Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Dublin

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Choosing the Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Dublin can shape your experience while visiting for a few days. With so many unique districts, from the bustling cobblestones of Temple Bar to the quiet streets of Rathgar and Smithfield, each area brings its own distinctive character and appeal.

Our detailed guide is designed to help you find the perfect area, tailored to your travel style. Having lived in many parts of the city — from Phibsborough to Rathmines, Stoneybatter, Dundrum, The Liberties and IFSC… — I know firsthand the the pro and cons of each areas.

Although, I’ll admit: there isn’t one single best place to stay in Dublin. It all depends on the vibe you’re seeking, what you plan to visit, and how you intend to travel around the city.

With more than 200 hotels and hostels scattered around the city center, choosing where to stay can be overwhelming. To make it easier, I’ve hand-picked some of the best areas and accommodations for visitors of all kinds, whether you’re spending one day in Dublin or an extended stay.

This guide will ensure you find a base that lets you make the most of your time in Ireland’s Capital. Now let’s dive in and explore the best places to stay in Dublin!

Quick Answer: Best Areas in Dublin Based on Your Travel Needs

First Time in Dublin / Historic Highlights & Major Sights

• Temple Bar & Trinity College: Central, historic, and full of iconic Dublin sights and experiences.
• Merrion Square: Georgian elegance, close to museums, Trinity College, and cultural landmarks.

Party & Mingle

• Temple Bar & Trinity College: Lively nightlife with traditional Irish music and packed pubs.
• Portobello: Trendy area near Camden Street known for its nightlife, perfect for partying.

Gay-Friendly

• Portobello: Known for its inclusive community, trendy bars, and vibrant atmosphere.
• Smithfield: Modern, diverse, and welcoming, with hipped bars and restaurants.

Concerts & Sport Events

• Ballsbridge: Home to the Aviva Stadium, hosting major rugby and football matches, as well as concerts.
• Grand Canal Docks: Close to Bord Gáis Energy Theatre and 3Arena for concerts, musical shows and performances.
• Drumcondra: Near Croke Park, Ireland’s largest stadium for Gaelic games and concerts.

Great Value Accommodation

• Smithfield: Up-and-coming with affordable lodging options and a trendy feel.
• Drumcondra: Budget-friendly, with a local vibe and convenient transport links.
• The Liberties: cheaper areas with quick access to main cultural attractions.

Looking for Luxury Stay

• Ballsbridge: Upscale hotels and a tranquil setting.
• Merrion Square: High-end accommodations with historic charm.
• Grand Canal Docks: Modern luxury with waterfront views and top-tier amenities.

Here for Work

• Grand Canal Docks: Dublin’s business and tech hub.
• Ballsbridge: Ideal for professionals, with business-friendly accommodations.
• Sandyford: if your meetings are in the south business park.

For more details on all the places to stay in Dublin and learn about each recommended neighbourhoods, continue reading! You can also use the below map. Click on the area of your choice and use the link in the left panel to learn more.

Where to stay in Dublin map – area + Main attractions

Use the below map to find where the neighbourhoods details in the guides are. I have added all the main attractions in Dublin to help you figure out the best area for yourself. Zoom out to see the locations outside of Dublin Citi Center.

You can save this map by clicking on the Star at the top! It will appear in your Google Saved Map so you can use it whenever you need it!

St Stephen’s Green & Grafton St

St. Stephen’s Green is one of Dublin’s most dynamic and desirable areas, perfectly balancing serene elegance with urban energy. Situated at the top of Grafton Street, this neighborhood showcases the best of Dublin’s Georgian heritage alongside a bustling commercial and social scene. While the park itself offers a peaceful escape with manicured gardens and calm ponds, the surrounding streets bring the area to life.

Just steps away, Grafton Street hums with activity. Known as Dublin’s premier shopping district, it’s lined with high-end boutiques, local shops, lively cafés and street performers. If you are staying in the area, you will be in the heart of the action and very close to the most popular things to do in Dublin.

The location is unbeatable, with all the top attractions within a short stroll. However, the central location comes with a price — expect luxury hotels and higher rates.

