Dublin is the capital city of Ireland, and it’s full of great nightlife, culture, nature, and incredible vibes.
There’s so much to do and see here, it can be overwhelming trying to plan your itinerary alone, not to mention trying to figure out the best place to stay!
I lived in Dublin for four months when I studied abroad, and while I stayed on my university’s campus the whole time rather than hotels, I did a lot of exploring the city and what it has to offer!
Dublin is a city full of vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality. Where you stay can help dictate the mood of your trip!
Whether you’re visiting Dublin for history or nightlife, nature or culture, or a mix of everything, there’s a place for you!
In this guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay in Dublin, along with top hotels, hostels, and stays for every budget!
No matter what kind of experience you’re looking for, this should help you find the perfect base to explore Dublin like a pro!
Pressed for time? No worries, I’ve been there. Here’s a quick summary:
My overall top recommendations are St. Stephen’s Green for an area to stay. If you’re wanting somewhere else, my top recommendations are Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin for luxury travelers, The Chancery for mid-range travelers, The Fleet Hotel for budget travelers, and Abbey Court for hostel travelers. If I had to pick somewhere to have stayed other than my dorm, these are what I would have went for.
If you’re wanting more options, I’ve included what type of traveler each area is best for in the Table of Contents.
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Dublin Areas We’ll Go Over
Temple Bar is the tourist hub of Dublin, and one of the first places I headed to when I landed for my study abroad. While it may be considered a bit of a tourist trap, there’s plenty of bars and entertainment options in the area, it’s definitely a good spot to stay if you’re wanting nightlife.
St Stephen’s Green Area is one of my favorites, and I frequented this park for the peace and serenity it brings. If you’re wanting greenery near your stay and more of a peaceful, relaxing vibe, this is the place to stay.
Trinity College and Grafton Street Area is perfect for history and culture lovers. Grafton Street is full of great shops and places to eat. While not quite as touristy as Temple Bar, it’s still a go to spot. It’s also very central and walkable from most Dublin attractions.
Docklands and Grand Canal Area is a bit farther from the hub of Dublin, but instead, you get a nice waterfront with a modern vibe. You won’t get as much as the traditional Irish culture vibe here if that’s what you’re looking for, but you will have more peace and quiet.
North City Centre is home to Dublin’s main street, O’Connell Street. If you’re wanting to experience Dublin more like a local than a tourist, this is the place to stay. It’s also nearby to a lot of historic areas and bars. I’ve also included the Smithfield area in this map.
Philsborough and Glasnevin Area is home to the National Botanical Garden and Glasnevin Cemetery. It is the most out of the way area to stay on this list, but here you’ll likely get the most quiet stay, or if you’re a family with young children. It’s relaxing here, full of history, and less touristy.
Camden Street and Portobello Area is the place to go for local nightlife. This is where the Dubliners go to party! There’s so many great bars and restaurants in the area.
The Liberties Area is super historic, home to Dublin’s oldest pub and the Guinness Storehouse. This is a great place to stay for history lovers wanting to focus on that aspect of Dublin over the nightlife.
Sandymount Area is an overlooked area by visitors, but it shouldn’t be! Sandymount is by the coast, and is great for a peaceful time for those looking to relax, while still only being a short bus ride from the main Dublin attractions.
Temple Bar Area – Best for First Time Visitors and Culture
Temple Bar is basically in the heart of Dublin’s City Centre, perhaps the most famous area of Dublin, and arguably the most touristy. It was practically the first place I went when I landed in Dublin since it’s so iconic.
This lively neighborhood has no lack of cobblestone streets, live music, and pubs galore. This area comes with a higher price tag than some of it’s neighboring areas, but even if you don’t stay here, it’s a must visit to at least get a picture in front of the famous pub.
If this is your first time in Dublin, or if you’re wanting a super central location with great nightlife, you should stay in the Temple Bar area. Just be prepared for the higher prices and crowds that come with it being a hot spot for tourists!
Where to Stay
- Luxury – The Clarence Hotel: This hotel was once owned by U2, and offers an unique boutique experience with modern elegance in the heart of Temple Bar. This stylish hotel is a perfect mix for music lovers and history buffs.
- Mid-Range – Temple Bar Inn: This boutique hotel has great access to bars and attractions while still having comfortable and stylish rooms.
