17 [AMAZING!] and BEST Hostels in Dublin (2023)

Dublin, the largest city and capital of Ireland, is a fantastic place to spend a long weekend, or even a little longer. With world-famous attractions in the historical center, it’s a great place to try a pint of Guinness or visit Jameson’s distillery. Basically, if you’re into your alcohol, you’ll be right at home here.

However, Dublin can be mind-bogglingly expensive, and although it’s not a huge city, it can be tricky knowing the best place to stay. No need to worry though – Dublin has loads of great hostels which are clean, friendly, and a great place to spend your trip.

To help you, we’ve searched high and low for the best hostels in Dublin, taking into consideration your budget and itinerary to find the perfect place for you to stay.  

Fortunately, Dublin has a lot of choices to suit your budget and travel style. There’s even the top European hostel chain Generator here, as well as a number of independent and family-run accommodations. So, let’s get right to it and check out what Dublin has to offer.

Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in Dublin

#1 Best overall hostel in Dublin: Sky Backpackers
#2 Best party hostel in Dublin: The Times Hostel: Camden Place
#3 Best hostel for solo travelers in Dublin: Gardiner House
#4 Best hostel near Guinness Storehouse: Garden Lane Backpackers
#5 Best hostel near Trinity College: Abigail’s Hostel
#6 Best hostel near Dublin Castle: Abbey Court
#7 Best hostel near Temple Bar: Barnacles Temple Bar House
#8 Best hostel near Jameson’s Distillery: Four Courts Hostel
#9 Best hostel near Dublin airport: Forty Four Main Street
#10 Best hostel near Connolly train station: Isaacs Hostel
#11 Best hostel near Heuston train station: Tipperary House
#12 Best hostel near Grand Canal Dock station: Avalon House
#13 Best hostel near Busáras bus station: Jacobs Inn
#14 Best high-end hostel in Dublin: Temple Bar Inn
#15 Best budget hostel in Dublin: Kinlay House
#16 Best hostel with private rooms in Dublin: Generator Hostel

 

#1 – Sky Backpackers

Best overall hostel in Dublin

Why we like Sky Backpackers…
Where do we start? There are a number of reasons that we like Sky Backpackers that make it the best overall hostel in Dublin. The friendly hostel is super welcoming, and they always have something going on – each night there’s a different event. Also, the hostel is clean, safe, and regularly has live music and/or DVD nights.

Sky Backpackers Hostel is perfect for…
If you want to stay right in the heart of Dublin, close to all the main attractions, then Sky Backpackers is your best bet. If you’re traveling solo, this is also a great place; the spacious common room (which used to be a rehearsal room) is a great space to meet other travelers.

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Recommended reading: Looking for the best boutique hotels in Dublin? Check out our 2022 insider guide!

#2 – The Times Hostel – Camden Place

Best party hostel in Dublin

Why we like The Times Hostel – Camden Place…
Temple Bar isn’t the only place you can party in Dublin; Camden street is another great nightlife sport. Look no further than the Times Party Hostel – Camden Place as the city’s best party hostel. Take advantage of the free pub crawl every night, which usually ends up in one of the city’s best clubs – just around the corner.

The Times Hostel – Camden Place is perfect for…
If you want to party and you’re looking for Dublin’s best party hostel, then this is the place for you. It’s easy to get to know other travelers here, before heading out for a few drinks and partying with them. The bright purple exterior means you won’t have any trouble spotting this place! Also check out more 11 BEST Party Hostels in Dublin.

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Traveling as a solo traveler? Check out our best hostels for solo travelers in Dublin

#3 – Gardiner House

Best hostel for solo travellers in Dublin

Why we like Gardiner House…
Gardiner House, located in a 200-year-old convent and boasting a Victorian chapel, is the best place for solo travelers to stay in Dublin. There are dorms fitting from 4 – 18 people, either mixed or single gender, and there are some great chillout areas. The hostel also has partnerships with tour companies, meaning there are a number of ways to meet other travellers.

Gardiner House is perfect for…
If you’re worried about making friends and being lonely on your trip to Dublin, Gardiner House will put those worries to bed straight away. Friendly staff can help you with a whole manner of things, and there are loads of opportunities to meet other travelers and have a great time.

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Heading to Ireland? Save some money with our guide to the coolest hostels in Ireland!

#4 – Garden Lane Backpackers

 Best hostel near Guinness Storehouse

Garden Lane Backpackers
Garden Lane Backpackers is the best hostel near Guinness Storehouse

 Why we like Garden Lane Backpackers…
Right in the heart of the Christ Church area, Garden Lane Backpackers is the perfect place to stay if you want to visit the world-famous Guinness Storehouse. We love that there are supermarkets around the corner, where you can buy food to cook with in the kitchen, as well as the free tea, coffee, and hot chocolate on offer.  

