Where To Stay In Dublin – A Neighbourhood Guide

Dublin has a lot going on, from the famous Dublin Castle and Trinity College to the ever-pumping Temple Bar area and Guinness Storehouse. You’ll be walking all over the city just trying to see everything on your list. With so much to see and do, the big question of Where to stay in Dublin becomes even more important.

In this neighborhood guide, you’ll discover the best of each area, making it easier to find the perfect spot for your travel itinerary. Whether you’re into grabbing some pints at the pub or learning about Irish history, there’s a neighborhood in Dublin for you!

Where To Stay In Dublin

Gone are the days of setting your booking filter to “Dublin City Centre” and “cheapest price” and hoping for the best. We’ve got an array of different vibes, cool local spots, and unbeatable locations listed below. Let’s get to it!

The Main Neighborhoods Of Dublin

1. Temple Bar – Famous for its nightlife and cultural spots, Temple Bar is the heart of Dublin’s social scene.
2. St. Stephen’s Green and Grafton Street – our favorite neighborhood in Dublin with a little bit of everything. Near popular shopping areas and surrounded by beautiful Georgian architecture, it’s a great place to stay for those looking to experience the city’s charm.
3. The Docklands – Once an industrial area, now a hub for modern architecture, trendy bars and restaurants, and the impressive Samuel Beckett Bridge.
4. Ballsbridge – An upscale neighborhood known for its Victorian houses and green spaces like Herbert Park. Perfect for those looking for a quieter stay within walking distance of the city center.
5. Smithfield – A vibey area with markets, music venues, and good food. Close to Dublin’s main attractions but less touristy than other areas. A lot of younger travelers and locals hang out here.

Neighborhood Map

Choosing where to stay based on just words can be difficult, like what the heck does Temple Bar Area mean and we guess Docklands would be near the docks? Ha, trust us—we get it. See here’s a map to give you a little more context of where things are located in Dublin.

#1 Temple Bar Area

What’s There And Why Visit

The Temple Bar Area is always on everyone’s list of places to visit in Dublin! The neighborhood is super fun and pretty much what you would expect from an Irish neighborhood with great pubs, live music, and friendly locals. You’ll never be bored here! It’s also really close to the city center, so it’s easy to access and explore on foot.

Some of the must-see places in Temple Bar include The Temple Bar Pub (a classic Irish pub), The Ha’penny Bridge (an iconic pedestrian bridge over the River Liffey), and Meeting House Square (a popular spot for street performances and markets). This is the perfect place to stay in Dublin for solo travelers who want to meet new people, as well as anyone who wants to be in the middle of a proper night out without having to walk too far.

Suggested Hotels Near Temple Bar Area

Things To See Near Temple Bar

Temple Bar Pub – One of the most iconic pubs in all of Dublin is named after this neighborhood and is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Irish pub culture. The famous red exterior and loud people pouring out the doors make it hard to miss. Just a heads up, due to the influx of Instagrammers making this place famous, it is always super busy and a lot of locals don’t come here anymore but I still think it is worth a visit.

The Ha’penny Bridge – This beautiful pedestrian bridge is the oldest in Dublin and connects Temple Bar to the north side of the city. It’s also known as “Liffey Bridge” and offers amazing views of the city.

Dublin Castle – On the Western end of Temple Bar, the historic Dublin Castle is just a few blocks over. It is a must-see for anyone interested in Irish history and architecture. You can join a tour of the castle to learn more about its history, or grab one of their self-guided tour brochures and explore on your own.

Trinity College – On the opposite end of Temple Bar, you can find Trinity College, Ireland’s most prestigious university. It is known for its beautiful campus and the world-famous Book of Kells, a 9th-century illuminated manuscript. You can purchase tickets to see the book and explore the college grounds on a guided tour.

Getting There

Temple Bar Pub – Located on the corner of Temple Bar and Temple Lane St in the Temple Bar neighborhood. You can easily walk there from anywhere in the neighborhood. It’s right in the middle whether you stay on the East or West end.

Ha’penny Bridge – Located on the River Liffey in between Temple Bar and the north side of Dublin. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the Temple Bar Pub.

Dublin Castle – Located on Dame Street, just a few blocks west of Temple Bar. You can walk here from anywhere in the neighborhood.

Trinity College – Located at the opposite end of Temple Bar on College Green. You can easily walk here from anywhere in the neighborhood. It’s only 10 minutes from Dublin Castle.

Suggested Activities In Temple Bar

Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour – A fun walking tour that will give you the layout of the city and show you both popular sights and local hidden gems in Temple Bar and beyond.

Generation Pub Crawl – Party like the Irish (which is hard) on this pub crawl that takes you to 5 traditional pubs and one of Dublin’s best nightclubs.