- Budget – The Fleet Hotel: A bit of a quieter option to still stay in the Temple Bar area, this charming boutique hotel has elegant decor and a cozy feel.
- Hostel – Abigail’s Hostel: This clean, friendly hostel is in the heart of Dublin and has a social vibe. Private rooms and dorms are available.
Things to do
It probably goes without saying, but Temple Bar is the go-to place for Temple Bar district. I’ll admit, due to the prices being a decent amount higher than the other areas, I never actually bought a drink here, but passing the pub with its different seasonal decorations – especially Christmas – never failed to make me smile.
While I may not have went to Temple Bar, I did love Porterhouse. This lively bar has an amazing atmosphere, and is a great place to listen to traditional Irish music.
The Irish Rock’ n’ Roll Museum is a great place to visit for music lovers. This immersive museum looks at Ireland’s history in rock music, and has many exhibits to explore, like U2’s old rehearsal space!
Some other attractions to at least pass are Ha’Penny Bridge, Photo Museum Ireland, Irish Film Institute, the vintage shops in the areas, the Icon Walk, or one of the many markets that run in the area.
St. Stephen’s Green Area – Best for a Quieter Stay and Luxury
St Stephen’s Green is one of the pricier areas to stay in Dublin, but with the additional cost, you get more relaxation, quiet, and peace than you may get at other areas throughout the city. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, this is where you should book.
The park is one of my favorite places in the city, and the area is surrounded by multiple elegant buildings. It’s a nice nature oasis in the middle of the city, and it’s still walkable to the main attractions, but without the wildness areas like Temple Bar brings.
If you’re looking for a nature based stay, luxury, or relaxation while being as close to the city as possible, St Stephen’s Green area is where you should stay.
Where to Stay
- Luxury – The Shelbourne: I passed this hotel many times on my bus route, and if it’s a fraction as majestic on the inside as it looks on the outside, you’re in for a treat. One of Dublin’s most iconic hotel, it’s known for its decor, historic charm, and great service.
- Mid-Range – The Dean: Perfect for young travelers looking for a stylish stay with great nightlife! This vibrant hotel features bold decor, a rooftop bar, and a social scene!
- Budget — Stauntons on the Green: A charming boutique townhouse hotel overlooking the park, you get a great mix of character and modern comfort. It gives a cozy, peaceful stay.
- Hostel – Abbey Court: Great for solo travelers looking to meet people in the dorms, or branch out of their private room, this lively and social hostel has free breakfast, colorful decor, and communal spaces.
Things to do
Of course, you have to stroll around St Stephen’s Green park. Like I said, I tried to go to this park every week for a while during my study abroad. There paved path goes through plenty of trees, past the lake, and plenty of flowers!
Right next to the park is Stephen’s Green Shopping Center. There’s a few quick food options here, as well as plenty of shops to choose from, like TK Maxx. The highlight is the intricate architecture on the inside of the mall!
The Little Museum of Dublin is a pop up Museum a few blocks over where you can go on a guided tour going over Dublin’s history with humor and culture.
Other areas to check out near St Stephen’s Green include the Museum of Literature Ireland, Iveagh Gardens, and tea at Shelbourne Hotel.
My favorite coffee shop in Dublin, Beanhive, is located right along the outskirts of the green. They do the cutest latte art, almost cartoon like. I’ve gotten animals, flowers, and a portrait of myself sitting in the rain. They also have breakfast options, I loved the scones!
Trinity College & Grafton Street Area – Best for Shopping and Sightseeing
This has to be one of the coolest areas in Dublin, in my opinion. Grafton Street was one of my favorite to visit, it’s always so fun. The buskers on the street make it even more lively!
Grafton Street and Trinity College both are bustling and popular, and the areas blend a lovely mix of history, shopping, and culture. The area is always flowing with people, and once you visit for yourself, you’ll understand instantly why.
If your trip to Dublin is focused on sightseeing and shopping, as well as if you’re wanting to be in the heart of the city, the Trinity College and Grafton Street area is for you.
Where to Stay:
- Luxury – The Westbury: This sophisticated hotel is full of elegance with refined decor, famous afternoon tea, and a great location right near Grafton Street.
- Mid-range – Grafton Hotel: Right next to Dublin’s best shopping entertainment area, this sleek and modern hotel has a trendy bar and restaurant. It’s great for contemporary luxury at a bit of a more reasonable price point.
