Best Pubs in Dublin for Students

Dublin and pubs go together like a pint of Guinness and a good chat. Whether you’re looking for traditional Irish music, a cosy spot for a few drinks with friends, or a venue where the party can continue into the early hours, Dublin has plenty to choose from.

The best part? You don’t have to stick to the tourist hotspots. While Temple Bar is certainly worth seeing, some of Dublin’s best pubs can be found tucked away on side streets, around lively student areas and in neighbourhoods where locals have been meeting for generations. So, grab your mates and get ready to explore some of the best pubs in Dublin for students.

List of the Best Pubs in Dublin

From traditional Irish pubs filled with live music to lively student hangouts and quirky spots you won’t find anywhere else, this bustling city has a pub for every kind of night out. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a quiet pint, catch up with friends, or dance the night away, these are some of the best pubs in Dublin to add to your list.

The Temple Bar, Dublin

You can’t write a guide to Dublin pubs without mentioning The Temple Bar. One of the most famous Irish pubs in Dublin, its bright red exterior has become almost as iconic as Dublin itself.

Inside, you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere, traditional Irish music, and a lively crowd. The Temple Bar has live Irish music throughout the day and evening, making it an easy choice if you want the classic Dublin experience.

It’s undeniably popular with visitors, so prices can be higher than elsewhere in the city. Our advice? Pop in for the experience, take your obligatory photo outside, and then explore some of the other pubs nearby. It’s one of those things to tick off your Dublin bucket list that you just can’t leave until you do!

The Long Hall, Dublin

Step back in time at The Long Hall: a Victorian pub filled with old-school character, ornate details and plenty of history.

Located on South Great George’s Street, this is the sort of pub where you can settle down with your friends and actually have a conversation. Its wood-panelled interior, traditional décor and cosy atmosphere make it a great option when you want something a little more relaxed.

The Palace Bar, Dublin

Another of the classic Temple Bar pubs is The Palace Bar, which can be found on Fleet Street. But unlike some of the louder venues in the area, it has a more traditional feel.

The pub has a particularly strong literary history and was once a favourite meeting place for Dublin’s writers, including Patrick Kavanagh and Flann O’Brien.

Its beautiful Victorian interior makes it a great place for a quieter drink with friends. If your idea of a good night involves chatting rather than shouting over a DJ, add this one to your list.

The Celt, Dublin

Located on Talbot Street, The Celt is a top choice if you want food, drinks, and live Irish music all under one roof, seven days a week.

It has that classic Dublin pub atmosphere without feeling overly formal, making it ideal for a casual evening with your flatmates. Fancy some food before the pints start flowing? The menu includes traditional faves alongside vegetarian and gluten-free options, too!

Toners, Dublin

Toners is one for the history lovers (or just anyone who appreciates a good old beer garden).

Located on Lower Baggot Street, this traditional pub dates back to 1818 and has links to famous Irish literary figures, including W.B. Yeats. It retains plenty of its Victorian character, with original features and old-fashioned décor. 

The large beer garden makes Toners particularly appealing when the weather is behaving itself. Find a table, order a drink, and settle in for an evening of chatting with your friends.

The Cobblestone, Dublin

If traditional Irish music is high on your Dublin bucket list, make a beeline for The Cobblestone. Located in Smithfield, this family-run pub is known for its traditional music sessions, with musicians playing throughout the week. There’s no flashy gimmick here. The focus is on the music, the atmosphere, and the people in the room.

The Brazen Head, Dublin

History, live music, and good food? The Brazen Head ticks all three boxes, so it’s fair to say that yes, it’s pretty much the best Irish pub in Dublin. Here, you can expect cosy rooms, a cobbled courtyard, traditional food, and live music. It’s close to attractions including Christchurch Cathedral and the Guinness Brewery, too, so it works nicely as part of a day exploring Dublin.

Fibber Magees, Dublin

Fancy something a little less traditional? Head to Fibber Magees.

Situated just off O’Connell Street, this has been a Dublin institution for rock fans since 1979. Live bands, rock and alternative DJs, pool tables, and a large beer garden make it a completely different experience from the traditional Irish pubs on this list. There are regular free live music events too, so it’s worth checking what’s happening before you head over.

The Bernard Shaw, Dublin

Part pub, part food market, part music venue; The Bernard Shaw is not your average Dublin pub.

Found near Drumcondra at Cross Guns Bridge, it combines food, drinks, events, music, and outdoor spaces. The venue serves everything from pizza and burgers to wings, while its events calendar regularly features parties, DJs, and live entertainment. It’s particularly suited to groups of friends who want somewhere with plenty going on.

Whelan’s, Dublin

Looking for the best pubs in Dublin with live music? Whelan’s deserves a place on your itinerary.

Located on Wexford Street, Whelan’s is one of the most famous live music pubs in Dublin. It’s hosted countless performers over the years and continues to showcase emerging artists. With music, comedy, karaoke, and other events taking place, you never quite know what you’ll find.

Conradh Na Gaeilge, Dublin

For something with a strong connection to Irish language and culture, check out Conradh na Gaeilge. Situated on Harcourt Street, this historic organisation has long played an important role in promoting the Irish language, and its bar provides a more alternative option for a night out. It’s a good choice if you want to experience somewhere with a distinctly Irish atmosphere without heading straight for the most tourist-heavy venues.

O’Donoghue’s, Dublin

O’Donoghue’s is another essential stop for traditional Irish music fans. Situated on Merrion Row, the pub is strongly associated with The Dubliners and has become a major part of Dublin’s folk music history. Live traditional music takes place seven nights a week, with Saturday sessions starting earlier in the evening.

