These shops are all just a few steps from famous Grafton Street.

●Avoca

11-13 Suffolk St., just off Grafton St., Dublin 2; +353 1 677 4215. M-W & Sat 9:30am-6 pm, Thur-F 9:30 am-7 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm.

Named for the rural Irish village of its origin, Avoca claims to be one of the world's oldest surviving manufacturing companies. It offers a fetching selection of contemporary Ireland-made clothing and housewares. On another day, I visited the Wicklow-based woolen mill this store originated from. Downstairs, Avoca’s wholesome café serves up snacks and take-out, and on the top floor the bright Suffolk Street Café serves breakfast and lunch with a city view.

Avoca shop, pottery, Dublin, Ireland

●George’s Street Arcade

S. Great George’s St., Dublin 2. M-Sat 9am-6:30 pm, Thur 9am-8pm, Sun noon-6pm.

Very little Victorian-era British architecture has survived in Dublin. This long, airy shopping arcade constructed of red brick and wrought iron in 1881 is said to be Europe’s oldest shopping center. Nowadays you’ll find vintage clothing and whatnot in temporary stalls down the middle, and more items in permanent shops along each side. Lolly and Cooks serves up sweet cupcakes and pastries.

George's Street Arcade, interior, Dublin, Ireland

●Hodges Figgis bookstore

56-58 Dawson St., Dublin 2, 01 677 4754.

This expansive store has been here since 1768. It purveys an extensive selection of books by Irish authors.

Hodges Figgis bookstore, Dublin, Ireland

●Kilkenny

6-15 Nassau St., Dublin 2, 00353 1 6777066.

Running the length of the south end of Trinity College, this is the largest emporium of Irish-designed contemporary gifts in Ireland. A restaurant on the first floor overlooks the grounds of Trinity College.