11 Most Expensive Hotels in Dublin, Ireland

The capital of the Republic of Ireland, Dublin, is an addictive blend of hedonism and heritage, topped off with a dash of the friendly and warm Irish spirit. It’s a city chock-full of history, whether it’s its Viking past, its elegant Georgian architecture, or the cathedrals and medieval castles. What makes it all the better is that the charismatic Dubliners make for excellent hosts. It’s what makes staying here so amazing, besides the great hotels, of course. But you’ll be surprised to know that the most expensive hotels in Dublin, Ireland, are truly the pinnacle of luxury. We can’t tell you how the other half lives, but we sure do know where they stay, don’t they?

After all, there’s nothing quite like an Irish welcome, and staying at one of the city’s lavish five-stars only ups the ante on all the warmth and charm. Topping everything off is a dollop of lavish amenities mixed with classic Georgian architecture and cool designs. Finally, whether they’re classic historical stays or modern ones, you’ll find that they’re charming in spades. Here are our picks for the most luxurious stays in Dublin.

While planning a trip to Dublin, why not start with the top things to do in Dublin?

The Alex Dublin City, O’Callaghan Collection

11

The Alex Dublin City, O’Callaghan Collection stands where a train station formerly stood and is officially one of the city’s cool kids. It’s evident the minute you walk in; the airy lobby is home to a posh and sleek co-working space, complete with forest-green marble tables, Art Deco fixtures, and peeps furiously typing away on laptops. At the same time, there are nods to its illustrious history in the form of clever design details. Think leather luggage straps affixed to wardrobe drawers and ticker signs above the elevators.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Alex Hotel (@thealexdublin)

Since it’s a city-center property, there are no amenities like a spa, tennis grounds, and gardens, but there is a spacious gym right across the street at its sister hotel, Monte Clare. Moreover, there are newspapers and a lobby business section with high-speed Wi-Fi and sleek desks. Plus, there’s even a specialist desk that offers tours, both local and national. And, of course, the service was friendly and prompt, and the staff was warm and charming. Finally, life at the Alex revolves around the main restaurant/café serving all meals and has a resident espresso bar, Steam, with some very good coffee.

With blue wood panels, retro telephones, and deep-green velvet cushions, the rooms here boast an endearingly chic vibe. Besides super-soft beds and well-placed electrical outlets, the executive-level rooms even have Nespresso machines and lounge access with drinks and snacks. What’s unique about this hotel’s rooms is that its entry-level rooms are on the higher side—EUR 420 (USD 460). On the other hand, its most expensive, the Alex Suite, costs EUR 600 (USD 650).

The College Green Hotel Dublin, Autograph Collection

10

The College Green Hotel Dublin Autograph Collection has a beautifully agreeable blend of contemporary design and Georgian architecture in a very central location. Thus, its excellent position on St Stephen’s Green’s southwestern corner puts green open spaces within a stone’s throw, like the secret oasis of the Iveagh Gardens. On the inside, a foyer with outsized ceiling lamps, terrazzo floors, plush furniture, and minimalist, art-free make for a confidently distinctive touch.  

Again, since this is a city-center hotel, it doesn’t have a pool or a spa. However, it does have an airy, spanking-new, and spacious up-to-the-minute fitness center. Moreover, the service is prompt and excellent. There’s also an executive lounge upstairs and a hot-desking zone off the lobby, complete with wonderful street views. The highlight is the Green restaurant and bar, with excellent meals and huge windows overlooking the street.  

Even the entry-level standard rooms, which cost around EUR 380 (USD 410), are relatively spacious with calming color palettes. Moreover, they all come with bathrobes, tea/coffee makers, soundproofing, and dinky perks like retro-style telephones, Roberts radios, and original Irish art. Plus, all bathrooms are brand-new with Paul Costelloe’s ‘Linen’ bath products. Of them all, the College Presidential Suite is the priciest, costing EUR 1,000/night (USD 1,100), and has excellent city views from its balcony.

The Clarence

9

How would you like to stay in a swanky hotel partly owned by the amazing Irish rock band U2? We’re talking about The Clarence, which sits in a historic structure overlooking River Liffey and Dublin’s quays. This imposing Temple Bar institution is cool and smooth to the point of being even a trifle austere, but it works. With just 50 rooms and splendid retainments of its original Victorian architecture, it’s one of the city’s most indulgent boutique stays.  

Despite being a city center hotel and thus having no pool or spa, the hotel does have a partnership with the local Melt Spa, which is a mere two-minute walk from the hotel. Moreover, the service is not stuffy and is a nice blend of Irish informality and polished promptness. Plus, they’re completely plugged into the locality and dole out a wealth of information on everything from things to see to places to eat and drink. A restaurant and bar also welcome non-guests and wrap up the food scene.

