17 Best Bars in Dublin: A Local’s Guide for 2025

Dublin’s best bars are the life-blood of a pub culture you won’t find anywhere else in the world.  Without doubt, the Irish capital’s legendary pub scene stands unmatched and many centuries-old establishments continue to thrive today.

The Brazen Head stands out among Dublin’s historic bars, and claims to be the oldest pub in the city. Its roots go back to 1198.  The Long Hall has served drinks since 1766, while The Stag’s Head started as a tavern in 1780 before transforming into a pub in 1894.  L. Mulligan Grocer’s rich heritage dates back to 1782.  The Palace Bar remains special because the same family has run it for almost 100 years.

These best bars in Dublin city create authentic experiences.  They blend traditional Irish food with live folk music and perfectly poured pints of Guinness.  The Guinness Brewery sits just a 20-minute walk from the city center.  This piece showcases 17 must-visit Dublin bars for 2025.  Each place has its own character, from Victorian charm to whiskey collections that would impress even the most knowledgeable enthusiast.

The Temple Bar

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The Temple Bar sits at the heart of Dublin’s cultural quarter.  This legendary establishment ranks among the most iconic bars in Dublin.  Locals and tourists flock to what has become the life-blood of Dublin’s vibrant nightlife.

The Temple Bar History

Dating back to 1840, The Temple Bar holds its place among the best bars in Dublin city.  The pub got its name from Sir William Temple, who built his home and gardens in this area during the early 1600s.  The bar’s rich history includes ownership changes to P.J. Hartnett in 1894, the Ramsbottom family in 1961, William Flannery in 1992 and Tom Cleary in 2005.  The pub earned a Guinness World Record in 2011 when David Browne played guitar for 114 hours, 6 minutes, and 30 seconds.

The Temple Bar Atmosphere

This pub offers a unique experience among Dublin bars.  Traditional Irish culture comes alive with daily live music that starts at 10:30am.  Musicians perform on a raised stage and the crowd joins in with sing-alongs.  The pub stays packed but keeps its charm through its traditional feel and warm Irish welcome.

The Temple Bar Drinks

Ireland’s largest whiskey collection lives here with over 450 different varieties.  The bar’s own Temple Bar Whiskey range started aging in their cellars in 2011.  Guests can pick from many draft beers like Guinness, Murphy’s and Smithwick’s, among other specialty cocktails like Whiskey Sour and Irish Mint.  Wine lovers can choose between Italian Pinot Grigio and Argentinian Malbec.

The Temple Bar Pricing

Location and popularity shape The Temple Bar’s prices.  Draught beers start at €8.95, hot drinks at €10.55, cocktails at €15.50 and wines at €10.50 per glass.  Prices run higher than average, but guests say the atmosphere and entertainment make it worth every penny.

The Temple Bar Best Time to Visit

This popular bar Dublin feels more relaxed during weekday mornings or early afternoons.  Getting there before 9:30pm helps secure a good table.  Weekday afternoons strike a nice balance between buzz and space.  Summer months, especially June through August, bring bigger crowds of locals and tourists alike.

The Brazen Head

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The Brazen Head stands out among Ireland’s historic bars in Dublin as a true landmark.  It claims roots back to 1198 and holds the title of Ireland’s oldest pub.  The current building dates back to 1754 when it was built as a coaching inn.  Its authentic setting breathes centuries of Irish heritage.

The Brazen Head History

The Brazen Head started as a merchant’s dwelling from at least 1613.  It got its first license to sell ale in 1661 and became known as an inn by 1668.  The establishment has seen many important moments in Irish history and welcomed revolutionary figures like Robert Emmet and Wolfe Tone.  James Joyce even mentioned it in his masterpiece “Ulysses”, which secured its place among the best bars in Dublin city.

The Brazen Head Food and Drink

Traditional Irish dishes are served until 9pm every day.  Guests can try the hearty beef stew, bacon and cabbage with parsley sauce and fresh seafood dishes.  The pub’s extensive drink selection makes it a perfect spot to experience authentic Irish refreshments.

