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Ireland’s capital, Dublin is steeped in history, dating back to its origins as a Viking settlement in 795 AD followed by centuries of tumultuous change. It has earned a reputation for its spirited pub culture, rich literary tradition, and friendly locals that are as humorous as they are melancholic. And while the clichéd, Guinness-drinking character of Dublin remains, in recent years the city has moved into a golden new era, with a vibrant hospitality scene, a thriving digital sector, and a cacophony of urban developments marking the city’s surge into the future.
There are over 50 new hotel projects in the pipeline, including The Standard Hotel—sure to infuse its playful brand of glamor into the social scene (and capitalize on newly extended nightlife hours that reach into cappuccino territory). Similarly stylish boutique hotels are set to open in the city center, including Merrion Square–adjacent The Leinster, and further out by Dublin Bay, Hotel Cherrywood will become part of Ireland’s largest urban development. By the end of this year alone, the Irish Hotels Federation estimates that an additional 2,000 rooms will be available—and that figure will be doubling in 2023.
Part of Dublin’s evolution can be attributed to the wave of affluence stemming from Silicon Valley transplants (it’s the European headquarters for Meta, Google, Microsoft, Airbnb, Twitter, and LinkedIn, among others). It has also been one of the biggest beneficiaries of Brexit, with over 135 financial firms relocating operations from London (surpassing Paris and Luxembourg) and adding to its increasingly diverse and sophisticated population.
Like many cities on the rise, previously neglected neighborhoods have been transformed. “Dublin 8, one of the city's oldest areas, and home to many historic and cultural landmarks, has become a thriving neighborhood in recent years, brought on by an influx of new creative hospitality concepts that found a home in the affordable area,” says Laura Arnold of Press Up, Ireland’s largest hospitality group. And things have become distinctly more multicultural; you can now find world-class sushi and shakshouka alongside inventive fine dining restaurants that are redefining Irish cuisine.
With a confluence of factors at play, one thing is clear: there has never been a better time to visit Dublin. If you find yourself in the Emerald Isle, here are the best places to go in Dublin.
Where to eat in Dublin right now
Arriving at Café en Seine feels like stepping into a Wes Anderson film set. The lively multi-restaurant venue is an Instagrammer’s dream, with jewel-hued, art deco décor and costumed jazz singers. People drop in for lattes and lunch dates during the day, and by night, it’s one of the city’s most happening gastronomic destinations. It was also named Jameson’s Bar of the Year for 2022.
Regarded as one of Europe's most creative fine dining experiences, Chapter One is a much-lauded Michelin-starred restaurant where seasonal Irish ingredients are presented like art on a plate (or an elaborate sculpture, in the case of the canapés). The vibe is authentic and remarkably unpretentious for its caliber (although, it’s not a place for children). Go for the five-course tasting menu and the sommelier’s wine pairing recommendations.
Trendsetters and tourists can be found ascending to Sophie's stylish rooftop bar located at the top of The Dean Hotel. It offers one of the only 360-degree views of the city and has creative cocktails, craft beers, and a menu with delicious sharing plates, pizzas, and entrees. An essential stop on any Dublin itinerary.
Where else to stay
Facing Ireland's version of the White House, The Merrion is an appropriately stately hotel spread across a row of 18th-Century Georgian townhouses. Everything is meticulously polished, from the charming doormen in top hats to the elegant high tea served in the drawing room with a pianist and an impressive collection of art. Rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated with crystal chandeliers, antiques, and large marble bathrooms. Although it’s in a prime position, within walking distance of Trinity College, The National Gallery of Ireland, and the main shopping and dining strips, the atmosphere is discrete and serene—something that guests arriving from Transatlantic crossings can appreciate. The Merrion has regularly featured on Traveler’s Gold List and the Reader’s Choice Awards over the years for good reason.
Then there's the vibe at The Dean, which feels part Soho House, part Bowery—in other words, a magnet for creatives that favor an unstuffy, low-key luxury. It’s a nondescript, 51-room boutique hotel located in the edgier south side of town, where the nightlife scene is bustling every night of the week (a dream for some, a nightmare for others). Enter through a moodily lit doorway and you’ll find a neon sign spelling “I Fell in Love Here,” and similarly cool décor throughout.
There are certain hotels that embody the spirit of a place—New York has The Carlyle, London has Claridge’s—and Dublin has The Shelbourne. It was here that Ireland’s Constitution was signed in 1922, and today, glimmers of 100 years ago linger. Located opposite St. Stephen’s Green, it boasts an Old-World charm from the opulent entrance through to the grand guest rooms. It’s also home to the most beautiful cocktail bar in the city, No. 27. Order the Grande Dame with pomegranate liqueur, peach, and Laurent Perrier champagne.
Classic things to do in Dublin
For some history to complement Dublin's shiny-new offerings, the National Gallery of Ireland is Dublin’s answer to The Met, with elaborately decorated halls and an impressive collection of art including works from Van Gogh, Picasso, Rembrandt, Monet, Degas, and, of course, Yeats. International exhibitions are on rotation (Giacometti just wrapped up), and it is just as enchanting for children as it is for adults, with its immersive arts and craft stations that allow young imaginations to run wild.
New Yorkers would equate Brown Thomas to Bergdorf Goodman—a historic and elegant department store featuring luxury brands and contemporary designers. Located on the pedestrian-only Grafton Street, it champions local design talent and is where some of Ireland’s most famed designers got their start, including JW Anderson, Richard Quinn, and Richard Malone. It’s a festive place, especially magical during Christmas, St. Patrick's Day, and and Easter, when decor takes over.
For a traditional pub experience, head to O'Donoghues. It’s been around since 1789 and is a place where you’re just as likely to be rubbing shoulders with a celebrity as you are a local that’s been a regular for 50 years. Live music is on every night and the vibe perfectly sums up the quintessentially Irish pursuit of craic.
