Heading out in Ireland’s capital? Here are the top ten bars and clubs for students in Dublin.
Dublin is an excellent place for nights out, especially when it comes to bars and clubs for students. With clubs and bars dotted right across the city, students can enjoy countless options.
Dublin is home to great nightclubs that host some incredible DJs and some fantastic bars. So, whether you’re going to dance the night away with friends or perhaps hoping to get the shift, Dublin is the place to be.
Here are the top ten bars and clubs for students in Dublin!
10. Xico – an underground Mexican party cavern
This Mexican club hosts a night of madness every Friday and Saturday with a DJ and a special guest.
This trendy interior is just the beginning of the perfect night out in Dublin. At club nights at Xico, you can expect a laid back atmosphere where there is ample opportunity to hit the dance floor.
This underground bar has been designed in line with the edgy Mexican bars in London and New York. Xico serves up a range of incredible cocktails. However, their speciality has to be their margaritas!
Age Restrictions: Over 23s
Address: 143 Baggot Street Lower, Dublin 2, D02 PH39
9. Opium Live – for a state of the art nightclub
Right by Wexford Street is the newly refurbished and state of the art nightclub that is one of the top bars and clubs for students in Dublin. Opium Live boasts two bar areas, a rooftop smoking area, and, of course, a large dance floor.
This nightclub takes its inspiration from the vibrant city of Tokyo and classic manga novels. Since its opening, Opium has hosted some of Dublin’s best DJs as well as some incredible international talent.
Age Restrictions: Over 18s
Address: 13-14 Liberty Ln, Portobello, Dublin, D08 NF86
8. Whelan’s – great for live music
Although Whelan’s is mainly known as a music venue, it is arguably one of the most popular pubs for students in Dublin. Serving drinks until the early hours of the morning, Whelan’s is a great venue, especially if nightclubs aren’t exactly your scene.
Catch up with friends in the cosy and rustic bar areas while indulging in a wide selection of drinks. In addition, they often host a silent disco which is always great fun!
Age Restrictions: Over 18s
Address: 25 Wexford St, Portobello, Dublin 2, D02 H527
7. Pygmalion – in the heart of the city
By daylight, Pygmalion is a cosy cafe and bar. By night, it is transformed into one of Dublin’s best nightclubs that’s a popular spot for students. Artists include various internationally renowned names to some of Dublin’s up and coming musicians.
Located right in the City Centre, no trip to Pygmalion would be complete without enjoying a Pygtail or two; great tasting cocktails that are often two for the price of one! It is hands down one of the best bars and clubs for students in Dublin
Age Restrictions: Over 21s
Address: 59 William St S, Dublin
6. The Workman’s Club – music and cultural oasis
Since opening its doors in 2010, Workman’s has hosted some incredible international talent. This multi-floor venue is filled with customers and staff passionate about music and the arts.
Workman’s is so passionate about live music that it has won the title of the ‘Live Music Venue of the Year’ award.
The old-school decor makes this the perfect place for students to head if they’re looking to enjoy some incredible performances while sipping on a drink or two.
Address: 10 Wellington Quay, Temple Bar, Dublin, D02 VX36
5. Dicey’s Garden Club – for great drink deals
As one of Dublin’s most popular nightclubs, Dicey’s is a popular place to experience all that Dublin’s nightlife has to offer. This isn’t quite the place for a low-key drink. Queuing to get in isn’t uncommon, but don’t let that deter you from a night of fun!
Boasting a DJ and late bar, Dicey’s is a popular spot if you’re not sure where else to go. If you’re a student on a budget, then the drinks deals here are perfect for you; think €3 (£2.50) pints and €2 (£1.66) shots, depending on the evening!
Age Restrictions: Over 20s Tuesday — Saturday
Address: 21-25 Harcourt St, Saint Kevin’s, Dublin 2, D02 YF24
4. The Bernard Shaw – for a variety of events
No matter the type of event you’re after, The Bernard Shaw is sure to have something to tickle your fancy. They show all the prominent sports games and host bingo nights, quiz nights, ping pong, and karaoke competitions.
The Shaw is one of the best student bars in Dublin that serves delicious food and a wide range of drinks in a quirky venue. Boozy brunch is extremely popular at Eatyard, their outdoor food market in a huge beer garden, which hosts a variety of food vendors.
Age Restrictions: Over 20s
Address: Cross Guns Bridge, Drumcondra, Dublin 9, D09 XW44
3. The George – an LGBTQ+ nightclub
If you’re looking for an inclusive venue to dance the night away, then the George is the place to be. Each day of the week, a different event embraces the many people who make up the LGBTQ+ scene in Ireland.
Featuring national and international drag acts, this award-winning venue is the go-to place for students of the LGBTQ+ community. So let your hair down, grab your heels and embrace your fabulousness at this nightclub.
Age Restrictions: Over 18s
Address: 89 South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2, D02 R220
2. Copper Face Jacks – the perfect place to get the shift
Also known as Coppers, there aren’t many Irish people who can say they haven’t had a night in Coppers! Home to a large selection of spaces, including a fully covered beer garden, VIP bar and private booths, there is something for everyone.
Prepare for a wide selection of music, including some complete throwbacks and, of course, chart music. Great for a student night out, it’s not the music you’re coming to Coppers for; it’s the fine specimens which you might be lucky enough to shift!
Age Restrictions: Over 21s Sunday — Friday and over 23s on Saturday.
Address: 29-30 Harcourt St, Saint Kevin’s, Dublin 2, D02 XV58
1. Ryan’s of Camden Street – the top bar and club for students in Dublin
Located on Camden Street is a bar that is popular for students, tourists, and locals alike. Having originally opened in 1872, Ryan’s has maintained its charm for over 100 years of good service.
Some nights you can expect Ryan’s to be the perfect place for a quiet pint or to watch a sports game. However, other nights can be absolutely wild. There is often live music sessions here, so the craic is absolutely mighty!
Address: Camden Street Lower, Saint Kevin’s, Dublin 2, D02 KT51
If you’re looking to kick your hangover after a night in one of the best bars and clubs in Dublin, check out our list of student-friendly restaurants deals in the city.
Notable mentions
Krystle: Krystle, located on Dublin’s Harcourt Street, is the original late-night venue in Dublin and is a hit with students.
Wigwam: Wigwam hosts some great student nights. Their bottomless brunch can easily turn chilled out day drinks into a mad one you didn’t see coming!
The Ginger Man: The Ginger Man is a proper Irish pub that has a great atmosphere that students love.
FAQS about bars and clubs in Dublin
What is the legal drinkng age in Dublin?
It’s legal to drink in Ireland at 18. As you can see from our list, some venues have age-specific nights, so just be sure to check out each place before you go.
What time are bars and clubs open to in Dublin?
It differs for each bar, but you can find yourself partying the night away until around 2:30 am most nights in Dublin.
Where do famous people hang out in Dublin?
The Hacienda bar in Dublin is very popular among celebrities. The Guinness Storehouse is a popular spot as well.
