Dublin showcases fascinating museums, historic landmarks, and many other attractions. Remember to check out the cathedrals in the area, namely St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral, and admire the dazzling design of these buildings. It’s fun to walk around the streets since you’ll find various shops, pubs, and diners all over the area. Be sure to try out a traditional Irish breakfast here, which is known to be satisfying and flavorful.
Since there are a lot of things to do in this lively city, you should spend at least a few days to fully explore what the place has to offer. What’s a better way to experience the rich culture of Dublin than to stay in a luxurious hotel with an interesting past? Scroll down for the top historic hotels in Dublin, Ireland, for great stays.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) properties with historic significance, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 12, 2024.
1. The Shelbourne Hotel (from USD 572)
This 5-star hotel has been around for nearly 200 years and has accommodated various guests from all over the world. While it’s tempting to stay in the luxurious beds all day, do remember to check out the 19-meter (62-foot) swimming pool, modern gymnasium, and dance studio on the premises.
You can take a look at the interesting exhibitions in the National Gallery of Ireland, the fascinating fossils in the National Museum of Ireland, and if you’re a library member, you can borrow DVDs and audiobooks from the National Library of Ireland’s vast selection, all of which are located within a 10-minute walk from the property.
Tip from tour guide
Want to check out a historic attraction only 11 minutes away from the hotel? Take a tour of "The Bayno", currently housing Liberties College.
The building opened in 1915 as The Iveagh Play Centre and was paid for by Edward Cecil Guinness (Lord Iveagh), chairman of the eponymous company. It was a free-of-charge recreation space for kids aged 3-14 from the locality. Designed with the specs of a hospital, it had a hygienic environment and children received a treat of a bun and cup of cocoa with each visit. It acquired the nickname "The Bayno" from the expression "Beano", i.e. a giveaway. It became a school in the 1970s, then a further education college. I teach Irish Heritage and Culture here and I'm always happy to share the history of the building.
The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection
Address: 27 St. Stephen's Green
868 meters (0.6 ft) from Dublin Castle
2. The Davenport (from USD 278)
Reasonable pricing for a central location in Dublin.
Spacious, well-appointed rooms with comfortable bedding. Executive lounge, bathrobes, and slippers provided. Helpful and professional staff. Some rooms have a Nespresso coffee machine.
Ideal location within walking distance to attractions, pubs, and restaurants. Peaceful and serene atmosphere away from heavy traffic. Close to major points of interest like Trinity College and museums.
Delicious and varied breakfast, with a good selection to meet all tastes. Superb breakfast and coffee. Excellent choice for breakfast. The bar and restaurant offer tasty food. Some guests enjoyed the locally smoked salmon at breakfast.
This property was built in the 17th century and is no doubt one of the most iconic attractions in Dublin. The 4-star hotel is located next to Merrion Square, where you can hold a picnic and enjoy a peaceful afternoon. The rooms are great if you have some work to catch up on since there’s free Wi-Fi provided inside as well as a desk and sitting area. You can plug in your laptop to the convenient international electrical outlets.
When you get hungry, head to the on-site restaurant and try out a wide selection of dishes, ranging from Irish to international cuisine. Be sure to order some tea and desserts, because the restaurant’s homemade treats are too good to miss out on.
Tip from tour guide
If you're a history buff, visit Dublin Castle, less than a 20-minute drive from this hotel. The castle celebrated the 100th anniversary of its surrender from the British to the provisional government of the Free State in 2022. Depicted with great ceremony in the film Michael Collins, the handover was more of a quiet affair, taking place in the Under Secretary's office above the Palace Street entrance to the castle. It was acknowledged with a new plaque on January 16, 2022.
The Davenport
Address: Merrion Square
1.17 km (0.8 mi) from Dublin Castle
3. Clontarf Hotel (from USD 172)
Competitive pricing, luxury treat, great value
Medieval castle, antique furniture, elegant bathroom, full Irish breakfast, free mineral water, attentive staff
Stunning castle, away from city hustle, beautiful surroundings, quiet location
Lovely dining experiences, excellent breakfast, fine dining, great food and drinks
Clontarf Hotel combines the classic layout of an 11th-century castle with modern amenities, so you’re sure to get the best of both worlds. The rooms feature a timeless and elegant look, with soft beds, fluffy pillows, and attractive decorations. Staying here will make you feel like a pampered noble of the past.
When the group is feeling hungry, you can head over to the Fahrenheit Grill, which provides mouthwatering meals. Remember to try out the highly recommended fish and beef dishes. If you’re in the mood for tasting wines, you should head to Indigo Lounge, and try out their coffee and tea as well.
Clontarf Castle Hotel
Address: Castle Avenue, Clontarf
4.7 km (3.0 mi) from Dublin Castle
4. The Merrion Hotel (from USD 546)
While the houses were constructed in the 18th century, Merrion Hotel was first opened in 1997. Located in the heart of Dublin, the 5-star hotel provides you access to many amenities, such as an infinity pool and a fully equipped gym.
If you want a bite to eat, head over to the hotel’s on-site restaurant, Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, which boasts 2 Michelin stars. You can try out the French-inspired cuisine while you enjoy a relaxing view of the gardens.
Tip from tour guide
As you'll be staying in Merrion Square, don't forget to check out the Oscar Wilde Monument. The statue of Oscar Wilde statue sits opposite his childhood home, which is now the American College. He was not born here but on Westland Row nearby. Educated at Trinity College, Wilde became the darling of the late Victorian theatre scene in London. He was sentenced to two years of hard labor in Reading Gaol when his homosexual relationship with Lord Alfred 'Bosie' Douglas was made public in a libel trial against Douglas' father. The time in prison broke Wilde in body and spirit and he died in Paris in 1900.
