The very best 12 nightlife spots in Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, the lively and spirited capital of Ireland, boasts an array of top-notch nightlife destinations that promise to rock your socks off. From traditional pubs that transport you back in time to trendy clubs pulsating with infectious beats, the city has something for everyone. Venture to Temple Bar, the vibrant heart of Dublin, where the giddiness of pub-hopping is taken to a whole new level, and don't forget to visit Copper Face Jacks, the legendary nightclub that has surely witnessed more dance floor antics than a Bollywood movie.
Save destination1. The Porterhouse Temple Bar
16-18 Parliament St, Temple Bar, Dublin 2, D02 VR94, Ireland
Nestled in the heart of Dublin's lively Temple Bar district, The Porterhouse Temple Bar is a pub that boasts an array of beers sure to make every hop-lover quiver with joy. With more beer options than a chameleon has color choices, this quirky establishment is a beer enthusiast's equivalent to Willy Wonka's chocolate factory – just with fewer Oompa Loompas. From traditional Irish stouts to experimental brews that will make your taste buds do the conga, this pub is a must-visit for those looking to embrace their inner beer geek while having a craic-ing good time.
Learn more2. The Grand Social
35 Liffey St. Lower, North City, Dublin 1, D01 C3N0, Ireland
Tucked away in the vibrant city of Dublin lies The Grand Social, an eccentric gem that blends the charisma of a medieval castle with the coolness of a hipster hangout. Step inside and be prepared to journey through time, as this quirky venue seamlessly fuses modern entertainment with a pinch of historic charm. With its eclectic mishmash of live music, comedy gigs, and occasional pop-up markets, The Grand Social promises an experience that will leave you wondering how on earth you ended up twirling your hips on a disco floor beneath a medieval chandelier.
Learn more3. The Bernard Shaw
Cross Guns Bridge, Drumcondra, Dublin 9, D09 XW44, Ireland
Welcome to The Bernard Shaw in Dublin, a quirky destination for those seeking a memorable pub experience. Nestled on a vibrant street, this place is a delightful hodgepodge of eccentricity. With its mismatched furniture and charmingly muddled decor, it's a pub that seems to have collided with a thrift store, resulting in a mishmash of eclectic objects that are sure to leave you intrigued and slightly bewildered. Add to that the bonus of their quirky events, from pop-up cinemas to impromptu dance-offs, and you're in for a delightfully entertaining time.
Learn more4. Whelan's
25 Wexford St, Portobello, Dublin 2, D02 H527, Ireland
Tucked away in the heart of Dublin's bustling streets, lies Whelan's, a quirky establishment that boasts an impressive blend of rowdy nightlife and enchanting music. Locals fondly refer to it as the city's musical haven, where beer flows like the River Liffey and the spirits of Irish rock 'n' roll legends whisper through its dimly lit corners. Prepare to indulge in a merry pilgrimage of sorts, filled with melodious encounters and possibly stumbling across a harp-playing leprechaun or two.
Learn more5. Copper Face Jacks
29-30, Harcourt St, Saint Kevin's, Dublin 2, D02 XV58, Ireland
Welcome to Copper Face Jacks in Dublin, the ultimate destination for a night of shenanigans and questionable dance moves. Step into this temple of debauchery and prepare to be surrounded by a whirlwind of eager partygoers, all vying for the attention of the opposite sex like peacocks on a rampage. With its thumping beats, sticky floors, and a distinct aroma of stale beer mixed with desperation, this iconic nightclub will leave you with memories you might struggle to recall and stories that you probably shouldn't share with your grandmother.
Learn more6. Dicey's Garden
21-25 Harcourt St, Saint Kevin's, Dublin 2, D02 YF24, Ireland
Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Dublin, Dicey's Garden beckons visitors with promises of revelry and good times. As you step into this lively oasis, you're greeted by a delightful chaos of enthusiastic party-goers, all ready to embrace the night with gusto. Quirky characters abound, each with a tale to tell and a drink in hand, making Dicey's Garden the perfect spot for an unforgettable evening of laughter and questionable dance moves.
Learn more7. Pygmalion
59 William St S, Dublin, Ireland
Welcome to Dublin, where the statue of Pygmalion comes alive! This quirky attraction is a must-see for all lovers of Greek mythology and Irish charm combined. Encounter the whimsical tale in the heart of the city and watch as locals fondly refer to the sculpture as "Dublin's liveliest bachelor party attendee." Experience the enchanting magic firsthand, but be advised: don't be surprised if you catch Eliza Doolittle and Henry Higgins practicing their accents in a nearby pub!
