If there’s one thing Dublin nails, it’s the pub scene. Locals could easily hand you a list longer than the Liffey of the best Dublin pubs to hit, and trust me, it’s worth exploring. With every sip, you’re practically drinking in centuries of history, literature, and folklore. No wonder the city’s pubs are legendary!
Whether you’re in town for a quick pint or a pub crawl marathon, there’s always another gem to discover. Sure, most of these Dublin pubs will have queues that rival Disneyland’s, but trust me—they’re worth the wait. Just casually hang around a table where folks are nursing the last drops of their pint, and soon enough, you’ll have a seat!
Dublin, the most chatty city on the planet, sets the gold standard for pubs. St. Patrick’s Day might inspire the rest of the world to wear goofy green hats and wax poetic about their “Irish heritage,” but let’s be real: the true charm of Dublin pubs deserves to be experienced firsthand.
From cozy pints on well-worn mahogany counters to lively traditional music sessions, the charm of great Dublin pubs is unmatched. While Dublin boasts museums and top-notch restaurants, the true essence of the city is found within its iconic pub culture.
Why Dublin Pubs Are More Than Just Pints and Pub Grub!
1. Bowes: The Pub You’ll Miss if You Blink – But Regret if You Do
Best known as the antidote to the rowdy Temple Bar scene, Bowes is the hidden gem among Dublin pubs you simply can’t miss (though, spoiler: you might actually miss it). Nestled east on Fleet Street under an old mounted clock, this cosy spot has been serving up pints and craic since 1880. With over 200 whiskeys lining its wooden shelves, from American bourbons to Japanese single malts, it’s basically a whiskey lover’s playground.
If the bustling energy of Temple Bar makes you question your life choices, Bowes offers a more laid-back, authentic experience that’s like a warm hug after a long day of pub hopping. With some of the finest Guinness in Dublin pubs, this hideaway is your perfect post-Temple Bar escape.
2. The Brazen Head: Where History, Pints, and Legends Collide
If you’re after Dublin pubs with a dash of history, The Brazen Head is the OG. With a history dating back to 1198 (seriously!), the Brazen Head Pub in Dublin is one of the city’s oldest and most legendary spots. Over the years, it has welcomed famous patrons like Jonathan Swift and revolutionary Wolfe Tone. Though the current building was constructed in 1754, this pub retains its ancient charm, proudly showcasing its rich heritage. As you step inside, a striking parchment greets you, narrating its epic past and making this historic pub a must-visit.
Sure, it’s a hotspot for tourists, but what else would you expect from one of the most oldest pub in Dublin? With live music every night and a lively beer garden, it’s the perfect spot to soak in the vibrant atmosphere where history meets the craic.
Planning a pub crawl Dublin adventure? This legendary pub is a must-visit on your list—you’ll thank yourself for stopping by. After all, where else can you raise a pint in a place steeped in centuries of stories and legends?
3. Discover the Best Dublin Pubs: Don’t Miss Toners!
If you’re looking for a fantastic beer garden, Toners is a must-visit among Dublin pubs! Located on Baggot Street, this lively spot has a spacious outdoor area perfect for enjoying pints in the sun. With bright red letters spelling out ‘Toner’s Yard’ and charming fairy lights overhead, it’s a great place to relax. Just remember to arrive early to secure a table, as it can get busy!
Inside, you’ll find one of Dublin’s coziest snugs right by the front window, adding to the charm.
Address:
Toners, 139 Baggot Street Lower, Dublin 2, Ireland
Check Out Best Breweries in Boston: Are These 9 Unforgettable Breweries the Best of the Best?
4. The Cobblestone: A True Irish Pub Experience in Dublin
The Cobblestone isn’t your average pub; it’s “a drinking pub with a music problem” and a standout among any Irish pub Dublin Ireland options. Located in the Smithfield area, just outside the city center, this lively venue is a haven for traditional Irish music. Top-tier musicians perform authentic trad sessions to an audience that truly values the art form.
With a pub built on five generations of the Mulligan family’s Irish music legacy, it’s clear The Cobblestone isn’t messing around when it comes to tunes. So, if you want to experience Dublin pubs where music is the heart and soul (not just background noise), this is your place.
5. Davy Byrnes
If you’re a bookworm with a thirst for both literature and pints, Davy Byrne’s pub is your holy grail among Dublin pubs. James Joyce, while gallivanting across Europe, set many of his stories in Dublin, with Davy Byrne’s taking the spotlight in Ulysses. In Chapter 8, Leopold Bloom famously orders a “gorgonzola sandwich and a glass of Burgundy.” And if it’s good enough for Bloom, well, it’s good enough for you!
Frequented by literary giants like Patrick Kavanagh and Brendan Behan, this pub’s biggest claim to fame is its Joyce connection—especially on Bloomsday (June 16), when Joyce fans flock to celebrate all things Ulysses.
6. Temple Bar: The Ultimate Tourist Trap (But Worth It)
Let’s be honest—The Temple Bar Dublin is the ultimate tourist hotspot, but it’s one you can’t miss. Yes, it’s where you’ll likely sip the priciest pint of Guinness in the city, but you’re paying for the iconic experience. With its bright red façade, lush green accents, and a lively atmosphere filled with music, this pub is just as vibrant on the inside as it is outside.
If beer isn’t your thing (really?), Temple Bar Dublin Ireland also boasts the largest whiskey collection in the country, with over 450 rare selections. For an unforgettable stop on your Dublin pubs bucket list, visit The Temple Bar for the quintessential Irish pub experience—just be ready for a hefty tab!
7. Stunning Views at The Blue Light!
For breathtaking views, The Blue Light is one of the top Dublin pubs to visit! Located in the Dublin Mountains, this historic pub has been around for over 300 years. Its terrace offers amazing sights of the city, all the way to the Howth Peninsula. The pub got its name from smugglers who used to look for a signal that it was safe to land their illegal goods, like rum and tobacco.
After a hike on the Wicklow Way or through the mountains, there’s no better place to enjoy a refreshing pint. The views are especially magical at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle!
Address:
The Blue Light, Barnacullia, Sandyford, Dublin 18, D18 PF72
8. The Palace Bar: Where Whiskey Dreams Come True
For whiskey lovers, The Palace Bar is a must-visit among Dublin pubs. Tucked away on the eastern edge of Temple Bar, this Victorian beauty is home to an upstairs whiskey bar that’s practically a shrine to the spirit. Don’t let the flashy ‘Whiskey Palace’ sign fool you; this place is more Vegas neon than Vegas dive.
Inside, you’ll find elegant wooden cabinets stuffed with a whiskey treasure trove—from up-and-comers like Teeling and Roe & Co to rare gems like Redbreast’s 17-year-old Single Cask. It’s the perfect spot to savor a dram or two and celebrate Ireland’s whiskey renaissance. So, if you’re on a mission to find the best whiskey in Dublin pubs, The Palace Bar is your royal destination. Cheers!
9. The Oval: History with a Side of Pints and Proclamations
Nestled on Middle Abbey Street, The Oval isn’t just any Dublin pub—it’s a historic gem. This old-world pub, housed in a grand Victorian building, was famously flattened during the 1916 Easter Rising and rebuilt just six years later. The multi-storey interior is like stepping into a time machine, with Rising memorabilia galore.
But here’s the kicker: while you sip your pint, you’re being watched by the sculpted busts of the Seven Signatories of the Proclamation. These stoic faces—Eamonn Ceannt, Thomas Clarke, James Connolly, Seán MacDiarmada, Thomas McDonagh, Patrick Pearse, and Joseph Plunkett—keep a vigilant eye on your drinking habits. So, when you’re at The Oval, you’re not just enjoying a pint; you’re being part of living history. Cheers to that!
