Where To Stay In Dublin → 7 Best Areas (for ALL Budgets!)

Planning to travel to the beautiful city of Dublin? Congrats, that’s a great choice! Let’s now talk about the best places where to stay in Dublin.

After going through ALL the accommodation in the city, I hand-picked the best of the best for you and sorted it by interest and budget! So sit back, relax, and just choose your favorite!

In short, the best area to stay in Dublin is O’Connell Street, as it is the most popular area for tourists and the heart of the city center.

But there are 8 incredible areas in beautiful Dublin for all tastes!

Read this post to discover the best areas to stay in the city and find and book your ideal hotel in literally a couple of seconds!

Dublin is a compact and popular city. If you want to get a room in the city center when visiting Dublin, you need to book in advance!

Quick Picks for Your Stay…

Here are the best hotels in O’Connell St., the best area for first-timers:

• Best luxury hotel: The Merrion
• Best Mid-Range hotel: Wynn’s Hotel Dublin
• Best budget hotel: Jacobs Inn Hostel

Contents

• Quick Picks for Your Stay…
• 1. O’Connell Street – where to stay in Dublin for first-timers
• 2. Temple Bar & Trinity – great for nightlife
• 3. Stephen’s Green & Grafton Street – for a scenic escape
• 4. Portobello – best area for families
• 5. Merrion and Fitzwilliam Square – easy access to culture
• 6. The Liberties – where to stay in Dublin for young adults
• 7. Smithfield/Stoneybatter – for easy access to attractions and landmarks
• 8. The Docklands – for the most luxurious accommodation
• Best apartments in central Dublin, Ireland
• BONUS: Best hotels near Dublin Airport
• FAQs about where to stay in Dublin
• Conclusion

Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:

There are 8 areas that I picked out for you that are the most convenient for tourists. Check out this Dublin neighborhoods map to help you understand where these areas are:

• Where to stay in Dublin for the first time: O’Connell Street
• Best for nightlife: Temple Bar and The Liberties
• Best area for families: Portobello
• Where to stay for luxury: The Docklands
• Best neighborhood to stay in Dublin for sightseeing: Smithfield and Merrion Square

1. O’Connell Street – where to stay in Dublin for first-timers

If you want to be right in the hustle and bustle of Dublin, make sure to find a hotel that’s as close to O’Connell Street as possible.

The avenue is filled with restaurants, pubs, and clothing stores. So you’ll have everything you need steps away.

If you are wondering where to stay in Dublin without a car, O’Connell is the answer!

O’Connell is the city’s main street and the widest road in Dublin!

One of the main advantages of staying on this street is that you will be within walking distance of most of the city’s main attractions. For example, Temple Bar is within a 15-minute walk!

One of the area’s main attractions is the General Post Office, with its fascinating museum featuring stories of the Easter Rising in 1916 and other stories of Ireland’s past.

NOTE: Although it is a good area for first-timers, you need to be careful around this area, especially at night.

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Luxury (€170 and up)

• Rui Plaza The Gresham – luxurious hotel in the heart of Dublin City center. This hotel offers a complimentary breakfast and 2 on-site restaurants.
• Hotel 7 – all the rooms have comfortable beds, and the property has a fab location as well – just a short walk away from Temple Bar in Dublin’s city center!

Mid-range (€110 – €170)

• Wynn’s Hotel Dublin – hotel set in a 19th-century building! All the rooms have a traditional, creative decor. Enjoy a traditional meal at the onsite Irish restaurant.
• Gardiner Lodge – situated in the heart of Dublin’s City Centre. It comes with garden views and traditional Irish hospitality. Plus, it is just a short walk from the Temple Bar Area!

Budget (up to €110)

• Jacobs Inn Hostel – this property offers spacious and comfortable rooms in Dublin Central. It also offers free daily guided tours of the city you won’t want to miss!
• Abbey Court – an excellent place to meet new people, this place is cheap as chips and a whole lot of fun! They have private and shared dorms available.

Book a room near O’Connell Street

2. Temple Bar & Trinity – great for nightlife

On Dublin’s South Bank, the nightlife on offer at Temple Bar, Trinity, and Grafton Street is so much fun!

Temple Bar is an iconic tourist hub where you can find traditional Irish pubs with live music! One of the most popular bars in Dublin is here, The Temple Bar.

