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Where to Stay in Dublin

Where to Stay in Dublin

Dublin Leinster, Ireland Travel Guide

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

Budget-Friendly Stays

  • Hostels

    Numerous budget-friendly options exist, mainly in the city center. Social atmosphere, shared kitchens.

  • Guesthouses/B&Bs

    Family-run establishments offering a personal touch. Often include traditional Irish breakfast.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    Selection of 3-4 star hotels across the city. Balance of comfort, amenities, and value.

  • Luxury Hotels

    High-end 5-star properties like The Shelbourne or The Merrion. Sophisticated experiences, prime locations.

Distinctive Accommodation Choices

  • Boutique Hotels

    Smaller, stylish hotels with unique design, character, personalized service. E.g., The Clarence.

  • Historic Hotels

    Properties in beautifully preserved buildings, a sense of Dublin's past with modern comforts. E.g., The Shelbourne.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Apartments or entire homes using platforms like Booking.com or Vrbo. Privacy, self-catering facilities.

  • Serviced Apartments

    Apartment-style living with hotel-like services. Staycity Aparthotels or Zanzibar Locke.

Accommodation Spotlights & Considerations

Explore unique aspects and practical advice for choosing your Dublin stay.

Boutique Experience

The Clarence
  • Owned by U2 members
  • Iconic Temple Bar location
  • Rock 'n' roll history
  • Contemporary design
Considerations
  • May have higher prices
  • Limited availability
  • Less traditional Irish feel
  • Can be noisy in Temple Bar

Historic Stays

The Shelbourne
  • Dates back to 1824
  • Overlooks St Stephen's Green
  • Role in Irish history
  • Grand luxury
Considerations
  • Premium pricing
  • Formal atmosphere
  • Book well in advance
  • Historical protection limits changes

Vacation Rentals

Benefits
  • More space and privacy
  • Self-catering facilities
  • Good for families/groups
  • Immersive local experience
Challenges
  • Less daily service
  • Check-in may be not as adaptable
  • No on-site amenities like hotels
  • Verify host reputation

Homestay & Outdoor Stays

Homestay Feel

Formal homestay programs are limited. Some B&Bs or Airbnb private rooms offer a connection with local culture.

Camping & Outdoor

No dedicated campsites within Dublin city. Caravan and camping parks are a short drive away. E.g., Camac Valley Tourist Caravan & Camping Park.

Neighborhood Guide

Explore Dublin's diverse neighborhoods, each offering an unique character and experience.

& Bustling

  • The Central area: Bustling commercial heart. Major shopping, dining, transport hub. Convenient for sightseeing. Can be noisy and busy.
  • Temple Bar: Historic cultural quarter. Lively pubs, live music, bohemian atmosphere. Very touristy, loud, high prices.
  • Grafton Street: Premier shopping street. Department stores, luxury brands. Excellent public transport links.
  • O'Connell Street: Major transport hub. Many attractions. Can have higher foot traffic.

Trendy & Tranquil

  • Portobello/Camden Street: Bohemian, residential feel. Trendy restaurants, bars, cafes. Lively local scene, good nightlife.
  • Grand Canal Dock: Modern, regenerated 'Silicon Docks.' Contemporary architecture, waterside. Up-to-date accommodations, tech companies.
  • Ballsbridge/Donnybrook: Affluent, leafy residential areas. Embassies, Aviva Stadium, beautiful parks. Safe, peaceful, elegant.
  • Smithfield/Stoneybatter: Up-and-coming, trendy. Mix of old Dublin charm, new cafes. Good value, local feel, Luas access.

Considerations

Safety & Proximity
  • Dublin is generally safe. Exercise caution in crowded areas (pickpocketing).
  • City Centre, Temple Bar, Portobello: Excellent proximity to attractions and public transport.
  • Ballsbridge/Donnybrook: Further from center, good bus/DART links.
  • Smithfield/Stoneybatter, Grand Canal Dock: Good Luas access.
Noise Levels & Ambiance
  • High Noise: Temple Bar, O'Connell Street (crowds, nightlife).
  • Moderate Noise: Other city center areas, Camden Street (peak hours).
  • Low Noise: Ballsbridge, Donnybrook, residential areas further out.

Public Transport Overview

Buses

Extensive network, routes across the city and suburbs. Main mode of public transport.

Luas

Tram system with two lines (Green & Red) serving city center and surrounding areas.

DART

Commuter rail along Dublin's coast, connecting city to scenic towns like Howth and Bray.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies help you find the best accommodation at the right price for your Dublin visit.

Advance Booking & Platforms

Advance Booking

High Season (June-Aug, St. Patrick's Week): 6-12 months ahead for best rates/selection. Shoulder Season (Apr-May, Sept-Oct): 3-6 months. Low Season (Nov-Mar): 1-3 months.

  • High Season sees highest demand.
  • Early booking secures selection.
  • Low season offers increased availability.
  • Weekends often incur higher rates.
Trusted Platforms

Use Booking.com, Expedia, Agoda, Airbnb.

  • Compare prices across sites.
  • Check direct hotel websites for deals.
  • Look for local guesthouses.
  • Read reviews carefully.

Policies & Price Fluctuations

Deposit & Cancellation

Policies vary by property and platform. Always review terms carefully. Many options offer free cancellation.

  • Check refund deadlines.
  • Understand non-refundable rates.
  • Travel insurance is wise.
  • Read fine print for hidden fees.
Seasonal Pricing

Highest prices in summer (June-Aug) and around major events (St. Patrick's Day). Lower during winter (excluding Christmas And new year's).

  • March sees St. Patrick's Day surge.
  • Avoid last-minute during peak times.
  • Weekdays are often cheaper.
  • Events can heavily influence costs.

Solo & Extended Stays

  • Solo Traveler

    Hostels like Generator or Kinlay House are excellent for meeting others. Boutique hotels offer comfort and security.

  • Long-Stay Options

    Serviced Apartments: Staycity Aparthotels, Zanzibar Locke. Vacation Rentals: Airbnb for extended periods, immersive local experience.

  • Budget Accommodation

    Hostelworld for budget accommodation options globally.

  • Unique Stays

    TrustedHousesitters for house and pet sitting exchanges.

Culturally Significant Properties

  • The Shelbourne

    Historic hotel (1824) on St Stephen's Green, part of Irish history, drafting the Irish Constitution.

  • The Clarence

    Owned by U2 members, iconic Temple Bar hotel, rock 'n' roll history, contemporary design.

  • Buswells Hotel

    Opposite Leinster House (Irish Parliament), hosted political figures, a glimpse into Dublin's political past.

  • Diverse Hotel Options

    Explore chains like IHG Hotels for varied accommodations.

Additional Tips for Choosing

Location Preferences

Consider city center for convenience, Portobello for local vibe, Ballsbridge for tranquility.

  • Consider proximity to attractions.
  • Assess transport links.
  • Evaluate nightlife access.
  • Quiet vs. Lively districts.
Amenities & Services

Look for included breakfast, Wi-Fi, laundry, or specific family amenities.

  • Free breakfast can save money.
  • Reliable Wi-Fi is important.
  • Family rooms or interconnecting options.
  • Concierge services.

Concluding Advice

Read Recent Reviews

Current perspectives on property conditions and guest experiences.

Trust Your Gut

Choose a place that fits with your travel style and preferences.

Book Direct Sometimes

May find exclusive discounts or personalized service on official hotel websites.

Where to Stay in Dublin. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation