Top 15 Best Places to Stay in Dublin for Couples

Dublin is an attractive city with plenty of amazing things to do, incredible dining, trendy neighborhoods, and most importantly – some of the best hotels and exquisite places to stay in Dublin for couples.

There is a little bit of something for everyone in Dublin, from historic tours to rowdy nightlife. Lately, Dublin has become a popular location for Hen and Stag parties (bachelor/bachelorettes) and draws couples from all over the world to experience the incredible capital city of Ireland.

Whether you want a luxury, 5-star place to stay and romance your partner, or you are a couple traveling on a tight budget, here are a few fantastic places to stay in Dublin.

👉 JUMP TO: Top 15 Best Places to Stay in Dublin For Couples

• The Marker Hotel ⭐ 5
• Zanzibar Locke ⭐ 4
• Temple Bar Inn ⭐ 3
• Dublin Skylon Hotel ⭐ 4
• The Grafton Hotel ⭐ 4
• The Merrion Hotel ⭐ 5
• The Shelbourne Dublin ⭐ 5
• Luxury Bedroom with Balcony
• CityArk Aparthotel
• Hotel St. George by Nina
• Jacob’s Inn
• Leeson Lodge
• Charming Apartment on an Irish Farm
• Luxury Smithfield Penthouse
• Holiday Apartments in Dublin for Couples

What Is the BEST Part of Dublin to Stay In for Couples?

The best area of Dublin to stay in for couples that are touring Ireland is in or around the city center. The city center is where most of the top attractions and tourist activities are, and where most of the consistent nightlife happens.

From the city center, you should be able to take a short walk to most places you want to go within 10-20 minutes (sometimes less) or have easy access to public transportation if you want it. 

 

Best Neighborhoods and Nice Areas of Dublin to Stay In

The city centre is best for a quick trip or couples’ weekend in Dublin, but there are plenty of more “authentic” and local friendly places to stay as well if that’s more your style.

For couples looking to live in Dublin, remote workers looking to stay for longer periods of time in Dublin, or couples looking for somewhere less touristy and more authentic to stay, there are some great neighborhoods outside of the city center to consider.

Best Places to Stay in Dublin – City Center Areas for Couples

I recommend staying south of the River Liffey (or near the river if you go north) because those areas tend to be a bit safer and closer to the attractions.

You could look to stay in or around the Temple Bar area, near Trinity College, Grafton Street, or St. Stephen’s Green.

If you go south of St. Stephen’s Green, just know that anything on Harcourt Street will be best for couples looking to party, as it’s lined with nightclubs. Camden Street has great nightlife as well, but fewer clubs and more pubs and trendy bars.

If you go north of the river but want to stay near the city center, check out the Northside and Henry Street areas.

Best Parts of Dublin to Stay – Neighborhoods Just Outside of the City Center

• The Docklands – The posh area of Dublin to the east where the large tech scene is at.
• The Liberties – South of the Liffey and closer to the Guinness Storehouse and Phoenix Park. A few craft distilleries and breweries have popped up lately, bringing new life to the area.
• Portobello – Still within walking distance of Dublin city center and becoming an area that locals prefer for a night out.

Best Places to Stay in Dublin for Couples – Quieter Neighborhoods

• Ranelagh and Rathmines – Best place to stay in Dublin for couples with children. These neighborhoods are not far from the city center but are quieter and more suburban for family life. There is gorgeous Victorian and Edwardian architecture.
• Dundrum – Much further south, Dundrum is great for younger couples, has the biggest shopping center in Dublin, and gives you a feel for homey Dublin residential life.
• Drumcondra – On the northern side, this place to stay in Dublin is great for families and young people with excellent eateries, traditional pubs, plenty of green spaces, and affordable living costs.

Where Should I Not Stay in Dublin?

As a whole, Dublin is a very safe city to stay in. As with any big city, there are certain areas you should probably not stay in.

