16 Best Hotels in Dublin City Centre (Locals Guide)

I’ve lived in Dublin my entire life and have spent the last decade helping tourists plan their visit. A big part of this involves guiding them on where to stay in Dublin.

Since 2017, I have made an effort to stay in many different hotels in Dublin City (19 at the time of typing!), from budget breaks to luxury properties.

The result? A heavily depleted bank balance along with the guide below – a collection of what I believe are the best places to stay in Dublin City Centre and beyond. Enjoy!

What I believe are the best hotels in Dublin City Centre

I’ve broken this guide up into different sections to help you browse. I’ve also created a map for each section, so you know where each of the Dublin hotels are located.

Visiting for the first time? If you’re struggling to decide what part of the city to stay in, see my guide on where to stay in Dublin.

1. The Merrion Hotel

I’ve been fortunate to travel widely over the last few decades and, while I’ve stayed in some exceptional hotels, very few have come close to the Merrion.

I’ve stayed here twice, roughly ten years apart, and both visits left exactly the same impression – this is, hands-down, the best hotel in Dublin City Centre.

The Merrion occupies four restored Georgian townhouses between St Stephen’s Green and Merrion Square, putting much of the city centre within easy walking distance while still feeling calm and contained once you step inside.

The style is classic and understated, with elegant rooms, refined public spaces and a spa with an 18-metre pool.

Food and drink are a highlight, with Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud on site, a garden-facing restaurant, a polished cocktail bar, and an 18th-century wine vault that’s been turned into one of the most memorable hotel pubs in Dublin.

2. Hyatt Centric

I find the Hyatt Centric works very well as a mid-range base (it’s around €270 for a Friday night in June), particularly for those spending 2 days in Dublin and who want to be a short walk from everything.

It’s set in the Liberties, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Dublin, right across the road from St Patrick’s Cathedral and just down the road from Christ Church.

The Hyatt is modern and comfortable, with well-appointed rooms and, while there are food and drink options on-site, you’ll find great places to eat along with Dublin’s best pubs a short stroll away (the Long Hall is only a 10-minute ramble!).

The hotel’s lobby bar area is also handy if you’re with family and don’t want to/can’t head to a pub.

3. The Fitzwilliam

I recommend the Fitzwilliam to a lot of first-time visitors because few hotels in Dublin City Centre are as well placed. It sits right at the top of Grafton Street, facing St Stephen’s Green, with the city opening out in every direction the moment you step outside.

You’re at the heart of the action, and the LUAS stops directly outside the front door, which makes getting around Dublin especially easy.

Inside, the Fitzwilliam feels polished and modern without being over-the-top. Rooms are well finished and comfortable, with higher-priced rooms offering noticeably more space than you’d expect in this part of the city.

Food is another strong point. Glovers Alley is a Michelin-starred restaurant and one of the best restaurants in Dublin, while The Lounge works well for relaxed meals and cocktails.

The trade-off: You’re staying in one of the busiest parts of the city. It’s lively from morning to night, especially at weekends, so if you’re looking for a quieter base or somewhere that feels removed from the action, this won’t be it.

4. InterContinental Dublin

If you’ve read my Dublin area guide, you’ll have seen me describe Ballsbridge as one of the best areas of Dublin to stay in, and the InterContinental is the standout hotel in the area.

Ballsbridge is an upmarket area, around a 35-minute walk or 15-minute bus ride from Trinity College. I stayed at the InterContinental with visiting family last summer and found it to deliver exceptionally well on all counts.

It’s set on two acres of landscaped grounds, has over 200 rooms, and many offer city, coastal, or mountain views.

The on-site spa earns the hotel its place amongst some of the most notable spa hotels in Ireland, and, while there are several dining options, the Lobby Lounge, overlooking the gardens, is the most popular.

Who it’ll suit: This is a good choice if you’re looking for high-end Dublin hotels with excellent facilities and a quieter setting, and you’re happy to trade walk-everywhere convenience for space and comfort.

Luxury Dublin hotels worth splashing out on

The next section looks at the finest luxury hotels in Dublin City Centre. Now, as you’ll see from my map above, I mentioned two of these hotels in the first section.

However, when it comes to fancy places to stay in Dublin, once you have the budget, you’ll have a hard time deciding, as competition is so strong!

1. The Shelbourne

The Shelbourne sits right on the edge of St Stephen’s Green and, for many people, is the grand old hotel of Dublin. Opened in 1824, it’s woven into the city’s history in a way very few Dublin hotels can claim, and staying here genuinely feels like stepping into another era.

