Best Areas to Stay in Dublin 2023

Dublin, the UNESCO City of Literature, is Ireland's largest city and capital known for its people's kindness. It’s located on the east coast of the river Liffey, by the bay. Dublin traces its name back to an Old Irish Gaelic term which literally means ‘Black Pool’. It is home to Europe’s biggest city park. Dublin, one of the world's oldest cities and has some of the best areas to stay in Dublin, holds much historical and cultural significance. Are you thinking about moving to Dublin and looking for the best areas to live in Dublin? While Dublin has something for everyone, finding a place to live as a newbie in such a big might take a lot of work. But we have curated a list of the best neighbourhoods to live in Dublin as a student to help you find your perfect home away from home. Our list is based on relevancy and things one can do in Dublin,

What are 10 of the Best Areas to Stay In Dublin? 

The cultural centre of Ireland is Dublin City. Families and ex-pats from all over are relocating here due to the flood of global company headquarters and the attractive quality of life developing some of the best areas to stay in Dublin. They will typically find that they are very welcome. It is one of the core reasons that make these the best areas to stay in Dublin.  Whether it is a park, beach, mountain, or botanical garden, you are never more than twenty minutes from the outdoors. You can board the DART and go a short distance along the Dublin coast to a quaint fishing village if the bustle of the city ever becomes too much.

Dublin offers all the benefits of city living while also maintaining a laid-back atmosphere. The typical rushing and shoving in other capital cities won't happen here. Irish people have a reputation for being gracious, amiable, and easy back.

1. Smithfield

Famous for: Jameson Whiskey Tour at the Old Jameson Distillery in Smithfield 

Smithfield is a bustling neighbourhood full of culture and one of the best areas to stay in Dublin. Smithfield is home to many high-end residential properties and is amongst the best area to stay in dublin for first timers and is perfect for students looking for private student accommodation in Dublin in a trendy, up-and-coming area. Once an open market, Smithfield Square has become a local hang-out spot. Smithfield Square is spanned by a wide cobblestone walkway, surrounded by deco coffee shops, poetic street art, and even the Jameson Whiskey Distillery. You can enjoy authentic Irish whiskey under the lofty wooden beam ceiling or take a tour of the distillery for a small fee. Blackhall Place and Brunswick Court are Smithfield's most popular student accommodation options.

2. Portobello

Famous for: Visit and take the old Irish Jewish Museum Tour

Portobello is located by the Grand Canal and is one of the best neighbourhoods in Dublin and probably the best area to stay in Dublin. Portobello residents are primarily students and young working professionals. The area is easily accessible, serviced by many bus routes and within walking distance from the city centre. The neighbourhood has many bakeries and cafes for students to visit during their free time. Portobello has a close-knit community and makes residents feel at home, perfect for anyone looking for an accommodation in the best Dublin neighbourhoods. There are many student homes in Portobello for students to browse through. Some popular properties include Brickwork and Highlight Thomas Street, which offer students fully furnished rooms.

3. Rathmines

Famous for: Explore an Art Gallery like MART or Gereard Byrne Art Gallery

Located just 3 km from the city centre, Rathmines is popular among students because the rent is low and you get a great deal for your money. It offers excellent bus service and is only a short taxi ride from the city centre to your university. There's a fantastic selection of restaurants and pubs to try, and it's a great place to meet new people. Rathmines has a slightly larger population than Ranelagh and many residents from all over the world, making Ranelagh one of the best areas to stay in Dublin for ex-pats. There are numerous accommodation geared toward uni students and young professionals like Highlight Thomas Street. 

4. Drumcondra

Famous for: Croke Park and Tolka Park soccer stadium

Drumcondra is one of the most affordable neighbourhoods in central Dublin, making it popular among students and young professionals and one the best areas to stay in Dublin for first timers and students. Because it is close to two main university campuses in Dublin, this neighbourhood has a relatively young population. It has a frequent bus line, making getting to the city centre easy. There is also a nice walk down the Tolka River, where you can take a coffee and stroll along the riverbank. Drumcondra is a fantastic choice to live in the centre of things without all the commotion and congestion. It's close to canals, parks, and the National Botanic Gardens, and If you are looking for student accommodation near this area, Beckett House is the best to look out for.