😎 Vibe: While the park provides a peaceful retreat with its beautiful gardens, the nearby Grafton Street brings a vibrant, cosmopolitan feel. Known for its high-end shops, street performers, and bustling cafés/restaurants, this area is probably where Dublin’s shoppers, locals, and tourists intersect the most.

📍 Location: Stephen’s Green is at the top of Grafton Street, only a 5-ish minute walk to Trinity College (if you avoid window shopping!)

⭐ Fun Fact: During the 1916 Easter Rising, a temporary truce was declared so that park groundskeepers could feed the ducks in St. Stephen’s Green pond, even while the rebellion was taking place around the area.

Nearby Attractions

• National Museum of Ireland: Just a short walk away, this museum houses fascinating exhibits, including ancient artifacts like bog bodies and Viking treasures.
• The Little Museum of Dublin: A quirky museum located on the north side of the park, perfect for learning about Dublin’s history through unique exhibits.

Where to Eat and Drink

Eat: Tang Café is a local favorite, known for its healthy and delicious Mediterranean-inspired meals. There are a lot of nice restaurants in the area though such as: Isabelle, Bah 33 and Lemon & Duke. For a more upscale experience, Fire is an exquisite Steakhouse Restaurant. In the area, make sure to book ahead!

Specialty Coffee: Coffeeangel on South Anne Street, is a great spot for high-quality coffee. If you’re looking for something sweet like a hot chocolate, stop by Butlers Chocolate Café.

Drink: For a classic pub experience, head to Keogh’s and if you’re after cocktails, Peruke & Periwig on Dawson Street offers a quirky atmosphere and creative drinks.

Temple Bar & Trinity College

The area around Temple Bar and Trinity College is the cultural, historical, and tourist heart of Dublin. The location is unbeatable for those looking to explore central Dublin, with major sights like Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and Grafton Street just a short walk away.

Staying here means having a wealth of dining, drinking, and cultural options right at your doorstep, making it an ideal spot for first-time visitors.

However, the area can be very busy and hectic, particularly at night, with a reputation for being crowded and loud. It’s not uncommon for the scene to attract some dodgy characters after dark, and prices for food and drinks are really steep compared to other areas.

Temple Bar is more of a tourist favorite than a local hangout (you’ll never see a Dubliner paying €9 for a Guinness!)

😎 Vibe: Temple Bar is Dublin’s quintessential party and touristy district, buzzing with energy and brimming with an artsy atmosphere.

📍 Location: Temple Bar and Trinity College are right in the heart of the city, within a 5-minute walk of each other. Both are easily accessible from any point in central Dublin, making them the most central locations for exploring the city.

⭐ Fun Fact: Temple Bar was once an area of decay and neglect, but in the 1990s it was revitalized and transformed into the cultural hub it is today.

Nearby Attractions

• Ha’penny Bridge: Just a short walk from Temple Bar, this famous pedestrian bridge over the River Liffey is one of Dublin’s most photographed landmarks.
• Dublin Castle: A 10-minute walk from Temple Bar, this historic castle is rich in Irish history and hosts several exhibitions.
• Grafton Street: A 5-minute walk from Trinity, this famous shopping street offers high-end stores, street performers, and a lively atmosphere.
• Trinity College is Dublin’s most prestigious university, founded in 1592, and is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. The most famous attraction here is the Book of Kells, a beautifully illuminated manuscript housed in the stunning Long Room Library, a must-see for any visitor.
• It’s also home to several cultural attractions, including the Irish Film Institute and The National Photographic Archive. On weekends, you can explore the Temple Bar Food Market for local treats.

Where to Eat and Drink

Eat: Elephant & Castle is a popular spot in Temple Bar, known for its famous chicken wings and Bunsen is a local favourite for burgers (they have several restaurants around town).

Specialty Coffee: You can try Indigo & cloth a trendy coffee/clothes shop in the heart of Temple bar, near the National Photographic Archive, but I prefer Copper + Straw on the Quays or Shoe Lane Coffee a few minutes away (near Tara Station)

Drink: While Temple Bar has countless pubs, The Palace Bar offers a more traditional Irish experience, and Vintage Cocktail Club (VCC) is perfect if you’re in the mood for a hidden, speakeasy vibe. For cocktails The Morgan is also a stylish spot that remains unknown despite world class Mixologists.

