Where to stay in magical Dublin: The best areas and hotels for every type of traveller

Where to stay in Dublin: An Accommodation Guide

Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes. It is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world, seeking both historical monuments and modern attractions. From Dublin Castle and the Trinity College Library, to the picturesque pubs and the stunning nature of Phoenix Park, the city has something to offer everyone.

Beyond its landmarks, Dublin hosts numerous cultural events, art galleries, museums, and festivals that bring the city to life. Visitors can also enjoy strolls along the River Liffey or explore the bustling shops of Grafton Street. If you're planning a visit to Dublin, it's important to know which areas you can stay in, depending on your travel style and budget.

In this guide, we'll delve into the best areas to stay in Dublin and recommend top hotel choices, covering both budget-friendly and luxury accommodations. Discover the five best areas for accommodation and the best hotel options for each area!

1. Temple Bar: Ideal for nightlife

The Temple Bar area is the heart of Dublin's nightlife. It is famous for its numerous traditional Irish pubs, cafés, and restaurants. This is a bustling area, popular among tourists seeking entertainment and a lively social scene. Its narrow streets offer a unique atmosphere, and it's within walking distance of most of the city's attractions.

Advantages:

• Central location, close to attractions
• Ideal for evening entertainment
• Wide variety of restaurants and cafés

Disadvantages:

• Can be noisy in the evenings
• Prices may be higher due to the area's popularity

The Temple Bar Hotel

The Temple Bar Hotel is located in the heart of the Temple Bar area, one of Dublin's most vibrant and well-known districts. It is ideal for those who want to enjoy the city's nightlife, with direct access to traditional Irish pubs, restaurants, and cafés. The hotel rooms are modern and equipped with all essential amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and air conditioning.

Average cost: 180€ per night.

Hard Rock Hotel Dublin

The Hard Rock Hotel Dublin is a unique accommodation choice for music lovers. Located in Temple Bar, the city's liveliest area, it offers themed rooms inspired by rock music. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and high-quality sound systems, enhancing the stay experience.

Average cost: 250€ per night.

Blooms Hotel

Blooms Hotel is also located in the heart of Temple Bar, making it an ideal choice for visitors who want to be close to the city's main attractions. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with traditional decor, providing guests with an authentic stay experience. All rooms feature free Wi-Fi, a TV, and tea and coffee making facilities.

Average cost: 150€ per night.

The Morgan Hotel

The Morgan Hotel is one of the most elegant and luxurious hotels in the Temple Bar area. With a contemporary and minimalist style, it offers a modern accommodation experience. The rooms feature high-quality furnishings, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a flat-screen TV.

Average cost: 200€ per night.

The Clarence Hotel

The Clarence Hotel is a historic hotel in the Temple Bar area, known for its connection to the legendary band U2, as its members are the owners. The hotel features luxurious rooms with classic decor and offers views of the River Liffey.

Average cost: 220€ per night.
See the best price on Booking.com HERE

2. St. Stephen’s Green: Ideal for peace and relaxation

St. Stephen’s Green is one of Dublin's most beautiful and tranquil spaces. This large park offers a serene atmosphere, making the area ideal for families and travellers who prefer quieter accommodation, away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Despite its peacefulness, it is very close to the city's shopping district and main attractions, such as Grafton Street and the National Museum of Ireland.

Advantages:

• Quiet area with direct access to parks
• Close to shops and attractions
• Suitable for families and couples

Disadvantages:

• Doesn't have the vibrant nightlife of other areas
• Some accommodation options might be more expensive

Accommodation options in St. Stephen’s Green:

The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection

The Shelbourne Hotel is one of Dublin's most luxurious and historic hotels, overlooking the beautiful St. Stephen's Green park. The hotel's rooms are sumptuously decorated and offer amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel also features a fully equipped spa and an indoor swimming pool for its guests.

Average cost: 320€ per night.

The Fitzwilliam Hotel

The Fitzwilliam Hotel is located at the end of St. Stephen's Green park and offers luxurious accommodation with modern amenities. The rooms are spacious and contemporary, equipped with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel also features a restaurant serving international cuisine and a stylish bar for its guests.

Average cost: 260€ per night.

Stauntons on the Green Hotel

Stauntons on the Green is an elegant boutique hotel located directly opposite St. Stephen's Green. Its rooms are classically decorated and equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel also offers a homely breakfast, served in a warm and inviting space.

Average cost: 180€ per night.

The Merrion Hotel

The Merrion Hotel is one of Dublin's most luxurious hotels, offering top-notch services and accommodation in a historic building near St. Stephen's Green. The rooms are lavish and elegantly decorated, with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and satellite TV.

