Where To Stay In Dublin (2024): Accommodation & Area Guide

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Want to Know Where to Stay in Dublin, Ireland? We’re Here to Help!

Wondering where to stay in Dublin? You’re not alone! The Irish capital city is a great destination for all kinds of travellers. However, deciding between the best hotels in Dublin and the best areas to stay in can be tricky. That’s where we come in.

Having visited Dublin a number of times – once for St. Patrick’s Day – we’ve got a pretty good idea of what makes up the best place to stay in Dublin.

From popular Dublin hotels near the city centre like The Gresham Dublin and The Fleet Temple Bar to quieter Georgian areas with colourful doors, there’s a place to stay to suit everyone’s needs.

So, in this guide, we’ll walk you through the best Dublin accommodations by type and then outline the best areas to stay in Dublin – providing great examples in each.

Whether you are looking for where to stay in Dublin for the best nightlife, with children, on a budget, or for St. Patrick’s Day, we’ve got you covered!

**Friendly Disclosure: We paid for the accommodation we stayed at ourselves and were not told to include properties in this article.

Dublin Accommodations By Type

As with most major cities or European capitals, Dublin has loads of different accommodation options that suit different travel styles and budgets. There is a healthy mix of great hotels, bed and breakfasts, apartments, and even hostels to choose from.

Since the best places to stay in Dublin are going to look different for everyone, we’ve divided this post into two main sections: the first section is on Dublin accommodations by type while the bottom part outlines some of the better areas to stay in Dublin (where we would stay).

This way, if you know what type of Dublin lodging you would like, you can get started looking in this section.

Alternatively, if you want to book a place to stay in a specific area (like the city centre), you can read about the areas further down and have a look through accommodations in each!

Hotels in Dublin

As the capital of Ireland, Dublin is a vibrant, fun city that is full of life. That said, it’s actually pretty small – a little bit bigger than the size of Edinburgh (500,000ish people).

There is a wide selection of great hotels in lots of different areas around the city. You’ll find some of the best Dublin hotels in Temple Bar and along the tranquil seaside.

Get started searching for hotels in Dublin here

If you know you’re going to Dublin and want to see some top hotels in a mix of nice areas that balance value for money and amenities, you can get started below with a selection of the best hotels in Dublin, Ireland:

Popular Dublin Hotels

For those looking for a specific category or style of hotel, we’ve broken that down below so you can easily find the type of hotel you’re searching for!

Budget/Cheap Hotels in Dublin

If you’re looking for cheap places to stay in Dublin, there are a number of budget hotels you might want to check out.

There is nothing “wrong” with these cheaper hotels. However, a common complaint is that these hotels are a little noisy at night because they are in central areas. If you know this going in and are looking for Dublin nightlife, this might not be an issue for you.

Another thing to keep in mind: the time of year you visit is going to affect prices. Even the good hotels in Dublin that are affordable go up in price for St. Patrick’s Day!

Below you can find a few featured hotels that fall into the budget hotel category:

  • Blooms HotelA no-fuss hotel with bar/restaurant and nightclub in the heart of Temple Bar (Our Pick)
  • The Camden Street HotelA stylish hotel right in the heart of the action on Lower Camden Street
  • The Abbey HotelA bright, simple hotel right across the River Liffey a short walk to Temple Bar
  • The Gate Hotel – A lovely hotel up by Parnell Square at the end of O’Connell Street

Boutique Hotels in Dublin

There are some great boutique hotels in Dublin to choose from for those wanting a little bit of style to their hotel stay. From wild interior designs to more trendy and simple finishes, there are some hip hotels across Dublin.

Below are a number of stylish hotels to have a look at in Dublin. If you’re searching for the cool places to stay in Dublin, you’ll likely find what you’re looking for below!

Luxury Hotels in Dublin

For those travellers seeking an upscale stay, top amenities, and great areas to stay in, luxury hotels in Dublin might fit the bill.

As an international city, there are a number of 5-star hotels in Dublin right in the city centre that exist to pamper their guests with amenities like spas and top restaurants.