5. Stoneybatter

Famous for: Food, Drinks and Nightlife

Historically known as Bohernaglogh and located along the River Liffey, Stoneybatter is a neighbourhood on the north side, one of the best neighbourhoods in Dublin. It is perfect for students, often called the city's hipster corner and green areas. Stoneybatter is a quirky, fun neighbourhood with some of the city's most exciting restaurants. Stoneybatter is the perfect location for anyone looking for student housing in Dublin near green space. Highlight Parkgate is a popular student accommodation near this location that is known for providing all of the necessary and student-centric features such as a comfortable bed, ample workspace, storage facility, etc. 

6. D4

Famous for: being the most expensive postcode and HQ of Google

The majority of the upper-middle-class population of Dublin lives in this district of D4. It is a fantastic alternative if you wish to stay in a central location without being in the middle of the city. However, this area is a costly one. The nickname "D4" is frequently used to describe Dublin's upper middle class, whether or not they stay in D4, as it is closely associated with wealth. Moreover, this region has a refined accent, and you can differentiate it from the accents you'll hear across Dublin. This area is undoubtedly one of the best areas to stay in Dublin, especially Point Campus and is quite famous for its green areas like Herbert Park and Ringsend Park.

7. Ranelagh

Famous for: Ranelagh Gardens

Ranelagh is located southeast of Portobello and on the other side of the Grand Canal. Ranelagh, located inside the D6 district, features a mixed population of natives and ex-pats who have relocated to Dublin for various reasons. The area is well-known throughout the city for its gourmet food shops, superb restaurants, and trendy bars. Ranelagh was one of Dublin's first suburbs. Ranelagh is well-connected, and you can get to town by bus or tram in 15 minutes. However, you may never need to leave because the main street is filled with stores, bars, and old-school architecture, so you will have everything you need right at your disposal.

8. North Inner City

Famous For: National Museum of Ireland

The North Inner City is in a wide area in the D1 district, north of the Liffey River in the central city centre. If you want to live in the middle of all the action and hustle in the city, North inner city and City Central South are the place for you. Comparatively, the north inner city is affordable and filled with working-class people. You'll find a wide variety of food options given its central location. It has many fantastic affordable cafes ad restaurants. The area has pros and cons, along with great nightlife, endless action, and excellent eateries; you will also get nonstop noise, pricy places and some green space. Nevertheless, the North inner city is one of the best areas to stay in Dublin; here are two of our offerings in the area Dorset Point and North Circular Road (447).

9. Phibsborough

Famous for: coffee shops, restaurants and pubs

Phibsborough is a commercial and residential neighbourhood on Dublin's Northside. Residential Phibsborough, defined by Victorian redbrick architecture, offers modern cafés and bistros beside long-standing pubs and chip shops. Locals are spoiled for choice, with many coffee shops, restaurants, and bars on their doorstep. It features several quirky bars, such as The Back Page, where you can eat pizza, play board games, or attend a theme night. Young Dubliners enjoy brunch at artsy cafés and shopping at indie bookstores and apparel stores. Phizzfest presents live theatre and music at various venues throughout the year. All these factors make it one of the best areas to stay in Dublin. Highfield House is an affordable student accommodation option in the neighbourhood, with rent starting at around £232/week.

10. Dundrum

Famous for: Ruins of Norman castle

Dundrum isn't central, yet it's one of the best areas to stay in Dublin for students and one of the Best neighbourhoods to stay in Dublin for affordable accommodation. Dundrum, a vast area covering districts 14 and 16, is home to Dublin's largest shopping centre. It's an excellent location for students because University College Dublin is nearby. It has a vibrant nightlife and a young population. Dundrum is filled with young people. Nearly 40% of the population is aged 18 to 34. It's residential, peaceful and full of charm.

Before you choose your preferred place to stay, check out these things to keep in mind while finalising student accommodation in Dublin. Researching the Cost of living in Dublin is the right move before shifting here, and to get your moving-in checklist right. Find out everything you need to know about living in Dublin on Le Petit Journal. Dublin offers much to make your student life experience memorable, from the best food areas to green to affordable neighbourhoods. You can experience the best of Dublin life by living in any of these best areas to stay in Dublin. So why wait? Book your accommodation with amber in just three easy steps.