Learn more8. Opium
26 Wexford St, Portobello, Dublin 2, D02 HX93, Ireland
Welcome to Dublin, where the air is filled with history, folklore, and a dash of charming controversy. Nestled in the vibrant streets, you'll find Opium, a lively sanctuary offering a tantalizing blend of Asian fusion cuisine and cocktail concoctions that will make your taste buds dance a merry jig. It's a place where the East and the Emerald Isle collide, resulting in an experience that's as intoxicating as the name suggests, but without the haze and questionable legality. Opium Dublin is an enchanting oasis where every inch of space has been meticulously decorated, transforming it into a treasure trove of whimsy and wonder. From the moment you step inside, you'll be transported to a world where ancient Chinese art mingles with Dublin's unmistakable charm, like a boisterous pub singing along to a kung fu movie soundtrack. It's like stumbling upon the secret hideout of an eccentric explorer who's decided to adopt an ever-so-slight Irish accent just to keep things interesting. The true allure of Opium lies in its culinary creations that will leave your taste buds having a wilder time than a leprechaun on St. Patrick's Day. Prepare yourself for a culinary journey that effortlessly combines the best of Asian cuisine with a Dublin twist. Be sure to savor every morsel of their delectable dumplings, which are so addictive that even the most disciplined foodie would struggle to resist. And just when you think you can't handle another bite, their tropical cocktails with a hint of Irish mischief will make you reconsider your alcohol tolerance and have you dancing an Irish jig before dessert even arrives.
Learn more9. The Workman's Club
10 Wellington Quay, Temple Bar, Dublin, D02 VX36, Ireland
Welcome to The Workman's Club, Dublin's quirky gem that proudly embraces its dual identity as a music venue and a watering hole for hipsters and folk alike. This place exudes a charmingly dilapidated ambiance with its peeling paint and mismatched furniture, giving you the sensation of stepping into your eccentric uncle's living room, only with way better tunes. Whether you're savoring a pint while tapping your feet to a local band or contemplating the meaning of life on a well-worn couch, The Workman's Club offers an unforgettable experience that will make you question why you ever thought standing in a generic, sterile club was a good idea.
Learn more10. The Temple Bar Pub
47-48 Temple Bar, Dublin 2, D02 N725, Ireland
Welcome to The Temple Bar Pub, the most charming and convivial watering hole in all of bustling Dublin! Stepping through its door is like walking into a jovial time warp, where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy their favorite brews while indulging in heartfelt conversations and merry shenanigans. Prepare to bask in the warm embrace of Irish hospitality, fortified by giggles and clinking glasses. Word of caution: should you spot someone taking a selfie with a pint, please resist the urge to photobomb; we don't want to see your face unintentionally becoming Dublin's latest viral sensation.
Learn more11. The Liquor Rooms
6-8 Wellington Quay, Temple Bar, Dublin, D02 HT44, Ireland
Welcome to The Liquor Rooms, Dublin's quirky watering hole that will make you question whether you're in a bar or Alice's rabbit hole. Step into this whimsical wonderland, where the ambiance is an eclectic blend of vintage glamour and playful eccentricity. Be prepared to indulge in captivating concoctions that are so mesmerizing, you'll forget you even liked regular drinks that come in normal glasses.
Learn more12. The Palace Bar
21 Fleet St, Temple Bar, Dublin 2, D02 H950, Ireland
Prepare yourself for an enchanting voyage to The Palace Bar, a legendary establishment located in Dublin. This long-standing institution is rumored to be the holy grail of Irish heritage, where pints of creamy Guinness flow like rivers of gold. As you step inside, brace yourself for an atmosphere teeming with charismatic characters, witty banter, and the occasional rogue leprechaun hunting for his pot of whiskey.
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Dublin, Ireland by plane is to fly into Dublin Airport, which is located approximately 10 kilometers north of the city center. Many airlines, both budget and full-service, offer flights to Dublin from all over the world.
Car
Driving to Dublin is a popular option for those who prefer the flexibility and freedom of having their own vehicle. The M1 and M50 are the main motorways leading to Dublin, with plenty of car rental companies available at Dublin Airport.
Train
While there are no direct trains to Dublin from outside Ireland, it is possible to take a train from other parts of Ireland or from the UK. The main train station in Dublin is Heuston Station, which serves the west and south of the country, while Connolly Station serves the north and east.
Boat
If you're coming from the UK or Europe, taking a ferry to Dublin is a great way to arrive. Irish Ferries and Stena Line both offer regular services from various ports in the UK, with Dublin Port serving as the main ferry port in Dublin.
Bus
Dublin is easily accessible by bus from other parts of Ireland, with many companies such as Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus offering frequent services. The main bus station in Dublin is Busáras, which is located near Connolly Station.
