Dublin is one of the most attractive travel destinations in Europe. It rises at the mouth of River Liffey on the lush rolling hills of the Irish east coast. Most of us know it as the home of Guinness beer and the notorious Temple Bar. But the city is so much more than that. Best hotels in Dublin, Ireland stand next to Georgian mansions. Medieval cathedrals neighbor with trendy shopping districts. 19th-century gardens surround futuristic modern structures. The city blends contemporary highlights with historical heritage in front of your eyes.
Where To Stay in Dublin
Dublin is home to many grand historical sights. Dublin Castle, Trinity College, and St. Patrick Cathedral rise on the city’s green hills. Countless galleries, museums, and theaters await the curious audience. Beautiful, lush parks provide the city residents with shade and space to relax. Many consider the metropolis to be one of the most beautiful places in Ireland!
Choosing the right place to stay is essential for the success of your Irish holidays. The majority of the best hotels in Dublin stand in the old part of town, near the St. Stephan Green. But there are also properties located in other areas. Some overlook the waterfront. Others border with the countryside. Check out our list of 11 best hotels in Dublin, Ireland to learn more and find your dream accommodation.
The Merrion Hotel
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This upscale plush hotel stands between Merrion Square Park and St. Stephen’s Green. It occupies an elegant Georgian building near the National Museum of Ireland. The hotel’s interior suites well its historic cascade. Spacious rooms offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. Country-style furnishing and natural colors invite to relax.
Merrion spoils for choice in fitness and food. At the premises, you will find an infinity pool, a professional fitness club with a spa. You shouldn’t also miss the hotel’s Patrick Guilbaud. This upscale restaurant has two Michelin stars. More more casual experience head to The Graden or Cellar Bar. The first one serves delectable Irish cuisine. The other is ideal for evening cocktails.
The Marker Hotel
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Contrary to The Merrion, The Marker screams modernity. The hotel stands in the trendy Docklands business quarter, next to Bord Gáis Energy Theatre. It boasts a futuristic checkerboard facade, bold colors, and contemporary decor.
All rooms at the Maker feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and iPod docks. The on-site Rooftop Lounge offers lovely skyline views. There is also The Brasserie, a chic restaurant serving traditional Irish dishes. In terms of fitness, the resort provided an infinity pool and a professional gym and spa. Besides, you’ll find a steam room, a sauna, and a variety of massage treatments. The Maker really wants you to enjoy your stay.
Conrad Dublin
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Conrad is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Dublin, Ireland. The plush resort stands opposite the National Concert Hall. St. Stephan’s Green is a quick walk away, too. Inside the resort, you will find vivid colors, bespoke Irish artwork, and wood floors. Each room comes with a flat-screen TV, an iPod dock, and a coffeemaker. Wi-Fi is free.
At Conrad Dublin, you won’t have access to a swimming pool, but you can still use a superb fitness center. Dining options include The Coburg – a chic brasserie serving international and Irish cuisine. For cocktails and more potent drinks, you can head to Lemuel’s lounge bar. And craft beer experience you will find at Alfie Byrne’s by Galway Bay Brewery. Try their fantastic outdoor terrace!
The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection
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Shelbourne occupies a historical 1824 building overlooking the St. Stephan’s Green. The property neighbors with several major attractions of Dublin, including Trinity College. The hotel boasts elegant old-world decor. Warm colors and country-style furnishing blend with the ornamental facade.
Here, you won’t lack modern amenities. Each room at Shelbourne features free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a coffeemaker. Likewise, you’ll also have access to an exclusive Health Club and Spa. Don’t also miss an opportunity to try the resort’s four restaurants. The venues offer a variety of menus, from classic favorites to comfort bar snacks. It’s unlikely you’ll run out of choice before the end of your holidays.
InterContinental Dublin
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InterContinental stands in the historic neighborhood of Ballsbridge. This affluent area is one of the most serene parts of Dublin. Yet, it lies only a 10-minute drive from the city center. It’s a favorite location of foreign embassies and wealthy families.
Surrounded by gardens, Intercontinental boasts elegant classics. The hotel’s rooms are spacious and feature country-style furnishing. Each offers modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. An indoor swimming pool and a posh wellness club spoil for comfort. You also have an array of choices in food. The on-site Seasons Restaurant serves delicious international cuisine. The Lobby Lounge is an ideal spot for morning coffee and pastries. Not to mention, a polished bar with an extensive collection of Irish Whiskey.
The Westbury Hotel
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The Westbury Hotel brings us back to the city center. This opulent hotel neighbor one of Dublin’s principal shopping arteries, Grafton Street. It’s a perfect accommodation to access to the prime downtown attractions easily. Temple Bar and Dublin Castle stand within a 5-minute walk.