The Brazen Head Live Music

Music is the life-blood of The Brazen Head experience.  Traditional sessions run six nights a week from 9:30pm, while Sunday afternoons feature performances from 3:30pm-6:30pm.  These casual jam sessions represent true Irish musical tradition.  Visitors can enjoy authentic cultural experiences without paying entrance fees.

The Brazen Head Location

You’ll find the pub at 20 Lower Bridge Street, Usher’s Quay (D08 WC64).  Its prime spot near Christchurch Cathedral and the Guinness Brewery makes it easy to reach.  The central location means you can get there by foot, Luas, bus or taxi.

The Brazen Head Pricing

While exact prices aren’t listed, reviews paint a mixed picture of value.  Many visitors love the hearty Irish pub fare, but some question if the prices match the quality.  The pub gets busy during peak hours, so it’s best to visit during quieter times to fully enjoy one of the best bars in Dublin.

The Long Hall

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Walking into The Long Hall takes you straight back to Victorian Dublin.  This magnificent pub has one of the best preserved interiors among bars in Dublin.  Licensed since 1766, this South Great George’s Street gem has managed to keep its place as one of the best bars in Dublin through generations.

The Long Hall History

The pub’s name comes from a long hallway that used to run parallel to the back bar and served as an elongated snug.  The interior that engages visitors today dates back to 1881, when publican Patrick Dolan finished a beautiful Victorian renovation.  The establishment became a hub of Fenian activity in the 1860s and served as a recruiting station and meeting place for the Irish Republican Brotherhood.  Famous guests have included Brendan Behan, Phil Lynott (who shot part of his “Old Town” video here in 1982) and Bruce Springsteen, who has his own special whiskey bottle behind the bar.

The Long Hall Decor

The pub’s interior showcases “Affluent Victoriana” with gold leaf details, handcrafted wood carvings and beautiful beveled glass.  Deep red embossed oak adorns the ceiling with detailed cornicing around the edges.  An arched doorway marks the halfway point, topped by an antique Wekler & Schlegel clock from 1912, leading into the main drinking lounge.  Victorian-style lamps, globe lanterns, brass fixtures, and chandeliers light up the space beautifully.  The lighting creates a flattering atmosphere where “everybody looks more attractive, irrespective of beer goggles”.

The Long Hall Drinks

The pub serves one of Dublin’s best pints of Guinness thanks to its spotlessly clean taps.  Customers rave about their Irish coffee with its “frothy cream, aromatic coffee, and fruity whiskey”.  The bar also serves simple snacks like peanuts and Tayto chips.

The Long Hall Pricing

A pint of Guinness costs around €5.20-€5.50.  Heineken goes for €5.40 while O’Hara’s ale costs €5.90.  These prices are reasonable given the excellent service and historic setting.

The Long Hall Best Time to Visit

Early evening is your best chance to find a seat in the “red, wood-covered seating area”.  Opening hours run Monday to Thursday (12:00pm-11:30pm), Friday and Saturday (12:00pm-12:30am) and Sunday (12:00pm-11:00pm).  Weekday afternoons are perfect for a quiet drink when natural light shows off the bar’s beautiful interior.

Ireland puns.

The Stag’s Head

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A narrow alleyway off Dame Street leads to The Stag’s Head, one of best bars in Dublin that captures authentic Victorian splendor.  This architectural gem started as a tavern in 1780 and became a pub in 1894.  Today it gives visitors a real taste of Dublin’s rich drinking culture.

The Stag’s Head Victorian Charm

A proud stag’s head mounted above the entrance sets this pub apart.  The interior showcases original mahogany woodwork, beautiful ceiling designs and stained glass windows that transport you to an elegant past.  The bar’s showpiece is its carved counter, with cozy red leather seats that make guests want to stay longer.

The Stag’s Head Live Events

This bar Dublin buzzes with entertainment all week long.  The downstairs space hosts comedy shows regularly, while traditional music fills the air on weekends.  Storytelling events bring Dublin’s rich oral history to life.

The Stag’s Head Drink Selection

The bar serves perfect pints of Guinness and stocks a wide range of Irish whiskeys and international spirits.  Beer lovers can sample different local craft brews and the cocktail list mixes timeless favorites with the pub’s own creative concoctions.

