Dublin is a great city to visit so no doubt you must be so excited to pack your bags and be on your way. But now, you are probably wondering where to stay in Dublin. As the capital of Ireland it can feel confusing where to book your accommodation. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.
Dublin is the most visited destination in Ireland, favoured by over 10 million tourists who visit the country every year. In this guide, you’re going to learn what areas are best to stay in Dublin and why. You want to pick the right hotel in the best location to be close to all attractions in Dublin.
Dublin is lively yet intimate at the same time. The general atmosphere in Dublin is that of a warm and friendly village, despite being a modern city. You just know you’re going to have a lot of fun exploring Dublin.
Aside from its famous social scene (thanks to the traditional Irish pubs), it is also a natural playground, as Dublin is home to beautiful natural landscapes that many from across the world travel to see.
Table of Contents
- Where to Stay in Dublin?
- Creative Quarter – Central Dublin & Art History
- Why Stay In The Creative Quarter?
- Why Avoid The Creative Quarter?
- Where To Stay In The Creative Quarter?
- O’Connell Street – Dublin city center
- Why Stay In O’Connell Street?
- Why Avoid O’Connell Street?
- Where To Stay In O’Connell Street?
- Temple Bar – Dublin Nightlife
- Why Stay Around Temple Bar?
- Why Avoid Temple Bar?
- Where To Stay Around Temple Bar?
- The Docklands – History & Architecture
- Why Stay In The Docklands?
- Why Avoid The Docklands?
- Where To Stay Around The Docklands?
- Merrion Square And Fitzwilliam Square – Perfect for Relaxation
- Why Stay Around Merrion Square And Fitzwilliam Square?
- Why Avoid Merrion Square And Fitzwilliam Square?
- Where To Stay Around Merrion Square And Fitzwilliam Square?
- Portobello – For Couples
- Why Stay In Portobello?
- Why Avoid Portobello?
- Where To Stay In Portobello?
- Stoneybatter – Red-brick Charm Dublin City Center
- Why Stay In Stoneybatter?
- Why Avoid Stoneybatter?
- Where To Stay In Stoneybatter?
- Trinity – For Student Life
- Why Stay In Trinity?
- Why Avoid Trinity?
- Where To Stay Around Trinity College?
- Phibsborough – Chilled Vibes
- Why Stay In Phibsborough?
- Why Avoid Phibsborough?
- Where To Stay In Phibsborough?
Where to Stay in Dublin?
The seamless blend of culture, food, history, and natural beauty makes Dublin well worth the visit. You can explore the charming villages on foot or join tours. Either way, Dublin has many surprises in store. As one of the friendliest cities in Europe, you will feel right at home. In fact, you may never want to leave.
Dublin is generally a very safe city, but keep an eye out for pickpockets in crowded areas and as in any large city, be vigilant at night, especially if you are walking alone.
When it comes to places to stay in Dublin, you’ve got plenty of options. It all depends on what you want to accomplish and enjoy during your holiday. Do you want to unwind and be away from the crowd?
Perhaps you wish to stay in a place with easy access to the pubs and other entertainment spots that Dublin has to offer? Or maybe you want to be near the restaurants serving exquisite local dishes?
To help you find where to stay in Dublin, we outline below the various areas in the city where you can find great accommodations depending on your preferences, budget, and itinerary.
In our opinion, the best place to stay in Dublin is the O’Connell street area. It’s a very convenient location, central Dublin, perfect for first time visitors. As you will see below, the only thing is to stay off the main road to avoid the noise.
Creative Quarter – Central Dublin & Art History
Why Stay In The Creative Quarter?
The Creative Quarter lives up to its name as it is a place where you can literally find creativity everywhere. It is home to quaint cafes and shops, as well as artisan restaurants, boutiques, and bars.
The Creative Quarter is best for art history, museums, and architecture.
It boasts a rich history of design dating back to the 18th century, mixed with innovation – which will leave you awed by its architectural marvels. This beautiful place, which is right at the City Centre, will complete your Irish experience.
Here you will surely find something to do ranging from finding unique pieces for souvenirs, shopping for gourmet finds and rare wines, or just people watching while enjoying genuine Irish coffee.
