Where to stay in Dublin: the best areas for your trip

In short: for a first visit, stay in the centre, between Temple Bar and Grafton Street. As a couple or for calm, Georgian Dublin; for local life, Smithfield and Stoneybatter; with kids, Ballsbridge. Dublin is compact, but accommodation is in high demand: book early.

Understanding Dublin in two minutes

Dublin is divided by the Liffey. On the south bank is the centre, with Temple Bar, Trinity College, Grafton Street and Georgian Dublin around St Stephen’s Green; further south-east, Ballsbridge. On the north bank is O’Connell Street, then Smithfield and Stoneybatter to the west. To the east are the modern Docklands. The tram (Luas), buses and the commuter train (DART) complement walking.

The right area for your trip

First visit and nightlife: Temple Bar and the centre

Cobbled streets, pubs and traditional music: Temple Bar is Dublin’s festive soul, a stone’s throw from Trinity College, the castle and Grafton Street. Very lively at night: choose a slightly quieter street if you want to sleep.

Elegance and calm: Georgian Dublin

Around St Stephen’s Green and Merrion Square: Georgian houses with colourful doors, national museums and parks. An elegant, calm area, ideal for couples and older travellers.

Local life: Smithfield and Stoneybatter

North-west of the Liffey, Smithfield and Stoneybatter are more local, with cafés, neighbourhood pubs and the old Bow Street distillery.

With kids and calm: Ballsbridge

The embassy district, Ballsbridge is residential, quiet and green, well connected to the centre by bus and DART.

Modern: the Docklands

Along the Liffey to the east, the Docklands have newer hotels near the convention centre, handy for business trips.

More affordable: Rathmines and Portobello

South of the centre, Rathmines and Portobello are lively and often a little more affordable, a few minutes by bus from St Stephen’s Green.

Getting to Dublin

From Dublin Airport, express and city buses run to the centre; there is no direct train. For timetables and fares, check the official websites. A private transfer takes you straight to your hotel.

Our booking tips

1. Book very early: supply is limited and prices rise fast.
2. Check the calendar: St Patrick’s Day (17 March), big matches and concerts fill the city.
3. Get a Leap Card for public transport, cheaper than single tickets.
4. Check the nearest Luas, DART or bus stop if you stay outside the centre.
5. Choose free cancellation when it is offered.

Once you’re there

To plan the rest of your trip (Galway, the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara), see our guide Travel in Ireland. The areas and useful services are on our Dublin page.