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The pubs in Dublin, Ireland are one of the most celebrated attractions in the city. The cozy, historic Dublin pubs are quintessentially Irish – and travelers, like us, are eager to soak in the atmosphere while sipping dark, creamy stouts.
Our recent stay of more than a month allowed us plenty of time to seek out the best pubs in Dublin City Centre…and beyond! From the most famous Irish pubs in Dublin to the coolest spots serving craft beer, we bar-hopped our way around in order to create an ultimate list of the Top Pubs in Dublin, Ireland!
23 Best Pubs in Dublin, Ireland
We created our list of the ‘Best Irish Pubs Dublin’ from our own personal experience. At the end the article, we share a helpful Dublin Pubs Map. Now, let’s visit the greatest pubs in and around Dublin, Ireland!
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#1 The Brazen Head: Dublin Oldest Pub
The Brazen Head is the oldest bar in Dublin and quite possibly the most famous, too. It’s a landmark, an institution and – in our opinion – one of the absolute must visit pubs in Dublin, Ireland.
The bar’s history dates to the year 1198 and they pride themselves on providing a traditional atmosphere for guests to drink, eat and enjoy the craic. A classic, dimly lit pub – complete with creaking floorboards and memorabilia covering the walls – guests can take a seat in any of the five small rooms or grab a spot outside in the beer garden.
The Brazen Head menu features some of the best pub food in Dublin, Ireland, including their famous Beef and Guinness Stew!
However, what we love about The Brazen Head is the live music. With performers scheduled 7 days a week and trad sessions on Sunday afternoons, we also rank it as one of the best pubs in Dublin for Irish music!
#2 The Temple Bar Pub in Dublin
Without a doubt one of the most famous Dublin pubs, The Temple Bar is truly legendary. Known for its prominent location (smack in the middle of the Temple Bar District), live music (all day, every day) and Irish whiskey collection (including their own signature blend), Temple Bar Pub is an absolute must for Dublin visitors!
That said, it gets crowded (as in, jam packed), the music isn’t always traditional (you’ll likely hear pop covers) and the drink prices are some of the highest in Dublin.
Regardless, skipping a visit to The Temple Bar Pub would be like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower or visiting Rome and not touring the Coliseum. Go, have fun…and embrace the experience!
#3 The Quays Bar
The Quays is another one of the fun Dublin, Ireland pubs in Temple Bar. Despite being in the heart of the district, it’s one of the traditional pubs in Dublin where tourist and locals mix.
The easy-going front bar boasts live music from mid-afternoon until late. It’s a place for socializing, storytelling and singing along. The mix of patrons – and the natural interaction – makes for an enjoyable experience for all.
In addition to the bar, there is a restaurant where diners can feast on traditional Irish eats, like hearty Irish Stew and delectable Fish and Chips. All around, we think it is one of the best pubs in Temple Bar Dublin.
#4 John Kavanagh: The Gravediggers Pub Dublin
For those looking for authentic Irish pubs in Dublin should head straight for John Kavanagh The Gravediggers. A family-run public house since 1833, John Kavanagh Pub is known for pouring one of the best pints of Guinness in Dublin…and we can’t argue with that!
The no-nonsense, unfussy bar caters to its loyal local crowd, but warmly welcomes visitors, too. The Gravediggers Pub is located on the north side of Dublin in an unassuming neighborhood next to the Glasnevin Cemetery and the National Botanic Gardens.
#5 The Long Hall: Classic Dublin Pub
The inconspicuous Long Hall bar is another one of the famous pubs in Dublin – so don’t let the subtle exterior sway you from going inside. The small, lively space is the epitome of a classic Victorian boozer. Mis-matched chandeliers hang from the ceiling, illuminating the old-school interior.
The busy bar is frequented by both locals and tourists who cram inside to hoist their pints (as there is no beer garden and only a few barrels out front). The compact space encourages making friends with strangers and the hospitable staff foster the same warm atmosphere.
#6 O’Donoghues: Best Live Music Pub Dublin
An old-world Irish pub – complete with snugs and wooden bar stools – O’Donoghues Bar is classic in every way. The lively crowd features a mix of young and old, tourists and residents, most of whom clamor in to listen to musical performances. O’Donoghues has long been one of the best pubs in Dublin for live music 7 days a week.
