Dublin should be on everybody’s travel itinerary if spending more than a day or two in Europe. It’s a city with a great story of history, pageant and popular culture. It is now easy to get to – the airport is just 7/8 miles from the centre and is served by low cost airlines Ryanair and Aer Lingus as well as many other airlines.
Having convinced you to visit – where should you stay?
Stay central. Most people only stay a night or two. If you want to get the max out of your stay consider city centre hotels. See below for a brief review of hotels that have been personally reviewed and visited.
TOP CLASS HOTELS IN DUBLIN: If money is no object we suggest the Merrion Hotel in Dublin. It is in the heart of Dublin across from Government buildings,
is independently owned and is luxurious with great historic character and all the amenites you would expect of 5 star accommodation with pool, leisure centre and two restaurants (one with a Michelin star). It is quietly understated, friendly and tranquil.
The Four Seasons is in Dublin – but is a little further out.
BUSINESS/LUXURY HOTELS: The Radisson/Westin and Conrad hotels are represented in city centre but our advice is to chose from the Fitzwilliam a nice 5 star overlooking St Stephen’s Green or the good quality Alexander/St Stephens Green hotel – hotels fixated on business visitors. They know their stuff. The Grand old dame of hotels in Dublin on O’Connell Street – the Gresham is a landmark 4 star hotel. Or watch out for Brooks – a hidden little boutique hotel in the heart of the city. Small and with a fabulous welcome it was Hotel of the Year in 2008.
GOOD QUALITY HOTELS: If you are looking for great prices and full facilities – the Camden Court Hotel is a good 3 star candidate. It has a leisure centre and free car parking.
The newly refurbished Ashling hotel overlooking the River Liffey is getting good reviews. It’s family owned but a large hotel with onsite car parking. Cassidys Hotel is a top class 3 star hotel at the top of O’Connell Street which we also recommend. It has got great comfort, character and at very affordable rates.
CHEAP AND CHEERFUL: Jurys and the Maldron hotels are well-known chain brands in Ireland, while the Harcourt Hotel consistently offers good hotel accommodation at a low price. The two stars and three star markets are represented by a large number of small older style hotels. For those who want to be near the heart of the action the Arlington Temple Bar and the Arlington Hotel are well located near Temple Bar.