Why Avoid The Creative Quarter?
If you are seeking a less touristy spot, and if you want a location with more modern architecture, then you may want to search for another place to stay in Dublin, maybe further away from the city center.
Albeit recently developed, and with business establishments newly added, several other areas in Ireland are already becoming more popular with tourists, so you can have your pick of options.
Where To Stay In The Creative Quarter?
The luxurious 5-star Westbury Hotel has spacious and sumptuously furnished bedrooms with en suite bathrooms. Each immaculate room has Sealy beds, Lissadell linen, and Aromatherapy Associates bathroom products. They also feature LCD TVs and an iPod compatible music system.
Located in the centre of Dublin’s cultural quarter, the award-winning Drury Court Hotel is ideally situated just 200 yards from Grafton Street and is surrounded by Dublin’s best eateries, theatres, and shops. The hotel is non-smoking with free Wi-Fi throughout and is ideal for visiting many of Dublin’s major tourist attractions, including Trinity College and St Stephen’s Green.
Brooks is a 4-star designer boutique hotel in Dublin city centre. The beautiful rooms feature en suite bathrooms. Francesca’s Restaurant serves a mouth-watering range of innovative Irish and international cuisine. Jasmine Bar is Ireland’s first ‘Great Whiskey Bar of the World’.
O’Connell Street – Dublin city center
Why Stay In O’Connell Street?
If you aim to be in the heart of the city and find pleasure in walking around Dublin’s city center, then O’Connell Street is the best place for you. It is Dublin’s main thoroughfare and, though it may not be the longest, it is certainly the widest street in the country.
O’Connell Street is best for first time visitors, shopping, and restaurants. It’s a good base to venture out from to explore Dublin.
Different retail stores line up along the pathways, and commemorative Irish hero statues fill the middle of the road. The historical GPO serves as a main feature of the street, and the Spire still holds the record for being the tallest sculpture in the world, standing at 133 meters.
As a simple rule, when looking for your accommodation, position yourself close to the General Post Office. This will guarantee a central location, and easy access to most sights and attractions in the city.
Why Avoid O’Connell Street?
O’Connell Street is a very busy place that doesn’t seem to stop. Everything is constantly on the move, and even at night, the street is still bustling.
The only day and time of the week that the street calms down is on a Sunday morning, but just until 11 AM. Shopping weekends before the holidays are especially hectic, with a high number of people and vehicles on the street.
Where To Stay In O’Connell Street?
Situated in the heart of Dublin city centre, The Gresham Hotel benefits from its own restaurant, and bar. The hotel offers free WiFi and spacious en suite rooms overlooking O’Connell Street. Dublin 3Arena is 1 miles away. Each en suite bedroom features an LCD TV, a safe, iron and ironing board and tea and coffee making facilities. The majority of bedrooms overlook the rear of The Gresham Hotel, at neighbouring buildings.
Located on Dublin’s Parnell Street, this Jurys Inn is just around the corner from O’Connell Street. Jurys offers en suite bedrooms, a restaurant and an Il Barista Coffee Bar. Jurys Inn Parnell Street offers contemporary rooms with Dream beds, TVs with Freeview, spa toiletries and private bathrooms. There is a workspace area and tea and coffee making facilities.
Click here for prices and book Jurys Inn Dublin Parnell Street
The Kingfisher Townhouse provides friendly accommodation with en suite bathrooms in the heart of Dublin city centre. Located on Parnell Street, the Kingfisher’s restaurant is renowned for its excellent sea-food Rooms and apartments are available, all of which have TVs and tea/coffee making facilities. The apartments feature fully equipped kitchens with cookers, dishwashers and fridges, and spacious seating areas.
Temple Bar – Dublin Nightlife
Why Stay Around Temple Bar?
Referred to as the cultural heart and tourist hub of Dublin, Temple Bar is the right place for you if you seek to bask in Irish culture, broaden your cultural and artistic perspectives, and experience a guaranteed fun party night.
Temple bar area is the main area of Dublin, best for events, nightlife and experiencing the Irish pubs.
Located at the south bank of River Liffey, this popular spot is filled with different boutiques, galleries, cafes, restaurants, and traditional Irish pubs that you can enjoy visiting Dublin.
