Where to stay in Dublin

Where to stay in Dublin? Discover the must-see districts for a memorable stay in Ireland’s capital!

Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a city with many facets. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, partying or relaxation, you’re bound to find a district to suit you. But where to stay in Dublin to make the most of your stay? We’ll help you make the right choice by presenting you with the best areas in which to set down your suitcases.

In this article, we invite you to discover the neighborhoods best suited to your desires and your budget. Whether you’re a family, a couple, a group of friends or a solo traveler, let our expert advice guide you to the ideal place to stay in Dublin and enjoy all that this fascinating city has to offer.

1. Trinity College, Grafton Street & St. Stephen’s Green: for all travellers

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Ideal for those who want to visit Dublin’s most popular sites, this district in the heart of the city offers a location with many points of interest and activities nearby. The famous Trinity College and its picturesque gardens are a must-see, as is a visit to the Book of Kells! The Grafton Street shopping area is a must for shoppers, with boutiques ranging from major brands to local artisans.

Just a few minutes’ walk from Trinity College, St. Stephen’s Green, a peaceful, historic park, is the ideal place to relax after a day exploring the city center. For a sweet and savory break, we recommend Queen of Tarts, on Cow’s Lane. This tea room is renowned for its delicious pastries! And for a 100% typical evening, head for the traditional O’Donoghue’s pub, located at 15 Merrion Row. Every evening, the locals come to play 100% Irish music live. Atmosphere guaranteed!

To find a hotel right in the heart of the city, look no further than Nassau Street and Kildare Street. These streets, and those around them, are packed with hotels and vacation apartments, great places to stay during your stay in Dublin.

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Find an Airbnb in Trinity College

2. Merrion Square: for art and history lovers

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Merrion Square, in west Dublin, is a historic district with undeniable charm. Its Georgian architecture and numerous museums and historic sites make it an ideal choice for art and history lovers. For art lovers, don’t miss the National Museum of Ireland on Kildare Street or the National Gallery of Ireland on Merrion Square West to immerse yourself in Irish culture.

As well as museums, Merrion Square is home to events and markets, offering an authentic experience of Dublin life. For lunch, try Dunne & Crescenzi, at 16 Frederick St South, a friendly Italian restaurant where portions are generous and tasty. For a convivial and cheerful evening, head to The Ginger Man, at 40 Fenian St! It’s a popular pub with students, thanks to its proximity to Trinity College, and the atmosphere is always lively and pleasant. The perfect place to enjoy fish & chips and a pint!

It’s possible to stay in Merrion Square; the neighborhood offers a variety of accommodations. From elegant hotels to vacation apartments, you’ll be close to all the main attractions and the city center.

Find a hotel in Merrion Square

Find an Airbnb in MerrionSquare

3. Temple Bar: discover Dublin’s nightlife

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Temple Bar is the ideal district for those seeking a lively atmosphere and exciting nightlife. It’s a favorite hangout for Dubliners. The cobbled streets are packed with pubs, restaurants and original boutiques. A festive atmosphere reigns! Don’t miss the Temple Bar Pub at 47-48 Temple Bar, one of the city’s most iconic pubs, or a visit to the Project Arts Centre at 39 Essex St E, which hosts contemporary art exhibitions and shows.

If you’re more of a daytime stroller, you can explore local markets like the Temple Bar Food Market on Meeting House Square. The stalls are packed with new tastes for you to discover! Ideal for sampling authentic Irish cuisine.

For dinner, we can’t recommend booking a table at Elephant & Castle, 18-19 Temple Bar. Their specialty? Their famous chicken wings! Finally, if you’re looking for an evening of live music, take a trip to Button Factory, on Curved Street, for an unforgettable musical experience.

The area’s hostels and hotels are particularly suited to young travelers and those who want to enjoy Dublin’s nightlife.

Find a hotel in Temple Bar

Find an Airbnb in TempleBar

4. Docklands: for fans of modern architecture

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The Docklands district is very different from what one imagines Dublin to be. It’s an impressive mix of modern architecture and old industrial structures. There’s fun and artistic nuggets around every corner! It’s also a lively, fast-growing district, full of trendy cafés, theaters and pubs. Must-sees include the Convention Centre Dublin and the famous Grand Canal Theatre (Bord Gáis Energy Theatre), ideal if you’re a fan of modern architecture.

For lunch, head to Herbstreet, on Hanover Quay, for local dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. In the evening, there’s nothing quite like dining with a breathtaking view! From the panoramic Charlotte Quay bar-restaurant in the Millennium Tower, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the famous River Liffey, the perfect setting for a memorable evening.

