Best Bars In Dublin
Where to eat, sip, and hear the sounds of Dublin
Our Guide To The Best Bars In Dublin
Dublin’s bars aren’t just about late-night pints, they’re part of the city’s culture from morning to evening. This guide to the best bars in Dublin highlights places worth visiting for their food, drink, and music, whether you’re after a relaxed afternoon stop, a lively evening session, or a stylish cocktail spot.
To help you make the most of your time in the capital, we’ve also put together guides to Tourist attractions in Dublin and the best hotels in Dublin, ideal companions when planning your day and night out.
If you’d like to combine Dublin’s pub scene with exploring castles, coastlines, and hidden gems, our Escorted Tours in Ireland page is the perfect place to start planning.
Map of Best Bars in Dublin
Explore our special map to discover the Best Bars in Dublin
Note: Johnnie Fox’s (not on the map) lies just outside the city in the Dublin Mountains, but getting there is no problem — we’ll take care of the journey for you.
🚗 By Car / Chauffeur (fastest option)
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Starting from Dublin City Centre (e.g. Trinity College / Grafton Street area)
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Head south on R138 (past St Stephen’s Green) → follow signs for N11 / Stillorgan Road.
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At Donnybrook, take the R112 / Beaver Row toward Clonskeagh.
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Follow signs for Sandyford / Enniskerry.
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Continue onto R117 (through Stepaside).
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At Glencullen, follow signs for Johnnie Fox’s Pub.
🕑 Journey time: ~30–40 minutes depending on traffic.
Murray’s Bar – Live Music and Irish Dancing in the City Centre
Murray’s Bar, 33–34 O’Connell Street Upper, North City, Dublin 1, D01 C3W7
Located right in the heart of O’Connell Street, Murray’s is a lively spot that blends classic Irish pub character with modern energy. It’s popular with both visitors and locals for its hearty menu, spacious beer garden, and nightly entertainment, making it a reliable choice at any time of day.
✨ Features
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Large beer garden with outdoor screens for live sport
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Traditional Irish pub atmosphere in a central location
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Live music and Irish dance shows in the evenings
Food: Expect all the Irish pub staples, fish and chips, beef and Guinness stew, and all-day breakfasts, alongside lighter options if you just want a quick bite.
Drink: A strong pint of Guinness is the go-to here, but there’s also a wide choice of Irish whiskeys, bottled beers, and spirits to suit all tastes.
Music: Murray’s is known for its nightly live music and Irish dance performances, bringing a true céilí atmosphere to the city centre.
💡 Tips
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The upstairs beer garden is a great spot on sunny afternoons and has big outdoor screens for sport.
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For the full céilí experience, drop by in the evening when the live music and Irish dancing kick off.
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Weekends get busy — arrive early if you want a good table for food and music.
The Merchant’s Arch – One of the Best Bars in Dublin for Live Music, Irish Dancing & Breakfast in Dublin
48/49 Wellington Quay, Temple Bar, Dublin 2, D02 EY65
Located beside the Ha’penny Bridge in Temple Bar, The Merchant’s Arch combines old-world charm with lively Dublin energy. Spread across several floors, it’s as popular for its live music and hearty food as it is for its riverside views, making it a great stop at any time of day.
✨ Features
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Prime location at the entrance to Temple Bar, beside the Ha’penny Bridge
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Traditional pub interiors with plenty of seating across multiple levels
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Live music sessions every day of the week
Food: Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the venue boasts a solid menu of Irish favourites such as fish and chips, burgers, and hearty pub pies, plus lighter bites for those just stopping in for a drink.
Drink: Pints of Guinness flow steadily, alongside a selection of Irish whiskeys, beers, and cocktails.
Music: Live Irish music is at the heart of The Merchant’s Arch, showcasing some of Ireland's finest talent with daily sessions that keep the place buzzing well into the night. When it comes to live Music this historic spot is viewed by many as one of the best pubs in Dublin.
