citizenM’s guide to Dublin's best neighbourhoods

say hello to Dublin

Dublin might be small, but it packs a punch. It’s a city that buzzes with energy, charm and a healthy bit of cheek – the kind of place where you’ll stumble across live music on a Tuesday, bump into poets in the pub, and be best mates with a stranger by pint number two.

What makes Dublin even more loveable is how every neighbourhood has its own vibe. You’ve got cobbled lanes and centuries-old pubs in Temple Bar, shiny tech offices along the Docklands, leafy strolls in Portobello and edgy street art in Smithfield.

In this Dublin neighbourhood guide, we’re breaking down the best spots to visit, explore or call home for a few nights. So if you’re wondering about the best neighbourhood to stay in Dublin, where to grab a perfect pint or find a stylish stay like citizenM, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in.

Docklands – Dublin's sleek side

Once home to cargo ships and warehouses, the Dublin Docklands is now where glass towers meet riverside strolls – and where tech giants like Google and Facebook set up shop.

Locals call it the Silicon Docks (yep – a nod to Silicon Valley), but don’t let the office vibes fool you – this area is full of sleek cafés, waterfront views and some serious modern architecture.

Walk across the Samuel Beckett Bridge, catch a show at the Bord Gáis Theatre, or chill around Grand Canal Dock with a coffee and people-watch the tech crowd.

Cool, clean and contemporary – it’s a whole new side of the city.

Smithfield – the artsy rebel

What used to be a trading square is now one of Dublin’s coolest corners. Smithfield is where street art meets indie film, and whiskey flows freely at the Jameson Distillery.

It’s got edge, but in a good way – think murals, flea markets, and cosy spots like the Lighthouse Cinema, the legendary Cobblestone Pub (known for its proper trad music sessions), and Fish Shop, a tiny gem serving up some of the best fresh fish and chips in the city.

Loved by young creatives and those who like their nights a little less polished, Smithfield brings all the vibes – no filter needed.

Stoneybatter – cool with a capital C

Just west of Smithfield sits Stoneybatter, Dublin’s original urban village turned hipster haven. It’s all colourful terraces, banging brunch spots, and that lovely ‘locals still know each other’ feel.

You’ll find craft beer and rare whiskey at L Mulligan Grocer, fresh pasta at Grano, and rotating street food trucks in the Glimmer Man’s beer garden. It’s the kind of place where creatives brunch hard and everyone knows the best coffee spots.

Trendy without trying too hard – Stoneybatter is where you go to eat well, drink better and feel like a local.

Rathmines – retro and studenty

South of the canal and full of character, Rathmines is where old-school charm meets student buzz. Expect vintage shops, late-night takeaways, and the occasional rooftop pizza party.

Catch a film at the beautifully restored Stella Cinema, sip something crafty at Kodiak, or check out local art at MART Gallery, set inside an old fire station (yes, really).

It’s a little eclectic, a little edgy, and a lot of fun – ideal for students, creatives, and anyone who likes their neighbourhoods with a twist.

Portobello – leafy and lovely

Boho, chilled and full of charm, Portobello is the kind of neighbourhood where you’ll want to slow down. Locals lounge along the canal with coffees (or cans), and the streets are lined with Georgian townhouses, indie cafés and local favourites.

Pick up a pastry at Bretzel Bakery, sip wine at Lennox Street Grocer, or tuck into bold, seasonal small plates at Spitalfields, a cosy pub-restaurant just around the corner that foodies rave about.

It’s peaceful but not boring – perfect for a morning wander, a lazy brunch or a canal-side pint at golden hour. And with citizenM Dublin Saint Patrick’s hotel just a 5-minute walk away, you don’t have to go far to slip into a cloud-like bed after a dreamy day out.

dublin 8 – postcode power

Locals don’t always name-drop neighbourhoods – sometimes they just say the postcode. And Dublin 8? It’s got serious main character energy.

Covering parts of The Liberties, Kilmainham, and Inchicore, this area mixes old Dublin grit with modern flair. Expect history at Kilmainham Gaol, art at IMMA, and innovation around every corner thanks to Dublin’s smart city test zones.

It’s one of the city’s most diverse and culture-packed postcodes – and well worth exploring beyond the guidebooks.

city centre & grafton street – shop til you stop

Smack in the heart of Dublin City Centre, Grafton Street is where shopping bags swing and street performers serenade. It's a pedestrian paradise packed with high-street favourites, quirky boutiques, and a healthy dose of people-watching.

You’re just a hop away from cultural icons like Trinity College (hello, Book of Kells) and the leafy calm of St Stephen’s Green – ideal for a post-shopping lie-down.

Hungry? Grab a classic cuppa at Bewley’s, or tuck into something fancier nearby. It’s touristy, sure – but it’s also buzzing, central, and full of Dublin charm.