Beat the crowds (and the prices) and explore our selection of Dublin city centre bars outside tourist areas!
First things first, Dublin’s Temple Bar is a great pub. It’s centrally located, an iconic site to visit, and has a long history. However, as it has gained a reputation as an iconic Irish pub, it has also seen an upsurge in crowds of tourists.
If you’re looking for an authentic Dublin experience, it might be worth trying some of our suggestions below. While still centrally located, they tend to have less footfall, possibly leading to a more relaxed experience overall.
So, if you’re curious to get off the beaten track and discover a more unique and authentic Dublin pub experience, read on. These are our ten favourite Dublin city centre bars outside tourist areas.
10. John Fallon’s “The Capstan Bar” – for a pint on a rainy day
Just a stone’s throw from St. Patrick’s Cathedral (itself a must-visit), this homely pub is known for its excellent whiskey and Guinness.
We can’t rely on the weather in Dublin, but there’s nothing quite like escaping the drizzle in a warm and cosy spot like John Fallon’s.
Address: 129 The Coombe, The Liberties, Dublin 8, D08 NP52
9. The Brazen Head – a meeting place of Irish legends
Outside this spot, you’ll see a sign claiming it to be “Ireland’s Oldest Pub”. While there is certainly no shortage of pubs claiming this title, The Brazen Head certainly has a lot of history behind it.
This pub is reputed to have been a favourite drinking spot of iconic Irish figures such as Wolfe Tone and Jonathan Swift. It is known for its live music, cocktails, and traditional Irish food.
Address: The Brazen Head, 20 Lower Bridge Street, Usher’s Quay, Dublin, DO8 WC64
8. Ryan’s of Parkgate Street – the spot for delicious pub grub
If you like your beer with a side of steak, then Ryan’s of Parkgate Street is the spot for you.
Known for its delicious food, ornate Victorian decor, and down-to-earth atmosphere, this could be one of the best Dublin city centre bars outside tourist areas for you.
Address: 28 Parkgate St, Stoneybatter, Dublin 8, D08 CH93
7. Grogan’s – a down-to-earth Dublin experience
In the theme of non-pretentious, down-to-earth pubs, Grogan’s has to be included on our list of epic Dublin city centre bars outside tourist areas.
While it doesn’t have the polished sheen of Temple Bar, it will give you an authentic Dublin experience. It has been a favourite among locals for years. Keep in mind, however, that this is a cash-only pub, so make sure you come prepared.
Address: 15 William St S, Dublin 2, D02 H336
6. PantiBar – a legendary LGBTQ+ venue
Things haven’t always been easy for Dublin’s LGBTQ+ community, but through it all they have managed to create some of the best, community-focused pubs and clubs around – and PantiBar is no exception.
Opened by Dublin legend ‘Panti-Bliss’ in 2007, this is worth a visit for the on-tap prosecco alone.
Address: 7-8 Capel St, North City, Dublin 1, D01 EH93
5. John Kavanagh, The Gravediggers – the spot for legendary ghost stories
If you’re a fan of the supernatural, The Gravediggers Pub may be just the spot for you. Having opened its doors in 1833, it has a long history of ghost stories. It probably helps that it is located right beside Glasnevin Cemetery, from which it got its name.
Ghostly activity aside, this is an old-school bar outside of the traditional tourist areas, making it perfect for a peaceful pint of Guinness.
Address: 1 Prospect Square, Glasnevin, Dublin, D09 CF72
4. Toners – for the best beer garden
Toners was opened in 1734, and for centuries has been a favourite drinking spot for locals and visitors alike.
Take in the atmosphere in the cosy, dark wood bar or enjoy the fleeting sunshine in one of the best beer gardens around.
Address: Toners, 139 Baggot Street Lower, Dublin 2, Ireland
3. Idlewild – for the best cocktails in the city
If you’re looking for a slightly trendier option, this cocktail bar on Fade Street could be the place for you.
While Idlewild offers a great selection of Irish craft beers, it is best known for its cocktails and its famous ‘beer-and-a-shot’ combinations.
Supposedly, this is the place that brought these combos to the mainstream in Dublin, so what better place to give them a try?
Address: 14 Fade St, Dublin 2, D02 HH33
2. The Long Hall – a Dublin icon
The Long Hall has been operating for over 250 years, and its traditional darkwood decor has remained relatively unchanged.
Don’t be fooled by the luxurious, ornate interior, though; this place is a down-to-earth spot loved by locals. Over the years, it’s also seen some famous faces call in for a pint, welcoming everyone from Rihanna to Bruce Springsteen.
Address: 51 South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2, D02 DV74
1. The Cobblestone – the best spot for Irish trad music
No pub in Ireland is truly complete without a trad music band, and The Cobblestone wins out in this area.
The owners can boast over five generations of traditional Irish music players, and it’s not hard to see the influence that Irish music and culture have had on the pub itself. An afternoon here offers a down-to-earth, authentic Dublin experience worth having.
Address: The Cobblestone, 77 King Street N, Smithfield, Dublin, D07 TP22
While we recommend crossing the legendary Temple Bar off your list, if you want to enjoy a more peaceful pint, it may be worth checking these Dublin City Centre bars outside tourist areas. Sláinte!