10. The Confession Box: Secrets, Pints, and a Dash of Rebellion
When folks rave about The Confession Box, they do so with a conspiratorial glint in their eye—like they’re letting you in on Dublin’s best-kept secret. Tucked away on Marlborough Street, this traditional pub exudes a cozy charm, with friendly staff ready to serve you a pint that’s as smooth as their smiles.
Legend has it that during the Irish War of Independence, several men, including Michael Collins, were excommunicated and sought out this pub, then known as the Maid of Erin, to sneak in some Communion from sympathetic priests. Hence, the name The Confession Box. So, when you’re enjoying your pint here, you’re not just sipping on a great brew; you’re part of a rebellious slice of history. Cheers to that kind of divine intervention!
11. Mulligan’s of Poolbeg Street: Dublin’s Timeless Gem Amidst the Chaos
If you’re on the hunt for a slice of authentic Dublin that’s weathered the ages, look no further than Mulligan’s of Poolbeg Street. This iconic pub is the epitome of no-nonsense charm, standing resolute as everything around it morphs. From Trinners students to Irish Press journos and even celebs from the long-gone Theatre Royal, Mulligan’s has seen it all.
Tucked between the construction chaos of the Hawkins House site, Mulligan’s is like the pub version of a stubborn old house in the movie Up—only instead of balloons, it’s had to endure a 12-storey eyesore. The result? A cozy haven with a pint that’s as smooth and slightly iron-y as the history that surrounds it. So, grab a seat, enjoy the quiet, and toast to Dublin’s enduring spirit.
12. The Long Hall: Bruce Springsteen’s Dublin Sanctuary
So, you’ve heard Bruce Springsteen has a soft spot for The Long Hall on South Great George’s Street. Well, the Boss isn’t the only one with impeccable taste! This pub is so renowned that it could practically have its own fan club. With its grand, ornate interior, The Long Hall is perpetually bustling, whether it’s a weeknight or a weekend.
Sure, it might be a bit of a cliché to include it on this list, but let’s be real—if it’s good enough for Bruce, it’s good enough for us. When you finally snag a table, hang onto it like it’s your golden ticket, because getting one is half the fun. Cheers to that!
13. The International Bar Dublin
Nestled between Temple Bar and Grafton Street, The International Bar Dublin is a standout among historic Dublin pubs. Established over two centuries ago, this pub has retained its original Victorian charm, complete with a hand-carved mahogany reredos depicting Ireland’s river gods.
Known for its welcoming atmosphere, The International Bar is a favorite for both locals and tourists. It’s home to the International Comedy Club, where visitors can enjoy live comedy and music performances that capture the spirit of Irish culture. Whether you’re savoring a pint of Guinness or sampling local spirits, the friendly staff ensures an unforgettable experience.
With moderate pricing and nightly entertainment, this pub offers the perfect mix of history, laughter, and great drinks. For anyone exploring Dublin pubs, The International Bar Dublin is a must-visit for a taste of authentic Irish nightlife.
14. The Hairy Lemon
Located in the heart of the city, The Hairy Lemon Dublin is a one-of-a-kind pub and restaurant, offering an eclectic mix of history, charm, and unconventional décor. Situated just a short walk from Temple Bar, Trinity College, and St. Stephen’s Green, this iconic establishment is as unique as the 1950s dog catcher it’s named after—known for his lemon-shaped face and gooseberry-like stubble.
Housed in a quirky 19th-century building, The Hairy Lemon Dublin is filled with years of memorabilia, from Granny’s kitchen decor to a mid-air sitting room and a ballroom for 20 people. This spot also gained fame as a filming location for the blockbuster movie The Commitments. Offering a trendy yet nostalgic atmosphere, it’s perfect for drinks, dining, or even hosting private events, with an upstairs venue accommodating up to 150 guests.
