Ultimate Guide to Dublin

Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, is a truly stunning city, with a rich heritage and culture, impressive pub culture, and an outstanding selection of delicious international foods, there’s plenty on offer for any kind of visitor here!

Best Hotels in Dublin

Dublin’s hotel scene is as diverse and varies as the city itself, with a huge range of attractive hotels and stays in all the best areas. From sprawling Georgian townhouses with luxurious manicured gardens, to modern Scandi-inspired pod-like hotels, there’s something here for every kind of visitor.

Mespil Hotel, Dublin

This stunning 4-star hotel sits right on the Grand Canal and promises a gorgeous stay, right in the heart of Dublin. It is within 15 minutes walking distance of St. Stephen’s Green, Grafton Street, Aviva Stadium, and the Ballsbridge area, giving it a great location that is both scenic and convenient.

The on-site amenities include a fitness suite, two modern boardrooms that are available for hire, a free-to-use 24-hour business center, speedy W-Fi, and impeccable service at the 24-hour front desk, where staff can help you book taxis and recommend local attractions. There is also on-site parking, though this is limited, and is granted on a first-come, first-serve basis.

When it comes to dining and drinking at this hotel, you’re certainly spoilt with some great establishments. Lock Four Restaurant is a stunning spot that boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, with views of the Grand Canal, and serves up a delicious buffet breakfast, as well as lunch and dinner. The on-site Lounge Bar is a relaxed and laid-back spot, where you can enjoy a morning coffee, a light bite, or a delicious cocktail on an evening.

Each of the guestrooms is modern and colorful and boasts complimentary WiFi, and Chromecast, as well as a work desk, chair, a laptop safe, and a mini-fridge. Upgrade to one of the Superior rooms, where you can enjoy 47” Samsung Smart TVs, air conditioning, and an espresso maker.

The Westbury Hotel, Dublin

The luxurious 5-star Westbury Hotel sits on Dublin’s popular Grafton Street, in the heart of the shopping district, and is located just between Trinity College and St Stephen’s Green, making it conveniently close to all of the city’s top attractions, including Temple Bar, Dublin Castle, and the Gaiety Theater, all of which sit within a 5-minute walk.

The Westbury boasts two fantastic restaurants with contemporary dining. There’s also The Gallery with views over Grafton Street where you can enjoy afternoon tea, and the glamorous Sidecar Bar, with friendly mixologists that serve up a selection of delicious cocktails. The hotel boasts other great amenities too, including wired internet in the rooms, and Wi-Fi throughout the property. On-site parking and a fitness center are also available.

Each of the elegantly art-deco-inspired rooms is spacious and provides sumptuous furnishings as well as great amenities including LCD TVs and an iPod-compatible music system. Some of the suites even boast their own terraces, with automated verandas!

The Morgan Hotel, Temple Bar, Dublin

Situated in the bustling Temple Bar area, near Trinity College, this stunning hotel is a true sanctuary in the heart of this lively hub in Dublin City Center. Conveniently located near Grafton Street (Dublin’s main shopping area), and Dublin Castle, it’s the place to stay if you’re looking for somewhere in and amongst the action!

Guests can enjoy a range of great on-site facilities and amenities, including free Wi-Fi, contemporary dining at the on-site restaurant, and city-famous cocktails at the bar. A concierge service and room service are both available 24/7, and the attentive staff are always on call should you need them. If you happen to be visiting mid-week, you can even score a deal that includes a cocktail and late checkout!

Each of the luxurious, stylish, rooms features elegant furnishings, a flat-screen TV, air-conditioning, and a Nespresso machine. The Junior Suite is a popular choice for those looking for a special-occasion stay.

The Merrion Hotel,

This award-winning, 5-star hotel is housed in an 18th-century, Georgian townhouse, and stands pride of place in the center of Dublin, between Merrion Square Park and St. Stephen’s Green. It is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the likes of Trinity College Dublin, Grafton Street, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

This stunning hotel is home to a great range of on-site amenities and facilities, including a gorgeous infinity pool, beautifully landscaped gardens, a luxurious spa, and a fully equipped modern gym.

On-site dining and drinking options are just as exquisite as the hotel itself. Home to the only two-Michelin-starred restaurant in all of Ireland, Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, where guests can indulge in gourmet French-influenced cuisine while enjoying the views of the garden. There’s also The Cellar Restaurant, where you can enjoy Irish cuisine, and the stunning No.23 is the place to grab a stylish and creative cocktail. Be sure to enquire about their Art Afternoon Tea, inspired by a variety of paintings that hang around the hotel, including those of Louis le Brocquy, Jack B Yeats, and Pauline Bewick.

There are three different room types to choose from, each as exceptional as the last. Each of them boasts views of either the Merrion Gardens, the government buildings, or the laneway, and is sumptuous furnished with gorgeous Georgian decor. They boast great in-room amenities, including flat-screen satellite TVs, refrigerators, and mini-bars.

Wren (Urban Nest), Dublin

Conveniently located in central Dublin near many major attractions and landmarks, this gorgeous little hotel is near sights such as City Hall, Dublin Castle, the Irish Whiskey Museum, Chester Beatty Library, Trinity College, and Gaiety Theater, as well as popular areas, such as Temple Bar, and Grafton Street.

On-site amenities provide the utmost convenience for guests while remaining eco-conscious, thanks to this being Ireland’s first-ever net carbon stay! Amenities include a shared lounge space, free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, a concierge service, luggage storage facilities, an expertly designed bar, and a gorgeous restaurant. At the on-site dining establishment, guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast or a full English / Irish option, as well as bottomless brunches, handcrafted cocktails, organic wine, and ethically sourced dishes.

