Dublin, the lively capital of Ireland, draws countless visitors each year. The city is famous for its bustling pubs where the beer never stops flowing, and its historic streets that echo a medieval charm.
When it comes to finding a place to stay, the city center offers plenty of great options. Areas like O’Connell Street and its surroundings, Temple Bar, Trinity, Grafton Street, St Stephen’s Green, Portobello, the Docklands, and even Phibsborough are all excellent choices.
Staying in any of these neighborhoods means you’ll be close to everything, with most attractions within walking distance. But don’t worry if these spots are out of your budget; there are plenty of alternative areas to consider.
1. O'Connell Street, best area to stay in Dublin for the first time
If you’re visiting Dublin for the first time, O’Connell Street and its surrounding area is where you want to be. It’s the city’s main artery, right at the heart of the capital.
This lively boulevard stretches from Parnell Street in the north down to the River Liffey, which cuts through the city center. Just cross the O’Connell Bridge, and you’ll find yourself in the buzzing Temple Bar district.
O’Connell Street is always alive with energy, brimming with shops that are sure to catch your eye. You’ll find a variety of restaurants, fast-food joints, cafés, and bars to suit any taste. Talbot and Henry Streets are particularly popular, always buzzing with activity.
For exploring Dublin key attractions, I recommend getting the Dublin Pass—it’s a convenient way to access the city’s must-see spots. One standout is The Spire, a striking 120-meter-tall modern sculpture that symbolizes the city’s renewal. It’s a sight you won’t miss, literally, as it’s considered the tallest sculpture in the world.
As you stroll down the street, you’ll also come across the statue of Daniel O’Connell, known as the Liberator of Ireland, and the historic General Post Office, a landmark building that’s been standing since 1817.
From morning until night, this area is always bustling, earning it the nickname “Dublin’s Champs Élysées.” While the hotels and hostels here can be pricey, they’re generally more affordable than what you’d find in Temple Bar or St Stephen’s Green.
Best Hotels in O'Connell Street
- (€€€) Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, in O’ Connell Street
- (€€) Holiday Inn Express Dublin City Centre, an IHG Hotel: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, in O’ Connell Street
- (€) Academy Plaza Hotel: a budget-friendly hotel with breakfast, 100m from O’ Connell Street
2. Temple Bar, best area to stay in Dublin for nightlife
Temple Bar is one of Dublin oldest and most vibrant areas. This lively neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets along the river, is packed with energy.
Named after Sir William Temple, whose 17th-century house became the famous Temple Bar pub, this area is a must-visit. It’s full of Irish pubs where you can enjoy a Guinness, listen to live music, or watch a rugby match.
Beyond the pubs, you’ll find trendy restaurants, unique boutiques, art galleries, and lively markets like the Temple Bar Book Market and the Food Market.
Don’t miss nearby landmarks like Dublin Castle, the Molly Malone statue, and Trinity College, with its stunning Old Library and the Book of Kells.
Temple Bar’s nightlife is unmatched, making it the best spot for an evening out. However, accommodation here can be pricey, so book early if you can.
Best Hotels in Temple Bar
- (€€€) The Merchant House: a 5-star hotel with suites, 120m from Liffey River
- (€€) The Fleet: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, 100m from Liffey River
- (€) Blooms Hotel: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, 150m from Trinity College
3. St. Stephen's Green – Portobello, where to stay in Dublin with kids
St. Stephen’s Green and Portobello are two distinct areas in Dublin, yet they’re closely connected in a way that makes exploring both a real treat. St. Stephen’s Green is the stylish, commercial side of the city, while Portobello offers a more bohemian and laid-back vibe.
Let’s start with St. Stephen’s Green. Just south of Trinity College, Grafton Street is a bustling pedestrian avenue filled with shops, leading straight to the expansive St. Stephen’s Green park. This park is a true gem, with flower beds, fountains, and a duck-filled pond.
On the other hand, Portobello is a trendy neighborhood, perfect for grabbing a bite or enjoying a drink. It’s also a great spot for shopping and taking a stroll down Liberty Lane, a street adorned with vibrant street art.
Don’t miss the Irish Jewish Museum in Portobello, a deeply moving place that tells the story of the Jewish community in Ireland.
This area is ideal for families seeking a peaceful getaway in Dublin, offering tranquility while still being just a 10-15 minute walk from the city center. Plus, you might even find some great deals on hotels here if you book early.