💡 Tips
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Make sure to checkout the venues amazing spiral staircase, one of the cities most popular selfie spots.
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Afternoon sessions are lively but less crowded than the late-night rush.
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Renowned for serving one of the best breakfasts in Dublin, a great way to start your day before sightseeing.
The Brazen Head - Dublin’s Oldest and Most Historic Pub
20 Bridge Street Lower, Merchants Quay, Dublin 8, D08 WC64
Dating back to 1198, The Brazen Head is officially recognised as Ireland’s oldest pub. Stepping inside is like walking into history — the low ceilings, stone walls, and wooden beams create a medieval atmosphere that feels a world away from the busy streets outside. It’s a favourite for visitors who want tradition, storytelling, and hearty Irish fare in one spot.
✨ Features
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Ireland’s oldest pub, with over 800 years of history
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Traditional interiors with stone walls and open fires
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Regular storytelling nights and live Irish music
Food: A menu packed with classic Irish dishes, try the Guinness stew, seafood chowder, or the hearty lamb shank, all cooked with a homely, traditional touch.
Drink: Expect a well-poured pint of Guinness, along with a wide selection of Irish whiskeys, local ales, and international beers.
Music: Live Irish music sessions every evening, ranging from ballads to lively trad, often accompanied by storytelling events that bring Irish folklore to life.
💡 Tips
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Book ahead if you want a table for dinner, it’s very popular with tourists.
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The courtyard is a great option in warmer months, especially for groups.
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If you’re visiting in colder months, grab a table near the open fire for the full historic pub experience.
Johnnie Fox’s – Ireland’s Highest Pub in the Dublin Mountains
Glencullen, Dublin Mountains, Dublin, D18 X635
Perched high in the Dublin Mountains, Johnnie Fox’s is known as Ireland’s highest pub and has been welcoming guests since 1798. It’s a destination in itself — combining rustic charm, traditional Irish food, and live entertainment, all with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
✨ Features
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Ireland’s highest pub, established in 1798
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Traditional country interiors filled with antiques and curiosities
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Famous for hearty food and the long-running “Hooley Show” with live music and dancing
Food: Seafood is a highlight here, especially the fresh Dublin Bay prawns and fish chowder. The menu also includes Irish classics like lamb shank and roast dishes, making it a true dining experience.
Drink: Alongside a well-poured Guinness, you’ll find craft beers, Irish ciders, and an impressive whiskey selection.
Music: Live traditional Irish music is central to the Johnnie Fox’s experience, with sessions running daily. The “Hooley Show” combines music, dance, and dinner in one of Dublin’s best-known cultural nights out.
💡 Tips
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Book ahead if you want to experience the Hooley Show — it sells out quickly, especially on weekends.
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The pub is about a 30–40 minute drive from Dublin city centre, so plan transport in advance.
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Arrive early to explore the antiques-filled snugs and soak up the mountain setting before the entertainment begins.
O’Donoghue’s Pub – One of the Best Bars in Dublin for Traditional Music & Guinness
15 Merrion Row, Dublin 2, D02 H728
O’Donoghue’s is one of Dublin’s most famous pubs and regarded by many as the best tourist pub in Dublin. The bar is known worldwide as the home of The Dubliners. Steeped in musical history, this traditional pub has kept its reputation alive with nightly live sessions that draw both locals and visitors. Its location just off St. Stephen’s Green makes it an easy stop on a city stroll.
✨ Features
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Legendary pub associated with The Dubliners
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Traditional interiors with wooden floors and walls lined with photos of musicians
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Regular live traditional music sessions
Food: A classic pub menu with sandwiches, toasties, and hearty bar snacks. The focus here is more on the music and the pint than dining.
Drink: O’Donoghue’s is renowned for its Guinness, along with a solid selection of Irish whiskeys and bottled beers.
Music: Traditional Irish music is the heartbeat of O’Donoghue’s, with live sessions every night and often spilling out into the courtyard on busy evenings.