Merrion Square

Merrion Square is one of Dublin’s most elegant and historic districts, an area that showcases the best of the city’s Georgian heritage. Situated on the south side of the River Liffey, this square is surrounded by stunning 18th-century architecture and rows of Dublin’s iconic, brightly painted doors.

It is of course famous for Merrion Square Park, a lovely green space ideal for walks. It also features the famous statue of Oscar Wilde, who lived at No. 1 Merrion Square as a child.

Originally a residential quarter for the city’s elite, many of the grand Georgian townhouses have been transformed into offices, government buildings, and embassies, lending the area a stately yet inviting air.

Merrion Square’s location is ideal for those who appreciate history and culture, as it’s just a short walk to landmarks like the National Gallery of Ireland, Trinity College with the Book of Kells, and Grafton Street for shopping.

Although The exclusivity and charm come at a price—hotels and accommodations here tend to be more expensive than in other parts of Dublin.

😎 Vibe: The area surrounding Merrion Square is elegant and tranquil, known for its calm, leafy streets and beautifully maintained park.

📍 Location: Merrion Square is just a 10-minute walk (0.8 km) from Trinity College, making it centrally located and an easy stroll from other major Dublin attractions like St. Stephen’s Green and the National Gallery of Ireland.

⭐ Fun Fact: The iconic colourful doors of Merrion Square’s Georgian houses were, according to legend, painted bright colours to help locals distinguish their homes when they came back from the pub at night.

Nearby Attractions

• National Gallery of Ireland: Right next to the square, this gallery houses one of the most significant collections of Irish and European art in the country.
• Natural History Museum: Also known as the “Dead Zoo,” this museum offers fascinating exhibits of Ireland’s fauna and wildlife. (Temporarily closed for Refection)
• Oscar Wilde Memorial: Located in Merrion Square Park, the statue of the literary icon, with its colorful design and witty plaques, draws countless visitors.

Where to Eat and Drink

Eat: The area is know for its fine diner. Etto is a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant just off Merrion Square, known for its seasonal, creative dishes with a modern Irish twist. Pearl Brasserie is another highly regarded spot offering contemporary European dining in an intimate setting. You will need to reserved ahead for both places (& splurge!).

Specialty Coffee: 3FE and CoffeeAngel are two excellent choice for a strong coffee fix near the square.

Drink: O’Donoghue’s Pub, a short stroll from Merrion Square, is a Dublin institution, famed for its live traditional music sessions. I personally like hanging out in Toners’ back garden on sunny afternoon. For a more modern bar, No. 37 Dawson Street has a good atmosphere at night.

the Liberties

The Liberties is a district steeped in history and tradition, proudly standing as one of Dublin’s oldest neighborhoods. Known for its labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling markets, and significant historical landmarks, The Liberties is a lively area where the city’s working-class spirit still thrives amid a modern cultural revival.

Best known for its historic significance, it was once the industrial heart of Dublin and to this day it is home to breweries and Whiskey distilleries.

Don’t miss Dublin’s most iconic landmarks like the Guinness Storehouse, where you can explore the history of Ireland’s most famous beer and enjoy stunning views of the city from the Gravity Bar.

Yet, the Liberties is also home to modern pioneers like Teeling Distillery, Pearse Lyons Distillery, and Roe & Co., infusing the area with fresh energy while paying homage to its storied past.

😎 Vibe: The Liberties has a distinctly authentic, old-school Dublin vibe. It’s a bit rough around the edges, but that’s part of its charm. You’ll find a mix of historic sites, independent businesses, street markets, and a growing number of cool cafés and creative spaces. It’s an area where tradition meets innovation.

📍 Location: Located about a 15-minute walk (1.2 km) from Trinity College, The Liberties is on the southwestern side of the city centre. It’s just beyond the popular tourist areas, making it more laid-back and local while still being very central.

⭐ Fun Fact: The Liberties gets its name from its historic status as a “liberty,” a district that was outside the jurisdiction of the city’s medieval walls and had its own governance and regulations.

