Beyond Temple Bar: A Guide to Dublin's Best Pubs for a Real Chat

Because the best memories are made when you can hear each other speak.

A cozy, traditional Dublin pub with a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Temple Bar is Dublin's most famous pub district. It's also loud, crowded, and expensive. It's great for a photo, but not always for a hangout.

If you're meeting friends and want to have an actual conversation, you need to venture beyond the main strip. Dublin is full of incredible pubs with history, character, and reasonable prices.

For the Traditional Vibe: The Palace Bar

Just a stone's throw from Temple Bar, The Palace Bar on Fleet Street feels like a world away. It's a pre-Victorian pub with a stunning interior and a "snug" – a small, private room perfect for a quiet chat.

The ornate, historic interior of The Palace Bar in Dublin.
A proper pub, preserved in time.

You won't find loud music here, just the gentle hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses.

For a Great Pint of Guinness: The Long Hall

Located on South Great George's Street, The Long Hall is a masterpiece. It's famous for its perfect pint of Guinness and stunning Victorian decor.

It's a long, narrow pub, which encourages a friendly, communal atmosphere. It gets busy, but the vibe is always top-notch.

The iconic red and white interior of The Long Hall pub.
Arguably one of the best pints of Guinness in Dublin.

For Live Music Lovers: Whelan's

If you want music but still want a classic pub feel, head to Whelan's on Wexford Street. It's one of Dublin's most famous live music venues, hosting both big names and up-and-coming acts.

The main venue can be loud, but the front bar retains a traditional pub atmosphere, giving you the best of both worlds.

Find a Pub That's Fair for Everyone

Friends coming from Northside and Southside? midway@ finds the perfect pub that's a fair travel time for your entire group. Spend less time traveling and more time enjoying the craic.

Plan Your Dublin Pub Meetup