The Stag’s Head Pricing

Like most central Dublin bars, prices run a bit higher than average.  The unique Victorian atmosphere makes the extra euros worth it, since few places match this pub’s authentic character.

The Stag’s Head Location

You’ll find this historic best bar Dublin at 1 Dame Court, just steps from Dublin Castle and Trinity College.  The central spot, tucked away from main streets, draws both tourists and locals looking for a quiet escape from city life.

Kehoe’s Pub

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Kehoe’s Pub shines as a jewel among the best bars in Dublin with its distinctive Victorian character.  This authentic establishment has kept its original multi-room layout since 1803 and sits proudly on South Anne Street, giving visitors a genuine taste of old Dublin.

Kehoe’s Pub History

This beloved pub started as a grocery and wine merchant.  The space proudly displays its original furnishings today, including antique snugs (private seating areas) that once kept ladies separate from the main bar.  These preserved historical features make it one of the most authentic bars in Dublin.

Kehoe’s Pub Crowd

A diverse mix of locals and tourists fills this lively pub regularly.  The younger crowd tends to gather upstairs, while seasoned regulars who love traditional Dublin bars prefer the ground floor atmosphere.

Kehoe’s Pub Drinks

The pub pours an excellent pint of Guinness and stocks a solid range of Irish whiskeys and spirits.  Traditional pub drinks take center stage here rather than fancy cocktails.

Kehoe’s Pub Pricing

Kehoe’s prices match other bars Dublin in the center, offering good value for quality drinks.

Kehoe’s Pub Best Time to Visit

Weekday afternoons provide a peaceful setting at this best bar Dublin.  The weekend evenings buzz with energy, though you’ll find bigger crowds then.

O’Donoghue’s

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O’Donoghue’s ranks high among the best bars in Dublin and serves as the life-blood of Dublin’s traditional music scene.  Its musical significance has earned worldwide recognition.

O’Donoghue’s Music Legacy

The Dubliners started performing at this legendary pub in 1962, which marked its rise to fame.  Many influential musicians have graced its stage over the years, including Christy Moore, Phil Lynott and international stars who came looking for authentic Irish sessions.  Live traditional music fills the air every night from 9pm and weekend afternoons buzz with additional sessions.

O’Donoghue’s Drink Menu

The pub takes pride in pouring perfect pints of Guinness.  You’ll find a solid selection of Irish whiskeys and local craft beers here too.  Rather than fancy cocktails, the pub stays true to its roots as one of Dublin’s authentic Dublin bars.

O’Donoghue’s Ambiance

Musicians’ photographs cover the walls, giving the space a museum-like feel.  The historic venue maintains a welcoming vibe where tourists and locals come together to share stories and songs.

O’Donoghue’s Pricing

The prices match other central bars in Dublin.  The nightly musical entertainment makes it great value.

O’Donoghue’s Location

The pub’s prime spot at 15 Merrion Row, just off St. Stephen’s Green, puts it close to government buildings and upscale hotels.

Cliffs of Moher.

The Cobblestone

The Cobblestone proudly calls itself “a drinking pub with a music problem.” This family-owned treasure stands in Smithfield Square and ranks among the best bars in Dublin when it comes to authentic traditional Irish music.

The Cobblestone Music Sessions

Daily music sessions make up the soul of this place.  Musicians gather here to play traditional Irish tunes, learn from each other and share stories.  These are not staged performances but natural gatherings of talented artists.  Each day brings something different – from lively jigs and reels to mesmerizing Sean-nós singing without accompaniment.  The Monday night sessions buzz with energy, while Tom Mulligan leads welcoming gatherings on Tuesdays and Fridays.  Saturday nights take a turn toward old-time American music traditions.

The Cobblestone Crowd

The pub smartly divides its space between music lovers who gather near the musicians and those who want to chat with music as their backdrop.  Kids can join until 9pm or 10pm during summer months.  The mix of locals and tourists creates a genuine Dublin atmosphere.

The Cobblestone Drinks

Beyond its famous creamy pints, the bar serves cold beer, craft cocktails and local IPAs.  Thirsty patrons can choose from 36 different draft beers.

The Cobblestone Pricing

The drinks here cost less than city center spots, with pints running about €4.50-€4.80.  That’s at least €1 cheaper per pint than what you’d pay in Temple Bar.