Rooms at Westbury boast natural colors and contemporary. Amenities include coffeemakers, LCD TVs, and iPod docks. As a guest, you can use the hotel’s superb gym and spa. Take also advantage of two magnificent dining venues. Upscale Wilde and the bistro-style Balfes both serve international and Irish cuisine. Once you give them a try, head to the glamorous Sidecar Bar, too. This sleek, 30s-inspired cocktail lodge is an experience on its own.
Westin Dublin
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Among the best hotels in Dublin city center, Westin is the one standing the closest to Temple Bar. The charming lodging overlooks Trinity College and a quick walk from Grafton Street. It’s a perfect starting point for a guided Dublin heritage city tour.
The hotel occupies a historic former bank. It boasts bright rooms with classic furnishing. Some have balconies; others overlook feature cityscape. Besides, the hotel offers a 24-hour superb gym and a luxurious spa. Dining experiences at Westin comprise three chic venues. From an atrium lounge to a cocktail bar in a former bank vault – Westin restaurants are a gourmet’s dream.
The Fitzwilliam Hotel
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The opulent Fitzwilliam Hotel stands on the edge of St. Stephen’s Green. The upscale accommodation boasts vibrant colors and classic country-style furnishing. Each room features an LCD TV, an iPod dock, and free Wi-Fi. If you travel with children, you will find at the property a variety of child-service. There is an electric vehicle charging station, too.
Fitzwilliam provides access to an excellent gym and spa to help you stay in shape even on holidays. It owns two fabulous on-site venues, too. At Glovers Alley, you can indulge in sophisticated French cuisine. Inn on the Green is a contemporary take on the traditional Irish pub. And if you get bored, Temple Bar lies a 5- minute walk away.
Dylan
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Chic Dylan stands a 3-minute walk from Grand Canal in posh Ballsbridge. It’s the only 5-star lodging on our list of the best hotels in Dublin city center that allows pets. The property blends classic and contemporary furnishing. Guest rooms have individual decor and come with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. In each, you can enjoy an in-room movie menu and an iPod docking station loaded with city tours.
Dylan provides access to a gym. Professional spa treatments are available on request. The on-site Eddison Restaurant serves Bistro-style dishes made of local ingredients. Hip Dylan Bar overlooks the restaurant. The venue has an outside terrace where you can sip handcrafted cocktails in summer. And if that doesn’t sound interesting, you can always give a try to The Irish House Party Dinner and Show. The performance starts just down the street from the hotel.
Gleesons Townhouse Booterstown
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Located 6 kilometers away from the city downtown, Gleesons Townhouse overlooks Dublin Bay. This chic boutique accommodation is ideal if you seek serendipity and comfort. The property boasts a warm contemporary decor with vibrant, colorful accents. Each room comes with a coffee machine, a flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. You won’t find a gym on the premises, but you can play pool in a comfy on-site lounge.
When it comes to food, Gleesons Restaurant spoils for choice with a European menu. There is also a stylish bar selling delectable handcrafted cocktails. If you prefer to eat out, head to the Booterstown waterfront. You’ll spot there several cozy, down-to-earth restaurants and bars.
Hotel 7
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Hotel 7 occupies a redbrick Georgian building, a 15-minute walk from Trinity College. Among the best hotels in Dublin city center, it’s the only one located north of Liffey River. Staying here will give you an excellent opportunity to try the Walking Tour of Dublin.
Hotel 7 features warm, contemporary decor. Elegant rooms come with free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and coffeemakers. Amenities include two cozy dining venues. Grain & Grill Restaurant serves a mix of international and Irish flavors. Hotel Bars provide an exquisite selection of drinks and comfort food. The hotel also caters to children so you can order a kid-menu, too.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Dublin:
- Brazen Head – Don’t miss this fantastic place. It’s said to be the “Oldest Pub in Ireland,” operating since 1198. You will find here a variety of Irish comfort food and excellent alcohols, particularly whiskey.
- Pantibar – This quirky venue is owned by a renowned drag queen, Panti Bliss. It’s a trendy LGBTQ hotspot and one of the best gay bars in Europe. Expect crowds and extravaganza. On that note, this city has some of the best gay friendly hotels too!
- Klaw – Located in the heart of Temple Bar, this tiny venue is a perfect spot to try Irish seafood. You’ll get here a variety of comfort food, from potted crayfish and crab mac ‘n cheese to the famous Lobster Roll.
Recommended Activities In Dublin:
- O’Connell Bridge – The unique bridge stands not far from Temple Bar. Thrown across the Liffey River, it reckoned to be the only bridge in Europe that is as wide as it’s long.
- St Patrick’s Day Festival – Is there anyone who hasn’t heard about St. Patrick’s Day? The Festival is a global event taking place on 17 March every year. Marked with concerts, parades, and lush green, it offers the perfect excuse to try Irish whiskey and beer. And there is no better place to celebrate it that it’s hometown – Dublin.
- Dublin Bus Tours – This excellent tour is an affordable, fast way to visit all major sights of Dublin. Stops include St.Patrick’s Cathedral, Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College and the National Gallery.