The Merrion Hotel
Address: Merrion Square
1.08 km (0.7 mi) from Dublin Castle
Dublin Tour Guide
Diana M
Hi there! I am Diana :) My passion in life (next to my loved ones) is travelling and meeting new people, showing others the beauty of the world, art in various forms. My private guided day tours are experiences that are unique and are a great way to do an interesting activity without being overwhelmed. You get to do something only few other travellers would get to do and a chance to gain a loc... Read more
Tours by Diana
5. Schoolhouse Hotel (from USD 320)
This charming boutique hotel that dates back to 1859 was once used as a school but is now a laid-back accommodation with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests can choose between a classic room or one that has a more contemporary style. Breakfast is served daily, and for lunchtime, you can head to the gastro bar for a bite to eat and dine on the vast garden terrace.
Central Dublin is within a five-minute walk from the property. It’s easy to access other places near the area since bus services are just a three-minute walk away. The hotel is also an official Aircoach stop, offering convenience to guests arriving and departing via the airport.
Schoolhouse Hotel
Address: 2 - 8 Northumberland Road
1.95 km (1.3 mi) from Dublin Castle
6. The Westin Dublin (from USD 682)
Pricing is high, but the hotel offers occasional upgrades and surprises.
Luxurious rooms, beautiful decor, and spacious bathrooms. Some rooms have great views.
Prime location in the heart of Dublin, within walking distance of major attractions.
Mixed reviews on food quality, with some guests praising the breakfast and others finding it disappointing.
Situated at the end of Grafton Street, the 19th-century property, which opened as a hotel in 2001, is a great place to stay for shoppers since lots of unique shops are available in the neighborhood. Tourist attractions can be easily accessed from here, for example, Temple Bar is within a five-minute walking distance.
For lazy nights, you can watch in-room movies and access satellite channels on the LCD TV. Slip into the comfortable bathrobes and make sure to try the property’s complimentary toiletries, which are all of high quality. Try to book one of the rooms that have a balcony for a more grand and scenic experience.
The College Green Dublin Hotel, Autograph Collection
Address: College Green, Westmoreland Street
640 meters (0.4 ft) from Dublin Castle
7. Stauntons on the Green Hotel (from USD 343)
Reasonable value for money with some pricey amenities like breakfast.
Homely country-style decor, spacious rooms, lovely garden, and access to Iveagh Gardens.
Close to Grafton Street, Trinity College, and restaurants, with easy access to parks and city attractions.
Ample, healthy, and delicious breakfast with options for gluten-free and fresh fruit, though a bit pricey.
Guests might be initially confused about the name when looking at the 250-year-old hotel’s red-brick exteriors; however, the “green” refers to St. Stephen’s Green, the lush and tranquil garden square that this property overlooks. Many famous leaders have stayed in this accommodation through the years.
Staying here means you’ll be right in the center of Dublin and will be able to visit popular attractions with ease. Start your day with an Irish breakfast and then explore the lively area surrounding the hotel. You can easily visit Trinity College from here since it’s within a 15-minute walking distance from the property.
Stauntons on the Green Hotel
Address: 83 St. Stephens Green South
859 meters (0.6 ft) from Dublin Castle
8. Buswells Hotel (from USD 247)
This 19th-century building was previously a prestigious school for women and was the first of its kind in Europe. Now it houses the luxurious Buswells Hotel. Walking around the property is a treat since you’ll get to see more of its elegant interiors. You’ll definitely love the golden chandeliers, stylish furniture, and classic sepia color palette that adorn the property. The bedrooms provide inviting beds that feature goose-down bedding and soft pillows, ensuring you’ll have a fantastic night’s sleep.
While staying here, you can work out in the gym, socialize in the bar, or have a romantic dinner in the hotel’s restaurant. Trinity College and Grafton Street are both a minute’s walk away, so you can easily spend the afternoon taking a tour of the landmarks.
Buswells Hotel
Address: 23-27 Molesworth Street
810 meters (0.6 ft) from Dublin Castle
9. Castle Hotel (from USD 224)
Many famous guests have stayed at Castle Hotel, such as the members of the popular band The Cranberries during their early days. Stroll around the property and appreciate the posh Georgian-style accents found all throughout the building.
Head to the Castle Vaults bar and restaurant for some modern cuisine, and admire the classic layout. This bar was originally a part of the original wine cellars!
Castle Hotel
Address: Gardiner Row/Great Denmark St
1.36 km (0.9 mi) from Dublin Castle
10. Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge (from USD 226)
Reasonable pricing for central location and amenities.
Spacious rooms, helpful staff, convenient parking, and good breakfast options.
Great location near American embassy, RDS, and city center with easy access to transportation.
Good variety, though some areas for improvement in service and menu options.
Once an orphan’s school in the 19th-century, the building has been carefully restored and is now known as the Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge. The property showcases vast rooms with private bathrooms and wonderful beds that feature fluffy beddings and hypo-allergenic pillows. Free Wi-Fi can be enjoyed throughout the hotel.
Help yourself to a traditional breakfast every morning and some snacks over the rest of the day while staying here. Popular attractions can be found nearby, such as the Aviva Stadium, and the Grand Canal, which are within a 10-minute walk from the accommodation.
Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge
Address: Merrion Road
3.41 km (2.2 mi) from Dublin Castle
Explore the historic city of Dublin
During your vacation in Dublin, book one of the above hotels for a great time. These accommodations retain their historic charm while pampering you and providing access to many modern amenities.
History
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