Best Pubs in Dublin
Dublin's pub scene is legendary. From centuries-old Victorian bars with roaring fires to lively trad music sessions in Smithfield, discover the pubs that make Dublin one of the world's great drinking cities.
Dublin Pub Culture
The pub is the beating heart of Dublin's social life. For centuries, these establishments have served as gathering places for writers, musicians, rebels, and everyday Dubliners. A visit to Dublin is not complete without spending an evening in a proper Irish pub, pint in hand, soaking in the atmosphere and conversation that locals call “the craic.”
Dublin's pubs range from tourist-friendly hotspots in Temple Bar to no-nonsense local haunts where the regulars have been coming for decades. The best pubs share a few things in common: a well-poured pint of Guinness, warm hospitality, and a sense that the walls themselves hold a thousand stories.
Whether you are looking for live traditional music, a quiet corner to read, or a lively Saturday night out, there is a Dublin pub for you. Below you will find our hand-picked selection of the best pubs in the city, from famous institutions to neighbourhood favourites.
8 places found
The Cobblestone
Smithfield
Legendary traditional music pub in Smithfield — the real deal for live Irish trad sessions.
From €20
Mulligan's
City Centre
One of Dublin's oldest pubs (est. 1782), famous for serving the best pint of Guinness in the city.
From €18
Kehoe's
City Centre
A beautifully preserved Victorian pub on South Anne Street — a Dublin institution since 1803.
From €18
Walsh's Stoneybatter
Stoneybatter
A proper local's pub in the heart of Stoneybatter with character and conversation.
From €18
The Brazen Head
City Centre
Ireland's oldest pub, dating back to 1198. Live music nightly and rich history on every wall.
From €25
The Long Hall
City Centre
Stunning Victorian interior with ornate mirrors and gas lamps — one of Dublin's most photogenic pubs.
From €22
The Temple Bar
Temple Bar
Dublin's most famous pub — iconic red exterior, live music, and a buzzing tourist atmosphere.
From €30
Gravediggers (John Kavanagh's)
City Centre
Historic pub next to Glasnevin Cemetery — authentic, no-frills, and full of character.
From €16
Guided Pub Crawls
Not sure where to start? Join a guided pub crawl to hit the best spots with a knowledgeable local guide. It is a great way to meet fellow travellers and discover pubs you might not find on your own.
Dublin Pub Crawl
Temple Bar
Hit the best pubs in Dublin with a guided tour — great craic, stories, and plenty of pints.
From €16
Literary Pub Crawl
City Centre
Follow in the footsteps of Joyce, Beckett, and Wilde on this famous literary pub tour.
From €16
Pub Etiquette in Dublin
Ordering Rounds
The round system is sacred in Ireland. If someone buys you a drink, you are expected to buy the next round. It is part of the social fabric and a sign of good manners.
The Perfect Pint
A proper pint of Guinness takes about 119.5 seconds to pour with a two-part pour. Be patient and never rush the bartender. The wait is always worth it.
Live Music
Trad music sessions are informal and spontaneous. Listen respectfully, do not talk over the musicians, and feel free to tap your feet. Buying the musicians a drink is always appreciated.