It is also the centre of Dublin’s cultural events, as well as the first and main destination of party-goers for an exciting and fun nightlife.
Dublin Castle has temporary and permanent exhibitions. Book your fast track ticket here.
Why Avoid Temple Bar?
Home to the famous Temple Bar Inn and a popular destination in Dublin, the Temple Bar area can be too loud, crowded, and expensive. The spot can be filled with many drinkers and party-seekers, which can invite trouble if you’re not careful, especially on weekend nights.
Since Temple Bar is a popular tourist hub, price hikes are not uncommon, and you can find over-pricing on anything from food to souvenir items. You may also get caught up in incidents like drunken arguments and other public disturbances.
Where To Stay Around Temple Bar?
Hard Rock Hotel Dublin features air-conditioned rooms with satellite flat-screen TV in Dublin City Centre. All rooms are equipped with a coffee machine, fridge, and breakfast is available daily.
The Clarence boutique hotel is Dublin’s original rock n’ roll hotel, situated right in the heart of Dublin. Rooms have super king-size, wrought-iron beds and velvet curtains with River Liffey views. Dublin’s lively Temple Bar District is just a 2-minute walk from The Clarence, while O’Connell Street and Grafton Street are both 10 minutes’ walk away. Trinity College and Dublin Castle are also within walking distance.
Each mdoer room in Temple Bar Inn includes a flat-screen TV, a safe, mini-fridge and tea and coffee making facilities. Featuring a shower, the private bathroom also comes with free toiletries.
The Docklands – History & Architecture
Why Stay In The Docklands?
A trip to Dublin won’t be complete if you don’t include the Docklands in your itinerary. It has everything for every traveller – historic buildings, modern architecture, art galleries, and even river cruises.
The Docklands is best for art and history but also for business.
You can stop by one of the most famous tourist attractions in Dublin, the Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship Museum. You can also check out the diving bell, which was used in building the port’s quay walls since the Victorian era.
In the mood for a cruise? Dublin offers the Liffey River Cruise to tourists who want a different way of sightseeing.
Making your way through the area, you will also find interesting and captivating works of art displayed publicly.
Transportation to and from the Docklands is not an issue since it is located close to the city centre. Travellers can take advantage of Dublin’s extensive public transportation system, rent a bicycle, or simply take a stroll.
Since it is also a business hub, several establishments for food and lodging can be found within the premises. Booking a room or eating out will not be an issue for the weary traveller.
Why Avoid The Docklands?
One disadvantage of the Docklands being a business hub is that prices for accommodation and food can be expensive.
There are some low-cost lodgings within the area, but these might not be readily available since the demand for them is high, especially during peak season.
This may not also be the appropriate place for the traveller who wants to be close to nature, since it is filled with buildings and establishments.
Where To Stay Around The Docklands?
With views over the River Liffey, Hilton Garden Inn sits in a great location, next to 3Arena, EPIC Ireland museum and Bord Gais Theatre. In the newly developed Dockland area, all rooms feature power showers and flat-screen TVs. Hilton Garden Inn Dublin has a contemporary, spacious and comfortable guest room.
Located 200 yards from the Convention Centre in Dublin, The Spencer Hotel features private parking and free WiFi access. The hotel has a spa centre and an indoor swimming pool. Each air-conditioned room includes a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.
Merrion Square And Fitzwilliam Square – Perfect for Relaxation
Why Stay Around Merrion Square And Fitzwilliam Square?
If you’re searching for the perfect place to relax and escape the busy city life without actually leaving the city, then Merrion Square and Fitzwilliam Square are the perfect spots for you.
This area is best for restaurants, shopping and a quiet afternoon.Between the Trinity College and the Merrion Square is the nicest part of Dublin.
Considered as one of the best-preserved Georgian squares in Dublin, Merrion Square Park has a beautiful history showcased in its striking architecture, Georgian town houses. In fact, Oscar Wilde was one of its residents.
Fitzwilliam Square, meanwhile, is the smallest of all the Georgian Squares, yet you can still have a delightful and relaxing time as you walk around the area.
Some of its notable landmarks are the Oscar Wilde House, the National Concert Hall, the National Gallery, and the Natural History Museum.