Inside, the walls are covered with photographs and memorabilia celebrating Irish musicians. It’s the kind of place where you can walk in for one drink and accidentally stay for several hours.

The Workman’s Club, Dublin

The Workman’s Club is another of the best pubs in Temple Bar that’s got to be on your radar.

The venue has a creative, independent feel, making it particularly popular with students and young people looking for something beyond the traditional pub experience. Check the events calendar before you go! You might discover your new favourite band while you’re there.

Johnny Kavanagh The Gravediggers, Dublin

The name might sound slightly ominous, but The Gravediggers is actually one of the cosiest cheap pubs in Dublin city centre.

Located beside Glasnevin Cemetery, John Kavanagh’s has been part of the area since 1833 and remains closely associated with the Kavanagh family. While it’s a little further from the city centre, if you want to experience a genuinely traditional Dublin pub, the trip is worth it.

Mary’s Bar & Hardware, Dublin

Mary’s Bar & Hardware Shop on Wicklow Street combines a traditional bar with an actual hardware section, making it another famous bar in Dublin. Need a pint and a packet of screws? This is apparently your place.

The pub is right in the centre of Dublin, close to Trinity College, St Stephen’s Green, and Dublin Castle. It also hosts live music from Wednesday to Saturday and shows live sport. It’s quirky, central, and a little bit different, exactly the sort of place that makes a good student night memorable.

The Stag’s Head, Dublin

Hidden away just off Dame Street, The Stag’s Head is one of those pubs that feels like a discovery, despite being one of Dublin’s best-known historic pubs. The Victorian interior is packed with character, from wood panelling and stained glass to the famous stag’s head above the bar. 

Its central location makes it ideal for a pub crawl around the city centre, particularly if you’re already exploring Dame Lane, Temple Bar, or Grafton Street.

Best Areas for Pubs in Dublin

Not sure where to start? Choosing an area can make planning your night much easier.

Creative Quarter

The Creative Quarter in Dublin is packed with independent shops, cafés, restaurants, and bars. It’s centred around streets such as South William Street, Drury Street, and Fade Street, making it a great place to start if you want plenty of options within walking distance. It’s also close to Grafton Street and Temple Bar, so you can easily move between areas as the night goes on.

Dame Court

Close to The Stag’s Head, Temple Bar, and plenty of other bars, restaurants, and nightlife spots, the Dame Court area is ideal for a city-centre pub crawl. The area has a mix of traditional pubs and livelier venues, so you can easily switch things up depending on the mood of your group.

Camden Street

Camden Street in Dublin is a fave for students and young Dubliners alike, with plenty of bars, pubs, and restaurants packed along the surrounding streets. It’s a great option if you want a lively night without spending the entire evening in Temple Bar. There are also plenty of food options nearby (which is always important when you’re three drinks in and suddenly starving).

Lower Baggot Street

Home to several traditional pubs, including Toners, Lower Baggot Street offers a slightly more relaxed alternative to the busiest parts of the city centre. It’s particularly good for a chilled evening with friends rather than an all-out club night in Dublin.

Tips for Spending Less at Dublin Pubs

Dublin can be an expensive city for students, but you don’t need to spend your entire pay check on one night out.

Don’t Stay in Temple Bar the Whole Night

Treat it as one stop on your night out. Have a look around, grab a drink if you fancy it, take some photos, and then head towards some of the surrounding neighbourhoods. You’ll find plenty of characterful pubs outside the main Temple Bar area, and exploring them can give you a much more varied (and affordable) night.

Look for Weekday Deals or Student Nights

If your timetable allows it, heading out during the week can be one of the top ways to save money. Keep an eye on pub and venue social media pages for student nights, drinks offers, free-entry events, and live music. Some venues also run regular events that cost nothing to attend, meaning you can stretch your budget for drinks rather than an entry fee.

FAQs on the Best Pubs in Dublin

With so many pubs to choose from, knowing where to go can be tricky. Whether you’re looking for a classic Dublin pub, somewhere serving great food or a spot with live traditional music, here are some of the top questions answered.

What are the Best Pubs in Dublin City Centre?

Some of the best-known city-centre options include The Palace Bar, The Stag’s Head, O’Donoghue’s, and Mary’s Bar & Hardware. If you’re looking for traditional Irish music, The Temple Bar is a particularly good place to start.

Where Can I Find the Best Pub Food in Dublin?

There are plenty of Dublin pubs serving hearty Irish food and classic pub dishes. The Celt serves traditional Irish dishes alongside vegetarian and gluten-free options, while The Brazen Head offers dishes including Irish stew, fish and seafood. For something more casual and student-friendly, The Bernard Shaw serves pizza, burgers, wings and other comfort food.

What’s the Most Famous Street in Dublin for Pubs?

Temple Bar is probably the most famous area for pubs in Dublin. However, streets and areas such as Dame Street, Camden Street, Wexford Street, and Lower Baggot Street also have plenty of options for a night out.

What are the Most Famous Pubs in Dublin?

The Temple Bar, The Brazen Head, O’Donoghue’s, and The Cobblestone are among Dublin’s best-known pubs. They’re popular for different reasons, including their history, architecture, and traditional Irish music.

What are the Best Pubs in Dublin for Traditional Irish Music?

If traditional Irish music is what you’re after, The Cobblestone, O’Donoghue’s, and The Temple Bar are all strong choices. The Cobblestone is particularly well known for its regular traditional music sessions, while O’Donoghue’s has a long-standing connection with Irish folk music.

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