#2 St. Stephen’s Green And Grafton Street

What’s There And Why Visit

If you like your stay to have a mix of things, this area is perfect for you. Grafton Street is full of shops and cafes for your morning coffee or to pick up some souvenirs. St. Stephen’s Green is a beautiful park just around the corner that is just stunning at all times of year, whether you want to take a stroll or have a picnic on the grass or our favorite activity—people watching.

It’s centrally located with great access to public transportation, and its proximity to other neighborhoods like Temple Bar and Merrion Square makes it an ideal base for exploring the city. It’s also much quieter than Temple Bar, making it a good option for those who want to be close to the action but don’t want to hear drunk backpackers singing at 3 AM.

Suggested Hotels Near St. Stephen’s Green And Grafton Street

Things To See Near St. Stephen’s Green And Grafton Street

The Little Museum of Dublin – Located at the top of St. Stephen’s Green, this lovely museum gives an interesting look at Dublin’s 20th-century history with its unique exhibits and quirky items. It features artifacts donated by locals, giving you an authentic look into the lives of Dubliners. 29-minute tours. A short and sweet museum visit.

Grafton Street Shopping – From high-end designers to popular brands, and unique Irish gifts- Grafton Street has it all. Take a walk along the pedestrianized street and enjoy some retail therapy. One of my favorite coffee shops is on this street—Bewleys. You can grab a latte and window shop if you’d rather save your money for tours and experiences.

Merrion Square – Just a short walk away, you’ll find another public park packed with sculptures, fountains, and plenty of greenery. It’s a great spot for a relaxing afternoon stroll or a picnic on the grass. The Square is right next to the National Gallery of Ireland and those famous colorful doors that Dublin is known for.

St. Stephens Green – A family-friendly green space with plenty of walking paths, a children’s playground, and even a pond with ducks. On a nice day, this park is filled with people enjoying a picnic or just relaxing on the grass.

Getting There

The Little Museum of Dublin – Walking is the easiest way to get to this museum, especially if you’re already in the St. Stephen’s Green area. St. Stephens Green tram stop is also nearby.

Grafton Street – There are multiple tram stops you can get off on as the tram line runs perpendicular to Grafton Street. It’s also easy to walk there from St. Stephens Green or Merrion Square.

Merrion Square – You can walk here from St. Stephen’s Green, or take a bus heading towards Ballsbridge/Ranelagh and get off at Merrion Bus Stop.

St. Stephens Green – If you aren’t staying around the area, take the tram (Luas) to St. Stephen’s Green stop.

Suggested Activities In St. Stephen’s Green And Grafton Street

Irish Whiskey Museum and Whiskey Tasting – Meet on Grafton Street for a tour of the Irish Whiskey Museum where you’ll learn about the history and production of whiskey in Ireland.

The Little Museum of Dublin – This flexible ticket allows you to guarantee a tour of the Little Museum without committing to a time. So you can wander around St. Stephens Green or go shopping without feeling pressured to meet a time slot.

#3 The Docklands

What’s There And Why Visit

Only recently did the Docklands become a popular area to visit; before 2008 it was mainly an industrial center. Now, the Docklands is a modern and up and coming part of Dublin that’s home to some of the city’s biggest tech companies. It’s also home to some of Dublin’s best boutique hotels as well as restaurants and pubs.

You can take a river cruise along River Liffey, or visit the Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship Museum. At night, check out the 3 Arena for concerts or enjoy a drink at one of the trendy bars in the area. There is more than you would expect going on right here in the Docklands. It’s a great place to stay near the water and enjoy a different side of Dublin.

And with their amazing transportation system, you’re only a short ride from the city center and other popular areas.

Suggested Hotels Near The Docklands

Things To See Near The Docklands

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum – Located in the heart of the Docklands, EPIC is an interactive and engaging museum that tells the story of Irish emigration. With 20 state-of-the-art galleries, you can experience what it was like to leave Ireland and start a new life in another country. Features 100-year-old recordings, how cool!

Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship Museum – If you’re Anglo-curious or have Irish heritage, then you need to visit the Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship Museum. This replica ship tells the story of famine emigration and what life was like for those leaving Ireland in search of a better future in the Americas.

The Grand Canal – On a warm day, the Grand Canal is the perfect place to get some much-needed fun in the sun. (That doesn’t happen too often in Ireland!) Take a stroll, rent a bike, or even kayak down the River Liffey. There are also some great places to eat along the waterfront. Relax, have a beer, it’s literally how the Irish do it.

Getting There

The Grand Canal – A little bit outside the city center but are easily accessible by public transportation. From most places in the City Center, take the bus to the Grand Canal Way stop.