O’Donoghues Bar opened in the 1930s – and was known even then for nightly Irish trad sessions. However, it was in the 1960s, when famed band The Dubliners regularly played at the bar, that the musical reputation stuck for good. Music fans should take some time to check out the photos that hang on the walls.
Those who want to bar hop in the area will find many other fantastic pubs on Baggot Street Lower – including Toners and Doheny & Nesbitt that are just a block away.
#7 Devitt’s: Top Trad Pubs Dublin
Devitt’s is one of the old pubs in Dublin that appeals to a range of clientele. The have indoor and outdoor seating, a full menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner, sports on the television and live music upstairs every single day. The staff is attentive and genuine, so it’s an easy place to feel welcome.
Located on Camden Street – one of the fun (but totally underrated) streets in the city – Devitt’s stands out for its traditional vibes. Furthermore, while it is popular with tourists, it doesn’t feel overrun and the prices are fair.
#8 Searsons: Classy Dublin Pub
A spacious and beautiful bar with an art deco flair and jazz bands on Sundays, Searsons offers an incredible ambiance for dining or drinking, indoors or out.
Located in Ballsbridge, we visited Searsons on multiple occasions and quickly found out why it’s popular with locals in the area. Guests can sit on the front patio, in the back beer garden, at the gorgeous bar or in the open dining area. While the menu is small, it is on point. The shepherd’s pie, fish and chips and burger are all excellent!
Searsons is truly one of the best pubs in Dublin, Ireland for whiskey, too. Boasting a collection of more than 150 types of whiskey, the knowledgeable bartenders will help you find one that is preferable to your taste. They offer Irish whiskey tasting platters, as well!
#9 M O’Briens: Local Pubs in Dublin
The small, no-frills M O’Briens is one of the best Dublin pubs for a pint and chat. Well off the trodden tourist path, the inviting bar offers a ‘real’ Dublin pub experience.
Pull up to the bar or sit on the street with the locals, either way, you can quickly make friends at the old-style corner pub. If you get hungry, head upstairs to The Sussex for fine Irish food.
#10 McCaffertys at the Barge on Grand Canal
The Barge ranks as one of the top pubs in Dublin City – especially with the massive afterwork crowd that spills out onto the sidewalk and along Grand Canal. It’s also an idyllic place to spend a sunny summer afternoon.
Inside, there are three floors and multiple bars, where they serve craft beers alongside the staples, cocktails, whiskey and wine. The contemporary décor meshes well with the exposed brick, creating a comfortable atmosphere for a drink or a meal.
#11 The Bernard Shaw
Not at all traditional, The Bernard Shaw is one of the distinctive bars in Dublin. The vibe is hip, featuring backyard food trucks, an upstairs wine-and-cheese shop and a karaoke room. Visitors can also partake in a game of ping pong, play board games, participate in Bingo and win prizes at the weekly quiz event.
A hot spot for weekend brunch, but seriously fun any night of the week, The Bernard Shaw is one of the quirky Dublin pubs that is not to be missed!
#12 The Church Cafe
Ranking as one of the unique Irish pubs in Dublin City Centre, the Church Cafe is housed in a 17th century…church! While the large bar sits in the place of the pews, the gorgeous stained-glass windows and grand organ are still intact.
Visitors can grab a pint – and then peruse a pamphlet for a self-guided tour, including the glass-enclosed tower, the Cellar Bar and burial crypts.
Moreover, Church Cafe features a full line up of musical performances – including a free traditional Irish music and dancing show in the evenings!
#13 JJ’s Bar at Jameson Distillery
The Jameson Distillery Tour is a top Dublin activity, but many are unaware that you can visit the on-site JJ’s Bar without joining the tour. They don’t even charge a cover…you can walk right in and place your order at the bar!
Although the bar itself is not historic (in fact, it’s quite elegant and modern), it is housed in the former factory that dates to the 1780s – which is another reason why we think it is one of the must-see Dublin bars.
We suggest ordering a whiskey tasting sampler – or let the bartender lead the way to a whiskey (or whisky cocktail) that best suits your palate.
#14 Guinness Open Gate Brewery
While many of the best pubs in Dublin boast perfectly poured pints of Guinness, there is no doubt that the truly best pint of Guinness comes straight from the St. James’s Gate Brewery.
