The Best Bed & Breakfasts to Book in and Around Dublin

Right in the heart of Wicklow Town, and about an hour and a half from Dublin, the Bridge Tavern is the ideal spot if you’re keen to explore a bit more of Ireland. There are a number of different room sizes, suitable for singletons travelling, couples or families — and you can have breakfast, lunch or dinner on-site. Black Castle, Kilmacurragh Gardens, Glendalough and the Powerscourt Gardens are some of the sights nearby. And golf fans will definitely want to take in a round or two at one of the nearby courses.

Tucked away in the leafy suburb of Ballsbridge, Pembroke Hall is within walking distance of Dublin’s city centre. The Georgian townhouse was transformed, creating 12 en-suite bedrooms — each of the spacious rooms has a high ceiling, with the Georgian-style windows providing sweeping views of the city. There’s a drawing room where guests can unwind and a courtyard and garden where you can bask in the sun. Make sure to stop in at Searsons for a pint or Angelina’s Restaurant & Deli for a pepperoni pizza.

Number 31 has the benefit of being city centre while also feeling a bit like a secret hideaway — and it’s an Instagrammer’s dream. The rooms are bright and spacious, holding on to some of the original heritage while adding just a dash of modernity. If you’re looking for somewhere to relax after seeing the sights, head out to the garden connecting the two buildings or the sunken-style living room. Attractions nearby include the Teeling Whiskey Distillery, Dublin Castle and EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum.

You’ll be a little further from the city centre here, but this family-run guesthouse has easy access to public transport and plenty of good pubs and restaurants nearby. Single, double and twin rooms mean it would suit couples or people travelling solo — in fact the double and single rooms would be perfect for small groups. There’s a period-style living room available for guests to relax in. Make sure you take in the market at the nearby Bushy Park on the weekends, too.

A B&B with a warm, homely feel, Avoca House is ideal if you’re after somewhere with a village vibe while still having Dublin’s city centre on your doorstep. The National Botanic Gardens of Ireland and Glasnevin Cemetery & Museum are within walking distance — and it’s about a 10-minute drive from the city centre. Each of the rooms are packed with everything you’ll need for the best night’s sleep, and are decorated to make you feel like you’re settled in at a home away from home.

If staying in central Dublin is key for you, this would be the perfect place to start your adventure. It’s less than 15 minutes on foot to St Stephen’s Green, Grafton Street, Temple Bar and Trinity College — and has easy access to public transport, as well as a number of popular pubs and restaurants nearby. Definitely try Mister S, Sophie’s or Sprezzatura, all of which are just one street over. With 50 double and twin rooms, this would be the ideal place for couples or if you’re travelling with pals.

Located in Skerries, just half an hour or so beyond Dublin’s city centre, The White Cottages are dream territory for couples. There are four different ensuite bedrooms available and the bright, open spaces – as well as the blue-and-white colours – give each of them the feel of a cosy seaside cottage. There’s also an open plan living room that you’ll be encouraged to relax in as you watch the sun set. Don’t miss out on an ice cream at Storm in a Teacup and stop in at the Blue Bar for a meal of Dublin Bay prawn tagliatelle.

It’s a few-hours drive from Dublin, but it’s definitely worth it for the views alone. You’ll get a warm welcome from Marie when you arrive at Almara House, which is located just outside of Galway city centre. Ideal for couples or people travelling solo, the B&B has a number of plush double and single rooms in attractive tones of ruby and grey. It’s also a great hub if you’re after an adventure a bit further afield, or hoping to explore the Cliffs of Moher or the Aran Islands.