Department Store in Dundrum Town Centre. From artisan food products to top fashion fixes, kids’ collections to beauty must haves, Harvey Nichols has gifts to suit everyone on your list. Not only that, they stock STORIES PARFUMS  Eau de Parfums and body products. So, visit their fragrance department to purchase a bottle of          STORIES Nº. 01 or STORIES Nº. 02 and let the scent weave its story as you travel the streets of Dublin this winter.

If a trip to Dublin is a step too far, visit our website to purchase something from our range of luxury fragrance and bath and body products.