While tours are required to access the epic Gravity Bar that is located within the brewery complex, the Guinness Open Gate Brewery, which is also on site, can be visited for free.
The industrial space is contemporary and chic – and the Guinness is as fresh as it gets! Plus, visitors can sample an array of innovative beers that Guinness is creating, too!
#15 The Hairy Lemon
It’s difficult to miss this popular Dublin pub, as the bright yellow building stands out on a prominent corner of Stephen Street Lower. You can count on a lively crowd, any time of day. The Hairy Lemon is also a favorite spot for fans of the movie The Commitments, as portions were filmed here.
While pints of the dark stuff are flowing steadily, their menu of traditional Irish food receives loads of excellent reviews. Before we move on to craft beer, this would be an excellent place to fuel up on your pub tour of Dublin!
Craft Beer Pubs Dublin, Ireland
We make no secret that we are huge fans of craft brew. Wherever we are in the world, we seek out what is brewing locally. So, even when visiting the land of Guinness, we discovered some of the best Dublin bars for craft beer!
#16 JW Sweetman Brewery
The history of JW Sweetman dates to 1756 – a time when there were more than 40 breweries in Dublin. Now rebooted, JW Sweetman Craft Brewery is creating a fresh line up of brews – making it one of the best pubs in Dublin City Center for craft beer!
Full of character and historic details, the brewery sits along the Liffey River in a building that dates to the early 1800s. The multistorey bar – which was originally used as a tavern – is cozy and comfortable.
As a matter of fact, patrons can even get a glimpse of the brewing process on the first floor. As a gastro pub, they also offer a full menu of Irish favorites – including a tasting menu that pairs Irish dishes with their craft brews.
#17 Porterhouse Brew Co at Temple Bar
One of the first independent craft brewers in Ireland, Porterhouse Brew Co was born in 1996. The independently owned and run craft brewery features a core line up of beers, including their award-winning Plain Porter and the oh-so-delicious Chocolate Truffle Stout.
While Porterhouse Brew Co has multiple locations in Dublin, we recommend visiting the one in Temple Bar, which exudes a traditional and cozy ambiance – plus they have live music!
#18 Against the Grain
One of the many dedicated craft beer bars run by Galway Bay Brewery, Against the Grain gets our vote as the best pub in Dublin for craft beer. Located on Wexford Street, the casual space is unpretentious, yet the beer selection is something to brag about!
Featuring Galway Bay beers alongside fellow Irish microbrews, there are 10 craft beers on tap and loads more by the bottle. Whether you sit streetside, inside or upstairs by the pool table, you’ll do it with a good beer in hand.
#19 BrewDog Outpost, Dublin Docklands
BrewDog is not one of the historic pubs of Dublin…in fact, it is the exact opposite. Hailing from Scotland – and boasting numerous taprooms in Edinburgh and more than 100 around the world – the BrewDog Outpost Dublin is an excellent place to sip their craft beers as well as a few select guest taps.
Within the BrewDog complex, there are two bars, two outdoor spaces, a full dining menu, a beer school and a microbrewery for creating small batches with local products!
Nearby Pubs from Dublin, Ireland
We have featured some of the best Irish pubs in Dublin City Centre, but there are a few nearby spots that are well worth visiting. These gems are just a bus or train ride away.
#20 Johnnie Fox’s
Although not technically in Dublin, Johnnie Fox’s is one of the most famous bars in Ireland. Located about 12 miles south of the city in the Dublin Mountains, Johnnie Fox’s Bar claims to be the “Highest Pub in Ireland.”
The historic pub, which dates to 1798, features cozy rooms decorated in a mishmash of memorabilia – as well as a beer garden that overlooks a meadow of grazing sheep. Can it get any more Irish than that?
#21 Great Pubs in Howth
Howth is a coastal village that is just 30 minutes by train from Dublin. Highlights of visiting the area are the phenomenal coastal walks, fresh seafood and two great Irish pubs. You can read more in our Guide to Howth, Ireland.
Of the many places to drink in Howth, the Abbey Tavern and The Harbour Bar are our two favorite pubs. For amazing seafood chowder and live entertainment, go to Abbey Tavern. However, for an incredible pint of Guinness, local craft beer and friendly craic, The Harbour Bar is your best bet!