The location is spot on. You can walk to the National Gallery, the National Concert Hall, Grafton Street, and much of the city centre in minutes, yet the hotel feels a world-away from the action when you’re inside.

Rooms lean classic rather than modern, with polished interiors and generous marble bathrooms. The indoor heated pool is one of the most elegant hotel pools in the city, dining is refined, and afternoon tea is a long-standing ritual.

Why you won’t regret splashing out: The Shelbourne is one of the best hotels in Dublin City Centre for old-school luxury. I’ve been here in both the peak-season and the off-season and there’s always a lively, infectious atmosphere!

2. The Westbury

The Westbury is just off Grafton Street, and that slight remove is part of the appeal. You’re seconds from Dublin’s main shopping artery, but without the chaos that comes with being directly on it.

From the front door, St Stephen’s Green, Trinity College, theatres, galleries, and the top attractions in Dublin are minutes away (as is some of the best Guinness in Dublin, in Kehoe’s and Neary’s!).

Rooms are classic, comfortable, and designed to shut the city out once you’re upstairs – a real plus given how central the location is.

The Westbury excels when it comes to food and drink. Balfes is one of the most dependable all-day dining spots in the city. WILDE is refined without being stuffy. While the Sidecar is one of the city’s finest cocktail bars.

The only thing it doesn’t have going for it: A pool! When you’re paying top prices for hotels in Dublin City Centre, a pool is a must!

3. The Marker Hotel

You’ll find the Marker in the Docklands, around a 20-minute walk from the city centre, with the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre just feet away, which makes it a good choice if you’re attending a show.

The hotel has a modern feel throughout, and that carries into the rooms. I stayed in a Deluxe room here a couple of years back, which was comfortable and quiet but fairly underwhelming in terms of design.

The standout was the marble bathroom, which felt very high-end, but there’s only so much time you can spend in there! Where the Marker really pulls ahead is with its facilities and dining.

The spa is one of the hotel’s main draws, with an infinity pool and thermal areas that make it easy to slow things down. Forbes Street focuses on refined modern Irish cooking, and the rooftop bar stands out as one of the better hotel bars in Dublin when it’s open.

The trade-off: You get a world-class five-star hotel with everything on site, but the area lacks any real atmosphere in the evenings and at the weekends, when the work crowds have left.

4. The College Green Hotel

The first thing you’ll notice about the College Green Hotel (previously the Westin) is its grand exterior. This luxury hotel is set in a beautiful stone building right across the road from Temple Bar.

Housed within three former banking buildings, the hotel leans into its past – expect high ceilings, original architectural details, and a sense of scale gives it presence, while the rooms balance modern comfort with subtle nods to the building’s heritage.

They’re spacious, quiet, and surprisingly restful given what’s happening outside the front door. The Atrium Lounge, rising through five floors beneath a glass canopy, is one of the city’s more distinctive spaces for coffee or afternoon tea.

Downstairs, The Mint Bar, set inside an old bank vault, is one of the more atmospheric hotel bars in Dublin, especially when live music kicks in at weekends.

I stayed here back when it was the Westin and loved it. Since the rebrand, I’ve spoken to plenty of visitors who’ve stayed here, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

Good value budget hotels in Dublin

My map above will give you a good sense of some great places to stay in Dublin if you’re on a budget.

While a stay in most Dublin hotels is far from pocket-friendly, there are some that offer excellent value for money (on a tight budget? See my guide to Dublin’s best hostels or my guide to B&Bs in Dublin).

1. The Skylon Hotel

Most Dubliners from the northside, like myself, will be familiar with The Skylon Hotel, as it’s on the road into the city from the airport.

I stayed here for 3 nights a few years back while I was waiting for work to be finished on my home, and I was very surprised.

I’d always driven by it and thought that it didn’t look great from the outside, but the rooms are comfortable, the reception was friendly and it’s extremely easy to get to-and-from the city via the bus.

While there aren’t many facilities, this is one of the best hotels in Dublin price wise if you’re looking for comfort and convenience without breaking the bank.

2. Premier Inn (various)

If you’ve ever stayed in a Premier Inn, in Ireland or anywhere else, you already know the deal. Clean, modern rooms. Comfortable beds. No frills, but very little to fault.

What really sets the Dublin Premier Inns apart isn’t what’s inside the rooms, it’s where they’re located.

• The Temple Bar hotel: Ideal if you want to step out the door and be straight into the action
• The Liberties hotel: More relaxed location but still walkable.Close to St Patrick’s Cathedral, Teeling Distillery and more

3. Clayton Hotel Burlington Road

The Clayton in Ballsbridge is one of the biggest conference hotels in Dublin and I have stayed in it many times over the years.