There are also a number of upscale hotels that offer their guests seaside views away from the busy city centre. You can check out a few of the top luxury hotels in Dublin below:

  • The Westbury Hotel An elegant and modern hotel steps from Grafton Street (Our Pick)
  • The Merrion HotelAn elegant, boutique luxury hotel right in the middle of Georgian Dublin
  • The Shelbourne – A historic, upscale hotel overlooking St. Stephen’s Green steps from the city centre

Guesthouses/Bed and Breakfasts in Dublin

Being a historic smaller city, certain parts of Dublin maintain a much more “neighbourly” feel. As a result of that – compared to other capital cities – there are actually quite a few bed and breakfasts in Dublin.

Often also called guesthouses, these cozier accommodations offer guests a home away from home atmosphere. You’ll find B&Bs tucked away in typical Georgian townhouses and spread out along the Irish coast just outside the city.

Get started searching for B&Bs/Guesthouses in Dublin here

With welcoming, local hosts eager to share their city knowledge and often a hearty cooked breakfast, we’re big fans of guesthouse-type accommodations. (We loved our guesthouses in Salzburg and in Edinburgh!)

To get you started with Dublin guesthouses, check out these great options:

  • Kilronan House – A historic, charming B&B steps from lively Camden Street (Our Pick)
  • Number 31 – A stylish boutique guesthouse close to the Grand Canal in Georgian Dublin
  • Donnybrook HallA cozy, authentic guesthouse right in Donnybrook
  • Kennedys B&B DrumcondraA cozy and simple B&B with onsite bar up in Drumcondra
  • King SitricA simple, seaside guesthouse/hotel with sea views in Howth

Aparthotels/Apartments in Dublin

Another Dublin accommodation option to consider is renting an apartment or staying at an aparthotel.

These are great for longer stays where you might want your own space, want to cook your own meals to keep costs down, or if you’re travelling with kids, family, or a large group.

While Dublin is a smaller city, there are apartments for rent available in the city centre. A unique option is that Dublin has a number of aparthotels. These are self-catered apartments that also have staff/reception and sometimes breakfast included.

Get started searching for apartments/aparthotels in Dublin here

The apartments or aparthotels below are also good options in a small city because they are regulated accommodations that don’t take space away from locals. Below are a few nice apartments/aparthotels in great locations around Dublin:

Hostels in Dublin

If you are travelling on a budget or want to experience the “traveller community” that Dublin prides itself on, you might consider staying at a hostel. Like with hotels, there are plenty of hostels in the city to suit different styles.

It’s a bit of a myth that all the hostels in Dublin are for drinking and partying. Yes, this is the case for many hostels in the Temple Bar area – but not all Dublin hostels are like that!

Eric has stayed in a hostel in Temple Bar (Oliver St John Gogarty’s Hostel) and while it was a little more lively, it was still a great stay overall.

Get started searching for hostels in Dublin here

Below are some of the best hostels in Dublin. As mentioned, there’s a nice mix of hostels across the city so you’ll find what you’re looking for.

Dublin Accommodations By Area/Neighbourhood

Okay, so now that we have talked about the accommodation in Dublin by type, it’s time to cover the best areas to stay in Dublin!

Below, we’ll give you a brief rundown of the areas, what you can find there, and who it may be best suited for. Then, we’ll provide top accommodation choices in each.

Dublin can be divided up into districts and often divided again into neighbourhoods in each. To be clear, this article does not cover all the Dublin areas where you could stay – just a few of the top ones. If we were to visit again, these are areas we would genuinely search for accommodation.

If getting around Dublin is a concern for you, you should know that the city is very walkable since it’s pretty flat and not that huge.

Of course, if you choose to stay farther out or want to visit attractions on the outskirts, you can take Dublin public transit (buses and trams) and rely on DART trains for areas farther away at the coast like Howth and Dún Laoghaire.

If you already know which Dublin area you want to stay in, then you can look below at our top accommodation picks in each area. If you’re unsure, that’s totally fine. You can read about each area below in detail to learn more about it.

Top Dublin Accommodations By Area

Safety in Dublin: Many people ask “is Dublin safe to visit” and if there are any “areas or neighborhoods to avoid in Dublin”. Dublin is as safe as any other European capital. As a visitor, you should take the same precautions against common scams, pickpocketing, etc.