The Cobblestone Authenticity

The Mulligan family has run this cherished pub through the last 35 years.  Tom Mulligan shares his father’s dream: making Irish music even better than they found it.  Anyone looking for real traditional music will find it here – music that speaks to locals just as much as tourists.

The Palace Bar

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The Palace Bar stands as the life-blood among the best bars in Dublin city, known for its rich literary heritage.  This authentic Victorian gem sits at 21 Fleet Street.  Literary giants gathered here over pints to reshape Ireland’s cultural scene.

The Palace Bar History

This historic pub opened its doors in 1823 and has served thirsty Dubliners for nearly two centuries.  The Aherne family’s ownership dates back to 1946 when they bought it for £26,500—a record sum then.  The Palace became Dublin’s literati and journalists’ favorite spot during the 1940s and 50s.  Literary legends like Patrick Kavanagh, Brendan Behan and Flann O’Brien made this their home.  Their passionate debates and creative exchanges earned the pub its nickname “the temple of art”.

The Palace Bar Whiskey Selection

The Palace boasts Dublin’s largest collection of Irish whiskies with over 100 brands available.  They partnered with Cooley Distillery to launch their own whiskey brand—making them Ireland’s first pub since the mid-1970s to do so.  Their 11-Year-Old single malt comes finished in port and sherry casks at 46% ABV.  This special blend offers rich flavors with subtle smoky notes.

The Palace Bar Decor

Original Victorian design shines through the pub’s mahogany fixtures, stained glass windows and high vaulted ceiling.  Colored glass bathes the space in magical morning light.  A hidden snug at the front resembles an old telephone box.  Michael Collins reportedly held meetings in this intimate space during the War of Independence.

The Palace Bar Pricing

The pub sits in the mid-range price category ($$-$$$).  Visitors get fair value given its historic significance and central location.

The Palace Bar Best Time to Visit

The pub welcomes guests Monday-Thursday (10:30am-11:30pm), Friday-Saturday (10:30am-12:30am) and Sunday (12:30pm-11:00pm).  Sunny mornings light up the Victorian splendor perfectly.

Bowes

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Bowes, a hidden gem among the best bars in Dublin, sits quietly on Fleet Street opposite the lively Temple Bar area.  This authentic Victorian establishment has charmed visitors since 1880.

Bowes Whiskey Collection

The wooden shelves showcase over 250 world whiskies, earning Bowes the prestigious Irish Whiskey Bar of the Year at the Irish Whiskey Awards.  Their impressive selection features Irish classics, Scotch selections and Japanese varieties.  The Irish Whiskey Society chose these historic walls as their founding location in 2009.

Bowes Ambiance

The cozy Victorian interior takes guests on a journey through time.  A traditional snug – a small private seating area – adds unique character to the space.  Patrons can explore global whiskey regions through a distinctive tiled world map on the wall.  A philosophical message hangs overhead, welcoming “those merry souls who make drinking a pleasure”.

Bowes Pricing

Beamish costs €6.70 per pint as of October 2024.  Guinness prices remain reasonable at around €6.  These rates offer significant savings compared to nearby Temple Bar establishments, where prices exceed €12.

Bowes Location

The pub stands at 31 Fleet Street (D02 DF77). Visitors can spot its distinctive old mounted clock from afar.

Bowes Best Time to Visit

Quiet weekday afternoons provide the perfect setting to enjoy what many locals call Dublin’s finest Guinness.

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Grogan’s

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Regulars lovingly call it “the last real pub in Dublin” – Grogan’s Castle Lounge on South William Street stands out among the best bars in Dublin.  This place stays true to its roots without any tourist gimmicks.

Grogan’s Local Vibe

The magic of Grogan’s comes from its authentic local feel.  People call it Dublin’s “living room” and that fits perfectly. You’ll see all sorts here – artists chat with office workers while students mix with writers.  Nothing fancy about the decor – just simple wooden furniture and walls that showcase rotating artwork from local talent.  This makes it a true cultural hotspot among Dublin bars.