As the district is located in the east of the city, you’d think it would be far from the hustle and bustle of the city center, but no! It’s only a few minutes from the city center, which also makes it a great place to base your Dublin vacation.

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Find an Airbnb in Docklands

5. The Northside: for budget travellers looking for authenticity

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The Northside is an authentic, lively district, perfect for those who want to experience real Dublin life. As its name suggests, it’s located north of the River Liffey. There’s a good choice of things to do here, but we recommend visiting the Old Jameson Distillery on Bow St for a whisky tasting, or exploring Phoenix Park, one of Europe’s largest city parks.

For even more authenticity, enjoy a traditional Irish lunch at L. Mulligan Grocer at 18 Stoneybatter, then stroll through the lively streets of Phibsborough, where you’ll find numerous independent boutiques and art galleries. But for the ultimate experience, take in a Gaelic soccer match at the famous Croke Park to experience the atmosphere of the Dublin stands.

This area is one of the least expensive in Dublin. Hotels here are affordable, and you can choose to stay in a traditional guesthouse, offering a more in-depth insight into local life.

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Find an Airbnb in The Northside

6. Portobello: for families and local life

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Looking for a quiet, residential area to stay when you’re in Dublin? Portobello is the place for you. Charming and peaceful, it’s the ideal spot for food lovers and strollers. Stroll along the Grand Canal to admire the colorful houses and moored barges, or stroll through the residential streets to discover the area’s Victorian architecture.

For a quick but worthwhile snack at lunch, enjoy a gourmet sandwich at Green Bench Café, 18 Montague St. And for dinner, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Locks Restaurant, 1 Windsor Terrace. The area is also renowned for its many independent cafés! Coffee lovers will be delighted to discover Two Pups Coffee, at 74 Francis St, for an excellent cup of coffee.

For the perfect evening out in Portobello, head to The Bernard Shaw, Crossguns Bridge, an eclectic pub with a large outdoor garden. It’s the perfect place to meet and chat with the locals.

Portobello is a charming, quiet neighborhood where life is decidedly good. It’s another side of Dublin, perfect for families visiting the Irish capital. Here you’ll find comfortable hotels and vacation apartments, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this picturesque neighborhood.

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Find an Airbnb in Portobello

FAQ – The best places to stay in Dublin

What are the best areas to visit in Dublin?

The best places to visit in Dublin are Merrion Square and St. Stephen’s Green. These historic squares are home to many must-see sites, such as the National Gallery, Leinster House and national museums, as well as charming parks.

What are the safest areas to stay in Dublin?

Merrion Square and St. Stephen’s Green are safe areas to stay in Dublin. They are central, well served by transport and quiet at night, making them ideal options for tourists.

Where’s the best place to stay in Dublin?

For affordable accommodation, opt for Camden Street Lower, less than 15 minutes’ walk from Temple Bar. This less touristy area offers more attractively priced accommodation options.

Where to stay in Dublin for the first time?

For your first stay in Dublin, stay between Merrion Square and St. Stephen’s Green. These central districts are within walking distance of most tourist attractions and offer excellent transport links.

Where to stay in Dublin for just one night?

If you’re only staying one night in Dublin, choose accommodation near Merrion Square or St. Stephen’s Green. They’re central, well connected and a quick way to the main attractions.

Where to stay in Dublin with your family

For a family holiday in Dublin, opt for Merrion Square or the Northside district. These areas offer child-friendly museums, parks and attractions such as Phoenix Park Zoo.

Where to sleep in Dublin?

For a romantic stay in Dublin, stay close to the Ha’penny Bridge. This charming pedestrian bridge offers breathtaking views over the River Liffey and is an ideal spot for couples.

Where to stay in Dublin for the nightlife?

The Temple Bar area is ideal for enjoying Dublin’s nightlife. The area is packed with pubs, restaurants and concert halls for a lively evening.

Where to stay in Dublin for a week or more?

For a stay of a week or more in Dublin, opt for Merrion Square, St. Stephen’s Green or the Southside’s residential neighborhoods, such as Ranelagh or Rathmines, which offer a local vibe.

When is the best time to visit Dublin?

The best time to visit Dublin is from May to September, when temperatures are milder and days longer. However, be prepared for showers, as the weather is unpredictable.

Getting around Dublin

Dublin is a city on a human scale, so it’s easy to get around on foot. You can also use public transport, such as buses, Luas streetcars and self-service bicycles, to get around the city easily. Cabs are also available, but walking is often quicker due to traffic. Don’t forget to follow the waterways, such as the River Liffey and the Grand Canal, to get your bearings and discover Dublin’s different neighborhoods.

Map of hotels and accommodation – Dublin,ie