Temple Bar is a family-owned pub, and it was established in 1840, so it’s been the home of Dublin’s nightlife for centuries!

On the other hand, Grafton Street, next to St Stephen’s Green, is home to cute boutique stores and upscale restaurants and bars.

While in the area, stop by the cute Little Museum of Dublin, which focuses on the history of the city.

The Trinity College area is great. It has a lot of landmarks nearby, such as the University itself and The Book of Kells, an incredible library filled with centuries-old illustrations of the Gospels!

Trinity College is one of the most important Universities in Ireland. It was founded in 1592.

Please note that prices for accommodation in the Temple Bar area are significantly higher than all the others. It also can get quite noisy that is why I am recommending this neighborhood for party animals, not so much for families.

PRO TIP: If you are thinking about where to stay for the Dublin marathon, this area is ideal. It is close to the starting point and finish line! Do book in advance though!

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Luxury (€180 and up)

• NYX Hotel Dublin – This Trinity City hotel has the most comfortable and spacious rooms you can wish for. It is located very near Dublin Castle.
• The Merchant House – this hotel is very near Dublin Castle! Here you can enjoy the city life by day and Dublin’s nightlife but night as you stay in a place built in the 1720’s surrounded by historic buildings!

Mid-range (€120 – €180)

• Temple Bar Inn Dublin – stay in the unique Dublin Temple Bar Inn, with live music venues steps away from your door. It comes with an indoor pool and an onsite restaurant.
• Staycity Dublin Aparthotels – with a unique boutique hotel look, this aparthotel offers trendy apartments in the city. It comes with a 24-hour desk service, and the biggest rooms host 4 guests.

Budget (up to €120)

• Drury Court Hotel – if you are looking for homey hotels in a great location, look no further! This property is in the heart of the temple and offers classy rooms for big and small groups!
• Staycity Aparthotels Mark Street – just a short distance from the Natural History Museum, this accommodation has fully equipped apartments with comfortable rooms, a kitchen, a dining area, and even a dishwasher!

Check the rates for Temple Bar

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3. Stephen’s Green & Grafton Street – for a scenic escape

Stephen’s Green & Grafton Street in Dublin mix a quiet park with busy shopping. St. Stephen’s Green is a peaceful park in the city, and Grafton Street has fancy shops and street music.

The area around Grafton street, which is the street that runs north from the green and leads up to the riverside, is a pretty wealthy area, so it’s also one of the safest areas to stay in Dublin! Please note that there is also hardly any budget accommodation in the area for this reason.

Both areas are about 15 min walking to the city center, so it is very convenient if you decide on staying there!

While you’re here, don’t forget to stop by The Little Museum of Dublin, which showcases cool facts about the history of the city, and it’s absolutely packed with cool gems you’d never see elsewhere! There’s also a really cute little cafe in the basement, so you can stop there after you’ve discovered the museum exhibits!

Luxury (€200 and up)

• Stauntons on the Green – overlooking St Stephen’s Green, this gorgeous boutique hotel offers stunning rooms that will make you feel like royalty. Expect awesome full Irish breakfasts!
• The Fitzwilliam Hotel – if you want to feel pampered on your vacation, this is the one! Expect free luxurious bathrobes and toiletries, a French-Irish restaurant, a bar with delightful cocktails, and an on-site gym.

Mid-range (€100 – €200)

• Marlin Hotel Stephens Green – for value for money, this is a winner! With a fitness center and just a few steps from the green, and a bar & grill that reviewers rave about!
• Albany House – this historic hotel is just 5 mins walk from Grafton Street, and it’s so pretty! It’s contemporary and a great choice for couples.

Budget (up to €100)

• Keavan’s Port Hotel – stay in comfort with family-friendly rooms featuring air conditioning, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a garden, terrace, and lively bar, plus a 24-hour front desk.
• Harrington Hall – a charming Georgian guesthouse in the heart of Dublin, which combines historic architecture with modern comforts like ensuite rooms, free Wi‑Fi, and a relaxing lounge.

Check the rates for Stephen’s Green

4. Portobello – best area for families

Portobello, South of the city, is without a doubt the nicest area in Dublin, and it’s homey and quieter than areas like Temple Bar.

Still, the area is vibrant, and you will have plenty of shops and restaurants around you, as well as greenery and museums.