Grogan’s Outdoor Seating

The street comes alive when people fill the outdoor seats in summer.  These spots are gold dust even on cold days.  Locals wrap up warm and watch the world go by with their pints – it’s what bars Dublin are all about.

Grogan’s Drinks

Quality pints take center stage here instead of fancy cocktails.  Their Guinness ranks among the finest in all bars in Dublin.  Each pint gets poured just right.  The bar stocks your usual Irish pub drinks too – local and foreign beers, ciders and a solid whiskey selection.

Grogan’s Pricing

Your wallet will thank you at Grogan’s.  The prices beat most best bars in Dublin city nearby.  They skip the unnecessary extras and pass those savings to customers without cutting corners on quality.

Grogan’s Best Time to Visit

Afternoons on weekdays give you space to relax and chat.  The place really comes alive on weekend nights though.  Just remember – after 8pm you’ll be lucky to find anywhere to stand, let alone sit.

Devitt’s Pub

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Devitt’s Pub stands out as a local gem on Camden Street’s buzzing nightlife scene.  This spot perfectly blends traditional Irish charm with modern entertainment and has earned its spot among the best bars in Dublin that locals and tourists love.

Devitt’s Pub Music Nights

The weekend atmosphere comes to life with high-energy live shows that feature fresh local talent and seasoned performers.  The pub hosts themed music nights throughout the week.  Guests can enjoy everything from authentic Irish sessions to modern cover songs in a warm and inviting space.

Devitt’s Pub Food

The kitchen whips up comfort food that includes traditional Irish dishes and modern pub favorites.  Guests can savor their famous beef and Guinness stew.  The Sunday brunch menu has caught on with locals who want to check out Dublin bars on weekends.

Devitt’s Pub Drinks

The bar serves more than just perfectly poured pints of stout.  Patrons can choose from a great selection of craft beers, Irish whiskeys and creative cocktails that appeal to different tastes in the bars Dublin scene.

Devitt’s Pub Pricing

The prices here are better than most central bars in Dublin.  Budget-conscious visitors can enjoy quality drinks and food without breaking the bank.

Devitt’s Pub Location

The pub’s central spot on Camden Street Lower makes it easy to reach from major tourist spots.  This location works perfectly as a stop while discovering the south side’s best bars in Dublin city.

Ryan’s Victorian Pub

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Ryan’s Victorian Pub stands as a testament to 19th-century charm in Dublin’s busy center.  Visitors flock here to experience Ireland’s rich drinking culture and it has become one of the best bars in Dublin with its authentic period atmosphere.

Ryan’s Victorian Pub Decor

The pub’s interior showcases original mahogany fittings among antique mirrors and detailed ceiling work that takes you back to Victorian Dublin.  The bar’s crown jewel is its counter, which has managed to keep its hand-carved details.  This craftsmanship is rare in modern Dublin bars.

Ryan’s Victorian Pub Drinks

The pub shines with its exceptional stout.  Ryan’s also houses a vast whiskey collection from mainstream brands and specialty Irish distilleries.  Their cask ales change often, giving patrons more choices than other bars in Dublin.

Ryan’s Victorian Pub Ambiance

The snug areas buzz with quiet chats while the main bar stays vibrant without getting too loud.  Many bars Dublin have changed with time, but Ryan’s authentic Victorian character creates a true historical drinking experience.

Ryan’s Victorian Pub Pricing

The central location and historic setting might suggest otherwise, but the prices stay reasonable, making it available to anyone looking for the best bars in Dublin city.

Ryan’s Victorian Pub Location

A short walk from the Grafton Street shopping district makes Ryan’s perfect to unwind after shopping or learning about nearby attractions.

L. Mulligan Grocer

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L. Mulligan Grocer lifts the best bars in Dublin experience with exceptional food and craft beer instead of historic prestige.  This cozy, dark establishment carries “grocer” in its name but serves as a full-fledged gastro-pub that celebrates Irish culinary traditions.

L. Mulligan Grocer Food

The restaurant’s pride lies in seasonal Irish ingredients and they source most vegetables from their own organic farm.  Their signature Scotch Egg stands out as a must-try delicacy – a soft-boiled egg wrapped in rare-breed pork with crispy breadcrumbs.  The kitchen’s commitment shows through their house-made components.  They craft everything from breads and desserts to relishes and sauces on-site.  Sunday brings a special treat with limited-quantity roasts featuring different suppliers each week, plus vegetarian options.