- Budget – Trinity City Hotel: A quirky, colorful hotel with theatrical decor and spacious rooms pretty close to Trinity College. Great for those who love unique design and a central location.
- Hostel – Times Hostel College Street: A small, welcoming hostel with a relaxed atmosphere and great location near Trinity College.
Things to Do:
Shopping on Grafton Street is a must. I mean, it’s so famous, Ed Sheeran mentioned it in a song, so enough said. Just kidding, if that isn’t enough reason, Grafton Street is a pedestrian street full of shops. It’s like THE shopping street, and has bars and restaurants, too. It may be equally well known for its buskers that never fail to line the street, filling it with their music!
Of course, you’ve got to visit Trinity College as well, especially the Book of Kells and the Long Room Library. The Book of Kells is a 9th century religious manuscript full of Celtic artwork. The Long Room definitely gives Harry Potter vibes, and as the name suggests, is a long room in the library with high vaulted ceilings and towering bookshelves.
The National Gallery of Ireland is an art museum full of world class Irish and European art work. The calm and clean atmosphere makes it for a great inside relaxing spot, plus, it’s free! There’s paintings, sculptures, and rotating exhibits.
While in the area, make sure to also check out the Mary Malone Statue.
Docklands & Grand Canal Area – Best for a Modern, Chill Stay
Dublin’s Docklands and Grand Canal Area is an area I wish I would have visited more. I went for a concert and kept seeing pictures of the area pop up, and it looks like a great place to hang out.
It’s a sleek, contemporary area full of glassy buildings and tech buildings on the water. The waterside walk has its fair share of trendy cafes and restaurants, as well as multiple museums.
While it’s not quite in the city center, it’s still easy to get to, while getting a quieter, perhaps more upscale setting.
If you’re wanting to be a bit away from the main bustle while still a short commute away, and want a chill, modern stay on the water, this is for you.
Where to Stay:
- Luxury – Anantara The Marker: For high-end travelers looking for contemporary luxury, this sleek and modern hotel also has a rooftop bars with great views of Dublin.
- Mid-range – The Mayson: Super trendy with industrial vibes with great rooftop views and a bar. Perfect for an edgy, modern stay.
- Budget – The Gibson: This sleek, contemporary hotel has spacious rooms, trendy decor, and a relaxing outdoor terrace.
- Hostel – Jacobs Inn Hostel: A stylish, modern hostel with pod-style beds in either dorms or a private room, you’re in for a great social scene while keeping your privacy.
Things to Do:
Catch a concert at 3Arena. I saw The Lumineers perform here, and it’s a great venue!
Stroll around Grand Canal Square. This artsy area is on the water and you can enjoy peace here while enjoying the sculptures as well.
Learn about Ireland’s emigration at the EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, or at The Jeanie Johnson, a replica ship that people fleeing the famine in Ireland may be embarked on.
North City Centre Area – Best for Budget and Local Experiences
A broad area with a lot to do, this is for sure a place you’ll want to check out. You’ll be familiar with it if you’re taking public transport, I felt like I was always passing The Spire on O’Connell Street.
This is home to Dublin’s main street. Lined with historic sites, the area is lively, diverse, and is a great place to visit to experience the city like a local.
There’s plenty of places to eat, drink, and explore, or if nothing here sounds fun to you, there’s plenty of bus stops.
If you’re traveling on a budget, or want more of a local experience while still in the city, stay in North City Centre area.
Where to Stay:
- Luxury – Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin: A historic hotel with an old world feel, this hotel is located right on O’Connell Street. It’s perfect for those wanting a mix of local tradition and modern comfort.
- Mid-range – Gardiner Lodge: This quaint Georgian guesthouse with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with a homey feel. It’s great for those preferring small scale charm.
- Budget – Hotel 7: This modern hotel with a warm atmosphere right near O’Connell street is great for those looking for comfort without breaking the bank.
- Hostel – Generator Dublin: A trendy, industrial style hostel with a buzzing bar and social events, it almost feels like a hotel. Offers private rooms and dorms.
Things to Do:
O’Connell Street is lined with shops and historic and meaningful sites, such as The Spire. More historic sites to see include the O’Connell Monument, General Post Office, and John Grey Statue.
Of course, you have to visit the Dublin Castle while you’re in the city. You can tour this castle built in the 1200s for a low price, and you can even visit the gardens!
Jameson Distillery is also a fun activity in the area. You can take a tour, do a tasting, make a cocktail, and more!
Make sure to also check out Bachelors Walk, Henry Street, Christ Church Cathedral, Saint Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, and Four Courts.
Phibsborough & Glasnevin Area – Best for a Quieter Stay Outside the City Center
While still close to the main hub of Dublin, but further than the other areas on this list, the Phibsborough & Glasnevin Area is more of a residential area where you can get a feel for every day Dublin.
Less polished than the city center while full of personality with its local coffee shops, small pubs, and homes in the area, this area is very peaceful and laid back.
If you want to be a bit away from the hustle and bustle and want a local, off the beaten path experience, the Phibsborough & Glasnevin Area is for you.
Where to Stay:
- Luxury – The Bonnington: With basic but comfortable rooms, you can relax in leisure here with extra amenities and at a prime location.
- Mid-range – Dublin Skylon: This elegant hotel gives a comfortable and relaxed stay outside of the city hub. It’s also a quick drive to the airport.
- Budget – Egans House: This family run guesthouse offers a cozy, traditional Irish experience. It’s great if you’re wanting a warm, personal touch with your stay.
- Hostel – No hostels in this area
Things to Do:
This area is home to the National Botanical Gardens of Ireland. The gardens are free to visit, and have thousands of plant species, as well as glasshouses!
Nearby is the Glasnevin Cemetery, the final resting site of some significant Irish figures. Walking around and learning about the history is fascinating, but even cooler are the massive Celtic crosses as grave markers.
While not quite in the area but not far, Phoenix Park should definitely be on your list to visit in this area. This park is massive – the largest enclosed public park in any European capital city. It’s bigger than Central Park in NYC. It’s home to the zoo, but you can see animals without visiting. There is a herd of wild deer that call the park home, and you’ll be bound to see them if you stay around for long enough!
Camden Street & Portobello Area – Best for Nightlife and Local Experiences
Oh the memories I have on Camden Street. This is THE nightlife street for Dublin locals, and the area offers a trendy mix of nightlife, cafes, and creative energy. There’s a buzzing pub scene, and some even offer live music!
The next door Portobello area is a hip, artsy neighborhood with a canal running through it, and perhaps an even stronger local vibe.
Camden Street is good for you if you want to experience the city like a local, especially the nightlife.
Where to Stay:
- Luxury – Camden Court Hotel: This comfortable hotel is great for a leisurely vacation, and comes with the added amenities of a pool and gym.
- Mid-range – Iveagh Garden Hotel: An eco-friendly boutique hotel with sophisticated feeling. It gives a relaxing atmosphere with elegant interiors, and is steps from St Stephen’s Green.
- Budget – Harcourt Hotel: This lively, social scene is perfect for those indulging in the nightlife as it even has its own on-site beer garden.
- Hostel – Garden Lane Backpackers: A smaller but cozy hostel with a focus on comfort, great for those those with a more chill vibe in mind.
Things to Do:
Camden Street is THE go to street for the locals for a night out. It’s packed with pubs, bars, and places to eat after a night out. This is where to go out for a local experience.
For a more chill experience, head to the Portobello Canal Walk. The canal was built in the 18th century, and walking along it you can expect plenty of greenery and wildlife along the water.
The Liberties Area – Best for History and Local Culture
The Liberties is a great area of Dublin for history lovers as it’s one of Dublin’s oldest neighborhoods.
This area is packed with history, offering a mix of traditional markets, historic buildings, and a growing art scene. There’s a nice blend of the charm of old Dublin with a mix of newer establishments.
The Liberties offers an authentic experience where you can see the past and present of the city collide. It’s full of culture and hidden gems alike.
If you’re wanting a stay that highlights history and local culture, The Liberties is the place for you.
Where to Stay:
- Luxury – Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin: A modern, upscale hotel that combines sleek design with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Great for polished stay with easy access to history and nightlife.
- Mid-range – The Chancery: Great for those wanting a quiet but stylish trip. Despite its central location, it gives a sleek and modern feel.
- Budget – Leonardo Hotel Christchurch: A comfortable hotel with spacious rooms and a great location, a good option for families looking for reliability and convenience.
