Dublin Nightlife
Nightlife in Dublin has changed beyond all recognition recently. Stylish bars and buzzing pre-club haunts now sit alongside the traditional Irish pubs. The popular Temple Bar area is perhaps the city's best-known hotspot, but areas around George's Street, Abbey Street and Wexford Street are increasingly the preferred options for locals. They offer lively bars, chic venues and variety that goes way beyond the traditional pint of porter.
For gigs, and shows, tickets can be purchased on the night directly from the venues or in advance at outlets of HMV stores, on Henry Street and Grafton Street, from Dublin Tourism on Suffolk Street (tel: +353 1 8903 24583; www.visitdublin.com; bookings in person only), or from Ticketmaster (tel: +353 8187 19300; www.ticketmaster.ie).
Music website www.goldenplec.com is a great source of gig listings, while fortnightly magazine In Dublin (www.indublin.ie) is good for nightlife and events listings, with bar, restaurant and club reviews. Dublin Tourism also has online events listings that are updated daily.
Bars in Dublin
Against The Grain
Dublin's growing love of the craft beer market is epitomised in this haven for those who love a classy pint. Against the Grain has an ever-evolving selection with the wonderfully unique taste of Galway Hooker at the heart of their broad selection. With board games, snugs and lively late nights, it's a pub well worth an evening or two.
Address: North Central Dublin, 11 Wexford Street, Dublin, Dublin 1Telephone: +353 1 874 4045.
Website: http://www.galwaybaybrewery.com/againstthegrain
Dawson Lounge
This is the smallest pub in Dublin, with room for about six people tucked away in the basement. You'll have to lever your way in on a busy night, but at least you know you'll get served quickly. With wood-panelled walls and a mere smattering of furniture, it's great for a few novelty photos before the night really gets going.
Address: Grafton Street, Dawson Street, Dublin, Dublin 2Telephone: +353 1 677 5909.
Oliver St John Gogarty's
In the heart of Temple Bar, this bright green monster of a traditional pub seems to go on forever through winding little rooms and quaint hideaways. At its cosy core you'll find trad music played to perfection, alongside Guinness and whiskey served the way it has been for generations.
Address: Temple Bar, 58 Fleet Street, Dublin, Dublin 2Telephone: +353 1 671 1822.
Website: http://www.gogartys.ie
Clubs in Dublin
Lillie's Bordello
The exclusive Lillie's Bordello is where all visiting pop stars, actors and celebrities hang out for after-show parties. The famed upstairs room is a tough one to sneak into, but for a general sense of fashion and occasion, plus an extensive cocktail menu, it is worth dressing up for anyway.
Address: Grafton Street, 1 Adam Court, Dublin, Dublin 2Telephone: +353 1 679 9204.
Website: http://www.lilliesbordello.ie
The Hangar
Revamped into exactly the kind of warehouse venue it sounds like, The Hangar is located in a former shirt factory. It is rustic to say the least, but always good for a night of debauchery. There's rarely a quiet night here, though the camp shenanigans of club night Mother Dublin have gained a particularly flamboyant reputation.
Address: South Central Dublin, 9 St Andrew's Street, Dublin, Dublin 2Telephone: +353 1 672 9022.
Website: http://www.hangardublin.ie
Twisted Pepper
Out on its own as Dublin's most outstanding alternative club, Twisted Pepper's three floors transform from coffee shop during the day to messy, beat-driven nightclub when the sun goes down. Known for its cocktails and relaxed buzz, it does host some intense DJ talent and has a sweatbox feel that's fresh out of a Berlin basement.
Address: North Central Dublin, 54 Middle Abbey Street, Dublin, Dublin 1Telephone: +353 86 325 2471.
Website: http://bodytonicmusic.com/thetwistedpepper
Live music in Dublin
National Concert Hall
Dublin's main classical music venue is the National Concert Hall, which is home to the National Symphony Orchestra. It hosts a range of events, including a few bargain-basement lunchtime offerings, with a broad musical, literary and theatrical output in the evening.
Address: South Central Dublin, Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin, Dublin 2Telephone: +353 1 417 0000.
Website: http://www.nch.ie
The 3Arena
Dublin's largest indoor concert venue has played host to many of the world's most famous acts, and can be a real revolving door of talent. With a capacity of 14,000, it's not exactly an intimate experience, but if you're after massive shows in a polished, bouncing modern warehouse, this is the spot to choose.
Address: , North Wall Quay, Dublin, Dublin 1Telephone: +353 1 819 8888.
Website: http://www.3arena.ie
Whelan's
Easily Ireland's best-known live music pub, Whelan's is a mecca for hipster types supping pints and chatting in-depth on the latest far-from-the-charts fodder. It's also home to much of the city's most impressive music, spreading acts across three stages and covering most genres. Whelan's is a great spot to base a long night around.
Address: South Central Dublin, 25 Wexford Street, Dublin, Dublin 2Telephone: +353 1 478 0766.
Website: http://www.whelanslive.com
