Stories and photos by Gail Clifford (unless otherwise indicated)
Hotel prices are so high in Dublin, many people opt to use AirBnB or Home Away. Consider it, especially if you’re traveling with more than two people. Having access to kitchen facilities helps, though the food has improved so much from the days of “fried fish and mushy peas” you’ll do well either way.
The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection
If budget is not a concern, the highest recommendations must go to the luxury Shelbourne, Autograph Collection. Shelbourne Hotel’s two-bedroom, two-bath, living room, dining room, Princess Grace suite goes for €6k/night, off season, £10k, in season, and, with private butler, you will be treated like a queen, or princess.
Several suites are named for famous personalities that have stayed at the hotel, like JFK, Michael Collins, and Éamon de Valera (fathers of Ireland’s independence). Each of their suites includes curated memorabilia to review in either your sleeping or sitting rooms. They overlook St. Stephen’s Green.
The Heritage One Bedroom Suites have a king size bed and separate living room. Their Heritage Junior Suites allow for two queen size beds and a seating area within the sleeping quarters.
Their other guest rooms keep you in the center of the Dublin action, overlooking St. Stephen’s Green. They have an outstanding spa with fitness center as well as restaurant and lounge. Their timeless elegance and style befit this 200-year old establishment. They host sports teams before local games which makes the area even more festive.
Restaurants and bars include The Saddle Room, No. 27 Bar & Lounge, The Lord Mayor’s Lounge, The Horseshoe Bar, 1824 Bar and The Terrace.
Address: 27 St. Stephen’s Green
The 5-star Merrion Hotel
The 5-star Merrion Hotel prides itself on more understated elegance. Located in the heart of Georgian architecture, you’re near many of Dublin’s famous doors.
The Merrion’s doorman still has top hat and tails, but the cozy fires that welcome you and the lounge where you start your Art Tea feel more familial. The art collection at this hotel remains the largest private one of any hotel. Their pastry chef uses the art as inspiration for decadent desserts. The art influence carries over to their 123 guest rooms and 19 suites. They are decorated in the same color palette as the Front Hall’s Irish Landscapes painted by Paul Henry.
In the late spring and summer, you’ll enjoy the Garden Terrace. In cooler months, the cheery fires will warm your spirits.
The Cellar Bar remains an excellent place to unwind after a long day. Their Art Tea is second to none. Restaurant option immediately accessible is the Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, two Michelin Stars.
Address: Merrion Square Upper
Trinity College – Dublin
Trinity College – Dublin student services provides one of the most extraordinary opportunities during the summer months. They open student housing to tourists. Keep in mind there are only about 50 on-campus beds for a student population of nearly 17,000, so there is heavy competition. Most on-campus housing is granted to those students who have proven themselves exemplary academicians and manages to pass a complicated series of exams.
Afford yourself that luxury by coming for a week while school is not in session and. Enjoy the peace on campus after the main gate closes for the night. Walk amidst the buildings or along the pitch. It’s grand.
And don’t worry, if you’ve an early flight out of Dublin’s airport, when the guard tells you the taxi comes in the front gate, he’s right. There’s a large square door around the standard one that opens to allow a taxi to drive straight through. It’s an exceptional thing to see as the run rises and strikes the dew-laden grass.
Address: College Green
Budget Friendly Alternatives
Dublin City Hotel
For more budget-friendly options, consider the Dublin City Hotel, just north of Trinity College but south of the River Liffey. Its 27 guest rooms may be available for an off-season rate as low as $61/night before taxes and fees. During high season, it’s more likely to be $200/night.
Address: 49 Dame Street
StayCity
For long term housing, and by that, they mean more than two nights, consider one of the four StayCity locations in Dublin: Dublin Castle, Christ Church, St. Augustine’s Street and Millenium Walk.
The intention of longer-term guests means they have more amenities within the room itself. The self-sufficient studio apartment includes a full bath, with shower (no tub), a mini-kitchen (no oven), king size bed and adequate storage and desk space. Some locations have 2 and 3 bedroom and penthouse apartments.
Each facility houses a laundry facility, a restaurant with limited menu and arrangements for local gym access. It really is the perfect combination of hotel and apartment.
Address: 4 locations across the city
Marriott’s ALOFT
Long awaited, Marriott has opened the more affordable 4-star Aloft Dublin City Hotel. With unbeatable placement in the heart of The Liberties, one of Dublin’s oldest and most historic areas, this hotel suits both business and leisure travelers to Ireland. From our vivid, contemporary facade, to our cutting-edge design elements to our ultra-modern in-room technology. They offer creative international fare at Tenters Gastro Pub with live music and an onsite gym. For those seeking a memorable venue for an intimate business gathering, we offer modern, flexible venue space and full-service planning and catering.
Address: 1 Mill Street, The Liberties, Dublin 8
AirBnB
If you choose an AirBnB, staying in the Dublin 1 or Dublin 2 sections allows for easiest access to local attractions and restaurants. The closer you stay to either Temple Bar or Trinity College – Dublin, the more likely you will feel like you’re in the heart of it all.
Hostels are also available in Dublin for backpackers and students. It’s a good idea to book well in advance as they fill quickly, since Dublin is such a busy city. But come, drop your bags, get out and explore.
