An Insider’s Guide To Dublin
WHERE TO STAY
The Shelbourne
I’ve lived in Dublin on and off for all of my life, so it’s safe to say I’m a ‘true blue Dub’. One of my favourite hotels to visit when I come home is the Shelbourne on St Stephen's Green. It’s a landmark in the city, offering a perfect blend of old charm and modern comfort. It has three bars including the Horseshoe – a great spot for a pint or martini.
Visit TheShelbourne.com
The Merrion Hotel
If you appreciate art and culture, book into the Merrion. Set across a few restored Georgian townhouses, this five-star hotel has an extensive collection of Irish art. The main house has really smart rooms while the Garden Wing rooms and suites overlook the landscaped gardens. Michelin-starred dining and a sophisticated spa add to the luxury offering.
Visit MerrionHotel.com
The Westbury
Just off the famous Grafton Street, The Westbury is known for its exceptional service and buzzy ambience. I’ll often head to The Sidecar – its modern take on a 1930s cocktail bar – for drinks, before eating at its award-winning restaurant Wilde. There’s also Balfes, a great brasserie with an outdoor terrace.
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The Marker Hotel
If you’re after something more modern, the Marker is a great choice in the trendy Docklands area. Enjoy sundowners at the rooftop bar or a day in the incredible spa with its infinity pool, jacuzzi and sauna. Rooms are spacious and the staff are friendly.
Visit Anantara.com
WHERE TO EAT
777
This Mexican restaurant is like no other in the city. It has a cool speakeasy vibe, a killer drinks menu and a great atmosphere. It’s known for its legendary margaritas and other tequila-based cocktails. Go in a group so you can order lots of dishes, like chicken and avo tacos, beef tartare tostadas, tuna ceviche and Iberico pork with chimichurri.
Visit 777.ie
Woollen Mills
Woollen Mills does a great line in contemporary Irish food. Expect fresh ingredients that showcase the best of our produce in creative ways. It has a modern dining room and a spacious outdoor terrace which is really buzzy in the summer. I’d recommend the seabream with charred corn and tamarind, followed by the dark chocolate tart.
Visit TheWoollenMills.com
L’Gueuleton
L’Gueuleton is an excellent French restaurant with a lively bar and plenty of outdoor seating on Fade Street, one of Dublin’s most vibrant nightlife spots. Expect dishes like pork fillet au crepinette, steak frites, and pan-fried fish with herby potatoes.
Visit LGueuleton.com
The Winding Stair
This is the sister restaurant to Woollen Mills. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle with great views of Dublin’s Ha’penny Bridge, it serves traditional Irish fare like seafood chowder, smoked haddock and potato dumplings. Don’t miss the old bookstore downstairs for a quick browse.
Visit Winding-Stair.com
Wilde
On the second floor of The Westbury, Wilde is more than just a hotel restaurant. Think art deco interiors, good cocktails, faultless wines and serious Irish cuisine. You can choose from seafood dishes or plates from the grill and there are some tasty starters.
Visit Wilde.ie
WHERE TO DRINK
Grogan’s Castle Lounge
This is a brilliant little pub just off Grafton Street with no pretension or frills. Park any expectations of a cocktail (they don’t do them) and dive in for an excellent pint of the black stuff and the best grilled ham and cheese toasties.
Visit GrogansPub.ie
Hogan’s Bar
Hogan’s is a great spot for people watching. Expect a laid-back crowd, plenty of good-time seekers and a lovely atmosphere. It’s sophisticated with a mahogany bar and banquette seating, and it often does live music and cool events.
Visit HogansBar.com
Devitts
Devitts is a traditional family run Irish pub in central Dublin. A classic watering hole, it’s a lively spot with live music upstairs every night of the week. It also serves proper Irish grub and cooked breakfasts.
Visit DevittsPub.ie
The Long Hall
One of Dublin’s oldest and most beautiful bars, The Long Hall has a friendly atmosphere. If you’re visiting the city with your mates, this is the place for a few pints of Guinness.
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WHERE TO SHOP
Powerscourt Townhouse
This historic Georgian building is on South William Street. It houses several boutiques from household names to independent sellers – you’ll find everything from men’s fashion to homeware and grooming.
Visit PowerscourtCentre.ie
Indigo & Cloth
In Temple Bar, Indigo & Cloth is a well-curated store offering a great selection of men's clothing, footwear and accessories. There’s a focus on contemporary and minimalist brands like Sunflower, Norse Projects, Portuguese Flannel and Oliver Spencer.
Visit IndigoAndCloth.com
Brown Thomas
On Grafton Street, Brown Thomas is a luxury department store and a must visit for those looking for top-notch fashion. It’s got all the big-name designers as well as smaller Irish brands, tech, gifts and homeware.
Visit BrownThomas.com
Louis Copeland & Sons
Known for its impeccable craftsmanship and exceptional tailoring, Louis Copeland & Sons is a renowned destination for men's suits, shirts and accessories. Expect a warm welcome and experts who really know their stuff.
Visit LouisCopeland.com
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WHAT TO SEE & DO
Trinity College
An afternoon at Ireland's oldest university is a must. Explore the beautiful campus in the middle of the city and check out the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript dating back to the 9th century. It’s housed in Trinity College Library which has big Harry Potter vibes. Book in advance as it gets busy.
Visit TrinityCollege.com
Dublin Castle
This is a medieval fortress turned government complex. Explore the state apartments and gardens, then visit the Chester Beatty Library. Afterwards, grab a coffee on the terrace of Chez Max, a little French bistro by the entrance.
Visit DublinCastle.ie
Swim In The Sea
Take the plunge in the Irish Sea. Go for a dip at the famous Forty Foot, a short train ride south of the city centre. This small swimming spot is full of charm. Afterwards, stroll along the coast from Sandycove beach to the seaside suburb of Dún Laoghaire, which is equally scenic.
Guinness Storehouse
It feels a little bit clichéd to recommend this but, in all honesty, it’s worth it. You even get a pint of Guinness at the end of the tour with magnificent views of the city at Gravity Bar. A must for everyone, even if (god forbid) you’re not a Guinness fan.
Visit Guinness-Storehouse.com
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