Hello - It's been almost 2 years since you all assisted with my last Ireland trip. This time I'm only visiting Dublin for 3 nights in late May. Arriving Saturday, leaving Tuesday am. I've read where this is ample time for Dublin, agree/disagree? Can anyone recommend hotels in a central part of Dublin. I will not have a car since we're not leaving the Dublin area. I have a copy of Michelle's book which I will also check for hotels.
Hello Mary, it all depends on how much you want to spend on accommodation. I highly recommend Brooks Hotel in Drury St which I think is probably on the dearer end of the scale. It is a lovely hotel, very central to everything. You can walk to St Stephen's Green, Trinity College, Temple Bar and O'Connell St, it's close by all the shopping and restaurants of Grafton Street and surrounds, and the hop on/hop off bus. We spent 3 nights in Dublin and filled in our hours quite easily, but in retrospect 2 nights would have been fine. So yes, 3 nights is more than ample!
For the last two years we have stayed at College House B&B for the Dublin leg of our trip. They are right across from St Patricks College. They are quite easy to access via bus from the airport, with a bus stop just two doors down. It is also quite convenient to pick up the bus into Dublin City Centre, with 6 different bus routes to choose from. Patrick and Lourda are wonderful folks, and have been very helpful to us. If you contact them, be sure to tell them Keith & Wendy Coleman say hi!
Thanks for the recommendations. Any thoughts on Buswells, Alexander, Davenport , Morrison or Best Western Academy Plaza? Also, the Westin has a really good rate, a bit more than these others, but doable.
Welcome back to the forum. I'm glad to hear you are visiting Ireland again. In three days you should be able to see quite a bit in Dublin. As the other members have asked, what is your budget? Also, look at my Lodgings page for suggestions.
With the economy down, be sure to ask about special offers. Many hotels are giving lower rates and throwing in a dinner on one or two nights plus breakfast every morning.
All of the hotels in my previous post are in the 300 to 350 Euro price range for the 3 nights with the exception of the Westin. My budget is probably no more than 400 Euro for the 3 nights. I'll be relying on public transportation and walking , therfore a central location is important. I think all of the hotels are in zone/code 2. I'd love to find a smaller property for the stay - is that possible for a center city location.
Michelle, I think most of the properties in my earlier post came from your book or a post I found on your site.
If you want a no frills place try Jurys Christchurch Inn. Bewley's has some very low room rates but is located in Ballsbridge, which is the Dublin 4 area.
Thanks for the 2 suggestions. I booked the Fitzwilliam Hotel - St. Stephen's Green. I called them directly and received a rate within my budget. There really are some good rates in May for Dublin properties. The Westin also offered a reasonable rate. Now need to plan activities for the 3 days.
I'm glad you have your reservation within your budget. I agree that there are a lot of specials right now. Those traveling during this recession will have lots to choose from.