What are the best parks in Dublin

They call it the Emerald Isle for a reason: in a nation where green landscapes are the norm, Dublin parks, gardens and hiking areas hold their own ground. Perfect for getting a bit of exercise while on holiday or taking a much-needed stroll to decompress from the stress of international transit, sites like the National Botanic Gardens and Merrion Square in the city are must-see additions to your itinerary. Breathe deep of the Irish air, head outside, and immerse yourself in the green.

Phoenix Park

One of the largest recreational spaces in any European city with a whopping 707 hectares, Phoenix Park is home to the Dublin Zoo, the Papal Cross, the Wellington Testimonial, the Deerfield Residence, and Magazine Fort. You read that correctly – all of this exists in the same park, and there's actually more. Save a whole day (at least) and see it all for yourself.

Irish National War Memorial Gardens

A memorial for the 49,400 Irish soldiers killed during World War I, as well as those Irishmen and women who have died while serving other countries, the Irish National War Memorial Gardens are a beautiful, peaceful space to explore and reflect. The gardens are open year-round to the public.

Temple Bar Square

A beautiful square found in one of Dublin's most popular and vibrant social districts, Temple Bar Square is the perfect spot to relax and people-watch after a long day of retail therapy in the CBD. Grab a coffee or find a nice pub and kick back, or explore the many nearby stores and community landmarks.

Mountjoy Square

A simple, open park perfect for a picnic, Mountjoy Park is an oasis of green among the city streets. Surrounded on all sides by historic Dublin architecture and truly spectacular in the autumn when the leaves begin to turn orange, Mountjoy Park is the ideal spot to take a break on your walking tour of the city's north.

Mayor Square

Located in the Docklands district, Mayor Square is an inner-city residential area filled with shops, public areas, and historic landmarks to explore. The perfect spot to take a break while on your way to The Irish Emigration Museum (EPIC ) or the Famine Memorial, this is a secluded space amid one of the city's busiest districts.