💡 Tips
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Arrive early if you want a seat — the pub gets packed when the music kicks off.
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The courtyard out back is a good spot if you want a bit more space while still catching the atmosphere.
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Check out the walls inside — they’re lined with photos capturing decades of Dublin’s musical history.
The Old Stand – Dublin’s Classic Rugby Pub
37 Exchequer Street, Dublin 2, D02 FX65
The Old Stand is a traditional Dublin pub with strong ties to rugby, drawing both fans and players through its doors for over a century. Located just off Grafton Street, it combines a warm atmosphere with hearty food, making it a popular spot for both match days and casual city pints.
✨ Features
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Historic pub with over 100 years of sporting connections
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Popular with rugby fans, especially during big matches
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Central location near Grafton Street and St. Stephen’s Green
Food: Known for generous portions, with classics like Irish stew, fish and chips, roast dishes, and daily specials, perfect for lining up before or after a match.
Drink: A well-kept pint of Guinness is a must, but there’s also a good choice of Irish whiskeys, bottled beers, and wines.
Music: The Old Stand doesn’t rely on live music, the atmosphere is built on sport, conversation, and the lively crowd, especially on match days.
💡 Tips
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Visit on a rugby weekend for the full Old Stand experience, it’s one of the city’s top rugby pubs.
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If you’re after food, try to arrive a little earlier as tables fill quickly during peak times.
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Its central location makes it a handy stop during a shopping trip around Grafton Street.
Kehoe’s – Historic Dublin Pub Known for Its Snugs
9 South Anne Street, Dublin 2, D02 NY88
Kehoe’s is a true Dublin institution, dating back to the early 1800s. Just off Grafton Street, it’s famous for its old-world charm, with snugs, mahogany fittings, and stained glass that make it feel like stepping back in time. Popular with both locals and visitors, it’s one of the best spots in the city for a perfectly poured pint in a traditional setting.
✨ Features
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Historic interiors with original snugs and etched glass
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Prime location just steps from Grafton Street
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Strong reputation for serving one of Dublin’s best pints of Guinness
Food: Kehoe’s keeps things simple, bar snacks and toasties are available, but the focus here is firmly on the drink.
Drink: Guinness is the star of the show, with regulars swearing it’s one of the best pints in Dublin. A selection of Irish whiskeys and bottled beers are also on hand.
Music: Kehoe’s doesn’t feature live music — the atmosphere is built on conversation, cosy snugs, and the lively flow of people throughout the day. (Deemed by locals as one of the best bars in Dublin)
💡 Tips
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Head upstairs for extra space if the ground floor feels crowded.
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The small snugs are perfect if you want a more private, traditional pub experience.
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Visit in the afternoon for a quieter pint — evenings can be packed, especially after work.
Doheny & Nesbitt – A Political and Rugby Favourite in Dublin
5 Baggot Street Lower, Dublin 2, D02 PD30
Doheny & Nesbitt is one of Dublin’s most iconic Victorian pubs, long associated with politics, sport, and lively debate. Just a short walk from Government Buildings, it’s a favourite with journalists, politicians, and rugby fans alike. Its traditional décor and bustling atmosphere make it a quintessential Dublin experience.
✨ Features
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Classic Victorian pub with ornate woodwork and etched glass
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Popular meeting spot for politicians, journalists, and rugby fans
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Convenient location close to Merrion Square and St. Stephen’s Green
Food: A strong pub menu with Irish staples such as beef and Guinness stew, roast dinners, and hearty sandwiches. It’s well-regarded for serving generous portions at good value.
Drink: Guinness is the drink of choice, alongside Irish whiskeys, lagers, and bottled beers. A wine list and spirits are also available.
Music: This is not a live music venue — the atmosphere comes from conversation, sport on the TVs, and the energy of a busy Dublin pub.
💡 Tips
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Visit during big rugby weekends for a lively, unmatched atmosphere.