Garden Lane Backpackers is perfect for…
Visiting the Guinness Storehouse is easy peasy from Garden Lane Backpackers, as are a number of other city center attractions, like Temple Bar, Christ Church Cathedral, and Trinity College. The international staff speak a number of languages, so you’ll have someone to talk with if English isn’t your first language.

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#5 –  Abigail’s Hostel

 Best hostel near Trinity College Dublin

Abigail’s Hostel
Abigail’s Hostel is the best hostel near Trinity College Dublin

Why we like Abigail’s Hostel…
This modern and light hostel is slap-bang in the center of Dublin, and the one-minute walk to Trinity College makes Abigail’s Hostel the best place to stay if you’re planning a visit. We’re big fans of the free breakfast, which comes with eggs, croissants, yogurts, and scones – perfect fuel for a day of seeing the sights. 

Abigail’s Hostel is perfect for…
Not only visiting Trinity College but the other city center attractions too. It’s a short walk to Temple Bar, and there are conveniently located bus stops if you’re heading to the ferry terminal or train stations. There’s a broad age range here too, so if you’re not an 18-30 backpacker but want to meet people easily, Abigail’s is a good option.

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Editor’s note: Save a bit of cash in Dublin with our guide to budget hostels in Dublin!

#6 – Abbey Court

 Best hostel near Dublin Castle

Abbey Court
Abbey Court is the best hostel near Dublin Castle

Why we like Abbey Court…
Just off O’Connell Bridge, this hostel’s central location makes it the best hostel for visiting Dublin Castle (one of the best things to do in Dublin with kids!). We love the all you can eat breakfast too. This friendly hostel has dorms holding from 4 – 24 beds, and it’s a great place to meet other travelers. A dart board and a foosball table are a great way to get competitive too. 

Abbey Court is perfect for…
Travelers who want to be close to Dublin Castle and other central tourist attractions. It’s great if you want to meet people; not only are there large dorms, but it has great common areas and a nightly pub crawl. The quirky and colorful décor is a winner!

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Have some time? Get out of the city with these epic day trips from Dublin!

#7 – Barnacles Temple Bar House

Best hostel near Temple Bar

Barnacles Temple Bar House
Barnacles Temple Bar House is the best hostel near Temple Bar

 

Why we like Barnacles Temple Bar House…
The name gives it away a bit, right? Right in the heart of the nightlife, you shouldn’t miss Barnacles Temple Bar House if you want to be close to a pint of Guinness. The great pub crawls help you to get to know other travelers, and we love the delicious continental breakfast.

Barnacles Temple Bar House is perfect for…
Parties! Not only is Barnacles Temple Bar House one of the best party hostels in the city, but you have all the nightlife right on your doorstep. It’s also good for relaxing; there’s a comfortable lounge complete with games and Netflix, while on Monday’s, there’s even a free pasta dinner – great if you’re on a budget.

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#8 – Four Courts Hostel

 Best hostel near Jameson’s Distillery

Four Courts Hostel
Four Courts Hostel is the best hostel near Jameson’s Distillery
  • Cost – $$
  • Location – 15/17 Merchants Quay, Christchurch (Adjacent to Temple Bar) 
  • Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Four Courts Hostel…
This colorful hostel is right in the historic area and the best place to stay if you want to visit Jameson’s Distillery. You can also pop around the corner for a pint in Dublin’s oldest pub. The communal lounge is a great place to sleep off your hangover on a beanbag, in front of your favorite movie or series on Netflix.

Four Courts Hostel is perfect for…
Being close to Jameson’s Distillery is a top reason to book Four Courts, as well as a number of other attractions in the city’s historical center. If you need help with booking onward travel, the friendly staff here will do everything they can to make sure you reach your next destination comfortably, and for the best price.

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Editor’s Tip: Beat the crowds by booking a hostel near Temple Bar Dublin and getting out for a morning tour!

#9 – Forty Four Main Street

Best hostel near Dublin airport

Forty Four Main Street
Forty Four Main Street is the best hostel near Dublin airport

Why we like Forty Four Main Street…
This elegant and stylish hostel is great if you’re in Dublin for a stopover or have an early morning flight. Located in the village of Swords, it’s only a five-minute drive from Dublin airport. Although it’s far from the city center attractions, the village of swords has a 1,400-year history and its a lovely place to explore.