That said, the digs are the main focus here, with excellent double glazing, lots of original Irish art, and beautifully modern bathrooms with Paul Costelloe bath products. In fact, the suites even come with Nespresso machines, and many of them have balconies with spectacular Dublin views. While entry-level rooms cost EUR 230 (USD 250), the Penthouse costs a cool EUR 1,100 (USD 1,190). The two-storeyed space boasts a balcony running the hotel’s length and with truly panoramic views. What makes it all the better are the many outdoor sitting areas, a fully fitted kitchen with a chef, and a spiral staircase leading to the upper story, topped by a dramatic cupola.

Dylan Hotel

8

The stylishly fun and boutique Dylan Hotel is a rare addition to the list of Dublin’s priciest stays. That’s because it isn’t in the city center but rather tucked in a serene and quietly affluent part of the city. So, the surrounding streets are a delight to walk around in, especially since you aren’t too far from the action either.

Coming back to the hotel, it’s part modern extension and part grand Victorian red-brick edifice, thus resulting in an eclectically luxurious setup. The Irish design setup is well complemented by the warm, attentive, and smart service. Guests do have access to the good Aorta gym around the corner, but bibliophiles will practically retreat to the Library with its collection of first editions. A good concierge system aside, the onsite restaurant and bar are excellent, too. While the Eddison restaurant, with sunny verandahs and a ‘moss wall’ living art installation, offers all meals, the intimately warm Dylan bar makes cocktails, wine, and even pastries, light bites, and coffee.

All 72 rooms retain quirky details like branch-shaped bedside lights and oversized misshaped armchairs. Plus, they have mod-cons in the form of smart bathrooms, ‘Good Food Ireland’ hospitality trays, and much-needed Nespresso machines. While the entry-level rooms cost EUR 1,100 (USD 1,190), the Signature Suite, the most expensive, costs EUR 2,000 (USD 2,160). It’s no wonder it’s one of the best hotels in Dublin.

Conrad Dublin

7

The Conrad Dublin has an enviable location close to two of the city’s most beautiful parks and sits right across from the National Concert Hall. But it’s one of Dublin’s most impressive hotels for more than just its location. The minute you step in, you can see the influences of the dreamy Iveagh Gardens; think of neutral green colo schemes and branch-like light fixtures. Of course, the large echoing atrium with vast floral displays and lots of marble sets the indulgent tone, too.

Again, there’s no pool or spa here, but you don’t feel like you need it. That’s because one side of the Conrad opens onto a wide patio, complete with seating and water features. The super-fast Wi-Fi aside, there’s also a snazzy gym that’s open 24 hours a day. However, the highlight is the impressive Coburg, a sexy brasserie with impeccably delicious food. But that’s not all; the hotel also has The Terrace Kitchen & Social House and Lemuel’s, rounding up the drinking and dining scene nicely.

If you were impressed with the facilities, wait till you see the rooms and suites at this hotel, all of which are calming and muted. Think Nespresso machines, Irish art, woven blankets, and some rooms even had private balconies, which are an absolute rarity in Dublin. Moreover, the luxurious rouches come in the form of intimate services like turndown, which means slippers, dimmed lights, and even Butler’s chocolates on the pillow. Entry-level rooms are one of the least expensive on this list – EUR 370 (USD 400) – but the Presidential Suite spares no expense and costs EUR 2,200 (USD 2,370).

Fitzwilliam Hotel Dublin

6

The Fitzwilliam Hotel Dublin has never been one to shy away from pizzazz or color and still stops at nothing to please guests. You’ll be impressed right from the lemongrass-scented airy lobby to the sexy bar tucked away at the back. But you’ll soon realize that its customer spiel isn’t just marketing. For instance, someone from the hotel will call you before your stay to ask how to make your stay better or what you want in your room. It’s the personal touch that makes all the difference.

A friendly and superb staff, all resplendent in magenta and extremely keyed into Dublin’s scene, will make your stay all the better. Other nice touches include a reading nook, complete with a library of books. This is one of those rare Dublin city center hotels that has The Spirit Spa, which offers a wide range of treatments. Aside from the excellent concierge desk and a well-equipped gym, the food scene is the focus here. The main restaurant, Citron, especially has an excellent buffet breakfast, while the gregarious yet cozy bar Inn on the Green has light all-day dining. The star, however, is the pink 1920s dining room Glover’s Alley, complete with a French-inspired menu.