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If you want food, try to arrive before peak lunch or evening times as it fills up fast.
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The snugs and side rooms are ideal if you’re after a quieter pint away from the main bar.
The Cobblestone – One of the Best Bars in Dublin for Traditional Music
77 King Street North, Smithfield, Dublin 7, D07 TP22
The Cobblestone is one of Dublin’s best-loved pubs for traditional Irish music. Located in Smithfield, just a short walk from the city centre, it’s famous for nightly sessions that attract musicians from across Ireland. This is not a polished tourist pub — it’s a working-class bar with a raw, authentic atmosphere that puts music front and centre.
✨ Features
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Renowned hub for traditional Irish music in Dublin
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Casual, no-frills pub atmosphere with a loyal local crowd
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Located in Smithfield, away from the main Temple Bar strip
Food: Food is not the focus here, the Cobblestone is all about the drink and the music.
Drink: A great pint of Guinness is the mainstay, supported by Irish whiskeys, lagers, and bottled beers.
Music: Live traditional Irish music is the heartbeat of the Cobblestone, with sessions running nightly and often spilling into spontaneous performances that last for hours.
💡 Tips
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Arrive early to grab a seat close to the musicians — the best way to soak up the atmosphere.
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If you want authenticity over polish, this is the pub to visit.
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Perfect for visitors who want to experience Dublin’s trad scene without the crowds of Temple Bar.
Toner’s Pub – Historic Dublin Bar Famous for Guinness and Snugs
139 Baggot Street Lower, Dublin 2, D02 N263
Toner’s is a classic Victorian pub with a reputation for serving one of the best pints of Guinness in Dublin. Dating back to the early 19th century, it’s steeped in history and famously one of the few pubs that poet W.B. Yeats is said to have visited. Its traditional snugs and lively beer garden make it a favourite for both locals and visitors.
✨ Features
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Historic pub with Victorian interiors and original snugs
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Strong literary and cultural connections, linked to W.B. Yeats
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Spacious beer garden that’s popular year-round
Food: A good range of hearty pub fare including burgers, fish and chips, and toasties — ideal for a casual bite with a pint.
Drink: Renowned for a perfectly poured Guinness, alongside Irish whiskeys, lagers, and bottled beers. The bar is well-kept and respected for quality.
Music: Toner’s is more about atmosphere than live performance, though there’s always a buzz on busy evenings and big match days.
💡 Tips
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Don’t miss sitting in one of the original snugs for a real old Dublin pub experience.
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The beer garden is one of the best in the city — lively in summer but heated and welcoming in winter.
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Visit early on match days if you want a good spot — it fills up quickly with sports fans.
FAQ - Best Bars in Dublin
1. What are the most famous bars in Dublin for tourists?
The Brazen Head, O’Donoghue’s, and The Cobblestone are among Dublin’s most famous bars, each offering history, atmosphere, and a warm welcome for visitors.
2. Which Dublin bars serve the best pints of Guinness?
Kehoe’s, Toner’s, and O Donoghue's are all highly regarded for their Guinness. Many locals consider them the top spots in the city for a perfectly poured pint.
3. Which bars offer the best live music in Dublin?
The Cobblestone, O’Donoghue’s, Murray’s on O’Connell Street, and The Merchant’s Arch all feature regular live music sessions, with traditional Irish tunes played daily.
4. What are the best bars in Dublin to see Irish dancing?
The Merchant’s Arch is the home of the Irish Dance Party, bringing music and dance together in the heart of Temple Bar. Murray’s on O’Connell Street is also known for its lively Irish music and dance shows, while Johnnie Fox’s Pub in the Dublin Mountains stages its famous Hooley Show with dinner, music, and dancing.
Discover More of Ireland
Dublin’s pubs are just the start of what Ireland has to offer. From castles and coastlines to historic cities and hidden gems, explore the best attractions across Ulster, Munster, Leinster, and Connacht.