And the hustle and bustle of Temple Bar is just a 15-minute walk away (or there are buses that go literally every 2 min).

This area is super popular amongst local families and young people. Making it perfect for families visiting, and the best place to stay for couples!

Portobello was known as “Little Jerusalem,” and it used to be the neighborhood of the Jewish community.

Here you can find the Irish Jewish Museum, where you can learn about Jewish Irish history. And the beautiful Iveagh Gardens is a perfect spot for a family picnic!

There is nothing nicer than a relaxing stroll around the streets of this district and stopping by a nice pub for brunch with the whole family.

NOTE: This area doesn’t have budget options for travelers.

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Luxury (€170 and up)

• Iveagh Garden Hotel – beautiful upscale hotel with a lovely terrace. It is just a 4-minute walk to St. Stephen’s Green and very near Camden Street and its street art and restaurants.
• Camden Court Hotel – stay in a modern and trendy hotel steps away from Portobello’s shops. This hotel offers an indoor swimming pool for family fun and luxurious rooms.

Mid-range (€110 – €170)

• The Green – looking for hotels near Grafton Street, Dublin? Then stay at The Green. It also has a stylish restaurant that offers a breakfast buffet and international dishes all for reasonable prices.
• NYX Hotel – this hotel offers comfortable rooms with Wi-Fi, tea and coffee facilities, and scenic views. Amenities include a fitness center, an on-site restaurant, and a bar known for its great drinks.

Check the rates for Portobello

5. Merrion and Fitzwilliam Square – easy access to culture

Merrion Square Park and the Fitzwilliam Square area are perfect for those looking to spend time in a picturesque district. Definitely my favorite zone in the city!

This area is filled with charming cobblestone streets, nice parks, brick houses, Georgian architecture, cute pubs, and many art galleries and museums.

Merrion Square is the main place where you can see the Southern Georgian Dublin Houses!

All these attributes make it a great where to stay for couples and families! It is quiet, yet lively, and delightful.

Some of the main attractions in the area are the National Gallery of Ireland, and right next to it you’ll find the fascinating National Museum of Archaeology, so it’s a great place for history and culture buffs.

The National Gallery, National Museum of Archaeology, and RHA Gallery have free entrance!

Don’t forget to walk around Merrion Square Park and take a photo with the Oscar Wilde sculpture!

Last but not least, this zone is only a 15-minute walk to Temple Bar.

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Luxury (€200 and up)

• Conrad Dublin – this luxurious hotel is located in front of the National Concert Hall. Rooms are delightful and come with a private kitchen, and select rooms come with a balcony.
• The Leinster – a stylish Dublin hotel offering family rooms with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and city views. Guests can unwind in the sauna, hot tub, or on the terrace, and enjoy lunch or dinner at the on-site restaurant.

Mid-range (€130 – €200)

• The Mont – this gorgeous property is just between Merrion Square Park and Trinity College. The rooms have a modern decor and there is an on-site Irish sports bar and a wood-fired pizza restaurant.
• Number 31 – this guesthouse is a classical Georgian Townhouse. Just 5 minutes walking from St. Stephen’s Green, very near the National Museum. Rooms look dreamy!

Budget (up to €130)

• Baggot Court Townhouse – located a 5-minute walk to Fitzwilliam Square. This property offers cozy rooms set in a traditional building. Enjoy the hotel’s delicious breakfast for a fee.

Find more hotels in Merrion & Fitzwilliam

6. The Liberties – where to stay in Dublin for young adults

The Liberties is definitely ideal for young adults and history lovers! The area mixes the new with the old. Plus, it’s home to historical landmarks and traditional pubs!

It is home to some of the most iconic distilleries, including the Guinness Storehouse and Teeling Whiskey Distillery.

Some historical sites you cannot miss are The Dublinia, where you can learn about Medieval Irish history.

Don’t miss St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a stunning medieval church that sometimes hosts live concerts!

St. Patrick’s Cathedral was built in 1220, so it is more than 800 years old!

Another must-stop when staying in The Liberties is visiting the spectacular medieval Dublin Castle.

Don’t leave the area before having a pint in what is believed to be the oldest pub in Dublin, The Brazen Head.

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Luxury (€160 and up)

• Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin – feel like a celebrity staying at this Hyatt hotel! It offers spacious and luxurious rooms with marble bathrooms. It comes with a trendy bar on-site.
• Liberty Townhouses – feel at home by staying at these cute apartments! It is located steps away from the center of The Liberties. This property is ideal for groups of friends!