South of Butt Bridge, you will find some well-preserved architecture that makes a good background for photos.
You will find some of the best luxury hotels around the Merrion Square.
Why Avoid Merrion Square And Fitzwilliam Square?
Fitzwilliam Square, among all the Georgian Squares in Dublin, is the only one with a private park that is exclusive to its residents. Guests or tourists only have access to the park on special, rare occasions.
Only a few residents live in the Georgian Squares area, and by nighttime, the place quiets down and isn’t as vibrant as other spots in Dublin.
It’s very difficult to come across cheap hotels in this area, most hotels are mid-range, high end.
Where To Stay Around Merrion Square And Fitzwilliam Square?
At the guest house, each room comes with a desk and a TV. Every room has a private bathroom. Number 31 offers on site bar, a continental or buffet breakfast. With staff speaking German, English and Italian, information is available at the reception.
Around a 6-minute walk from St. Stephen’s Green, the property is also close to The Little Museum of Dublin. The on-site restaurant serves Irish cuisine. The rooms in the hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV. The private bathroom is fitted with a shower. A continental breakfast is served each morning at the property.
Portobello – For Couples
Why Stay In Portobello?
For those of you who love strolls and sunbathing, Portobello is a great place to stay in Dublin. It is mainly a residential area, located in a prime location near the City Centre and the Grand Canal.
Portobello is best for cafes, restaurants, pubs and cocktail bars.
It is a lively neighbourhood, and its proximity to the Grand Canal makes it a convenient location for strolls and just de-stressing on the benches.
Camden street is lined with restaurants, pubs and cocktail bars.
Portobello is also home to cafes that are popular for their brunch. Here you will find the best spots for mid-morning and mid-afternoon meals at reasonable prices.
Head to popular cafes like Bibi’s Café and 31 Lennox Café, and you will surely get a satisfying Irish meal.
Why Avoid Portobello?
Generally, Portobello has a young and cool vibe to it, being home to hipster cafes and street art.
If you are looking for a more upscale location, then there are other places in Dublin which offer this.
Also, if you want to enjoy Dublin’s nightlife, Portobello is not the place for you. It’s also not the ideal location if you want to see more of traditional Ireland attractions
Where To Stay In Portobello?
A brand new hotel overlooking the Grand Canal in Dublin 2, Clayton Hotel Charlemont boasts a shared lounge, Red Bean Roastery, Lockside Bar/Social and Gaudens Restaurant. At the hotel, all rooms are equipped with a desk, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. A buffet breakfast is served every morning at the hotel.
The Hilton has multi-lingual staff and offers 24-hour room service. Bedrooms have large opening windows and provide mini-bars, hair dryers and irons. At Charlemont Bar & Bistro, dining options include a hearty breakfast or nutritious light bite; dishes produced with fresh ingredients, or guests can relax with a hot drink.
Maldron Hotel Kevin Street provides comfortable and spacious rooms room with buffet breakfast.
Stoneybatter – Red-brick Charm Dublin City Center
Why Stay In Stoneybatter?
Stoneybatter offers you the “red-brick charm of the inner-city Dublin”, a long list of options to get yourself a drink, and a great opportunity to enjoy a view of herds of deer roaming around the city park.
If you love books or any kind of literature, then you’ll definitely have a lovely time, as Stoneybatter has become a centre of a literary renaissance.
An endless variety of food options from coffee and pastries to Asian cuisines are available at the different cafes and restaurants around the area.
Stoneybatter also offers a fun night out with numerous pubs to choose from, and it is accessible from the city centre with just a 30-minute walk at most.
Why Avoid Stoneybatter?
A rise in the prices around the area is one of the downsides of Stoneybatter. You may find some difficulty in finding cheap items or souvenirs. Click to check our recommendation for authentic Irish souvenirs you should get.
Since it is the home to some of the city’s finest pubs, you can expect to be in the thick of the drink-loving crowds. If you’re after a more subdued, cultural experience, then this would not be the spot for you.
Unfortunately, there are not that many hotels in this area. We recommend looking closer to O’Connell Street.
Where To Stay In Stoneybatter?