Forty Four Main Street is perfect for…
If you’re looking to be right on the doorstep of Dublin airport, then look no further than Forty Four Main Street. The plush interior is perfect if you’re happy to splash out a little – tastefully decorated private rooms mean you can enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Recommended Reading – Check out more 11 COOLEST Hostel near Dublin airport 

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#10 – Isaacs Hostel

 Best hostel near Connolly train station

Isaacs Hostel
Isaacs Hostel is the best hostel near Connolly train station

Why we like Isaacs Hostel…
Since it’s only a five-minute walk from the station, we’re sure this is the best hostel near Connolly train station. Isaacs hostel has an excellent atmosphere and a popular pub crawl. If the pub crawl isn’t your thing, there are a load of chillout areas too. There’s even a free sauna, which we’re a fan of – especially after a hard day’s sightseeing. 

Isaacs Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re interested in seeing the beautiful Irish countryside and the other cities in the country, then this place is a good bet for you thanks to its proximity to Connolly train station. You’re also close to the main bus station – Busaras – so you’ve got a lot of options on how to travel around. As well as that, the hostel is really sociable. 

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Check it out! We did a full review of ISAACS HOSTEL DUBLIN!

#11 – Tipperary House

Best hostel near Heuston train station

Tipperary House
Tipperary House is the best hostel near Heuston train station

Why we like Tipperary House…
Not strictly a hostel, this friendly and cozy B & B is directly opposite Heuston train station and the airport link bus, making it the perfect place to stay. The family who runs the hostel have owned it for 40 years, so they know a thing or two about keeping travelers happy. There’s a great view of the River Liffey, and it’s a hop, skip, and a jump to the city center attractions.

Tipperary House is perfect for…
If you want to party, this isn’t the place for you. However, for a quiet and cozy stay in Dublin, Tipperary House is perfect. If you’re traveling further afield, to other parts of Ireland or abroad, you’re well connected here; you’ll be able to just roll out of bed before your train departs. 

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#12 – Avalon House

 Best hostel near Grand Canal Dock train station

Avalon House
Avalon House is the best hostel near Grand Canal Dock train station

Why we like Avalon House…
It’s not right on the doorstep, but a five-minute taxi ride from Grand Canal Dock Station makes it the closest and best place to stay nearby. Although it’s one of the cheapest hostels in Dublin, you’ll be amazed at what Avalon House has to offer – a 65-inch screen in their cinema room, and foosball tables and table tennis in the games room.

Avalon House is perfect for…
Travelers who want to see other parts of Dublin and want to be within proximity to one of the biggest train stations. It’s also great if you’re on a budget – dorms are very reasonably priced, there’s a kitchen to cook your meals, and you can save a few euro on the cinema with that huge 65-inch screen!

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#13 – Jacobs Inn

 Best hostel near Busáras bus station

Jacobs Inn
Jacobs Inn is the best hostel near Busáras bus station

 Why we like Jacobs Inn…
Just a three-minute walk makes Jacobs Inn hands down the best and most convenient place to stay near Busáras bus station. We love the culture nights, where you can learn traditional Irish dancing and have a good laugh with the new friends you’ve met in the sociable kitchen or two lounges.

Jacobs Inn is perfect for…
Those who are traveling through Ireland via bus, of course – you can leave just 10 minutes before your bus does and you’ll still comfortably make it (not recommended if you are easily stressed though!) Jacobs Inn has a varied clientele and is a good place for families, as well as solo travelers and groups. Digital nomads will love the quick wi-fi and comfortable spaces to work.

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#14 – Temple Bar Inn

 Best high-end hostel in Dublin

Temple Bar Inn
Temple Bar Inn is the best high-end hostel in Dublin

Why we like Temple Bar Inn…
More a hotel than a hostel, this chic and modern design is the best high-end accommodation in the city, and it is perfectly located right in the middle of Temple Bar (as you’d expect from the name). Rooms are comfortable and come with a flat-screen TV, minibar, toiletries, and tea and coffee. Fancy!

Temple Bar Inn is perfect for…
If you’re traveling in Dublin and want to splash the cash and live a life of luxury, this place is perfect for you. It’s also great if you want to be right in the mix when it comes to nightlife and city center attractions. Couples, flashpackers, and groups of friends will love the cool designs of the private rooms and communal area.

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#15 – Kinlay House Dublin

 Best budget hostel in Dublin

Kinlay House Dublin
Kinlay House Dublin is the best budget hostel in Dublin

Why we like Kinlay House…
Although this is the cheapest hostel you’ll find in Dublin, its central location and pub downstairs will make you think you’ve paid a lot more. It’s in a beautiful listed building, and although it’s nothing too flashy, it’s clean, safe, and comfortable. A great option for the budget traveler!