Mid-Range (from €110 – €160)

• Aloft Dublin City – stunning Marriott Hotel in Dublin, Ireland! Located steps away from the heart of The Liberties. It offers stunning city views and terraces on high floors to relax with a drink!
• StayCity Christchurch – this great hotel offers city views and a terrace. It’s located near the Irish Emigration Museum, plus several other popular attractions. Their rooms are really clean and modern, and the food in its restaurant is unbelievable!

Budget (up to €110)

• Garden Lane Backpackers – this amazing hostel offers beds in shared rooms. With some double room options. The property is modern, and it is located in the heart of The Liberties.
• Central City Apartment – this cute little apartment has the most amazing balcony with fairy lights! It’s per

Book your stay in the Liberties

7. Smithfield/Stoneybatter – for easy access to attractions and landmarks

Smithfield is located North of the River Liffey as well and it’s my recommendation for people who want to benear the hustle and bustle while staying in a tranquil residential area.

The neighborhood of Smithfield is only a 10-minute walk from the main attractions in the city center and Temple Bar, too. Still, the district has a lot to offer!

Smithfield was once famed for its livestock marketplace, where horses, cattle, and other animals were sold.

One of the best things in this area is the Jameson Distillery and Museum, where you can go to learn more about whiskey and the entire distillery process, so make sure you don’t miss out on that!

If you are interested in cinema, The Lighthouse Cinema has old international and animated movie screenings.

Don’t leave without paying a visit to the Guinness Storehouse!

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Luxury (€150 and up)

• Ashling Hotel Dublin – overlooking the River Liffey, this 4-star, beautifully decorated hotel has spacious rooms and a stylish bar. It is also located near the Dublin Zoo and the Guinness Storehouse!
• Hampton by Hilton Dublin – this stunning hotel offers trendy amenities. It is modernly decorated, and breakfast has a wide selection of delights! The hotel is located very near the Jameson Distillery.

Mid-range (€120 – €150)

• McGettigan’s Townhouse – the rooms are very cozy and they have a traditional, rustic decor that you’ll surely enjoy if you want a local atmosphere! Located steps away from the River Liffey.
• Maldron Hotel Smithfield – this hotel offers sleek, modern rooms with panoramic city views, and a stylish on-site restaurant, all within walking distance of Dublin’s top attractions

Budget (up to €120)

• EasyHotel Dublin – it’s all in the name! A super place to stay that won’t break the bank, and it’s just steps away from the Jameson Distillery.

Check the rates for Smithfield

8. The Docklands – for the most luxurious accommodation

The Docklands is the perfect area for luxury travelers and city lovers who want to be surrounded by skyscrapers and modern buildings.

The neighborhood of the Docklands is located right along the Liffey River, close to Docklands station.

The biggest pro about this area is the never-ending number of the best luxury hotels featuring modern architecture and deluxe amenities!

Just 300 years ago, the vast majority of The Docklands was underwater! Now, it’s a thriving, up-and-coming area.

Something to keep in mind is that this is a business area, so during the day, there are a lot of people coming and going.

During the night, it is quiet, and there are fewer bars and restaurant options than the rest of the city. However, you will have all the main attractions and vibrant pubs only a 20-minute walk!

NOTE: Unfortunately, as the Docklands is such a high-end area, there are basically no budget options for accommodation.

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Luxury (€170 and up)

• The Marker Hotel – this stunning hotel is situated on the Grand Canal Square. It features a ground-floor cocktail bar and brasserie with traditional Irish cooking. It also offers a world-class spa.
• The Mayson – feel like a royal during your stay! The rooms are fabulous and offer river views. Relax at the on-site jacuzzi after discovering the nearby city attractions.

Mid-range (€110 – €170)

• Hilton Garden Inn Dublin Custom House – located only 15 minutes away by foot from the city center, it offers rooms with sweeping river views. As well as accommodation for families.
• Beckett Locke – stay in a Dublin boutique hotel! This luxurious accommodation is modern and trendy. It offers amazing cocktails and cuisine at its on-site restaurant and bar. Located minutes away from the city center.

Check the rates for Docklands

Best apartments in central Dublin, Ireland

If you want to feel like a local and stay in an apartment in a privileged central location, I’ve got you!