All rooms feature pops of color everywhere, along with luxe bathrooms with Murdock bath products and some even with chartreuse bathtubs. While a few east-facing rooms come with balconies looking across the treetops of St Stephen’s Green, the south-facing ones are equally amazing, overlooking the lush courtyard garden. Entry-level rooms might cost EUR 450 (USD 490), but the costliest is the Presidential Suite, which costs a cool EUR 3,200 (USD 3,450).

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fitzwilliam Hotel Dublin (@fitzwilliamhotel)

Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel

5

Dublin’s Docklands, a.k.a. “Silicon Docks,” is where the European headquarters of all tech bigwigs lie: Airbnb, Google, Facebook, you name it. In the middle of it all sits the sleek, geometric Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel, the region’s unofficial landmark. You’ll love the hip vibe, right from the subterranean pool to the rooftop bar and lounge space. The hotel might be unabashedly modern, but its inspirations are inherently Irish. While the chequerboard-style exterior is inspired by the Cliffs of Moher, the airy, light-filled lobby evokes images of the Giant’s Causeway, one of Ireland’s most beautiful places.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel (@anantarathemarkerdublin)

The amenities here are different and distinct. For one, it has a gorgeous, moodily lit indoor infinity pool, which is the city’s best, and even has a whirlpool tub and a eucalyptus-scented steam room. After a swim, you can head to the seasonally-open rooftop, complete with a rooftop bar and killer views of Dublin. The brand has always focused on wellness, so it’s not surprising to find the indulgent Anantara Spa on the property. Aside from the free bicycles to explore, the three eating spots, Forbes Street, the Bar & Lounge, and the rooftop lounge with 360-degree views, wrap up the offerings here. 

Since the hotel sits slightly outside the city center, even the entry-level rooms, which cost the least on this list – EUR 300 (USD 325) – are extremely spacious. However, at 1,390 sq ft, the Presidential Suite at this hotel is the size of a typical family home in the city. It boasts white Carrera and black Nero Marquina marble bathrooms, Malin+Goetz bath products, a fully stocked bar, turndown service, and a Nespresso machine, all for EUR 3,500 (USD 3770) — only.

InterContinental Dublin

4

The former Four Seasons-turned-InterContinental Dublin is tucked away in the leafy, upscale Ballsbridge district. There are a lot of things that discerning travelers love about this Irish-owned hotel, starting with the fact that the luxury hits you the moment you step inside. Think swaths of gleaming marble, crystal chandeliers, and gold couches with a sprinkling of navy armchairs. In fact, the lobby lounge, which we just described, is the perfect spot to sip on coffee or wine and people- to your heart’s content. Of course, it also offers spectacular views through the Victorian-style conservatory windows of the inner courtyard garden. Sigh.

The local knowledge of the staff here is excellent, with the concierge even doling out information on jogging/walking jogging trails and even local culture offerings. What’s more, the standout amenity here is the lush and verdant hotel courtyard, complete with a fountain and serene seating areas. For those who want to unwind, the nicely appointed spa with a good gym, pool, indoor pool, and relaxation area is a fantastic choice. Foodies will love the elegant Seasons restaurant, which is all about classic Irish cuisine, including wonderful breakfasts. Rounding things up is the all-day Whiskey Bar and Lobby Lounge for drinks, lunch, and coffee. 

Even the entry-level rooms are luxurious with deep-soaking bathtubs in Italian marble bathrooms, silky-soft beds, turndown service, slippers and robes, and elegantly muted gold-and-purple color schemes. While rooms begin at EUR 600 (USD 650), the James Joyce Suite costs a whopping EUR 3,800 (USD 4,100).

The Westbury

3

It’s hard not to be impressed from the very second that you walk up the grand staircase at The Westbury. This classic Dublin meeting place was designed for milestones and is unbridled Irish luxury at its exemplary finest. Aside from an unrivaled location, the luxurious Westbury offers excellence across the spectrum, along with a beguiling dash of personal touch.

Amenities

The excellent service throughout is evident, especially since it’s low-key, unobtrusive, and professional. The friendly and smartly uniformed doormen set the scene, which continues with superb concierge service. Since it’s a city center hotel, there’s no spa or pool. However, there’s not only an exercise suite, but also guests have access to the Gym Plus pool and gym nearby for a fee. That said, the most impressive of all is the hotel’s Slice of the City offer, which offers connections to galleries, theatres, museums, and other places across the city. Of course, three excellent restaurants and bars mean that you wouldn’t want to look beyond the hotel to eat and drink. While Wilde, with a terrace and all-day dining, offers an excellent breakfast, drinks are best drunk at the 1930s-style Sidebar bar.

Rooms

All bright and spacious rooms are tranquil, with marble bathrooms with large bathtubs and heated floors, turndown service, Nespresso machines, Irish crystal glassware, and excellent city views. While entry-level rooms might cost around EUR 480 (USD 520), the Presidential PV Doyle Suite costs a whopping EUR 4,000/night (USD 4,310).

