Located on the east coast, the capital of the Republic of Ireland offers a unique and bustling nightlife. Dublin attracts many different types of people and ages. The art and culture of the city attracts the young and old alike and there is plenty to keep families and couples entertained. It also has a strong pull for young people with the vibrant evenings and a very youthful atmosphere; about 50% of Dublin’s population are under 25. Here you will meet people from all over the world, especially Americans who have a love for the city.
If you want to experience Dublin while it has plenty going on, plenty of people exploring it and a good temperature then June-September is the best time. At this time, you will have plenty of festivals to enjoy including The Dublin Irish Festival and the Clontarf Viking Festival. However, be aware that this may also be the most expensive time to travel and to spend time in Dublin.
If you are prepared to wrap up then the winter months also offer some excellent events such as the Dublin Fringe Festival, Dublin Theatre Festival and Dublin Book Festival.
However, if you really want to get a true Dublin experience then head over for St. Patrick’s Day – it will be a little more expensive for this period but the parties and events that the city host are well worth it.
For your nightlife head to the Temple Bar area. Located on the riverside, it offers a range of music and nightlife. It is a popular area for tourists and locals and hosts many stag and hen parties from across the Irish Sea. Leeson Street, Harcourt Street, South William Street and Camden Street hold many pubs and nightclubs so are the places to target.
Nightclubs
Dublin has a wide range of clubs that is sure to meet many preferences in music, drinks and atmosphere. The actual Temple Bar pub is a must if visiting the Temple bar area. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music.
It is important to dress a bit smarter than just casual as many clubs and bars will turn you away if attempting to enter with beat-up trainers. Also most clubs have an entrance fee which can be as high as 20Euros on Saturday nights.
The Sugar Club on Lower Leason Street hosts a range of events from stand-up to quiz nights. However, once the clock hits 11pm this venue turns into a nightclub. A similar venue is The Academy who host music and dance acts during the week but club nights take over at the weekend.
Krystle, located in the city centre, is a stylish club that attracts sports stars, social media icons and the more sophisticated of us. Making more than just a bit of effort is essential. The music played here is focused on R’n’B and the top 40. If you’re feeling the vibe, tables can be booked free of charge to make a base for your party.
The Button Factory is where you should start your dancing. Located in the centre of Temple Bar, it offers a range of tunes and drink deals especially when the students are in town.
Other clubs to check out are The Workman’s Club – with a rooftop garden, The Twisted Pepper – ideal for all you ravers and Bad Bob’s which has 5 floors, 6 bars, 3 dance floors and a rooftop area.
Bars and Pubs
The Temple Bar area of Dublin can be seen as too touristy and crowded for some, but don’t let you discourage you from trying out some great pubs and bars in the area. Missing out on this part of town will mean you miss out on some wild nights. Typical Irish pubs in the area include The Old Storehouse which offers great food and live music as does The Quays Temple Bar. Another place for great live music is the Auld Dubliner which has some good drinks deals on too.
If you’re searching for an amazing cocktail then 37 Dawson Street is the place to head. This place is a bit more on the expensive side and will require you to dress to impress. However, once you are in you will be able to pick the brains of your mixologist and create your perfect cocktail.
Another place that offers a unique experience is The Morgan Bar. It has some great drinks offers and along with a welcoming vibe is a place where you can sit, chat and watch the world go by.
Other late night bars to check out include The Hairy Lemon Cafe Bar, Oscar’s Cafe Bar, Trinity Bar, Bleeding Horse and The Jar.
Things to Do
The Guinness Storehouse is definitely worth a visit and probably the reason Dublin is on your travel list. Here you can learn about the Guinness beer production, pour your own pint and take in the breathtaking view that the panoramic bar offers. Tickets include a free beer and are about 20Euros.
Live music is available on a grand scale – the 3Arena venue at the Docklands – a small scale and even in the streets. The city is proud of producing a lot of successful artists such as Thin Lizzy and The Script.
Meanwhile, there are many green areas around the city including Phoenix Park – home to Dublin Zoo – Victoria garden and St. Stephen’s Green; while for those wanting to splurge then Grafton Street is the main shopping area.
Other activities include golf, go-karting, outdoor adventure days and XIT – a group game where the name of the game is to escape from a room you are all locked it; perfect for stag and hen dos.
Useful Information
Airport name: Dublin Airport
Transfer time to Dublin: 30 minutes