Defined by some as a ‘luxurious take on the urban pod hotel’, the pocket-sized, compact rooms are still sleek and stylish, thanks to their minimalist Scandi interior design, making this the perfect place to stay for short trips to the city, and for those traveling on business. Each of the little rooms comes with a fold-out desk, air-conditioning, soft furnishings, and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.

Best Restaurants in Dublin

When it comes to choosing the perfect place to dine in Dublin, there's a great selection of many different restaurants that cater to a wide range of cuisines and tastes. With a variety of both upscale and casual, laid-back establishments, there’s something for everyone!

Whether you’re looking to indulge in some local seafood, enjoy and adventurous Middle Eastern brunch, or even grab one of the best burgers in town - Dublin has it all!

Mr Fox, Rotunda, Dublin

While this restaurant is still somewhat of a hidden gem that many tourists don’t know of, it’s the place to be if you’re looking for some of Dublin’s finest cuisine. Indulge in dishes from their seasonal menu, which focuses heavily on high-quality ingredients married with simple execution. We recommend the langoustine carpaccio or the lamb with smoked ricotta and black garlic.

The deserts here are also incredibly delicious, and there’s even a set menu for Vegetarians, making it the go-to place if you’re looking for a high-end crowd-pleaser.

Bunsen, Temple Bar, Dublin

If you’re on the hunt for a truly outstanding burger spot, Bunsen is a must-try! There are multiple across the city, including one in the lively, bustling area of Temple Bar, making it the perfect spot for a satisfying and speedy dinner. With only one option on the menu, it’s the place to be for the best burger in town. 

Be sure to wash down your burger and fries with a glass of their signature pale ale, which was developed in conjunction with Dublin-based brewery, Whiplash!

Fish Shop, Smithfield, Dublin

If you’re a lover of seafood, then be sure to visit ‘Fish Shop’, located in the area of Smithfield. This little seafood bar serves up a great range of fresh fish dishes, ranging from traditional fish & chips to fresh Irish mussels and oysters.

On the hunt for something casual? The Fillet o’ Fish Burger is one of their best sellers, but there's also a delicious range of snacks including smoked haddock croquettes! Grab a spot at the counter to enjoy a glass of wine or sherry from their extensive wine list while dining, but be sure to book your seat in advance, this small spot fills up quickly!

Terra Madre, North City, Dublin

Whether you're a foodie or not, everyone loves Italian dining, and with only a few tables it's important to get a reservation for this outstanding restaurant! Terra Madre serves up delicious authentic Tuscan-inspired dishes. Be sure to sample the involtini di bresaola - This is a starter of lean beef, wrapped around celery and served with a flavorful aged parmesan. Can’t decide what to have for your main course? We recommend the Ravioli, or one of the many other mouthwatering pasta dishes!

Brother Hubbard, North City, Dublin

Brother Hubbard has been a growing sensation in Dublin, so much so, that it even opened a second location, making this not only a great choice of restaurant, but a convenient one too! Here, you can indulge in a vibrant mix of Middle Eastern-inspired dishes for breakfast and brunch, or visit on an evening to indulge in a colorful array of sharing plates and main dishes.

Best Things to do in Dublin

Dublin is a truly great city to visit, no matter what you’re interested in. Many choose to come here to help learn more about their Irish heritage and what better way to do that than at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum (or, perhaps on a pub crawl with a pint of Guinness in hand?!)

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, Dublin

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is a truly one-of-a-kind interactive journey, through which you can discover how this small island made a huge impact on the world.

As one of the top tourist attractions in all of Europe, this museum dispels the Irish stereotypes and delves into what it truly means to be Irish, through the eyes of those who emigrated. 

The state-of-the-art interactive galleries help you to truly immerse yourself in learning about this rich ancestry, that many claim to have.

Guinness Tour Pub Crawl, Dublin

The Irish are known for drinking plenty, and with Dublin being the birthplace of the world-famous Guinness, what better way to get in on the action than with a good old-fashioned pub crawl?!

Enjoy a visit to four different, traditional Irish pubs, to sample some of the finest pints in the city, while learning about Irish pub culture, and its global influence, and even get the opportunity to learn how to perfectly pour your own pint of Guinness!

Enjoy Afternoon Tea on a Vintage Bus Tour of Dublin

Everyone’s familiar with taking a bus tour of the city, but what better way to enjoy seeing the sites of Dublin than with a delicious afternoon tea experience, onboard a fully restored 1960’s vintage double-decker bus?!

Learn all about this magnificent city while you enjoy a selection of tasty sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and delicious desserts. Be sure to keep an eye out for notable attractions as you drive by, including Trinity College and Phoenix Park.

Irish Whiskey Museum Tour & Tasting, Dublin

If you’re a fan of Whiskey, then what better way to spend a day in Ireland than by taking a guided tour of Dublin’s very own Irish Whiskey Museum? Enjoy learning about the heritage and flavors of Irish whiskey from a master blender, before indulging in a four-whiskey tasting at the end of your visit!

If this isn’t enough, there’s even the opportunity to spend some time crafting your very own unique blend of Irish Whiskey - Don’t worry though, you don’t need to drink that here, you’ll be able to take home a miniature bottle of your own personalized blend.

Wicklow Mountains, Gelndalough & Kilkenny Tour from Dublin

If you’re looking for a great way to get out of the city and see some of Ireland’s beautiful nature during your visit, be sure to take a guided day trip to see the scenic views of the Wicklow Gap, visit Glendalough’s medieval monastery, and explore the charming little city of Kilkenny.

Whether it’s learning interesting facts from your knowledgeable tour guide, seeing sights from famous movies (including ‘P.S. I Love You’ and ‘Braveheart’, going hiking in the countryside, or simply enjoying a coffee in a local cafe, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on this exciting day tour.