Where to Stay in Dublin: Neighbourhood Guide

Best Overall: Grafton Street & St Stephen's Green

The wedge between Grafton Street and St Stephen's Green is Dublin's premium base — Georgian streets, the city's best pubs (Kehoe's, The Long Hall) within stumbling distance, and Camden Street's late bars ten minutes' walk south. You pay for the privilege, but everything in our Dublin nightlife guide starts within a kilometre of here.

Value Pick: Smithfield & Stoneybatter

North of the river, Smithfield has sprouted good modern hotels at rates the southside can't match, with the Jameson Distillery, the Cobblestone pub's nightly trad sessions, and Stoneybatter's neighbourhood bars beside you. The Luas Red Line runs you into the centre in minutes.

Other Options

• Portobello — canal-side, village feel, next to Camden Street's nightlife; guesthouse territory.
• Docklands — shiny business hotels, quiet nights, 20 minutes' walk to the action; good weekend deals.
• Temple Bar — only if you plan to be the noise rather than escape it.
• Drumcondra / airport corridor — cheaper, but you'll spend your savings on taxis.

Practical Tips

Dublin has some of Europe's highest hotel prices relative to city size — book six-plus weeks out, and watch for event weekends (rugby internationals, concerts) that double rates overnight. Aparthotels around Smithfield and the Liberties are the best value for longer stays.