Average cost: 350€ per night.

Buswells Hotel

Buswells Hotel is an elegant and traditional hotel located just a few minutes from St. Stephen's Green. The rooms are warm and comfortable, with classic decor and all essential amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and a TV. The hotel also features a restaurant and a cosy bar for relaxation after a day of sightseeing in the city.

Average cost: 160€ per night.

3. Docklands: Ideal for professionals and modern travellers

The Docklands area is one of Dublin's most modern and developing districts, featuring luxury hotels, contemporary buildings, and views of the River Liffey. It is the ideal choice for business travellers and those who prefer modern accommodation with all amenities. The area is home to major business centres, such as the Sirius Building and the Convention Centre Dublin, as well as a plethora of restaurants and cafés.

Advantages:

• Modern area with contemporary accommodation and direct access to business centres.
• Luxury hotels with views of the River Liffey.

Disadvantages:

• Less traditional charm compared to other areas of Dublin.
• Quite far from the historic city centre.

Accommodation options in Docklands:

The Marker Hotel

The Marker Hotel is one of the most luxurious and modern hotels in the Docklands, with stunning views of the Grand Canal. The rooms are spacious, with elegant decor and modern amenities, such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel also features a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city and the port, ideal for a relaxing evening.

Average cost: 300€ per night.

Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane

The Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane is located in the Docklands, close to the Convention Centre Dublin and the Grand Canal Theatre. It is an ideal choice for business travellers, as it offers comfortable and modern rooms, equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a work desk.

Average cost: 190€ per night.

The Spencer Hotel

The Spencer Hotel is an elegant and modern hotel in the Docklands, with views of the River Liffey and close to the Convention Centre Dublin. The rooms are bright and spacious, with contemporary decor, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and luxurious bedding.

Average cost: 210€ per night.

Gibson Hotel

The Gibson Hotel is a modern and luxurious hotel located near the 3Arena and offers excellent views of the River Liffey. The hotel rooms are spacious, with modern decor, free Wi-Fi, and a flat-screen TV. Many of the rooms feature private balconies with panoramic views of the city and the port.

Average cost: 230€ per night.

Hilton Garden Inn Dublin Custom House

The Hilton Garden Inn is located in the Docklands, next to the River Liffey and close to the Convention Centre Dublin. The hotel offers modern rooms with comfort and luxury, equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and air conditioning.

Average cost: 170€ per night.

4. Ballsbridge: Ideal for luxury and tranquillity

Ballsbridge is one of Dublin's most aristocratic and tranquil areas, combining beautiful parks, grand embassies, and luxurious accommodation. It is ideal for those seeking a peaceful and elegant stay, away from the city centre's hustle and bustle, while remaining within easy reach of the city's main attractions, such as the RDS Arena and Aviva Stadium. With its impressive mansions and boutique hotels, Ballsbridge attracts travellers looking for luxury, comfort, and a serene atmosphere.

Advantages:

• Quiet and aristocratic area with many parks and green spaces.
• Excellent options for luxury accommodation and dining.

Disadvantages:

• Further from the vibrant nightlife of the city centre.
• Higher accommodation prices due to the area.

Accommodation options in Ballsbridge:

InterContinental Dublin

The InterContinental Dublin is one of the most luxurious hotels in the area, offering spacious rooms and top-notch services. The hotel features a spa, an indoor swimming pool, and opulent restaurants serving international cuisine. Ideal for those seeking comfort and luxury in a quiet and upscale neighbourhood, its location also allows for easy access to the city's main attractions.

Average cost: 350€ per night.

Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge

The Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge is ideal for professionals and travellers seeking an elegant and affordable option in this luxurious area. The rooms are comfortable and modern, with free Wi-Fi and all essential amenities. The hotel features a gym, restaurant, and bar, offering comprehensive services for its guests. Its location is excellent for accessing the RDS Arena and Aviva Stadium.

Average cost: 190€ per night.

Herbert Park Hotel

The Herbert Park Hotel is situated next to the beautiful Herbert Park, offering tranquillity and green scenery. The rooms are elegant and comfortable, equipped with modern amenities such as a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and tea and coffee making facilities. Guests can enjoy the hotel's restaurant, which serves international cuisine, or relax at the gym.

Average cost: 220€ per night.

Pembroke Townhouse

The Pembroke Townhouse is a charming boutique hotel with a warm atmosphere, ideal for those who wish to experience traditional Irish hospitality. The hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms with classic decor, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary breakfast. It is located close to the centre of Ballsbridge and is an ideal choice for a quiet and elegant stay.

