6 top-ranked pubs in Dublin to visit right now
If there’s one thing Dublin is known for, it’s pubs. That familiar smell of dated wood and leather, the glossy red Victorian ceilings, lines of taps offering everything from Guinness to other local drafts.
Live Celtic music, time-worn mahogany bars, and Irish bartenders pouring pints of Guinness? Congratulations, you’ve made it to Dublin. The city is known worldwide for its pubs filled with lively music and traditional interiors that harken back to Ireland’s past. After you’ve explored Dublin on tour, grab a seat and have a pint at one of these six famous Dublin pubs.
1. Gravity Bar
The circular, futuristic Gravity Bar is a stark contrast to the square, red-brick building below it. The glass-walled bar sits on top of the old Guinness Storehouse, which is now a museum dedicated to the famous brewery. “The Gravity Bar gives you an awesome view of the city, plus the Guinness Storehouse was a really well-put-together exhibit,” said Go Ahead staffer Shannon. Though not a quintessential Irish pub, Gravity Bar shows us that legendary Guinness is still on the cutting edge.
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Go here for: Unparalleled views of Dublin
Nearby attraction: Guiness Open Gate Brewery
2. Long Hall
This pub is a favorite among local Dubliners, and for good reason. With its high leather booths and genuine Victorian decor, walking into the Long Hall feels like walking back in time. Take a seat at the bar, or tuck into a table, and raise a toast with your fellow Irishmen (and women!) for the day. There’s an Irish saying, “‘You can’t take Ireland with you, but it can take you.’ And it’s so true!” said traveler James.
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Go here for: Conversations with locals
Nearby attraction: Dubh Linn Garden
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3. Neary’s
A stroll down Grafton Street takes you through one of the main shopping corridors in Dublin. But take a quick turn down a side street, away from the brand-name storefronts, and you’ll run into this iconic pub. With its rustic interior and classic charm, this quintessential locale is a welcomed respite from much of the hustle and bustle outside. If you’re looking for a slice of authentic Ireland, this is it.
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Go here for: A piece of authentic Ireland in the heart of Dublin’s shopping district
Nearby attraction: The Little Museum of Dublin
4. Gravediggers
This bar has remained in its original state for almost 200 years, and there hasn’t been a telephone, TV, music, or dancing on premises since the first beer was served here, in 1833. Take a stroll through the cemetery next door, then settle in for a pint with the locals—just don’t ask them what they do for work.
Nearby attraction: National Botanic Gardens
5. Brazen Head
The beloved Irish author James Joyce famously references Brazen Head in his landmark novel, Ulysses. It’s well known for being the oldest pub in Dublin, dating back to the year 1198, when it served as a coach house. “There are a whole bunch of small rooms where you can really see the character,” said Go Ahead staffer Shannon. “The food is really good for dinner. Beef and Guinness stew is an iconic meal, and you can continue to enjoy the pub late into the night.”
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Go here for: The impressive history and a bowl of Guinness stew
Nearby attraction: Saint Audoen’s Gate
6. Stag’s Head
Known as one of the most well-preserved Victorian pubs in Dublin, Stag’s Head is teeming with old world charm. With a prominent stag’s head behind the bar and soaring stained-glass windows, this pub is almost fit for Queen Victoria herself. “Being at the pub made me appreciate and understand the essence of Irish craic—a.k.a. the beauty of good conversation and good company,” said Go Ahead staffer Emily. “The people were friendly, the Guinness was fresh, and I truly felt like I was connecting with the authentic side of Irish culture.” You’ll come to Stag’s Head for its impeccable architecture, but stay for classic Irish fare, like bacon and cabbage with mashed potatoes and herbs.
Go here for: Live music and genuine Victorian decor
Nearby attraction: Molly Malone Statue
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