Here you have the best apartments in Dublin, where you’ll have the freedom and privacy to enjoy the city as if you were living there.

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Luxury:

• Unique apartment in Temple Bar – stay in Temple Bar! This apartment looks fancy and stylish! It comes with 2 bedrooms and can host 4 guests.
• Pembroke Guest Suite – a charming Ballsbridge stay offering a spacious apartment with a bedroom, living area, and kitchenette. Guests can relax in the private garden or on the terrace, with free Wi-Fi and parking included.

Mid-range:

• City Studio – located in the heart of Temple Bar, this cute studio offers modern facilities and a cozy setting. It is perfect for a couple or a solo traveler!
• Staycity Aparthotels Dublin City Centre – this hotel offers beautiful rooms in a central location. The hotel comes with room service and an on-site restaurant open for breakfast!

Budget:

• Apt 58 Adelaide Square – this trendy property can accommodate up to 4 people! Located near Portobello, and close to the main landmarks and points of interest!

Check the rates for Dublin

👑 Luxury price:	€220
💵 Mid-range:	€150
🛏️ Budget:	€100
📍 Best neighborhood:	O’Connell Street
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Rui Plaza The Gresham
🧳 Mid-range hotel:	Wynn’s Hotel Dublin
👛 Best budget hotel:	Jacobs Inn Hostel

BONUS: Best hotels near Dublin Airport

If you are in Dublin just for the night, and you need to catch a plane early the next day.

Here you have the best accommodations near the airport.

• Maldron Hotel Dublin Airport – this luxurious accommodation offers a free 24-hour shuttle service. It comes with a fitness center, and there is room service available.
• Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport – offering a complimentary shuttle service to the airport. This amazing hotel offers the perfect setting for a relaxing night. There is an onsite bar open to guests!
• Premier Inn Dublin Airport – have a free breakfast before heading to the airport, with the hotel’s free shuttle service. This property offers great value for money

Book your stay near the airport

FAQs about where to stay in Dublin

📍 Where is the best place to stay in Dublin?

The best place to stay in Dublin for first-timers is anywhere near O’Connell Street or Temple Bar, as these are the most central areas for tourists.

🚶‍♂️ Is Dublin a walkable city?

Yes! Dublin is a compact city and if you stay in any of the areas I am recommending. You’ll have everything within a 20-minute walk!

🙅‍♀️ Where not to stay in Dublin?

Dublin is a very safe city. That being said, it is advisable to be cautious, especially during the night around Pearse Street, O’Connell Street, and The Liberties. Outside the city center, Tallaght and Ballymun are quite gritty.

🎸 Where is the best place to stay in Dublin for Live Music?

Most bars offer live music in Dublin, but The Temple Bar area is the best one! Pubs there host live bands every single night!

👨‍❤️‍👨 Where is the best place to stay in Dublin for couples?

The best places to stay for couples are, without a doubt, Portobello, Merrion Square Park, and Fitzwilliam Square.

🌃 Where is the best place to stay in Dublin for one night?

Definitely the Temple Bar district or O’Connell Street. You will be in the busiest areas of the city, with all the landmarks and Irish pubs steps away!

🚗 Where should I stay in Dublin without a car?

Honestly, you can stay in Dublin without a car just fine. The city is small, as you can see in our Dublin map zones. You can reach all the districts by walking. To give an example, you can stay in the Temple Bar area without a car.

🎄Which is the best neighborhood to stay for Christmas?

One of the biggest Christmas Markets takes place in Dublin Castle. So The Liberties, Temple Bar, and Portobello are great options!

🕺 Where is the best place to stay in Dublin for a stag do?

Temple Bar without a doubt! Hundreds of pubs with beautiful Irish music playing in the background!

Conclusion

That is all for today! Those were the best areas where to stay in Dublin. Plus some amazing airport lodging and apartment options.

Honestly, all the hotels I mentioned in this article are charming! But if I had to choose my top 2 I would go with:

• Conrad Dublin – the area is incredible. It is trendy and luxurious!
• Temple Bar Inn Dublin – a great hotel for the classic touristic vibe being amazingly located in the center of everything!

People travel to Dublin all year round! So, if you want to be able to get a nice room, you need to book in advance!

Which of these areas was your favorite? Let me know in the comments!

Romina

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