Nearby Attractions

• Guinness Storehouse: One of Dublin’s top tourist attractions, this museum is dedicated to the history and production of Guinness stout, and is just a short walk away.
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral: A 10-minute walk from The Liberties, this iconic church is a symbol of Dublin’s religious and cultural heritage.
• Dublinia and Christ Church Cathedral: Both are within walking distance, offering insight into Viking and medieval Dublin.
• Teeling Whiskey Distillery: one of the best whiskey distilleries to visit in Dublin, offers guided tours with tastings of their award-winning spirits.

Where to Eat and Drink

Eat: For authentic Irish comfort food, The Fumbally is a popular choice, known for its locally-sourced ingredients and creative dishes. Legit Coffee Co. is a great stop for brunch or lunch, while Two Pups Coffee serves excellent coffee and a tasty, seasonal menu (and is dog friendly!). You should also checkout Bakeology Treats a delicious Argentinian Bakery.

Specialty Coffee: Two Pups Coffee is a local favorite in The Liberties, serving some of the best coffee in the area in a cozy, rustic space. You can also try Soren & Son across the road!

Portobello

Portobello is a charming and trendy neighbourhood located just south of the city centre, along the Grand Canal. Known for its picturesque location along the Grand Canal, which provides beautiful spots for walking, cycling, or simply relaxing by the water, Portobello is a favourite spot for locals.

On week days, especially in the morning or afterwork it is a very busy area with workers commuting by bike or on foot along Grand canal. I particularly like the area in autumn when the trees are showcasing their gorgeous orange and red leaves.

Camden Street and its vibrant nightlife scene are right on Portobello’s doorstep, offering a plethora of lively pubs, trendy bars, and indie stores.

😎 Vibe: Portobello exudes a relaxed, boho vibe. It’s a mix of old-school charm with a splash of modern trends, making it a popular haunt for artists, students, and young professionals. On weekends, the Canalside buzzes with life, as people gather to socialize, grab coffee, or enjoy an stroll or run.

📍 Location: Portobello is a quick 15-minute walk (1.2 km) from Trinity College and the heart of the city, making it easily accessible yet offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. The Green Luas stops in Charlemont.

⭐ Fun Fact: The famous Irish writer George Bernard Shaw was born in Portobello in 1856. His former home at No. 33 Synge Street is now a museum dedicated to his life and work, attracting literary enthusiasts from around the world.

Nearby Attractions

• Iveagh Gardens: Known as Dublin’s secret garden, this beautiful park is a short walk from Portobello and is perfect for a quiet stroll.
• Camden Street: Just around the corner, this lively street is filled with bars, restaurants, and charity shops.

Where to Eat and Drink

Eat: Locks is one of the best restaurants in the area, known for its fine dining and scenic canal-side views. For something more casual, Bother Hubbard (South) and Alma are locals favorites, ideal for a nice brunch and a coffee. If you’re in the mood for pizza, Gaillot et Gray serves some of the best wood-fired pizzas in the city and Sprezzatura serves delish Italian food.

Specialty Coffee: Grove Road is a top spot for specialty coffee (my favourite in Dublin!). Another must-visit is Little Bird Café, which combines great coffee with a yoga studio.

Grand Canal Docks

This area is one of Dublin’s most dynamic and modern rapidly developing districts. Stretching along both side of the Liffey River, Grand Canal Docks is famous for its modern architecture. It is also the centre of Dublin’s tech industry, with companies like Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn having their European headquarters here.

The focal point of the district is Grand Canal Square, a striking modern plaza known for its red poles designed by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind.

The Bord Gáis Energy Theatre is another landmark, attracting visitors with world-class musicals, concerts, and performances.

😎 Vibe: The district has undergone a massive transformation in recent years, becoming a hub for tech companies . Grand Canal Dock area is a hotspot for young professionals, especially those working for international tech companies like Google and Facebook.

📍 Location: The Grand Canal is located just 15-20 minutes’ walk from Trinity College (around 1.5 km) and stretches out toward the docklands and beyond. The area is well-connected, with the DART and Luas lines nearby, making it easy to explore other parts of Dublin.

⭐ Fun Fact: Grand Canal Dock is often called “Silicon Docks” due to the presence of so many international tech giants, drawing parallels to Silicon Valley in California.

