Most world cities have urban parks where one can retreat for a few hours of solitude amid the chaos, but none do it quite like Dublin. That's because Dublin's Phoenix Park is the largest municipal park within city limits in Europe, with 1,760 acres (712 hectares) of natural green space for visitors to spread out and do pretty much anything they like. Nature buffs can wander acres of gardens and wilderness trails, snapping a few photos of the park's resident herd of fallow deer as they graze on the lawn. Families might want to hit the Dublin Zoo, which provides a home to more than 700 animals from around the world, with everything from snow leopards to Sumatran tigers. Those looking for some history can drop by Ashtown Castle, a restored 15th century tower house located next to the visitor center. If the weather's nice, it's often best to just wander the rolling green hills of the park, taking in monuments such as the Wellington Testimonial (pictured), which commemorates the military victories of the First Duke of Wellington. It's the largest obelisk in Europe. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a greener perspective on the Irish capital. Phoenix Park is minutes from the Westin Dublin.

[image via Heritage Ireland]