The Ashling is located just a 5-minute walk from Dublin Zoo and the Guinness Storehouse. A 5-minute journey on the LUAS tram brings you to the lively Temple Bar area. Decorated in warm tones, rooms have comfortable beds with crisp white duvets. Rooms include flat-screen TVs and in-room safes.
Situated in Dublin, next to the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History, The Hendrick Smithfield features accommodation with an on site bar, private parking and a terrace.
Trinity – For Student Life
Why Stay In Trinity?
Since Trinity College is in the centre of Dublin City, it is well-located for everything and everywhere is accessible.
The rooms in the campus dorms are reasonably priced and are full of character and history. Several cafes and pubs can be found outside the campus as well.
Safe and secure, the Trinity College area is best for students. The campus has an excellent security system with campus police guarding the grounds.
The people are also welcoming and nice. Large courtyards and green fields surround the campus, giving you the opportunity to enjoy peaceful leisure time.
If you want a Dublin City experience like no other, then this is your best choice.
Why Avoid Trinity?
If you like complete peace and quiet while spending time in the campus, then staying in and around Trinity College may not be the best idea.
The noise of the busy streets of the city outside the walls of the campus can be heard inside. As it is in the city centre, you should expect many people when walking outside the campus.
Where To Stay Around Trinity College?
The spacious, stylish rooms at the Trinity City Hotel are decorated in rich colours and walnut wood fittings. Rooms include a flat-screen TV, a laptop safe, full-length mirror, and a bathroom with a bath, power shower, and The White Company toiletries. Some rooms have panoramic city views.
Located beside Trinity College, this Georgian property is beautifully restored with elegant décor and warm, traditional style. Trinity Townhouse Hotel is set within a quiet area of Dublin’s historic quarter. The Hotel offers spacious rooms with Wi-Fi, power showers, TVs, complimentary tea and Nespresso machines.
Open since 1837, the hotel has a long established reputation for offering traditional Irish hospitality. It retains its old charm, but has been upgraded over the years to offer modern amenities. Each room includes free WiFi, a TV and tea/coffee making facilities. Some rooms share bathrooms with other rooms and others have en-suite facilities.
Click here for prices and book The Kildare Street Hotel by theKeycollections
Phibsborough – Chilled Vibes
Why Stay In Phibsborough?
Want to stay away from the chaos of the city life yet still want to be a part of Dublin city? Phibsborough offers you just that opportunity.
Also known as “Phibsboro”, the area is just a few minutes away from the city centre and is a mixture of a residential and commercial neighbourhood.
The place gives off a young and vibrant vibe, and it has several spots where you can enjoy a peaceful time and easily remove yourself from the city madness.
So, if a relaxing trip is your ideal, then definitely stay within the Phibsborough area.
Why Avoid Phibsborough?
Phibsborough, isn’t really built for cars. Most of the properties in the area don’t have driveways and so the parking is on the side of the street. If you plan to rent a car for your holiday, then this can cause you some problems.
Since not all the on-street parking is metered, most of the residents park their cars on the street, which can take up most of the area of the road.
Where To Stay In Phibsborough?
Guests can enjoy air-conditioned rooms which feature a private bathroom, Free WiFi, iron/trouser press, TV, along with a work desk and tea/coffee facilities. Stir Café & Bar offers a buffet breakfast, a full a la carte menu with an array of European and Irish dishes plus a selection of freshly brewed coffees and fine wines. Pizzas are also made to order and they can be taken back to guest’s rooms
The colourful rooms each have a private modern bathroom, a telephone and a TV. All rooms feature a free daily newspaper, and some overlook the courtyard garden. Traditional full Irish breakfasts are served daily in the bright and airy dining room. Light continental options are available, and guests can also dine on the leafy terrace.
All rooms have private en-suite bathrooms, free WiFi, cable TV and a Café Bar on the ground floor offering comfort food and drinks. The Eccles Townhouse has been revitalised and brought back to it’s original use as accommodation over the Café Bar. The property still retains the Victorian feel, with original windows and steel columns, but with modern conveniences.
We hope this article helped you find the location you want to stay in Dublin. As usual, if you have any questions or suggestions, let us know in the comments below.
Leave a Reply