Best Hotels in St. Stephen's Green – Portobello
- (€€€) Trinity Townhouse Hotel: a luxury hotel with breakfast, 450m from St. Stephen’s Green Park
- (€€) The Green: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, just across from St. Stephen’s Green
- (€) Harrington Hall: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, 300m from St. Stephen’s Green Park
4. Phibsborough, a quiet area to stay in Dublin
Heading further north, Phibsborough offers a quiet and safe residential experience. This area is known for its charming Victorian pubs, trendy restaurants, and vintage shops.
If you stay near the border with O’Connell Street, you can easily walk to the city center without needing public transport. But if you prefer, the area is well-connected to the center via the Luas tram system.
Phibsborough is also home to Dalymount Park, the historic stadium considered the heart of Irish football, hosting matches for Bohemians FC.
Some of the local attractions include the legendary studio of painter Francis Bacon, the Irish National War Memorial Gardens, and the Dublin Writers Museum.
It’s a great area to stay in if you’re looking for peace and quiet, along with more affordable hotel options.
Best Hotels in Phibsborough
- (€€€) Castle Hotel: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, 2 minutes walk from O’ Connell Street
- (€) Harveys Guest House: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, 15 minutes walk from Temple Bar area
- (€) Academy Plaza Hotel: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, 5 minutes walk from Connolly Train Station
5. Docklands, a modern area to stay in Dublin
The Docklands area, once a run-down spot filled with warehouses, has transformed in recent years into a modern and secure neighborhood. Located east of the city center along the River Liffey, it’s now a thriving part of Dublin.
With many companies setting up offices here, the area has gained a dynamic vibe, making it a great place to stay, especially if you prefer to avoid the more tourist-heavy streets.
In the Docklands, you can enjoy a stroll along the quays and cross Dublin most stunning bridge, the Samuel Beckett Bridge, designed in the shape of a harp—an iconic symbol of Ireland.
I’d highly recommend visiting the Famine Memorial, a poignant tribute to the countless victims of the Great Famine that devastated Ireland from 1845 to 1852.
Docklands is an excellent choice for accommodation, providing a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle while still being conveniently close to all the action.
Best Hotels in Docklands
- (€€€) The Marker Hotel – A Leading Hotel of the World: a 5-star hotel with restaurant and swimming pool, with view in Grand Canal Square
- (€€) Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Center: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, 2 minutes walk from Connolly Station
- (€€) Maldron Hotel Pearse Street Dublin City: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, 15 minutes walk from O’ Connell Street
6. Smithfield – Stoneybatter, where to stay in Dublin like a local
Smithfield, a historic working-class area just north of the Liffey, may lack striking architecture, but its close proximity to the city center keeps it lively all day.
Northwest of Smithfield is Stoneybatter, one of Dublin trendiest neighborhoods, known for its vibrant bars, restaurants, and gastropubs.
In Smithfield, the Old Jameson Distillery is a must-visit, especially if you’re a whiskey fan. Nearby, Phoenix Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world, offers a perfect escape with plenty of space for family outings.
Both areas are within a 20-30 minute walk from the city center, with public transport readily available. They’re great choices for staying in Dublin, offering good food, green spaces, and more affordable accommodation than the city center.
Best Hotels in Smithfield – Stoneybatter
- (€€) Maldron Hotel Smithfield Dublin City: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, 10 minutes walk from Guinness Storehouse
- (€€) Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, 900m from Dublin Castle
- (€) Hampton By Hilton Dublin City Centre: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, 200m from St. Michan Church
7. Drumcondra, where to stay in Dublin on a budget
Drumcondra, located further north, is an up-and-coming area attracting new residents regularly.
It’s about a 30-minute walk from the city center, making it a solid option if you’re looking for a quiet, local neighborhood, especially when central prices soar.
The area is well-connected to the city, with a train station that gets you downtown in just a few minutes.
In Drumcondra, you can explore the National Botanic Gardens, which feature greenhouses filled with diverse plant species. There’s also the Glasnevin Cemetery—not your typical tourist spot, but it holds significant historical importance for Ireland.
You’ll also find Croke Park here, home to the GAA Museum, with a massive capacity of 80,000 seats.
Best Hotels in Drumcondra
- (€€) The Croke Park Hotel: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, opposite Croke Park Stadium
- (€) Dublin Skylon Hotel: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, in Drumcondra centera