Phoenix Park

An oasis on the north bank
Word to the wise: If heading for the park do drop in at the nearby Decorative Arts and History branch of the National Museum of Ireland. The collection is fascinating, and it's free.

Central Dublin has its fair share of small parks and shady garden squares, but those after the real deal should make the two mile journey to Phoenix Park in the North Quays district. This minor exertion will be well rewarded: the largest urban park in Europe, covering eight square kilometres, it's full of things to do as well as wilder meadows in which one can wander alone.
The park's most notable attraction is Dublin Zoo, one of the oldest in the world and spacious enough to not feel like a depressing animal prison, as can often be the case with city zoos. You can also hire bikes, visit a Victorian walled kitchen garden and find sustenance at several decent cafes and kiosks.