Dvblinia

Lonely Planet review

Inside what was once the Synod Hall, added to Christ Church Cathedral during its late-19th-century restoration, this is a lively and kitschy attempt to bring medieval Dublin to life using models, music, streetscapes and interactive displays. The ground floor has wax models depicting 10 episodes in Dublin's history, explained in a choice of five languages through headsets.

Up one floor is Viking World, which has a large selection of objects recovered from Wood Quay, the world's largest Viking archaeological site. There's also a huge model of 11th-century Dublin and a bunch of interactive exhibits such as a longboat that you can sit in and pretend to be a slave. There are also models of the medieval quayside and of a cobbler's shop. On the top floor is the Medieval Fayre, featuring merchants' wares, a medicine stall, an armourer's pavilion, a confessional booth and a bank. Finally, you can climb neighbouring St Michael's Tower and peek through its grubby windows for views over the city to the Dublin hills. There is also a pleasant café and the inevitable souvenir shop. Your ticket gets you into Christ Church Cathedral free, via the link bridge.