Best Areas to Stay in Dublin and Recommended Hotels

Finding a place to stay in Dublin can be quite a challenge, especially if you're trying to keep an eye on your budget. While Dublin might not be the cheapest place to spend the night, the experience you'll gain from every euro spent is well worth it. Are you curious about the best areas to stay in Dublin? You’re in the right place!
This article will explore the most recommended neighborhoods for accommodation in Dublin, suggest some hotels that offer great value for money, and provide some cool hostel options perfect for backpackers. At the end of the post, you’ll find a map marking the best neighborhoods for finding accommodation in Dublin along with the locations of our recommended hotels and hostels.
⭐ If you want to plan your trip to Dublin like a pro, check out our best tips for traveling to Dublin.
It's clear (spoiler alert!) that the city center is the top choice for fully experiencing Dublin, but it’s also the most expensive area. Therefore, we’ll suggest several neighborhoods that, while not far from the center, provide excellent alternatives for enjoying a memorable stay in Dublin.
Whichever area you decide on, it’s best to book your accommodation in advance, as prices can skyrocket if you leave it to the last minute and availability can dwindle significantly. Consider this a backpacker tip!
Exploring the Iconic Temple Bar Area
The Temple Bar area is perhaps the most famous, recognized, and frequented part of Dublin. If you find an affordable place to stay here, don’t hesitate!
Located along the River Liffey (on the south side), Temple Bar is bustling with bars, restaurants, and attractions, making it an excellent place to stay in Dublin. You will be right in the heart of the action and just steps away from tourist spots like Trinity College and Dublin Castle.
However, keep in mind that this location comes with its share of noise and partying. If you're traveling with family or seeking tranquility, this may not be the ideal neighborhood for you. But if you’re after nightlife and lively pub culture, this is the place to be!
Recommended accommodations:
The best way to kick off your perfect getaway in Dublin is by joining this free city tour. It’s a great experience that won’t break the bank.
St. Stephen’s Green: A Quieter Alternative
Just south of Temple Bar, you’ll find the St. Stephen’s Green area, named after one of the most famous parks in the city. This neighborhood is more tranquil and far less touristy, allowing you to experience what life is really like for Dubliners. It’s known for its Georgian architecture, and even if you don’t stay here, it’s worth a visit.
While there aren’t as many hotels available, you can find tourist apartments and a few hotels. The good news is that prices are generally lower and the location is still quite appealing: you can easily reach the city center in no time.
Recommended accommodations:
Discovering the Trendy Smithfield Area
Smithfield has become very popular in recent years and it's easy to see why. Located north of the city center, on the other side of the River Liffey, this area is packed with lively spots and has a unique, alternative vibe.
This neighborhood is perfect for those who have visited Dublin before and want to experience it from a different perspective. However, it can also be a great base for first-time visitors if you find good deals.
Recommended accommodations:
O’Connell Street: Central and Convenient
The area around one of the main streets in the city, O’Connell Street, is another excellent alternative for accommodation in Dublin. Centrally located and surrounded by tourist attractions, it offers a vast array of hostel and hotel options. Like Smithfield, it is located north of Temple Bar, across the River Liffey.
The only downside is the average price, as this is one of the most expensive areas in the city. Nevertheless, it’s worth trying your luck and checking for potential deals. If your budget isn’t an issue, this is a fantastic place to stay!
Recommended accommodations:
Experience the Vibrant Docklands
On our last trip to Dublin, we decided to stay in the Docklands area, which corresponds to the old port of the city. It retains many of its industrial brick buildings but has transformed them into modern apartments, art galleries, cafes, coworking spaces, and offices. Today, it is a dynamic and fun neighborhood with a lot of personality!
This area stretches along both sides of the River Liffey. Although it may seem a bit distant from the center, the northern Docklands are served by the red tram line, allowing you to reach the heart of Dublin in about 15-20 minutes. Plus, tickets are reasonably priced (between €1.70 and €2.20).
Recommended accommodations:
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Best Hostels in Dublin: Budget-Friendly Options
If you’re looking to save money while staying in Dublin, hostels are the way to go. However, even the prices here can be a bit steep, with dorm beds starting from around €30. If you’re traveling as a couple, you might find it more economical to book hotels or apartments in neighborhoods a little further from the center and use public transport.
For those traveling solo, hostels are the best choice for accommodation in Dublin. Here are some of our top picks:
Map of Recommended Areas for Accommodation in Dublin
Here’s a map showing the neighborhoods and recommended areas for accommodation in Dublin, along with the hotels and hostels we suggest:
As mentioned, finding budget accommodation in Dublin is almost a utopia, but with planning and a bit of luck, you can discover some interesting options. However, it’s tough to find anything under €100, unless you opt for neighborhoods farther from the center. Do you know of any other recommended places, neighborhoods, or areas to stay in Dublin?
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