As for areas to avoid in Dublin, many of the “unsafe” (relative term) districts are further from the city centre.

If you’re playing visitor for a few days and sticking very much to the city centre there’s little chance you’d end up in these areas in the first place.

Dublin City Centre – Social, Touristy, Lively

old pub with flags hanging outside in temple bar dublin
Oliver St. John Gogarty’s Pub in the heart of Temple Bar in the Dublin city centre!

As the liveliest, most central, and inevitably most touristy part of Dublin, the city centre is definitely worth a look for a place to stay in Dublin.

Located on the South Bank of the River Liffey, the city centre is considered by many to be the heart of the action.

Within the city centre, there are a number of smaller popular areas or streets. These include: Temple Bar (bars, pubs, and lively atmosphere), Trinity College Dublin (Library and Book of Kells), Grafton Street (for shopping), Dublin Castle (for visiting), and more.

Hotels near the Temple Bar area can be louder than accommodations in other parts of the city centre.

So, finding the best place to stay in the Dublin city centre really depends on what is important to you (being close to nightlife or getting a good night’s sleep).

Overall, this whole area is very walkable to the top attractions and good for exploring the history of Dublin, shopping, and having a fun time. It’s also well connected via transit should you want to explore others areas of Dublin not on foot.

Check Here For Hotels in the Dublin City Centre Area

Put it this way: if you are trying to figure out where to stay in Dublin for one night, look in the city centre region for a great place in a great location.

Featured Accommodations in the Dublin City Centre

Below are some of the top-rated places to stay in the Dublin city centre. Hotels in/near the city centre can be more expensive than in other areas but you are paying for the prime location in the city.

The Fleet – Check Now

  • Style: A Stylish, Cool Hotel
  • Price Range: Mid-Range
  • Location: Right on Fleet Street – but close to Trinity College Dublin and O’Connell Bridge
  • Featured Amenities: Really nice breakfast, café bar onsite tea/coffee in-room

Harding Hotel – Check Now

  • Style: A Simple, Lively Hotel
  • Price Range: Mid-Range
  • Location: Just west of the heart of the Temple Bar area
  • Featured Amenities: Pub/restaurant onsite, nice breakfast

The Morgan Hotel – Check Now

  • Style: Bright and Trendy Hotel
  • Price Range: Mid-Range
  • Location: Right on Fleet Street – steps from the heart of Temple Bar (but not right in it)
  • Featured Amenities: Cozy rooms, onsite bar/restaurant

The Westbury Hotel – Check Now

  • Style: Elegant and Modern Hotel
  • Price Range: Upper-Mid Range/Luxury
  • Location: Steps from Grafton Street – a lively but not wild area of the centre
  • Featured Amenities: 2 restaurants, bar, onsite café area with city views, great breakfast

Georgian-Style Dublin – For Colourful Doors

If you want a bit of a quieter stay in the historic parts of Dublin, then check out the area known as Georgian-style Dublin.

Popular for the “colourful doors of Dublin” you see in photographs, the area is full of green space, Georgian period architecture, historic townhouses, and overall a more quaint, residential feel. It’s located just to the southeast of the city centre… in fact, it’s very much still “city centre”.

Some argue that this is the best location to stay in Dublin because you’re still within walking distance to the heart of the action but far enough away to get a nice sleep.

To understand this area’s borders, aim for parks/squares like the beautiful St. Stephen’s Green, Merrion Square and Fitzwilliam Square. If you head south enough, you can go for a stroll along the Grand Canal.

Check Here For Accommodations in Georgian Dublin

This is a great area if you want to go out on the town (like on Camden Street) or visit attractions like The National Concert Hall, The National Museum of Ireland, or The National Gallery of Ireland. 

Featured Accommodations in Georgian Dublin

Below are some of the top-rated places to stay in this area. It’s a healthy mix of hotels (many luxury hotels are here) and guesthouses that offer a prime location and access to the rest of the city.