Nearby Attractions

• Bord Gáis Energy Theatre: This contemporary theatre is the cultural centerpiece of the area, hosting major international productions.
• Samuel Beckett Bridge: A stunning architectural landmark connecting the Docklands to the north side of the Liffey.
• The Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship: A museum aboard a 19th-century famine ship docked nearby, offering insight into Irish emigration history.
• EPIC Museum: an interactive museum that tells the compelling story of Irish emigration and the global impact of the Irish diaspora.

Where to Eat and Drink

Eat: Herbstreet is a popular waterside spot known for its brunch. For a fine dining experience, Charlotte Quay offers sophisticated European cuisine with beautiful dockside views. HQ Gastrobar is another great option for casual dining with modern Irish fare.

Specialty Coffee: 3FE (Third Floor Espresso) is a must for coffee lovers, known for its expertly brewed coffee and minimalist décor.

Drink: For cocktails, head to The Marker Hotel Rooftop Bar for stylish drinks with panoramic views of the city. For a lively pub atmosphere, The Ferryman is a traditional Irish pub set in a historic building along the river.

Ranelagh, Rathmines & Rathgar

Ranelagh, Rathmines, and Rathgar are three neighbouring suburbs located just south of Dublin’s city centre. They all showcase a unique mix of urban charm and suburban tranquillity, with tree-lined streets, historic homes, and an eclectic range of eateries, bars, and shops. These areas have become some of Dublin’s most sought-after neighbourhoods for their welcoming vibe and proximity to the city.

😎 Vibe: These areas are trendy yet laid-back, with a cosmopolitan feel. Ranelagh is known for its foodie scene, Rathmines has a youthful, vibrant atmosphere thanks to its student population, and Rathgar is quieter and more residential, offering a peaceful retreat. Together, they form a lively and diverse community that balances both city life and suburban calm.

📍 Location: All three areas are located within a short distance of Dublin’s city centre. Ranelagh is about 10-min from the center town on the Luas Green Line. While Rathgar is slightly further out but well-connected by public transport, Rathmines is just a 20-minute walk from the Stephen’s Green.

⭐ Fun Fact: Ranelagh is home to Ranelagh Gardens, one of the first public parks in Dublin, which dates back to 1776. Once a venue for grand garden parties and fireworks displays, it’s now a peaceful park with a rich history.

Nearby Attractions

• The Stella Cinema: Located in Rathmines, this restored 1920s cinema is a must-visit for film lovers, offering luxurious seating, cocktails, and a nostalgic atmosphere.
• The Dodder River Walk: A peaceful walking route through Rathgar, ideal for those who enjoy nature and outdoor activities.

Where to Eat and Drink

Eat: Ranelagh is the perfect spot for food lovers. The Exchequer Wine Bar is a top choice for a casual yet elegant dinner, while Host serves modern European dishes with a focus on local ingredients. In Rathmines, try Farmer Browns, a brunch hotspot. For a quieter meal, Fia Café in Rathgar offers a cozy atmosphere with locally sourced fare.

Specialty Coffee: Nick’s Coffee in Ranelagh is one of the best spots for a cup of coffee in the area. Two Fifty Square is another excellent option in Rathmines, offering great coffee in a relaxed, industrial-chic setting. But my favourite of all time (when I used to live in Rathmines) has to be Grove Road Cafe. The lattes here are incredible!

Drumcondra

Drumcondra is a lively residential neighbourhood located just north of Dublin’s city centre.

It is most famous for being home to Croke Park, Ireland’s largest stadium and the headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA). The stadium hosts major Gaelic football and hurling matches, as well as large-scale concerts.

The area is also known for Griffith Park, a beautiful green space perfect for families and outdoor activities.

😎 Vibe: Drumcondra has a relaxed, local vibe with a strong sense of community. The area is both family-friendly and vibrant, attracting a mix of students, professionals, and long-time residents. The neighbourhood feels welcoming and laid-back, with plenty of traditional pubs, cafés, and parks to explore. While not overly touristy, it offers an authentic slice of Dublin life, just minutes from the city centre.

📍 Location: Drumcondra is a mere 10-minute bus or car ride (around 2.5 km) from Trinity College and the heart of Dublin. It’s well-served by several bus routes and is conveniently located near Drumcondra Railway Station, making it easy to travel into the city and beyond.