Average cost: 160€ per night.

Ariel House

Ariel House is a charming guesthouse with a historic atmosphere and warm hospitality. The rooms are traditionally decorated, offering all modern amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and a TV. Guests can enjoy a homemade breakfast and relax in the hotel's welcoming spaces. Its location is ideal for a quiet stay close to the centre of Ballsbridge.

Average cost: 140€ per night.

5. O’Connell Street: Ideal for a central location and attractions

O’Connell Street is Dublin's most central and commercial area, filled with historical monuments, shops, and restaurants. This wide avenue hosts famous landmarks such as the General Post Office and the Spire of Dublin, making it ideal for visitors who want to be in the thick of the action and close to all main attractions.

Advantages:

• Excellent location in the city centre with easy access to attractions.
• Many options for dining, shopping, and nightlife.

Disadvantages:

• Bustling and crowded area with noise and traffic.
• Limited options for those seeking tranquillity.

Accommodation options on O’Connell Street:

The Gresham Hotel

The Gresham Hotel is a historic and elegant hotel in the heart of O’Connell Street. It offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. Guests can enjoy the hotel's restaurant and bar, as well as direct access to the city's top attractions.

Average cost: 190€ per night.

Academy Plaza Hotel

The Academy Plaza Hotel is a modern accommodation option near O’Connell Street. It offers modern and comfortable rooms with all essential amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel is just a stone's throw away from the area's shops and attractions.

Average cost: 160€ per night.

Holiday Inn Express Dublin City Centre

The Holiday Inn Express is ideal for those who desire an affordable yet comfortable stay on O’Connell Street. It offers complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and modern rooms with all necessary amenities. It is centrally located with easy access to all tourist attractions and public transport.

Average cost: 140€ per night.

Jurys Inn Parnell Street

The Jurys Inn is located a few steps from O’Connell Street, offering comfortable and affordable accommodation. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. The hotel is ideal for visitors who want to explore the city centre without overspending.

Average cost: 130€ per night.

Wynn’s Hotel

Wynn’s Hotel is a classic and historic hotel near O’Connell Street, with a charming atmosphere and elegant decor. The rooms offer comfort with traditional design, free Wi-Fi, and a flat-screen TV. Ideal for those who wish to stay in a historic setting in the city centre.

Average cost: 170€ per night.

How to get to Dublin

Dublin is easily accessible from Greece, with direct flights from Athens and Thessaloniki. From Athens International Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos", there are regular flights with major airlines, such as Aegean Airlines and Ryanair, lasting approximately 4 hours. From Thessaloniki, flights to Dublin are mainly via intermediate stops, with several connecting options in European cities. Dublin Airport is just 10 km from the city centre and is easily connected by public transport.

To find the best prices on flight tickets and plan your trip, visit travelo.gr, where you will find offers and information on flights and accommodation.

Dublin is a destination that combines rich history, vibrant culture, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it ideal for every type of traveller. From the bustling areas of Temple Bar to the peaceful corners of Ballsbridge, Dublin offers many accommodation options for all tastes and budgets. With our guide, you can choose the best area for your stay, discover wonderful hotels, and organise an unforgettable trip to the heart of Ireland. Don't forget to search for the best prices on flight tickets on travelo.gr and book your accommodation today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which area is best for accommodation at the destination?

The ideal area depends on the type of trip. If you're looking for vibrancy, restaurants, and easy access to attractions, choose the historic city centre. For a quieter stay at a good price, opt for neighbourhoods just outside the centre that are served by public transport. Families usually prefer accommodations with space and easy access to parks or beaches.

How many days do I need to visit the destination?

For a first acquaintance with the main attractions, 2 to 3 nights are sufficient. If you want to explore the surrounding area, enjoy the gastronomy, and truly relax, allow 4 to 5 days. For a base-trip with day excursions, a week is ideal.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) usually offer the best combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation prices. Summer is the busiest period, while winter suits those who want an authentic experience without crowds of tourists.

How can I book accommodation at the best price?

Booking through Booking.com offers flexible cancellation policies, reviews from real guests, and often the best available prices. Book 2-3 months in advance for the peak tourist season and compare prices between neighbourhoods, as being a few minutes further from the centre often means significant savings.

Is the destination safe for tourists?

Yes, it is a tourist-friendly destination. As with any trip, it is advisable to be mindful of personal belongings in crowded areas and on public transport, and to use reliable modes of transport. Highly-rated accommodations are usually located in safe neighbourhoods.