Kilronan House – Check Now

  • Style: Historic and Charming B&B
  • Price Range: Mid-Range
  • Location: Just south of Iveagh Gardens but steps from Camden Street
  • Featured Amenities: Helpful host, freshly cooked breakfast, Irish coffee

Trinity Townhouse Hotel – Check Now

  • Style: A Colourful, Upscale Hotel
  • Price Range: Upper Mid-Range
  • Location: A beautiful Georgian property closer to Trinity College Dublin
  • Featured Amenities: Nice breakfast, tea/coffee and A/C in rooms

Number 31 – Check Now

  • Style: Stylish yet Historic Guesthouse
  • Price Range: Mid-Range
  • Location: South of Fitzwilliam Square, close to the Grand Canal
  • Featured Amenities: Authentic building, great decor, modern rooms, amazing breakfast

The Merrion Hotel – Check Now

  • Style: Elegant and Boutique Hotel
  • Price Range: Luxury
  • Location: In the middle of Georgian Dublin – right between St Stephen’s and Merrion Square
  • Featured Amenities: Inner garden/courtyard, Michelin restaurant onsite, infinity pool

O’Connell Street – For Shopping & History

white bridge over river liffey with colourful houses on river bank
Ha’penny Bridge as it crosses the Liffey.

If you want to stay north of the River Liffey, you can do that, too. The main street on the north bank is O’Connell Street – deemed to be one of the widest streets in the capital (and in all of Europe).

This street – and the surrounding side streets – are loaded with shops, pubs, and important historical monuments and attractions that have played a role in shaping the country’s past.

Top attractions closer to O’Connell Street include Henry Street (good for shopping), The Spire, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, The General Post Office (where the Proclamation of the Republic was read), and many more.

Check Here For Accommodations Near O’Connell Street

Staying in this area means you are only a quick walk across any bridge (see above photo) into the Temple Bar Area or to Grafton Street.

In the other direction – up towards Parnell Square – it’s just a short walk to attractions on the Northside of the river like the Jameson Distillery to the west.

Featured Accommodations Near O’Connell Street

Below are some of the top hotels along or near O’Connell Street. This is also a good area to stay in if you want to use public transit because it’s heavy with buses (and even bus tours) and has the Luas (above ground tram) running along it.

Arlington Hotel – Check Now

  • Style: Reliable and Charming Hotel (very popular)
  • Price Range: Mid-Range
  • Location: Right on the River Liffey – close to O’Connell Bridge
  • Featured Amenities: River views, friendly staff, great breakfast, entertainment onsite

Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin – Check Now

  • Style: A Beautiful, Classic Hotel (also very popular)
  • Price Range: Lower Mid-Range
  • Location: Right on O’Connell Street surrounded by shops – but quiet in the evening
  • Featured Amenities: Bar/restaurant onsite, parking available, 24 hour gym

Academy Plaza Hotel – Check Now

  • Style: Clean and Modern Hotel
  • Price Range: Budget
  • Location: Just off O’Connell Street at the top, a short walk to Connolly Train Station
  • Featured Amenities: Onsite restaurant and bar, small fitness centre, breakfast buffet

Wynn’s Hotel – Check Now

  • Style: Traditional, Victorian Hotel
  • Price Range: Upper Mid-Range
  • Location: Just off O’Connell Street – just north of the River Liffey
  • Featured Amenities: Onsite restaurant and bar, great breakfast, city views, wonderful staff

Ballsbridge/Donnybrook – Upscale & Lively

If you want to stay a bit farther out of the city centre, check out the areas of Ballsbridge and/or Donnybrook. Known as the “Embassy Belt”, this area is where you will find many of the embassies of other countries.

Ballsbridge is a more upscale area that has a good mix of entertainment and quiet areas. You can head to Baggot Street Upper for bars and food. The top attractions – like the RDS Main Arena – draw crowds to the area for sporting events.

Check Here For Accommodations In Ballsbridge/Donnybrook

There are places to stay near the River Dodder that cuts through this area. Speaking of water, you’re getting closer to the coast if you stay in Ballsbridge so keep that in mind if you want seaside strolls.

Featured Accommodations in Ballsbridge/Donnybrook

Below are a few accommodations in this region. There isn’t a ton to do in this area but you can get a quieter, cheaper stay here and still have easy access to the city centre via public transit.

