If there is one thing, Dublin is known for its incredible nightlife and bouncing bars. A trip to Dublin is perfect for breathtaking landscapes, incredible history, and Guinness, but it isn’t complete without a trip to a top-quality bar.
The best bars in Dublin vary from some of the most popular to some that are more under the radar. This guide will explore that and help you decide where it is best to visit based on your needs. You will be spoilt for choice in this wonderful city; read on to find out more.
Table of Contents
McGowans Sports Bar
To start the list, we have the best sports bar in Phibsboro – McGowans.
McGowan’s sports bar is the perfect place to be if you want a relaxed, kicked-back atmosphere. Situated in Phibsboro, Dublin, this bar offers a wide variety of delicious food and drink, with live sports action available across 16 screens.
Yes, 16 screens! This makes it a great choice if there is a sports event on that day that you want to watch, be it football, rugby, or NFL, you name it. You can get in touch with them to find out what’s on and what you want to see.
McGowans has something for everyone. It’s just a short walk from the historic Croke Park and has been the go-to sports bar for over a century. So if you’re on your way out from a tour of Ireland’s largest sporting arena, then why not head down to McGowans for a quick pint?
Even if you don’t like sports, McGowans makes for a great place, and you’ll love the atmosphere, menu, and live music. A truly friendly late-night bar – they even offer venue hire should it be a big occasion!
The Temple Bar
A listicle of the best bars in Dublin wouldn’t be complete without The Temple Bar, would it? It is a well-known bar and one of the world’s most popular.
Located in the heart of Dublin’s cultural quarter, it is known well for its traditional Irish atmosphere and stunning architecture.
The bar is situated in a historical building dating back to the 18th century and features a warm and cosy interior with large wooden beams, open fireplaces, and a great atmosphere.
It hosts a wide selection of Irish whiskies, ales, stouts and much more. Not to mention it’s the amazing range of traditional Irish food to feast upon.
The bar is also very well known for its supreme live music, which ranges from traditional Irish folk music to contemporary acts. Several musicians play each night, and the performances often go late into the night. The bar is always packed with locals and tourists, making it a great place to make friends and embrace a lively atmosphere.
This also means that The Temple Bar can be very busy and crowded, especially during weekends or peak tourist season. The popularity also means they can bump prices up, so expect to pay a pretty penny for your drink.
Despite this, if you want that good Dublin experience and are willing to pour time and money into it, then The Temple Bar makes for the ultimate choice.
The Brazen Head
The Brazen Head is one of Dublin’s oldest and most historic bars. This is the best you’ll get in terms of a traditional Irish atmosphere.
Located in the Liberties area of the city, it has been in operation since the late 1700s.
The pub is well known for its great atmosphere with low ceilings, dim lighting, cosy atmosphere and old-style architecture.
It is a popular tourist attraction for locals and tourists alike, with vibrant live music which ranges from traditional Irish music to other contemporary acts.
The bar also offers a wide range of food, including traditional favourites like fish and chips, Guinness beef stew, and cottage pie.
What makes this bar so special is its extensive history; it has played host to some of the most famous figures in Irish history, including James Joyce and Brendan Behan. The pub is also said to be where the United Irishmen planned the 1798 rebellion.
Similar to The Temple bar, The Brazen Head can also get quite busy in peak times, but if you can manage to plan around it, you will surely love this elegant bar.
To Conclude
This concludes the three best bars you can visit when in Dublin. It can be a difficult task to choose the right bar for you during your visit.
Hopefully, this guide has helped with your decision, and you can see the best choice for what you’re looking for.
Which bar will you opt for?