#22 Gibney’s of Malahide
Malahide is an upscale suburb north of Dublin that is well-known for its magnificent castle and quaint pedestrian-only thoroughfare. Check out our complete Guide to Malahide and make a day out of it!
Visitors to Malahide should make it a point to stop by Gibney’s for a pint. The easy-going bar – which is much bigger than it looks from the street – features several bars, outdoor seating and when weather permits a rooftop deck.
#23 The Harbour Bar Bray
The seaside town of Bray has long catered to travelers looking for a city escape. Tourists still flock to Bray for the beach and the coastal walks. Not to be missed, however, is The Harbour Bar.
An institution in Bray, The Harbour Bar was established in 1872 on a site dating to 1831. With multiple rooms – designed with comfort in mind – and a beer garden, it’s the perfect place to end a fun day spent in the sun. We suggest sipping a Wicklow Wolf, quite possibly our favorite craft beer in Ireland!
More Famous Dublin Pubs
We’ve shared our favorite traditional pubs in Dublin – as well as a few modern bars that we loved. There are, however, so many more pubs to go to in Dublin, Ireland! Here are a few more of the Dublin bars that were recommended to us by locals and are on the list for our next visit to Ireland!
The Stags Head
A classic Victorian pub featuring stunning woodwork and stained-glass windows, The Stags Head gets high marks for its lovely ambiance and traditional fare.
Mulligan’s
Dating to 1854, Mulligan’s is an simple pub that is favored by the literary crowd. In fact, James Joyce himself is said to have had a pint or two at the bar!
The Palace Bar
With striking Victorian décor and a glass ceiling, The Palace Bar is a classy pub close to Temple Bar. The upstairs whiskey bar is said to be top notch!
Matt the Thresher
An award-winning, elegant gastro pub in Dublin serving fresh-caught Irish seafood, Matt the Thresher is a top choice for Dublin fine dining in a pub atmosphere. They have even hosted famous guests, such as the late Anthony Bourdain and former first lady Michelle Obama.
Dublin Drinking Experiences: Pub Crawls, Tastings and Tours
While our list features the best pubs to visit in Dublin on vacation, visitors looking for guided experiences have many options, as well!
Irish Whiskey Museum
Sure, Irish Whiskey is available in all of the bars and pubs in Dublin, but there is no better place to learn about the iconic drink than at the Irish Whiskey Museum! Participants get a thorough introduction to Irish Whiskey – and of course get to taste it, too. Find out more!
Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness Storehouse located at the famous St. James’s Gate Brewery is absolutely one of the top attractions in Dublin. Visitors get to tour the facilities and then drink a pint of fresh Guinness at the rooftop Gravity Bar. Get your tour tickets!
Jameson Distillery Tour
We listed JJ’s Bar at the Jameson Distillery as one of the cool pubs in Dublin to taste whiskey straight from the source. Whiskey connoisseurs, however, will likely want to join one of the guided tours for a behind-the-scenes look at how the most famous Irish Whiskey is produced. Book your spot!
Teeling Whiskey
One of the recent additions to the Irish Whiskey scene, the Teeling Whiskey Distillery is one of the few operating in the city center. Visitors can tour the facilities, then sample the product! Get the details!
Literary Pub Crawl
Combine two of Dublin’s biggest passions – literary heritage and drinking in pubs – on a fascinating tour! Participants are guided through the streets to Dublin’s best pubs while learning about the influence of the literary greats. Reserve your space!
Irish Dancing Pubs in Dublin
Irish dancing is an art. Spend an evening watching a performance by professional Irish dancers – and then join in on the fun! The experience can be upgraded to include a traditional Irish meal, too. More info!
Map of Best Pubs in Dublin, Ireland
Use this map to find your way to all of the bars on our list of Pubs in Dublin. This link to Google will take you to an interactive version of our Dublin Pubs Map.
Visiting Pubs in Dublin FAQs
Now that you know where to find the best Irish pubs in Dublin, we want to answer a few of the most commonly asked questions about drinking in Ireland.
How Many Pubs in Dublin are there?
A lot! However, the most recent count claims around 750 pubs in Dublin and its suburbs. Want more fun Dublin pub facts? There are about 7,000 pubs in Ireland; meaning Dublin is home to more than 10% of the country’s total.