Ireland’s most crime-ridden district is around the Pearse Street Garda station in Dublin’s south inner city. However, this is probably due to the high concentration of university students and drinking that likely occurs on and around the campus where some students live, and is not too much of a concern, but somewhere to avoid if you can.

Tallaght and Blanchardstown are also not areas you really want to stay in. However, this is more of a concern for expats looking at the best neighborhoods to live in as opposed to tourists.

 

Is Dublin a Romantic City?

Dublin can absolutely be a romantic city for couples to stay in! It’s definitely still a big city, with all the quirks and interesting aspects a big city brings. However, Dublin has some beautiful buildings and charm to the city, a warm and inviting culture, incredible restaurants, and enticing places to stay that can make for a romantic couples’ trip.

How to Stay in Dublin as a Couple for Cheap

Dublin can be a fairly expensive city to visit, but there are a few tricks to finding cheaper stays. For one, the further outside of the city center you get, the cheaper the stays will typically become. However, you’ll have to factor in transportation into the city as an extra cost.

When my boyfriend and I travel we often book a private room in a hostel to keep costs cheaper. You may have to share a bathroom, but at least you will have a private room still. Plus, hostels are a great way to meet other travelers and make friends in Dublin!

Top 15 Best Places to Stay in Dublin For Couples

• The Marker Hotel ⭐ 5
• Zanzibar Locke ⭐ 4
• Temple Bar Inn ⭐ 3
• Dublin Skylon Hotel ⭐ 4
• The Grafton Hotel ⭐ 4
• The Merrion Hotel ⭐ 5
• The Shelbourne Dublin ⭐ 5
• Luxury Bedroom with Balcony
• CityArk Aparthotel
• Hotel St. George by Nina
• Jacob’s Inn
• Leeson Lodge
• Charming Apartment on an Irish Farm
• Luxury Smithfield Penthouse
• Holiday Apartments in Dublin for Couples

Cool Places to Stay in Dublin for Couples

1. The Marker Hotel ⭐ 5

• Rooftop Lounge
• In Dublin’s Trendiest Neighborhood
• Vibrant Bar Onsite

A more modern style hotel, The Marker’s most impressively romantic feature is the Rooftop Lounge to enjoy a drink with a view of the Dublin cityscape. Treat yourself and your partner to a spa day then finish it up with dinner at The Brasserie where you can taste some of Ireland’s best locally sourced produce.

The Marker is a hip hotel that overlooks the Grand Canal Square in the trendy Docklands area. It has an ultra-modern checkerboard facade and contemporary rooms featuring designer furnishings and bold colors. The hotel has all the amenities (spa, infinity pool, bar on site, free Wi-Fi) you need to create a unique couples getaway to Dublin.

➡️ PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR THE MARKER HOTEL

2. Zanzibar Locke ⭐ 4

• Ex-Nightclub Turned Into Georgian Townhouses
• Full Kitchen and Living Room in Apartments
• Curated Art Decorations
• Mezzanine Bar

This property is a bit of a mix between a vacation rental and a hotel with a full kitchen in each of the chic “mini-apartments.” The style of the rooms in this boutique hotel is modern and the building features a warehouse-style restaurant and cocktail bar, as well as a sunroom, a gym, and a co-working space.

The Zanzibar Locke apartments provide a bit more space and the comforts of a private vacation rental with the modernity and amenities of a high-end hotel.

➡️ PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR ZANZIBAR LOCKE

 

3. Temple Bar Inn ⭐ 3

• Open Air Terrace
• Funky Lounge
• Prime Location Near Trinity College and Temple Bar

The location of this stay for more budget-conscious couples really can’t be beaten. The terrace and shared lounge provide fun, well-curated spaces for spending time. There’s a relaxed restaurant onsite with funky, colorful decor and access to a nearby gym with an indoor swimming pool.