⭐ Fun Fact: Drumcondra was once the residence of Ireland’s former President, Éamon de Valera, whose family home still stands on the leafy tree-lined Griffith Avenue, one of the longest avenues in Dublin.

Nearby Attractions

• Croke Park Stadium: A short walk from the heart of Drumcondra, this iconic stadium is not only a sports venue but also houses the GAA Museum, where visitors can learn about the history of Gaelic games.
• National Botanic Gardens (& Glasnevin cemetery): A 15-minute walk away, this stunning garden in Glasnevin is a peaceful retreat with a vast array of plant species and picturesque glasshouses.
• Griffith Park: Located along the Tolka River, this lovely park is great for a relaxing walk or picnic, and it’s very popular with families and dog walkers.

Where to Eat and Drink

Eat: Anderson’s Creperie is a local favorite for brunch and lunch, known for its delicious crepes and coffee. The Lovely Food Co. is another great spot for brunch. For dinner, Shouk in nearby Drumcondra offers outstanding Middle Eastern cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere.

Specialty Coffee: Bread & Butter is a top choice for a relaxing coffee break.

Drink: Drumcondra is home to several historic and lively pubs. The Ivy House is a stylish spot popular for after-work drinks and weekend socializing, while Fagan’s Pub offers a more traditional experience.

Smithfield

Smithfield is a neighbourhood that has seen significant transformation over the last two decades, evolving from a historic marketplace into a modern, vibrant urban area. Nestled on the north side of the River Liffey, it boasts a mix of residential spaces, offices, and cultural hotspots.

Here, you’ll find an array of local cafes, bars, and restaurants, mostly frequented by locals. Tourists are usually drawn to Smithfield to visit the Jameson Distillery Bow St., where you can whiskey tours with tastings, and cocktail-making classes.

It’s also home to The Lighthouse Cinema, an indie film hub cherished by Dublin’s art crowd, and Smithfield Square, the neighbourhood’s large, open plaza.

😎 Vibe: Smithfield’s vibe is a mix of trendy and authentic, with an industrial touch that nods to its working-class roots. Once known for its cattle market, today it has morphed into a trendy, up-and-coming neighbourhood.

📍 Location: Smithfield is approximately a 20-minute walk (about 1.5 km) from Trinity College, making it close enough to the city center to explore on foot, yet far enough to enjoy a quieter, more local vibe.

⭐ Fun Fact: Smithfield used to be the center of Dublin’s cattle trade, with livestock being herded through its large square. This bustling marketplace has since been replaced by the trendy atmosphere you see today, though the cobblestone square still hints at its rustic past.

Nearby Attractions

• Phoenix Park: Just a short walk or bike ride away, this massive park is perfect for a relaxing day in nature or go for a run. It is home to the Dublin Zoo and the President house.
• Jameson Distillery Bow St.: the most popular Whiskey distillery in Dublin offering tours and tasting experiences.
• Guinness Storehouse: A 20-minute walk will take you to one of Dublin’s most iconic attractions.

Where to Eat and Drink

Eat: Wuff is a fantastic spot for brunch, known for its incredible Irish fry & Eggs benedicts. I love Urbanity for lunch also and for diner I can recommend My Meat Wagon or the newly opened Hidden by One Society.

Speciality Coffee: There are many coffee places to choose from. My favourite is Oxmantown at the top of Smithfield Square, though it is only a take away place so if you prefer a sit down head to Proper Order.

Drink: For drinks I would suggest Fidelity or Bonobo for a laid-back and chill atmosphere surrounded by locals. I don’t particularly like The Cobblestone because it is quite touristy, but that might be what you are looking for!

Ballsbridge

Located to the southeast of the city centre, Ballsbridge offers a quieter, more upscale atmosphere, making it one of Dublin’s most desirable areas to live and stay in.

Ballsbridge is best known for being Dublin’s embassy district, home to many foreign embassies housed in beautiful historic buildings. It’s also famous for the RDS Arena, a large event venue that hosts everything from rugby matches to concerts, fairs, and conferences.