Roxford Lodge Hotel – Check Now

  • Style: A Trendy, Boutique Hotel
  • Price Range: Upper Mid-Range
  • Location: A short walk to Georgian Dublin and the Grand Canal
  • Featured Amenities: Free parking, nice breakfast, Nespresso machine in rooms

Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge – Check Now

  • Style: Historic and Boutique-Style Hotel
  • Price Range: Budget
  • Location: In the heart of Ballsbridge surrounded by embassies and transit on Merrion Road
  • Featured Amenities: historic school setting, restaurant/bar on site, breakfast buffet

Donnybrook Hall – Check Now

  • Style: Cozy and Authentic Guesthouse
  • Price Range: Budget/Mid-range
  • Location: Right in Donnybrook, close to restaurants/transit on Donnybrook Road
  • Featured Amenities: Cozy sitting area, friendly hosts, freshly made breakfast options, kettle in each room.

Mespil Hotel – Check Now

  • Style: Modern and Stylish Hotel
  • Price Range: Mid-Range
  • Location: Facing the Grand Canal, closer to Georgian Dublin but near bars/restaurants on Pembroke Road
  • Featured Amenities: Onsite restaurant and bar, fitness centre, 24-hour reception

Drumcondra – Social & Suburban

If you want to stay in a more residential area farther north of the River Liffey, consider a stay in Drumcondra. This area is still well connected to the centre via train, bus, or a 30-minute walk to O’Connell Street.

The area is known for its top attraction Croke Park which is the home of Gaelic football and hurling. It’s also the third-largest European stadium by capacity. You can be sure that the area gets busy on game days!

Check Here For Accommodations in the Drumcondra Area

Up in Drumcondra, it’s certainly more green and suburban but there are a number of great eateries.

There’s also a mix of old and new pubs – and you can’t forget that the National Botanic Gardens aren’t too far from here, either.

Featured Accommodations in Drumcondra

Below are some of the best places to stay in Drumcondra. The dominant accommodation choice is usually quieter bed and breakfasts. That said, you can also find hotels if you prefer.

Dublin Skylon Hotel – Check Now

  • Style: An Elegant yet Affordable Hotel (popular)
  • Price Range: Upper Budget
  • Location: On Upper Drumcondra Road (good for transit), close to National Botanic Gardens and Croke Park Stadium
  • Featured Amenities: Secure onsite parking, onsite bar/restaurant (nice meals),

Errigal Guest House – Check Now

  • Style: A Simple, Cozy Guest House
  • Price Range: Upper Budget
  • Location: Also right on Drumcondra Road Upper, transit to get into the city centre close by
  • Featured Amenities: Simple breakfast, free secure parking

Kennedy’s B&B Drumcondra – Check Now

  • Style: A Cozy and Simple B&B
  • Price Range: Budget
  • Location: Also right on the main street, about 30 minutes to the city centre
  • Featured Amenities: Lively bar onsite, welcoming hosts, clean rooms

The Croke Park Hotel – Check Now

  • Style: An Updated and Stylish Hotel
  • Price Range: Mid-Range
  • Location: Right beside Croke Park (the stadium)
  • Featured Amenities: Free parking, onsite restaurant/bar, great for kids

The Coast – Howth and Dún Laoghaire – For Seaside Views

lighthouse on end of Howth Harbour
pier with blue ocean behind
You might choose the sea – which is never a bad idea!

If you are looking for a bit of seaside living, sea air, and the sound of waves, staying along the coast might be for you!

While these areas are a bit outside the city centre, they are still well connected via public transit (DART train). In no time at all, you can go between lounging on a seaside chair to being downtown having a pint!

There are two main areas that you should gravitate towards for the best Irish coastline that maintain a connection to the city centre: Howth to the north and Dún Laoghaire to the south of the city centre. Below, we’ve given you options for each!

Accommodations in Howth

Located to the north (and very much east) of the city centre, Howth is a seaside town that maintains a speedy connection to the city centre (about 25 minutes leaving frequently). Howth is good if you are interested in beaches as well as golfing.

Check Here For Accommodations in Howth

Aside from golfing, Howth also has a gorgeous lighthouse that draws crowds (see the above photo). It’s no wonder this picturesque area is popular.

