what to do in dublin 7: top sights and attractions
Last updated Jun 04, 2023
Dublin's city centre, but not as you know it! From post-work wine bars and secret pubs, to event spaces and banging fusion restaurants, this neighbourhood knows how to have a good time. Our Walking Guide will steer you in the right direction…
coffee at one of dublin's independent cafés in smithfield and stoneybatter
Dublin’s artisan coffee scene is well established, with independent cafés serving specialty coffee all across the city. Some of the best happen to be at your fingertips. Brother Hubbard is just around the corner serving a slap up brunch with a Middle Eastern twist along with excellent coffee options. Head towards Smithfield (an 8 minute walk) to find Oxmantown where coffee is complimented by some of the best sandwiches in the city. Walk a little further on into Stoneybatter for Joli, a locals’ favourite spot for a caffeine hit which turns into a wine bar at night. Don’t leave here without a gourmet sausage roll!
View this post on Instagram
a day in phoenix park and dublin zoo
On sunny days make a beeline for the Phoenix Park, the largest public park in Europe. It’s home to Ireland’s President and the wonderful Dublin Zoo. You won’t have to venture far to find its other famous residents… A herd of 600 fallow deer! Rent a bike at the entrance and go exploring or simply stroll through the green at your own leisure.
View this post on Instagram
jameson distillery
It wouldn’t be a trip to Ireland’s capital without visiting a distillery… There’s 5 working distilleries in Dublin all within easy walking distance from Staycity. Jameson is the closest, just an 8 minute walk away from our City Centre location in Smithfield. Learn all about the history of this iconic whiskey and sample it for yourself with premium whiskey tastings and cocktail making workshops.
View this post on Instagram
cinema and music
Just across the road you’ll find The Lighthouse, an events cinema with an eclectic mix of mainstream and arthouse films, and live-streamed theatre, opera and ballet. Serving wine and tasty snacks, this is a proper date night favourite. If you really don’t want to stray too far from the aparthotel, pop around the corner to The Complex to find local and international art and music events.
feed me
Dublin 7 is heaving with trendy food stops and top restaurants. You’ll find Little Dumpling and Umi Falafel on the very same street as your apartment, serving up authentic Chinese dumplings and veggie Middle-Eastern options respectively. Down the road in Smithfield Fish Shop will knock your socks off with tasty low-key seafood options such as cockles and fish & chips, paired with unusual fine wines. Try Bullet Duck & Dumplings for Hong Kong cuisine with a train station aesthetic.
View this post on Instagram
take me for a drink
Pop next door to the hidden, speakeasy-style Hacienda, there’s no name on the door but you’ll recognise it from the ship’s wheel on front of the building. Once inside, play a game of pool over a pint and check out the pictures of celebrities who’ve drank here before you. If cocktails are more your vibe, Bar 1661 has a creative menu, specialising in Poitín, a traditional Irish spirit. Head to Bonobo for classic cocktails and craft beers with delicious pizzas on the side. Their heated outdoor area is always buzzing.
View this post on Instagram
The Cobblestone is a rare find in Dublin, a traditional Irish pub with live music playing multiple times a week. Step back in time and get swept up in the ‘Craic agus Ceol’.
View this post on Instagram
Staycity Aparthotels, Dublin City Centre, is bang smack in the centre of Dublin (the clue is in the name!). Straddling Dublin 7 and the heart of the city centre itself, Dublin’s top sights and attractions are on your doorstep. Explore the area like a local, popping into cafés and grabbing dumplings on the go!
staying at dublin city centre
Riverside coffees, international cuisine, LGBTQ+ bars, shopping, whiskey distilleries, markets, street art.