L. Mulligan Grocer Craft Beer

Unlike other Dublin bars, L. Mulligan Grocer skips serving Guinness.  Patrons can find rare brews like Trouble Galaxy IPA from Kildare and Schenkerla Marzen from Germany instead.  Each dish comes with a recommended Irish beer pairing, which shows their deepening commitment to local brewing.  Their beer menu organizes selections by style and includes helpful tasting notes.

L. Mulligan Grocer Ambiance

Diners can focus on their culinary experience in this intimate, welcoming atmosphere.  The original pub has evolved into a food destination while keeping its authentic charm.

L. Mulligan Grocer Pricing

Main dishes cost between €21.50 and €27.50.  The venison burger sells for €24.50, while fish and chips go for €26.50.  Popular appetizers like their famous Scotch Egg cost around €9.90.

L. Mulligan Grocer Location

You’ll find this bar Dublin at 18 Stoneybatter (D07 KN77).  They open mainly evenings, serving food from 4:30-9:30pm Thursday through Friday, with longer hours on weekends.

The Gravediggers

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The Gravediggers, originally John Kavanagh’s, got its nickname from cemetery workers who tapped on the wall to get their pints after work.  This family-run pub stands out among bars in Dublin with its genuine, no-frills approach to creating the perfect pub atmosphere.

The Gravediggers Guinness Reputation

The pub serves one of the finest pints of Guinness in the city, and many call it Dublin’s best.  Legendary chef Anthony Bourdain visited and wrote “Heaven looks like this”.  Newcomers often say that “if you don’t like the Guinness here, you don’t like Guinness”.

The Gravediggers History

The pub opened its doors in 1833 and has stayed in the Kavanagh family’s hands for seven generations.  John Kavanagh started the business after his hotelier father-in-law gifted him the premises.  The pub looks almost identical today as it did when it first opened nearly two centuries ago.

The Gravediggers Pricing

The Gravediggers’ drink prices remain competitive compared to central Dublin bars in 2025.

The Gravediggers Location

The pub sits at 1 Prospect Square in Glasnevin (D09 CF72), built right into Glasnevin Cemetery’s wall.

The Gravediggers Best Time to Visit

A midweek visit around 3PM gives you the best experience.  Weekday afternoons create a more peaceful atmosphere in one of the best bars in Dublin.

Cassidy’s

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Cassidy’s sits on Camden Street with a relaxed atmosphere and alternative vibe that draws a younger crowd.  This bars in Dublin stands out for its genuine character and reasonable prices that won’t break the bank.

Cassidy’s Music Nights

The DJ sets light up weeknights with a mix of indie rock and electronic beats, especially from Thursday to Saturday.  Local bands take the stage on special nights, making it a hotspot for music lovers who want to discover Dublin’s up-and-coming talent.

Cassidy’s Crowd

Creative professionals, university students, and young locals make up the bar’s eclectic mix of patrons.  Newcomers often talk about how welcoming the regulars are, creating a sense of community you rarely find in other Dublin bars.

Cassidy’s Drinks

The bar goes beyond the usual suspects with an ever-changing lineup of craft beers from Irish microbreweries.  You’ll find an impressive collection of whiskeys and specialty spirits behind the bar.  The bartenders take pride in mixing classic cocktails with skill but keep things down to earth.

Cassidy’s Pricing

The drinks won’t hurt your wallet compared to other best bars in Dublin city.  The location just outside the tourist hotspots means you can enjoy quality drinks without the tourist trap prices.

Cassidy’s Best Time to Visit

This best bar Dublin hits the sweet spot during early evenings.  Weeknights before 9pm give you the best chance to grab a comfortable seat.  The weekend scene after 10pm shows off the bar’s energetic side with a packed dance floor and buzzing conversations throughout the space.

Mulligan’s

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Mulligan’s on Poolbeg Street has managed to keep its place as a beloved institution among best bars in Dublin city.  This authentic Irish pub gives visitors a real taste of old Dublin’s drinking culture.

