An Introduction to Boutique Hotels in Dublin

Sometimes your accommodation can really set the mood for a trip. No matter what your mood, there is a hotel to match in the Irish capital city of Dublin. For example, the elegant Merrion Hotel offers a spectacular location and a touch of history. The five-star Shelbourne Hotel occupies one of the best addresses on St Stephen’s Green and is a great place to have a cocktail while watching all of Dublin stroll by. While these are two of the most popular luxury hotels in town, there are also some boutique hotels that will offer a different, younger, edgier, more exciting experience. 

1. The Clarence Hotel. This hotel located on the River Liffey (with a back entrance spilling into Temple Bar) is instantly cool by the fact that it is owned by Bono and the Edge of U2. If your style is more cutting-edge than classic, the Clarence will be a perfect fit. A real splurge is the outrageous penthouse, featuring a balcony overlooking the entire city. This is a suite built for a rock star. Address: 6 -8 Wellington Quay, Dublin 2. (map)

2. The Morrison Hotel: Another stylish option is the Morrison Hotel. This boutique hotel has an ‘east meets west’ theme and is simultaneously calming and welcoming. The bar is known for its cocktails, and many guests choose to have a drink in this chic hotel before hitting the town. Located on the northern quays of the River Liffey, the city center location can’t be beat. Address: Lower Ormond Quay, Dublin 1. (map)

3. The Dylan Hotel: This five-star option is located outside of the city centre in a leafy neighborhood called Ballsbridge. With 44 bedrooms, this hotel offers a great blend of comfort and luxury. This boutique property is walking distance from many of the top restaurants and pubs in the city. Desserts and cocktails are specialties here. Address: Westmoreland Place, Dublin 4. (map)

If you’ve already tried Dublin’s classic city center hotels, give one of these boutique options a try. You never know who might be staying in the room next door. 

Photo Credit: SXC