Nestled in the heart of Dublin, Iveagh Gardens is often called the city’s “secret garden.” Originally designed in 1865 and later beautifully restored, this enchanting park offers a serene escape from urban life. High yew hedges and charming pathways divide the space into a series of intimate garden rooms – including a rosarium filled with fragrant blooms and an unusual rock waterfall tucked in one corner. Statues peek out amid the greenery, and an old ivy-covered archway leads you from one lawn to the next.

Highlights include the whimsical yew hedge maze (a rarity in Ireland)

The Iveagh Gardens remain surprisingly tranquil even though they’re just a block from busy St. Stephen’s Green. Many miss this spot, hidden behind walls and buildings, which makes it all the more special for those who do find it. Whether you’re exploring the quirky grotto with its fake stalactites, admiring the statues of muses, or simply enjoying the peace, it’s easy to see why these gardens are dubbed a hidden gem of Dublin.