Where is the Famous Street in Dublin for Pubs?
Temple Bar Street is the most famous Dublin street for bars, pubs and all around nightlife. The lane is lined with some of the most popular pubs in Dublin, including the globally recognizable Temple Bar.
Temple Bar is a District, a Street and a Pub?
Yes, you’ve hit the trifecta! The Temple Bar Pub is on Temple Bar Street in the Temple Bar District. It sounds confusing, but trust us, it’s not. The Temple Bar District is fairly small and easy to navigate, as much of it is pedestrian only. It is the epicenter of the Dublin City tourist zone.
Do the Famous Bars in Dublin Charge a Cover?
No! Even the most popular pubs in Dublin do not charge a cover fee. That said, nightclubs and even some late night pubs in Dublin may charge an entry fee after a certain hour.
What is the drinking age in Dublin, Ireland?
Patrons must be at least 18 years old to get into pubs and clubs in Dublin. The legal drinking age in Ireland – for purchase and consumption – is 18. That said, some of the popular pubs in Dublin will allow minors in if accompanied by a parent or guardian, up to a certain hour (typically 9 or 10pm).
Is it Expensive to Drink at Dublin, Ireland Bars?
Well, expensive is a relative term. On average, a pint of beer in Dublin pubs costs about 6.50 euros. That said, it will likely cost more in touristic Temple Bar and will be less in the non-touristy pubs in Dublin. The cheapest pubs in Dublin are found outside the city center and are often frequented by locals.
Also of note is that the pubs in Dublin do not offer Happy Hour. You may occasionally find beer specials at Dublin City Centre pubs, but they are few and far between.
The cost of drinking in Ireland pubs can certainly add up. To help balance your trip budget, consider using our list of Free Things To Do in Dublin.
Do the Pubs of Dublin Serve Food?
There are many gastro pubs in Dublin that serve food – but several of the most traditional Irish pubs are for drinking only (aka boozers). In these establishments, there are usually small bags of crisps (those are potato chips) or peanuts available for sale at the bar.
Why Do I Have to Wait So Long for Guinness?
Because a perfectly poured pint of Guinness takes time. There is an actual science behind it – and it tastes better if done properly.
Basically, the bartender needs to fill the glass to about the three-quarter mark…and then wait for it to settle. It needs to sit for about 2 minutes before they can completely fill the glass. We usually prefer to wait another minute after that for optimal flavor. Don’t worry though, it is worth it to taste a properly poured Guinness!
What is the Criac?
Craic – or crack – is a slang term used throughout Ireland when referring to entertaining conversation or even just asking “what’s the deal?”. The best traditional Dublin pubs are known for their ‘craic’ – with local patrons, enthusiastic tourists and friendly bartenders all participating in the banter.
What is a Trad Seisiún?
A Trad Seisiún – or Traditional Session or Trad Sesh – is an Irish Music Session, where people meet up (typically at a pub) to play music together. We feel it’s an essential Dublin experience to witness musicians coming together to jam for a couple of hours.
Where are the Best Music Pubs in Dublin?
One of the things we love about Dublin pubs is the traditional Irish music. Many of the best pubs in Dublin for traditional music are on our list – like The Brazen Head.
Planning a Trip to Dublin, Ireland
We know that there is a lot more to planning your Ireland trip than deciding which pubs to visit in Dublin. In our Dublin Itinerary we share insight as to plan your time – plus travel tips like where to stay and what to pack.
For those making a visit to Ireland from overseas, you will find useful information in our One Week Itinerary and this Guide to Planning a Trip to Europe.
As you make your vacation plans for Ireland, you will need to stay organized. Our Printable Travel Planner will help you keep track of all the details of your trip!
Travel Tips for Ireland and UK
- Dublin Self-Guided Walking Tour
- West Coast Ireland: Doolin, Galway and Aran Islands
- Best of Belfast, Northern Ireland and Where To Eat and Drink
- How To Spend 3 Days in London
- Bermondsey London Beer Mile and Top Pubs Along The River Thames
- 10 Day Scotland Travel Itinerary
- One Day in Glasgow, Manchester or Birmingham, UK
- What To See in Bath, Bristol and Windsor, England
Start planning your trip to Ireland! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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