➡️ PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR TEMPLE BAR INN

Best Romantic Places to Stay in Dublin City Center

4. Dublin Skylon Hotel ⭐ 4

• Coffee House Onsite
• Irish Breakfast Served
• Upscale Bar with Live Music Entertainment

This is one of the better stays for couples in Dublin city center that is upscale, but still affordable and romantic. The Dublin Skylon Hotel has a warm, welcoming feeling to it with friendly staff and comfortable accommodations. The trendy on-site bar is one of the highlights, it has regular live music and afternoon tea served daily. 

➡️ PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR DUBLIN SKYLON HOTEL

5. The Grafton Hotel ⭐ 4

“Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.8 for a two-person trip” – Booking.com

• Enjoy Quirky Cocktails at the Bar
• Live Music Performances
• Fresh, Delicious Breakfast

A great place to stay in Dublin for the outgoing couple. With a bright, modern restaurant, a retro bar, and a nightclub onsite, you will certainly have plenty of entertainment at your doorstep. Located in the creative quarter and one of the busiest shopping and dining areas of Dublin, the location is superb.

➡️ PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR THE GRAFTON HOTEL

Luxury Places to Stay in Dublin for Couples

Luxury Hotels in Dublin:

6. The Merrion Hotel ⭐ 5

• Luxurious Spa and Beauty Treatments
• 2 Michelin Star Restaurant
• Landscaped Gardens
• Infinity Pool

This is arguably the most luxurious hotel in Dublin with a Georgian-style decor and elegant Italian marble bathrooms. Plus, with a Michelin star restaurant on site, spa, and infinity pool, it is no wonder The Merrion Hotel is one of the top-rated and most romantic stays for couples in Dublin. You will be treated like royalty during your stay at The Merrion.

➡️ PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR THE MERRION

7. The Shelbourne Dublin ⭐ 5

• Superb Fitness Centre
• 4 Restaurants On-Site
• Afternoon Tea Served Daily
• Indoor Pool

This is one of the best luxury hotels and is always the top recommendation for places to stay in Dublin for couples, and for good reason! It’s located overlooking St. Stephen’s Green and is just minutes from shopping locations and historic sites.

The Shelbourne Dublin has exquisite rooms, lively bars, afternoon tea, and some of the finest dining in Dublin. The rooms are beautifully designed for an elegant and romantic stay for couples. While the Merrion is more intimate, The Shelbourne can’t be beaten for luxurious decor and excellence.

➡️ PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR THE SHELBOURNE

8. Luxury Vacation Home in Dublin:

This “Luxury Bedroom with Balcony” near Temple Bar is about as close as you’ll get to a luxury vacation home in the city center. Most apartments in Dublin’s city center are extremely small and often older, and this one is modern, in a central location to all the best things to do in Dublin, and has a balcony to enjoy the rare days of sunshine.

➡️ PRICES AND INFORMATION FOR LUXURY VACATION HOME IN THE CITY CENTER

Budget Stays in Dublin for Couples

Budget Hotels in Dublin:

9. CityArk Aparthotel (Most Affordable, Far From City Center)

This condo-style hotel is one of the best-rated stays for the most affordable price in Dublin. The only downside is that it’s located pretty far from the city center, so you would need to take a taxi or public transportation to see Dublin’s sites.

The CityArk is fairly basic in what it has to offer but will provide all the standard, decent quality amenities.

➡️ PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR CITYARK APARTHOTEL

10. Hotel St. George by Nina (Bit Pricier, in the City Center)

This is the perfect hotel for couples that still want to be in the city center, but are on a budget. This hotel has adorable, individually furnished rooms and beautiful decorations throughout the property. The location is ideal, right off of Henry St. in Dublin’s city center.

➡️ PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR HOTEL ST. GEORGE BY NINA

Budget Hostels in Dublin:

For couples on an especially tight budget, hostels are an option in Dublin. When my boyfriend and I stay in hostels, we typically stay in private rooms (sometimes they have a private bathroom, sometimes it’s shared). The private rooms in Dublin are typically all double beds that sleep two.