Marine Hotel – Check Now

  • Style: Rustic and Charming Hotel
  • Price Range: Mid-Range
  • Location: In Sutton, close to Sutton Rail station, quick walk to the beachfront
  • Featured Amenities: Large car park, beach access, onsite Italian restaurant

King Sitric – Check Now

  • Style: Simple and Airy Seaside Guesthouse/Hotel
  • Price Range: Upper Mid-Range
  • Location: Right by Howth rail station, near the pier and Howth Lighthouse
  • Featured Amenities: Onsite seafood restaurant, bar, great breakfast, sea views

Accommodations in Dún Laoghaire

Located to the south of the city centre, Dún Laoghaire is a beautiful seaside area that makes for a great half-day trip if you end up staying in the centre.

Check Here For Accommodations in Dún Laoghaire

You can also do this in reverse: choose to stay in Dún Laoghaire for the seaside views and then head into the city if/when you need to.

It’s only about 25 minutes to Connolly Station via DART train. Below are two accommodations to check out in Dún Laoghaire.

Haddington House – Check Now

  • Style: A Minimalist & Trendy Boutique Hotel
  • Price Range: Upper Mid-Range
  • Location: Overlooking the sea right at Dún Laoghaire Harbour
  • Featured Amenities: Sea views, bar/restaurant on site, free parking available

Royal Marine Hotel – Check Now

  • Style: Old & Charming yet Modern Hotel
  • Price Range: Budget
  • Location: Right on the sea, a quick walk to the train station.
  • Featured Amenities: Sea views, free parking, onsite bar/restaurant, wellness spa, pool

FAQ

Below are a number of answers to commonly asked questions when it comes to Dublin accommodation options:

Where to stay in Dublin on a budget?

If you’re visiting Dublin on a budget, a good area to check out would be Drumcondra. It’s north of the city centre but well-connected via public transit.

There’s a nice mix of affordable guesthouses/B&Bs like the Errigal Guest House and nice hotels like Dublin Skylon Hotel.

Where to stay in Dublin on St. Patrick’s Day?

If you are travelling to Dublin for St. Patrick’s Day, you can choose to stay right in the heart of the action at a nice, popular hotel like The Fleet Temple Bar.

If you want to stay in a quieter area that is a short walk to the heart of the city centre, opt for the Mespil Hotel in Ballsbridge.

Where to stay in Dublin for Georgian houses?

To immerse yourself with Dublin’s historic Georgian townhouses with their beautiful colourful doors, stay close to the area around St. Stephen’s Green. Check out Trinity Townhouse Hotel or Kilronan House for a nice B&B stay.

Where to stay in Dublin for nightlife?

If you want nightlife, you can stay right in Temple Bar or along Camden Street Lower to be close to the action. Both will be noisier – but if that’s what you’re there for, you will not be disappointed.

Blooms Hotel is a popular hotel located in Temple Bar with an onsite pub and nightclub. The Camden Street Hotel is another popular choice located beside the bars, pubs, clubs of Camden.

Where to stay in Dublin with children?

If you’re travelling to Dublin with children, an apartment rental or aparthotel might be a good option. For a place closer to the city centre, check out Staycity Aparthotels, Dublin Castle for a great location and surprisingly quieter stay.

To get out of the city centre a bit, Broc House Suites make for great short stay apartments.

Where to stay in Dublin to get to the airport?

To be honest, it’s only about a 30-minute drive/taxi/bus ride to the airport from the city centre. So, you can stay in the centre and easily catch a flight.

However, if you have an early flight or want to be extra cautious, the Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport is a popular hotel close to the airport with a shuttle bus.

The Maldron Hotel Dublin Airport is literally on the Dublin airport grounds… so you can just walk to the terminal!

Related Articles

Also, if you are planning a bigger Ireland/Europe trip, you should check out some of our other posts:

And there you have it – a rundown of where to stay in Dublin.

In the end, if you keep your budget in mind and know your travel style/needs, you’ll find an accommodation in Dublin to suit you. Dublin is a fun, vibrant city so have an amazing time exploring!

As always, Happy Dublin Hotel Waddlin’,
-L&E

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Where to stay in Dublin