The Shelbourne

2

The Shelbourne drips with opulence, and it’s easy to see why. The Grand Dame of Dublin not only played an important part in the 1916 Easter Rising but even hosted Princess Grace of Monaco. In fact, the signature red-brick Victorian structure has sat north of St Stephen’s Green since as far back as 1824. On the inside, gold corniches, huge oil paintings, afternoon tea, and ladies in finery, the Shelby has it all. P.S.: Don’t miss the 32 glorious and spanking-new stained-glass windows representing every Irish county running throughout.

Amenities

Since it’s a five-star, you can expect all the trappings and trimmings of a five-star here. Think an army of staff comprising everyone from concierges to bellhops and an excellent range of amenities. Not only is there a beauty salon, but there’s also a smart barber shop in the basement. Moreover, the spa area is delightful, with a top-lit pool, a fitness center, treatment areas, and a wonderful relaxation space. Can you believe that it even has park views and cocktails? Yep. Furthermore, four drinking and dining options exist, including the Saddle Room for meals and the Lord Mayor’s Lounge for afternoon teas. You have three bars to choose from: the 1824 Residents’ Bar, Horseshoe, and No. 27, the largest with an all-day menu.

Rooms

Even standard entry-level rooms, which cost EUR 705 (USD 760), come with all the tech mod-cons, fluffy robes, coffee machines, room and evening turndown services, and sleekly modern marble bathrooms. In fact, some rooms have balconies and superb views of St Stephen’s Green and the mountains in the distance. Of them all, the most spectacular is the two-bedroom Princess Grace Suite, which costs a whopping EUR 7,500/night (USD 8,100)! As the name suggests, the 1,530 sqft presidential suite was once the favorite room of Princess Grace of Monaco and is steeped in historical detail. Think original restored writing tables, French chairs, and an antique dining table.

The Merrion Hotel

1

Sitting at the top of the list is The Merrion, which was created from four 1760s townhouses and boasts a striking façade. But as impressive as that might be, nothing will prepare you for the jaw-dropping interior. The lobby, for instance, boasts top-hatted doormen waiting by marble columns to welcome you to a plush drawing room with a roaring fire. In fact, the hotel boasts a huge private art collection that makes it a timeless treasure of not just Dublin but all of Ireland.

Amenities

The Merrion boasts truly exceptional levels of service, which is highly courteous and highly efficient but with a rather welcome note of Irish informality. Discerning travelers will love the superb concierge service, who can arrange everything from coveted reservations to cycling tours, complete with Merrion rain macs and picnics.

Most of all, you’ll love the stunning courtyard gardens, which are an absolute rarity in a central Dublin hotel, as well as the tranquil Tethra Spa. In fact, it even has a lovely blue-tiled subterranean pool, along with a full range of massages and body treatments. That said, the food here is exceptional, as the Merrion is home to Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, which is one of Ireland’s only two two-Michelin-starred dining places! Plus, there’s also the Garden Room that’s ensconced in the manicured private garden. Furthermore, there’s also art-themed Afternoon Tea at the Drawing Rooms. Wrapping things up are the snug Number 23 bar and the Cellar Bar, with exposed brick walls and a fantastic cocktail, wine, and beer collection.

Rooms

All 143 rooms and suites, of which entry-level rooms cost EUR 1,400 (USD 1,510), are decked out in soft greys and blues, luxury-thread linens on plush beds, Nespresso machines, and Carrara marble bathrooms with Asprey bath products. That said, there’s aplenty in the 2,200 sq ft Penthouse Suite, which stretches over 2 floors and has a discrete 1,000 sq ft rooftop terrace, complete with a wooden hot tub. Moreover, the spectacular accommodation boasts private lift access, an open-planing living room with a stone fireplace, and Carrera marble bathrooms with sweeping views of the 18th-century gardens. Did we mention that a room off the second-floor living room can be set up as anything – a gym, a private meeting room, or even digs for your security personnel? Yep. It’s no wonder it costs a heart-stopping EUR 9000/night (USD 9,700)!

Where do celebrities stay in Dublin?

There are many excellent five-star hotels preferred by celebrities in Dublin. Beyonce, for instance, has stayed at the Fitzwilliam’s Penthouse. Others include the Merrion and the Intercontinental.

What is the most expensive area of Dublin?

Ballsbridge, just south of Dublin’s city center, is a charming and elegant place, and it is one of the city’s most prestigious and sought-after places to stay. It’s where the Intercontinental Dublin is located.

What is the luxury hotel in Dublin?

That would be Merrion, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and the Irish capital’s most luxurious and captivating five-star hotel.