Jeanie Johnston – You can take the Luas Red Line tram or a bus to Connolly Station and then it’s a short walk to the museum. About a 13-minute walk from the Grand Canal.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum – You can take the Luas Red Line tram or a bus to Connolly Station and then it’s a short walk to the museum. About a 13-minute walk from the Grand Canal.

Suggested Activities In The Docklands

Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship Irish Famine History – A guided tour of the dark and cramped quarters of the Jeanie Johnston ship will give you a glimpse into the struggles faced by Irish emigrants during the Great Famine.

River Liffey Sightseeing Cruise – From the Viking’s arrival to modern-day bridges, this 45-minute cruise will give you a unique perspective on Dublin’s history and landmarks.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum – Dive into the stories of Irish emigrants and their impact on the world through interactive exhibits and personal accounts.

#4 Ballsbridge

What’s There And Why Visit

Ballsbridge is one of the more affluent neighborhoods in Dublin, known for its elegant architecture and Victorian homes. It’s located just south of the city center and is easily accessible by bus or a short walk from most major tourist spots.

Personally, we think it’s one of the prettiest areas in the city, with its tree-lined streets and picturesque buildings. It feels like you’re well out of the city, but in reality it’s just a few minutes away. There are loads of amazing places to eat and bars to grab a pint at. It’s perfect for families who want a quieter, more relaxing experience or couples who are wanting a little more romance, and a little less lads on tour.

Suggested Hotels Near Ballsbridge

Things To See Near Ballsbridge

Herbert Park – This beautiful park is a great spot to have a picnic or go for a walk literally any time of year. In the fall, it’s full of the most gorgeous red and orange leaves, and in the spring and summer, it’s bursting with blooms. There’s also a cute little pond with ducks and swans if you want to feed them.

Poolbeg Lighthouse Walk – As one of the closest neighborhoods to Sandymount Beach, you can easily access this popular walk from Ballsbridge. It’s about 2 miles long and takes you along the coast with stunning views of Dublin Bay and the Poolbeg Lighthouse. It’s a great way to get some exercise while also taking in some beautiful scenery.

Trinity College- Just to show you how close Ballsbridge is to the city center, Trinity College is only a 30-minute walk away. And once you’re in the city center, you have access to all the major tourist attractions like Dublin Castle and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Getting There

Ballsbridge – From the city center you can walk the 30 minutes to Ballsbridge or take a bus to RDS Ballsbridge. Taxis are also readily available and can take you directly to your hotel.

Poolbeg Lighthouse –  Take the bus to St Vincent Hosp at Sandy Mount Beach and then go for a stroll to the Lighthouse from there.

Trinity College – You can take the bus from Ballsbridge RDS or take the DART from Sandy Mount station into the city or walk for about 30 minutes to get to Trinity College from the neighborhood.

Suggested Activities In Ballsbridge

Trinity Campus Guided Walking Tour –  Explore the stunning and historic Trinity College campus on a guided walking tour. Learn about the college’s rich history, and famous alumni, and see iconic locations like the Book of Kells.

Afternoon Tea Vintage Tour Bus – Keep with the upscale vibes of Ballsbridge and hop on board a vintage bus for afternoon tea. Enjoy scones, sandwiches, cakes, and tea while taking in the sights of Dublin.

#5 Smithfield

What’s There And Why Visit

Last but certainly not least, Smithfield is an excellent neighborhood in Dublin to stay! Especially if you want to be in the more modern part of town while still being close to the historical and cultural attractions. North of the River Liffey, Smithfield is full of chic restaurants, pubs, and boutique shops. It’s also home to the famous Jameson Distillery.

This area of town really grew on us, because it’s within walking distance of the center but it also feels a bit like the cool, artsy part of town. If you’re looking for a unique and trendy neighborhood to stay in Dublin, Smithfield is definitely the place.

Suggested Hotels Near Smithfield

Things To See Near Smithfield

The Jameson Distillery – If you’re a fan of Whiskey, then this needs to be at the top of your list of things to do in Dublin. (I’m sure it probably is already) The Jameson Distillery offers tours that include tastings and a history lesson on the production of Irish Whiskey. Make sure to book your tour in advance as they do fill up quickly.

Kilmainham Gaol – This former prison is now a museum and offers a fascinating look into Ireland’s history. Learn about prison life, political upheaval, and the Irish fight for independence. Kilmainham Gaol is a must-visit for history buffs. It’s by guided tour only, so make sure to book ahead of time.

Phoenix Park – One of the largest city parks in Europe, Phoenix Park is a beautiful green space on the North side of the river. Take a stroll around, check out the Dublin Zoo, or rent a bike to explore the many trails.