- Hostel – Four Courts Hostel: A laid back hostel near the river with a fun, social atmosphere. Plenty of mixed dorm options are available, as well as free breakfast.
Things to Do:
Any visit to Dublin isn’t complete without a trip to Guinness Storehouse. Here, you can go on a walk through tour of the museum on how the drink is made, have a professional testing, and end your trip with amazing views of Dublin at their bar with 360 degree views. Don’t worry, it’s a fun experience even if you don’t like Guinness.
Nearby is Dublin’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head. This pub was established in 1198, serves food and drink, and has traditional Irish music every night!
Kilmainham Gaol Museum is another cool historic place to explore! This museum used to be a prison that closed just over a century ago, and at one point housed Irish revolutionaries. You can tour old cells, and even the execution yard.
Some other places to explore here are Dublinia Viking Museum and Francis Street.
Sandymount Area – Best for A Coastal Stay and Relaxation
I’d argue most people who visit Dublin skip this gem of an area. This charming, seaside area is a bit away from the center, but in return you get a peaceful, beach side stay.
This quiet, village like area offers long stretches of beach and views of Dublin Bay to enjoy. You’ll get a cozy feeling here with local pubs, seafood restaurants, and cafes. Even though you’re not in the heart of the city, you’re only a short public transport ride away.
If you’re wanting to experience Dublin’s coastal charm in a way you can’t at the other areas while still being close to the action, this is for you.
Where to Stay:
- Luxury – InterContinental Dublin: This upscale hotel in a peaceful location has spacious rooms, a luxurious spa, and an air of exclusivity.
- Mid-range – Sandymount Hotel: A charming, family run hotel right near Aviva Stadium. This has a great relaxing, welcome atmosphere while offering peace and quiet.
- Budget – Tara Towers Hotel: If you’re wanting a basic coastal stay with a classic feel and views of the water, this is a great option.
- Hostel – No hostels in this area
Things to Do:
The main thing you should do here is relax at Sandymount Strand Beach. This is a great place to walk along, have a picnic, enjoy the views, and just unwind after a day of exploring Dublin.
Nearby is also Aviva Stadium, where you can catch a soccer (or football here) game, a rugby game, or even a concert!
Getting to your hotel from the airport
There are a few options to get to where you choose to stay from the Dublin Airport, and I’ve done just about all of them to get back to the college where I was living.
Perhaps the most straightforward option is booking a Dublin Aircoach, and this is the transport I took most often.
For about €10 ($10.51), you can get on the bus at either Dublin Airport terminal, and their route goes directly to the City Centre. There are multiple stops along the way, as well as in the center itself.
The bus typically runs every 15 minutes, and they have plenty of luggage room for your bags. You can book your ticket online, and this is what I’d recommend doing.
While you can book them at the airport, I’ve done this before, and I can tell you it’s a bit stressful to do this while also lugging your baggage and trying to figure out everything else that comes with leaving an airport in a foreign country.
If you are on a budget, or are travelling by yourself or just with one other person, I’d recommend this for your first time in Dublin.
The Dublin Bus is similar that it will take you to the City Centre and has stops along there as well. There are a few downsides to this option for first time travelers to Dublin, although this is the cheapest option.
Dublin Bus is Dublin’s public bus system. If you’re planning on taking public transport often while you’re in Dublin, I’d highly recommend getting a Leap Visitor Card. This is basically your ticket to the bus, you will tap it every time you ride.
There’s less room for luggage, and it may be a bit harder to navigate if you haven’t done it before since there’s multiple routes, while the Aircoach just has one. Route 41 and route 16 serve the airport, and they both go to the City Centre.
Per person, it’s €8 ($8.41) for 24 hours, €16 ($16.81) for 72 hours, and €32 ($33.62) for 7 days. You can buy these online, at the Dublin Airport, or 59 Upper O’Connell Street.
Another option you can do is take a taxi or an Uber. There’s a taxi wait area and have always been plenty available when I’ve gone at reasonable hours. However, this will be a pricier option, so I’d recommend this for groups.
Of course, you can also rent a car, but I don’t recommend this. You really don’t need a car in Dublin.
There are some other coach options to check out if you don’t like any of these.
You should be all set for your trip to Dublin!