Kinlay House is perfect for…
Perfect if you want to save money on accommodation to spend more in the downstairs pub. It’s only a stone’s throw away from lots of the city’s most popular tourist attractions and night spots, so you won’t even need to pay for a taxi if you’re coming back late at night.

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#16 – Generator Dublin

 Best hostel with private room in Dublin

Generator Dublin
Generator Dublin is the best hostel with private room in Dublin

Why we like Generator Dublin…
This modern, recently-opened hostel has successful branches all over Europe and offers state-of-the-art facilities and a selection of spacious and comfortable private rooms. Generator has single, twin, three, and four-bed private rooms with beds and ensuites. You can get a six-bed with a shared bathroom too. There are great communal areas, meaning it’s still easy to socialise with other travellers in Dublin. 

Generator Dublin is perfect for…
Generator is great for solo travellers who don’t mind splashing a bit of cash for personal comfort, and groups who want to share rooms together, but also want a fun atmosphere and an opportunity to easily meet people and socialise. You would be forgiven for thinking you’re actually in a hotel!

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Other great hostels in Dublin

#17 – Spire Hostel

Spire Hostel
Spire Hostel

Why we like Spire Hostel…
Spire Hostel has loads of free perks for travellers – including free wi-fi, breakfast, luggage room, walking tours, weekly events, and even a free hairdryer. Conveniently located in the centre of Dublin, and just one minute from the Spire, the hostel comes with over 120 beds, meaning that it’s a pretty sociable place too!

Spire Hostel is great for…
If you’re looking for sociable, city centre accommodation, then Spire is perfect for you. Also, loads of tours further afield in Ireland are available here if you want to get out and explore the beautiful emerald countryside and hunt for leprechauns. If you want to stay in the city and take in a pub crawl, the staff can organise that for you too.

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FAQ’s

How Much are Hostels in Dublin?

Prices for dorm rooms are usually around $15 to $25 for a night. For private rooms you should budget for at least $50 and often closer to $90 for a one night stay.

What are Hostels in Dublin Like?

A cool combination of modern facilities and neat historic venues! There are plenty of party hostels to enjoy the famous Dublin brews, but you can also find nice quiet places if you prefer a homey atmosphere and going to bed early! Dublin sees a lot of travelers, so there are a variety of hostels for every traveler.

How Safe are Hostels in Dublin?

In general, very! Dublin is considered a safe travel destination, even for solo travelers. Of course, you should still take the normal precautions when traveling!

How to Find Hostels in Dublin?

Look at your options using HostelWorld to compare prices and see reviews from past travelers. If you're traveling to other places in Ireland and the United Kingdom, you can probably pick up some suggestions from other travelers about where to stay!

 

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Sky Backpackers

  • Free breakfast, free wifi
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The Times Hostel – Camden Place

  • Free breakfast, free wifi, free city maps
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Gardiner House

  • Free breakfast, free wifi
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Garden Lane Backpackers

  • Free breakfast, free wifi
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Abigail’s Hostel

  • Free breakfast, free wifi
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Abbey Court

  • Free breakfast, free city tour, free wifi
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Barnacles Temple Bar House

  • Free city maps, free wifi
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Four Courts Hostel

  • Free breakfast, free wifi, free city maps
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Forty Four Main Street

  • Free wifi, bar
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Isaacs Hostel

  • Free breakfast, free city maps, free wifi
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Tipperary House

  • Free breakfast, free wifi, towels included
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Avalon House

  • Free breakfast, free wifi, free city maps
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Jacobs Inn

  • Free breakfast, free wifi, free city maps
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Temple Bar Inn

  • Free city maps, towels included
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Kinlay House

  • Free breakfast, free wifi, free city maps
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Generator Dublin

  • Free city maps, free wifi, bar
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Conclusion

So, that’s all from us. We’ve made a pretty extensive and detailed list and we hope that you’ve been able to find something that suits your budget, personality, and taste.

We certainly wouldn’t want you to miss out on visiting Ireland’s most popular tourist destination, after all.

Dublin can be expensive at times, and it’s good to know that you don’t have to squander your whole budget on your accommodation by staying in a hostel that will be cheap – and hopefully fun and friendly too.

Don’t forget our top hostel in Dublin – Sky Backpackers hostel. Whichever hostel you decide on, we hope you have a great time!

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me keep the site going :)

Clair Ricketts