The neighbourhood’s proximity to Aviva Stadium, home of Irish rugby and soccer, makes it a hotspot for sports fans, especially during major games and tournaments. Additionally, Herbert Park, one of the most beautiful parks in Dublin, offers a serene retreat for locals with its open green spaces, playgrounds, and tennis courts.

😎 Vibe: Ballsbridge is sophisticated, residential, and peaceful. It’s home to some of Dublin’s wealthiest residents, diplomats, and professionals, offering a refined and relaxed environment. The area is filled with upscale hotels, fine dining restaurants, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

📍 Location: Ballsbridge is about a 25-minute walk (2 km) from Trinity College and the heart of Dublin. It’s easily accessible by public transport, with several bus routes and the DART serving the area.

⭐ Fun Fact: Ballsbridge gets its name from the bridge over the River Dodder, built in the 18th century by a local merchant named John Ball.

Nearby Attractions

• Herbert Park: A 32-acre park with a duck pond, tennis courts, and a weekly farmers’ market, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
• Aviva Stadium: A 10-minute walk from Ballsbridge, this iconic stadium hosts major rugby and soccer matches as well as concerts.
• The National Print Museum: A hidden gem just a short stroll from Ballsbridge, offering fascinating insights into Ireland’s print history.
• Sandymount Strand: A scenic coastal walk that’s just a 15-minute walk away, offering stunning views of Dublin Bay and the iconic Poolbeg Chimney.

Outside of Dublin

Howth

Howth is a picturesque fishing village located on the northern tip of Dublin Bay. Known for its stunning coastal views, historic harbour, and seafood restaurants, it’s a perfect escape from the city for those looking to enjoy nature and Irish coastal life.

Location: Approximately 30 minutes by DART from Dublin’s city centre.

Nearby Things to Do: Walk the Howth Cliff Path Loop for breathtaking sea views, visit Howth Castle, or explore the National Transport Museum. Don’t miss the Howth Market for local crafts and food, or simply relax at one of the many seafood restaurants along the harbour.

We have a dedicated article if you want more details about Howth and how to visit for a day.

Malahide

Malahide is a charming seaside town known for its marina, castle, and beautiful beaches. It is a favourite weekend getaway for Dubliners.

Location: 25 minutes by DART from Dublin city center.

Nearby Things to Do: Explore the magnificent Malahide Castle and its gardens, enjoy a walk along Malahide Beach (Coastal Walk to Portmarnock article) or dine at the many waterside restaurants. The town is also a great spot for sailing or golf.

Sandyford

Sandyford is a suburban business district on the south side of Dublin, home to many tech companies and corporate offices. While primarily known for its business focus, it has excellent transport links and some great nearby amenities.

Location: 20 minutes by Luas Green Line from Dublin city centre.

Nearby Things to Do: Visit Imaginosity, Dublin’s children’s museum, or take a short drive to explore the scenic Dublin Mountains. Sandyford is also close to Leopardstown Racecourse for horse racing enthusiasts.

South Coast (Dún Laoghaire, Dalkey, Killiney)

The South Coast, particularly around Dún Laoghaire, Dalkey, and Killiney, is known for its stunning seaside views, historical architecture, and charming coastal towns.

Location: 20-30 minutes by DART from Dublin city centre.

Nearby Things to Do: Stroll along the Dún Laoghaire Pier, hike to Killiney Hill for panoramic views of Dublin Bay, visit Dalkey Castle, or enjoy the beaches at Killiney. This area is also perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking or sailing.

Bray

Bray is a lively coastal town south of Dublin, known for its long promenade and vibrant seaside atmosphere. It’s a gateway to the Wicklow Mountains and offers plenty of outdoor and cultural activities.

Location: About 45 minutes by DART or train from Dublin.

Nearby Things to Do: Walk along Bray Head Cliff to Greystones for stunning sea views, visit the Bray Aquarium, or enjoy a drink at one of the many pubs along the seafront. You can also explore the Bray Seafront Market and enjoy festivals throughout the year.

Now that you’ve had a glimpse into some of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Dublin and explore in and around Dublin, which areas do you think best fits your travel style? Have you stayed in any of these areas before? Let us know in the comments — we’d love to hear about your experiences or any hidden gems we might have missed!