Despite the affluent surrounds and its proximity to the centre (it’s an 18-minute walk to Stephen’s Green), you tend to be able to get good value here throughout the year.

I’ve always found the rooms here comfortable, but they’re functional rather than stylish, with some feeling more modern than others.

Where the Clayton really stands-out is location and logistics. The Aircoach stops nearby, public transport is close, and it’s very easy to get in and out of the city.

4. Hilton Dublin Kilmainham

I tend to recommend the Hilton at Kilmainham to those spending one day in Dublin before taking the train west the following morning.

It’s right across from Kilmainham Gaol and a 20-minute walk/10-minute drive from Heuston Train Station.

You’re within walking distance of IMMA, the Royal Hospital Kilmainham and the Guinness Storehouse, while the city centre is a quick Luas (tram) ride away.

The hotel itself is modern and comfortable, with a decent pool, spa and gym. 

Quirky and boutique hotels in Dublin City

Over the last decade, many Dublin hotels – places like the Dean, the Devlin and the Moxy – have leaned heavily into the boutique style, favouring compact rooms and design-led spaces over size and traditional comfort.

This section focuses on my favourite boutique hotels in Dublin and, as my map above shows, many are nice and central!

1. Number 31

Few Dublin hotels feel as quietly distinctive as Number 31. Tucked into a Georgian townhouse just off Leeson Street, it’s only a short walk from the Grand Canal and St Stephen’s Green, yet it feels removed from the noise of the city.

This was once the home of architect Sam Stephenson, and that influence still shows. The interiors blend classic Georgian bones with confident modern touches, bold colour choices, and a layout that feels personal rather than hotel-like.

Rooms lean traditional but comfortable, while the shared spaces are where Number 31 really shines: a sunken lounge with a fireplace, calm corners to read or unwind, and a beautifully kept garden and terrace that’s a rare luxury in the city centre.

This is one of the best hotels in Dublin City Centre for adults looking for somewhere stylish, calm, and character-led rather than conventional.

2. Roxford Lodge Hotel

Roxford Lodge sits inside a redbrick Victorian townhouse on Northumberland Road, just south of the Grand Canal and a short walk from the bars and restaurants along bustling Baggot Street.

This is a family-run boutique hotel, and it feels that way in the right sense: relaxed, well looked after, and quietly traditional without tipping into fussy. Much of the original Victorian character remains, from the high ceilings and large sash windows to the elegant lounge spaces.

Rooms range from straightforward and comfortable to more distinctive suites, some with features like stained-glass windows, whirlpool tubs, and small kitchenettes. It’s a good spread, whether you’re after a simple base or something with a bit more character.

3. NYX

I speak with hundreds of people planning a trip to Ireland each year, so it’s easy to see trends emerge. Since its launch in late 2023, I’ve spoken to more people that have stayed in NYX in Portobello than any other hotel.

NYX is a modern, design-led hotel in one of Dublin’s more interesting neighbourhoods. It sits beside the Grand Canal, about a 15 – 20 minute walk from St Stephen’s Green.

This is not a traditional Dublin hotel. NYX leans heavily into bold interiors, contemporary design, and a social atmosphere. Rooms are modern and comfortable, with strong soundproofing, good workspace, and canal views.

Location-wise, Portobello strikes a good balance. You’re close to Rathmines, Camden Street, and the canal walks, with plenty of cafés, restaurants, and pubs nearby, but you’re removed from the crowds of Temple Bar.

While I haven’t stayed here personally, this is one of the best hotels in Dublin City Centre based on the feedback I’ve had from hundreds of visiting tourists.

4. The Fleet

The Fleet sits in the heart of Temple Bar, just across from Trinity College and a short stroll from everything. On paper, that kind of location might make you expect noise, crowds, and compromise. In reality, that’s not the case.

The hotel is positioned at the quieter end of Temple Bar, tucked just far enough away from the late-night buzz to feel calm once you step inside.

It’s spread across two protected historic buildings, and the interiors strike a good balance between modern comfort and period character.

Rooms are well set up for city breaks, with comfortable beds, solid soundproofing, and everything you need after a long day on foot.

If you want to stay central, properly central, without sacrificing sleep or sanity, The Fleet is one of the best places to stay in Dublin City.

Great family hotels in Dublin

Many of the best hotels in Dublin City Centre have good facilities for families, but there are some fantastic family-friendly hotels outside of the city.

My map above will give you a look at where many of the top family hotels in Dublin can be found, inside the city and out!

1. The Grand Malahide

The Grand Hotel works particularly well for families thanks to its location. It’s a short drive from Dublin Airport, which is a big win if you’re arriving late or travelling with kids, and it sits right on the seafront, with a promenade that’s ideal for fresh air and low-effort walks.