The Guinness Storehouse – One of the top tourist attractions in Dublin, the Guinness Storehouse offers a tour of their famous brewery and a complimentary pint at the Gravity Bar. You’ll have 360 views of Dublin up here! It’s a little outside of the city center, so staying in Smithfield makes it easily accessible.

Getting There

The Jameson Distillery – Walking is the easiest way to reach the Jameson Distillery as it’s right in the middle of Smithfield. Alternatively, you can take the Luas tram to Smithfield stop from other parts of the city.

Kilmainham Gaol – Take the red line tram to Suir Road Luas Stop or walk 2.5 km from Smithfield.

Pheonix Park – The best way to reach Pheonix Park is by walking.

The Guinness Storehouse – Take the red line tram to Fatima stop or walk 1.5 km from Smithfield.

Suggested Activities In Smithfield

Jameson Whiskey Distillery Tour and Tasting –  Learn about the history and production of Ireland’s famous whiskey including a comparative tasting and a Jameson cocktail.

Guinness Storehouse Entry Ticket – A self-guided tour of the Guinness Storehouse with a complimentary pint of Guinness.

Hop on hop off Bus Tour – This traditional bus tour stop by Kilmainham Gaol, Phoenix Park, and other popular attractions in Dublin with this easy-to-navigate bus tour.

Dublin Travel Tips

How To Get Around Dublin

Walking

The ability to walk throughout Europe is never lost on us, it’s one of the things we love most about traveling here. Dublin is no exception, most of the major sites you’ll want to visit on your trip to Dublin are within walking distance of each other, it’s so good! The city is compact so you could spend the morning at Grafton Street, grab lunch in Temple Bar, and then head to the Docklands for dinner all on foot.

Buses

For the days you want to get around a little quicker or your destination is too far to walk, Dublin’s bus system is a great option. The bus system in Dublin is very reliable and covers almost every corner of the city. Just remember to have exact change or grab a Leap Visitor Card when you arrive in the city.

The Leap Visitor Card is a super handy public transport ticket for tourists and visitors in Dublin. You can enjoy unlimited travel for your chosen time period.

Light Rail

Another fantastic option in Dublin is the light rail system (LUAS). The red line has been extended a bit and now goes all the way down to Connolly Station. This means you can easily get from your hotel in Ballsbridge or Smithfield to the city center quickly and easily. It’s also one of the best ways to reach the popular Guinness Storehouse.

Biking

Another awesome way to travel around Dublin is by bike! With tons of designated bike lanes and rental stations all over the city, biking lets you cover more ground while enjoying the sights at your own pace. Check out the Dublin Bike Scheme for affordable bike rentals, perfect for short trips around town.

Plan Your Trip To Dublin

IRELAND IS NOT THE UK – This is one of those things you need to know before you go. Ireland is not part of the United Kingdom, it is a separate country. Referring to Irish people as British or saying that Dublin is in the UK will not be received well by locals.

Northern Ireland is part of the UK, but it’s a different country from Ireland. After you go on a tour, or learn more about their history, you’ll understand why this distinction is important to Irish people.

Get a LEAP card – Public Transportation in Dublin is great, but it’s even better when you have a LEAP card. This reloadable smartcard will save you money and time during your travels. Not only can you use it for buses and light rail (LUAS), but you can also use it on the DART and commuter trains.

Plug Adaptors – Ireland uses plug type G, so make sure you bring an adaptor. (It’s the same one used in the UK if you’ve been there before.)

Rain Gear – We all know Ireland is known for its beautiful green countryside, but that also means it rains quite a bit. Make sure to pack some rain gear so you can still enjoy exploring the city even on drizzly days.

Comfortable Shoes – Dublin is a walkable city with tons of cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes so you can fully enjoy exploring without worrying about sore feet.

Bring a reusable water bottle -Dublin has plenty of public drinking fountains and taps with drinkable water, so don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle to keep hydrated while you’re exploring.

“Rounds” – If you happen to go out with some locals, or you find yourself in a pub and an Irish person offers to buy you a drink, be aware of the concept of “rounds.” In Ireland, it’s common for friends or colleagues to take turns buying rounds of drinks for the group. So if someone buys you a drink, make sure to return the gesture and buy them one as well.

Choosing Where To Stay In Dublin Is A Good Problem To Have

Choosing where to stay in Dublin means you’re headed to Dublin, which is awesome! This city is full of charm, banter, and endless things to do. Choosing where to stay should really come down to what your priorities are. For us, we want to see any and everything, so we’ll be staying as close to the city center as possible. We want to be able to walk out the door and have everything at our fingertips.

For others, you might want to get as far away from the tourists as possible and find a quaint little neighborhood that feels like you’re experiencing the local life. Either way, Dublin is about to blow your mind!

Frequently Asked Questions