Mulligan’s Old-school Charm

A visit to Mulligan’s takes you back in time.  The worn wooden floors, traditional snugs, and walls tell stories through decades of Dublin memorabilia.  The pub became an unofficial office for journalists from the nearby Irish Press headquarters, and this literary connection lives on today.

Mulligan’s Guinness Quality

The pub serves what many experts call the city’s finest pint.  This reputation comes from well-kept lines and perfect pouring skills.  James Joyce’s mention of Mulligan’s in his works adds to the pub’s lasting legacy.

Mulligan’s Pricing

Unlike tourist spots among bars Dublin, Mulligan’s prices stay fair and match what locals expect.  Visitors who want a genuine Dublin experience will find good value here.

Mulligan’s Location

You’ll find this bar Dublin at 8 Poolbeg Street close to Trinity College.  The central spot makes it easy to discover the city center.

Mulligan’s Best Time to Visit

The historic bars in Dublin venue is best enjoyed during weekday afternoons.  You can really soak in the atmosphere and enjoy your drinks then, as weekends bring both regular customers and tourists in large numbers.

Comparison Table

Enjoy Best Bars in Dublin

Dublin’s pub culture stands unmatched.  These 17 establishments showcase the best of Ireland’s drinking scene that has become legendary worldwide.  Each venue shows its distinct personality through Victorian elegance at The Long Hall, literary connections at The Palace Bar and traditional music sessions at The Cobblestone.

The Temple Bar attracts many first-time visitors, but the city’s authentic experiences await at less touristy spots with better prices.  Several pubs have served drinks for centuries.  The Brazen Head traces its roots to 1198, while others opened their doors in the 1700s and 1800s.

These pubs take pride in serving the perfect pint of Guinness, though regulars often debate about the best pour in town.  Whiskey lovers will find their paradise at specialized venues.  Bowes houses over 250 varieties, while The Palace Bar boasts Dublin’s largest collection of Irish whiskeys.

The right timing enhances your pub experience significantly.  Quiet weekday afternoons let you admire the historical interiors.  The vibrant social scene that defines Dublin’s spirit comes alive in the evenings.

Dublin’s bars are more than just drinking spots – they are the life-blood of local culture.  Stories unfold, music fills the air, and friendships bloom in these historic spaces.  These 17 pubs deliver memorable experiences through their Victorian splendor, literary heritage, musical authenticity or perfectly poured pints.  Their charm stays with visitors long after they leave Ireland’s captivating capital.

FAQs

Q1. What are some of the best traditional pubs to visit in Dublin?
Some of the most highly recommended traditional pubs in Dublin include The Brazen Head (Ireland’s oldest pub), The Long Hall (known for its Victorian interior) and The Stag’s Head (famous for its authentic atmosphere).  These historic establishments offer visitors a genuine taste of Dublin’s pub culture.

Q2. Where can I find the best pint of Guinness in Dublin?
While many pubs claim to pour the perfect pint, some standout locations for Guinness include Mulligan’s on Poolbeg Street, The Gravediggers (John Kavanagh’s) and The Palace Bar.  However, the “best” pint is often subjective and can depend on personal preference.

Q3. Are there any pubs in Dublin known for live music?
Yes, several Dublin pubs are renowned for their live music.  O’Donoghue’s is famous for its traditional Irish music sessions, while The Cobblestone in Smithfield is considered one of the best spots for authentic trad music.  Cassidy’s on Camden Street is also popular for its diverse music nights.

Q4. What’s the typical price range for drinks in Dublin pubs?
Prices can vary depending on the pub’s location and popularity.  In central areas, expect to pay around €5-€6 for a pint of beer.  More touristy spots like Temple Bar may charge higher prices, while local neighborhood pubs might offer slightly lower rates.  Craft beers and cocktails are generally more expensive.

Q5. Are there any unique or unusual pubs worth visiting in Dublin?
Certainly! The Dawson Lounge claims to be Dublin’s smallest pub, while The Brazen Head boasts being the oldest. L. Mulligan Grocer stands out for its gastropub approach with a focus on craft beer and locally sourced food.  The Gravediggers, built into the wall of Glasnevin Cemetery, offers a truly unique atmosphere and history.