You’re also right beside Malahide Village, which is packed with cafés, restaurants, pubs, and shops, so you’re not reliant on taxis for every meal or outing.

Just up the road is Malahide Castle, which is excellent for families, with parkland walks, fairy trails, and plenty of space to burn off energy.

For trips into the city, the DART station is a short walk away, giving you an easy, car-free route into central Dublin. It’s one of those rare Dublin hotels where you get coastal space, village life, and straightforward city access in one place.

2. Clontarf Castle

Clontarf Castle Hotel sits in one of the more appealing parts of Dublin to base yourself with kids. Clontarf is an affluent, relaxed coastal suburb, and it feels a world away from the city centre once you arrive, while still being easy to get in and out of.

You’re close to the sea, with St Anne’s Park and Dollymount Strand nearby, both of which are excellent for families, whether that’s playground time, long walks, or letting kids burn off energy.

It’s also a handy base if you plan to spend time tackling the Howth Cliff Walk, with regular buses running along the coast.

Getting into the city is straightforward thanks to frequent bus routes, so you can dip in for sightseeing without staying right in the middle of the noise. Add in the novelty of staying in one of the top castle hotels in Ireland and you’re in for a treat!

3. The Grafton

The Grafton is one of the best hotels in Dublin City Centre, both for families and couples alike. This is one of the more practical city-centre options for families who don’t want to split across multiple rooms.

Its family and multi-sharing rooms are designed to sleep up to six in a single space, which is surprisingly rare in Dublin.

Parents get a proper super-king bed, while kids have two sets of bunk beds, which makes the room feel organised instead of cramped. There’s also a separate bathroom and shower room.

Location-wise, you’re right beside Grafton Street, so sightseeing, food, and transport are all on your doorstep.

Recent personal experience: Some of my friends visiting from the US stayed here with their four kids. Location aside, they raved about the big, multi-sharing rooms!

4. Radisson Blu Royal

Radisson Blu is a dependable, well-located option if you want to stay right in the city without paying luxury-hotel prices.

It sits on Golden Lane, just behind Dublin Castle, which puts you within easy walking distance of Christ Church Cathedral, St Patrick’s Cathedral and more.

You’re central, but not dropped into the noisiest part of town. The hotel itself is modern and practical. Rooms are comfortable, with good soundproofing, decent workspace, and family rooms that work well for short stays.

There’s also a proper on-site spa and thermal suite (adults-only), which is a bonus you don’t often get at this price point in the city centre.

Dublin Airport hotels

The Dublin Airport hotels make a great pitstop for those only in the capital for a night or two and who want to be close to the terminals and the city.

As you’ll see on my map above, some of the hotels are within the airport grounds while others are a short spin away.

1. The Airport Clayton

The Clayton is one of the most practical places to stay if you’ve got an early flight, a late arrival, or just want to remove airport stress entirely.

It’s one of the closest hotels to Dublin Airport and runs a free shuttle every 30 minutes, which means no taxis, no early-morning logistics, and no guesswork.

Rooms are modern and quiet, with family and interconnecting options if you’re travelling with kids.

There’s a bar and restaurant on site, so you can eat without leaving the building, and everything is set up to make arrivals and departures easy.

2. The Maldron

The Maldron is the closest hotel to Dublin Airport in a very literal sense – it’s around a 5-minute walk to both terminals (roughly 270 metres).

That walkability is the big win here. You don’t need to rely on shuttles or taxis if you don’t want to, although a complimentary shuttle is available.

Rooms are modern, clean, and built for practicality rather than atmosphere. It’s designed to get you in, fed, rested, and back on the road (or runway) with minimal friction.

3. The Premier Inn Swords

The Premier Inn in Swords is one of the most reliable budget hotels near Dublin Airport, and it does exactly what you want it to do – without fuss.

It’s less than a 10-minute drive from the terminals, with a shuttle running every 30 minutes from early morning to late evening. There’s on-site parking (overnight only), making it a practical option if you’re flying out early or landing late.

If you’ve stayed in a Premier Inn anywhere before, you’ll know the drill. Rooms are simple, clean, and consistent, with excellent blackout curtains, strong showers, and beds that genuinely deliver a good night’s sleep.

Where to stay in Dublin by area

Now that you have a good sense of the best hotels in Dublin City Centre and beyond, it’s time to look at areas and itineraries.

My map above will show you the pros and cons of the main areas around Dublin City that I recommend to visitors.

If you need an itinerary for Dublin, visit my Dublin hub, or follow my guide to 5 days in Ireland or one week in Ireland.