In the wake of a remarkable economic boom, Dublin's landscape has changed immeasurably over the past decade. These days Dublin ranks among the top tourist destinations in Europe, and this vibrant city hums with a palpable sense that it is creating a new cultural heritage.

Though most people don't schedule too much gallery time into the pub crawl, Dublin museums offer a wealth of collectables. From the proverbial pot of Irish gold to the artistic riches of the Book of Kells to a host of quirky 'objets d'religious', it's a city of archives and artefacts.

The Irish Republic's second largest city is a surprisingly appealing place - you'll find time passes effortlessly during the day, and by night the pub scene is lively. The town centre is uniquely situated on an island between two channels of the Lee River.

North of the river, in the Shandon area, is an interesting historic part of the city, although it's a bit run down today. Sights to the south include the Protestant St Finbarr's Cathedral, the Cork Museum (largely given over to the nationalist struggle, in which Cork played an important role), the 19th century Cork Jail, the City Hall and numerous churches, breweries and chapels.

The historic city of Derry is the only walled city in Ireland whose ramparts have survived intact. The River Foyle curves picturesquely around the old walled town, creating a cosy setting that jars with the reality of this city's troubled history. A walk around its old walls is one of the highlights of a visit to Northern Ireland.

From the top of the walls there are good views of the Bogside area and its defiant murals ('No Surrender!') and the Free Derry monument. Derry has lots of fascinating history to absorb, including St Columb's Cathedral dating from 1628. The city also has a well-founded reputation for musical excellence, from traditional to cutting-edge contemporary.

Galway (Gaillimh) is the administrative capital of County Galway. Its university attracts a notable bohemian crowd, and its boisterous nightlife and festivals fill the streets to bursting. Galway is also a departure point for the rugged Aran Islands.

Its tightly packed town centre lies on both sides of the fast flowing River Corrib; most of the main shopping areas are east of the river. Its many fine cultural festivals include the February Jazz Festival, the Easter Festival of Literature and the Galway Arts Festival in July.

Waterford has a decidedly medieval feel, with city walls, narrow alleyways and a Norman tower. Georgian times also left a legacy of fine buildings, in particular those on the Mall, a spacious 18th-century street. Important buildings include the City Hall and the Bishop's Palace.

The city's many churches are also noteworthy, especially the sumptuous interior of Holy Trinity Cathedral. Waterford is first and foremost a busy commercial port city, situated on the River Suir, whose estuary is deep enough to allow large ships to berth at the city's quays.