Are you planning a trip to Dublin anytime soon? You’re certainly in for a fun time, considering the city’s unique culture, rich history, and vibrant festivals. Dublin offers several famous cultural hubs, including the iconic Temple Bar with its arts, eateries, boutiques, and more. There are several historical sites and museums that you can explore in the city, along with lively festivals that are a big draw for tourists.
The pub culture in the city is a vital part of life here, offering ample opportunities for socialising and entertainment. At the same time, what you’ll also enjoy is the warm and welcoming local community here. Now, are you wondering where to stay in Dublin for access to the best local experiences? Let’s find out more below.
Best Areas for Different Types of Stays
You will discover several popular areas in Dublin for various kinds of stays. Let’s check them out closely below.
1. Temple Bar (nightlife, music, pubs)
You will fall in love with the Temple Bar area for its bustling and culture-centric vibe. Enjoy the lively Irish music performances here while checking out all the shops, restaurants, and pubs along the stretch. You’ll find the cobblestone pathways really charming, while landmarks like the Temple Bar Pub will also attract you. There are several art galleries and independent boutiques to explore here as well.
It is also a great place to savour Irish ballads drifting out of the numerous pubs across the district. There are lively crowds of locals and tourists enjoying the authentic Irish vibe here, particularly when the weather conditions are favourable. Sample the delicious Irish cuisine on offer here while indulging in some shopping at the multiple retail outlets dotting the neighbourhood. Another fabulous attraction is the Old Storehouse, which is famous for its traditional and live music on Crown Alley.
2. City Centre (shopping, attractions, St. Patrick’s Cathedral)
You can also consider staying in the City Centre. This will give you access to excellent shopping options along Grafton Street (known for the EPIC The Irish Immigration Museum) and the Guinness Storehouse. It is also where you’ll find the famous St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which stands out for its magnificent architecture and vibrant choir performances. You will also find several other attractions nearby, including the Teeling Whiskey Distillery and the Jameson Distillery Bow St.
Shop at the premier and luxury retail outlets on Grafton Street and visit the St. Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre with its stunning Victorian-era design. You will also appreciate the Little Museum of Dublin, which is privately owned and comes with several unique artifacts. The cathedral itself was founded in 1911 and showcases alluring Gothic architecture.
3. Docklands (modern business district)
You can consider staying near the Dublin Docklands as well. It is a lively and regenerated district on the Liffey River. This waterfront zone is now a booming area for technology, finance, culture, innovation, and creativity. You will love admiring the gorgeous Samuel Beckett Bridge and the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre. There is also the Convention Centre here, which is home to several technology startups, multinationals, and more.
If you’re looking for quick access to major business hubs, this is the best place to stay. It showcases a compelling mix of contemporary and historic buildings, including the Exo Building with its angular steel frame and the Custom House. Some additional landmarks here include the Grand Canal Square and EPIC, the Irish Emigration Museum. The Dublin Landings zone is where most residential apartments are available, and you will also discover several leisure and retail spaces here. Kayaking on the River Liffey will also be an enjoyable activity for you in the area.
4. Ballsbridge (quiet, upscale)
Ballsbridge is a premium and serene area in Dublin. You can think of staying here for its affluent homes and leafy pathways. You will find the city centre nearby, and it is also pretty walkable, which gives you maximum convenience. There are several townhouses, apartments, and other accommodation options here for guests with varying budgets. At the same time, the area is dotted with several elegant houses and a vibe that reflects a tranquil prestige above everything else. Of course, the living and dining costs here may be on the higher side, since it is a premium neighbourhood.
You can also check out localities like Donnybrook, which is quieter and more upscale in nature. Sandymount is also worth considering if you want a seaside location to stay near the city.
Key Seasonal Festivals in Dublin
You can enjoy several seasonal festivals and events in Dublin at different times of the year. For starters, there is the iconic St. Patrick’s Festival that takes place on March 17th. The day of St. Patrick is celebrated with great fanfare throughout the city. There is the famous parade, along with several street performances, concerts, family events, and a lot more. You can also enjoy fascinating circus acts and live music here, along with a fair and various cultural performances.
Then there is the Taste of Dublin, which is a popular food festival attracting numerous people every year. It showcases the best Irish cuisine along with several local restaurants worth trying on your visit. You will also love attending the Dublin Fringe Festival, which is held annually and features modern theatre, art, dance, and comedy performances. They draw performers from across the globe. Dublin Book Festival is another popular event held every year and attracts bibliophiles in large numbers. It celebrates Irish writing and literature, with several workshops, readings, and talks by authors serving as the main attractions. The Trinity College of Summer Festival is a classical music celebration within the Trinity College grounds. Multiple concerts by global artists and local performers take place here every year.
Serviced Apartments as Flexible Accommodation
When it comes to your stay in Dublin, serviced apartments are undoubtedly the best choice. These apartments offer more space and privacy than regular hotels, along with home-like comfort, multiple configurations, and excellent hotel-like service and amenities. You can also expect ample flexibility in terms of short and long-term leases.
Stay as long as you like, extend your lease, and immerse yourself in the local culture without being isolated in a hotel. At the same time, there is a premium service and concierge facilities on offer, along with on-site recreational facilities and more. They are also more affordable than regular hotels, especially for extended stays. For flexible, high-quality serviced accommodation in Dublin, consider booking with a trusted provider for a hassle-free stay.
Conclusion
As you can see, there is no dearth of serviced accommodation in Dublin. You have to compare multiple areas and shortlist them based on your preferences before coming to a final decision. At the same time, keep your lifestyle and other needs in mind when you select any particular neighbourhood.
You can rely on verified providers like TheSqua.re to find apartments in the best areas in Dublin, ranging from the historic Temple Bar zone to the bustling City Centre and the quieter Ballsbridge. Here’s wishing you a memorable trip ahead!