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11. Jacob’s Inn

Ranked in the top 10 Irish hostels, the location just minutes away from Trinity College Dublin is ideal for couples. Jacob’s Inn has a bottomless porridge breakfast, helpful and friendly staff, and a great atmosphere.

There’s a funky, retro-style bar onsite and an open-air patio – all great places for meeting other travelers!

➡️ PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR JACOB’S INN

12. Leeson Lodge

More of a bed and breakfast than a hostel, Leeson Lodge is an adorable stay just south of the city center. It’s in a great location near shops, theatres, restaurants, pubs, parks, and public transportation that stops right outside the door. Onsite there is a breakfast room, sheltered garden and patio, and quaint lounge full of character.

➡️ PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR LEESON LODGE

Long Term Stays in Dublin for Couples

Unfortunately, Dublin is an expensive city to live in and to stay long-term in. For long-term vacation rental stays in Dublin, I recommend checking Vrbo. Or, you can try your luck with Rent.ie for monthly or weekly rentals.

Vrbo is similar to Airbnb, but they do exclusively vacation rentals. I prefer to check Vrbo first because they exclusively offer entire places to yourself (whereas Airbnb often has shared rooms available) which is ideal for couples. In Dublin especially, there tend to be more options available on Vrbo as well.

Plus, Vrbo tends to be cheaper because Airbnb charges 14% to the guest for the booking cost, whereas Vrbo only charges 6-12% to the guests.

13. Charming Apartment on an Irish Farm (Most Affordable and Unique)

To the north of Dublin, this adorable apartment is located on a working Irish farm, providing for a memorable stay for you and your partner to experience the Irish countryside while still staying in decent proximity to Dublin city.

➡️ PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR IRISH FARM APARTMENT

14. Luxury Smithfield Penthouse

For couples looking to splurge on a luxurious Dublin penthouse in the trendiest part of Dubin, this is the place for you! This spacious and modern apartment has 3 splendid double bedrooms and a master en suite all with balcony access.

The location in the heart of the city center can’t be beaten for access to attractions, top-tier restaurants, and trendy bars.

➡️ PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR LUXURY SMITHFIELD PENTHOUSE

 

15. Holiday Apartments in Dublin for Couples

2-bedroom apartments with a living room, fully equipped kitchen, and utility room with washer and dryer. The apartments overlook Dublin Bay on one side and Killiney Hill Park on the other.

Plus, you will have access to the Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel’s 4-star facilities, including a fully equipped gym and swimming pool, restaurants, bar, and lounge that is just a 2-minute walk away.

➡️ PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR HOLIDAY APARTMENTS

No matter what type of traveler you are or places you like to stay in as a couple, Dublin will have something for you. Dublin is a romantic city set in the beautiful Emerald Isle that you and your partner will love your visit!

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Related Posts:
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☘️FAQs About Ireland☘️

✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to Ireland?
1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible
2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal

❗Is Travel Insurance Required in Ireland?
No, it’s not.
However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing.
>>>CLICK HERE FOR INFO

☔️ When Is the Best Time to Visit Ireland?
Summer (June-August) – is the warmest and rains the least but you will have the most crowds.
Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have more rain but you will beat the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).

🏠 Where Should You Stay in Ireland?
Hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and house sitting are all available in Ireland for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are:
• Booking.com
• Hostelworld
• Vrbo (usually better options than Airbnb in Ireland)
• Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)

☘️ Where Can You Find Tours?
I found incredible tours in Ireland >>>HERE for private and guided group tours of both the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.

🚘 Should You Rent a Car in Ireland?
I always tell my friends and family to rent a car in Ireland so that they don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! However, if you plan to stay only in the cities, then you should be fine getting by with buses and walking.
>>> What to know about driving in Ireland
>>> The best car rental in Ireland

🍻 Make sure to try out the pubs! Even if you don’t drink, the atmosphere, live music, and friendly people are very uniquely Irish.