Both a leisure capital and a European business hub, Dublin is bubbling with hotels for all manner of guests, united only by the warm hospitality that the Irish stereotype gets right.

The catch? Dublin has the highest occupancy rate among comparable European cities, so even modest rooms come at eye-wateringly expensive prices, and the better ones are often fully booked weeks in advance. In this regard, it’s a city that rewards the well-organised.

As most notable hotels are located within a small radius (and walking distance from the city’s top attractions, bars and restaurants), location isn’t the key factor when picking a place. Instead, it’s the fine touches, impressive offerings or prominence in the city’s lore; here are the hotels that should be your first ports of call.

Rest your head at the best hotels in Dublin including urban sanctuaries, countryside retreats and even an old castle

Here are a selection of the best hotels in Dublin, from budget to luxury five-star stays.

1. The Devlin

Nestled away in Ranelagh, The Devlin is a boutique capsule hotel that’s all killer, no filler. Here, you will find small but exceedingly stylish rooms with welcome extras for guests, including Dyson hair dryers and Nespresso machines. While there’s plenty to see, eat and drink in Ranelagh, there’s enough going on in The Devlin that you need never leave. Guests can wind down with a late-night movie in the beautiful underground cinema, sip on one of the hotel’s signature cocktails or blitz through e-mails over a coffee in the spacious lobby.

Where is it? Ranelagh, a leafy neighbourhood that’s just twenty minutes from the city centre via light rail and within a short walking distance of Rathmines, Baggot Street, and Camden Street.

Which room? All rooms are on the compact side so the number of guests will dictate where you stay. Double rooms suit 1-2 guests while Bunk and Family rooms are for groups of 3-4.

Chopbreak Tip: Enjoy a meal with a view in Layla’s, the rooftop restaurant that offers panoramic views of the city.

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2. The Chancery

A recent addition to the city, The Chancery is located down a quiet lane near Dublin Castle, offering guests a restful night’s kip while still being no more than five minutes away from the craic. Bedrooms are sleek and spacious with smart tech features aplenty, including electronically controlled curtains and USB ports, while bathrooms are stocked with luxurious Votary skincare goodies. Design takes centre stage with locally reclaimed stone featured throughout and walls adorned by artwork created by students from the nearby National College of Art and Design. The result? A hotel with personality and local flair.

Where is it? A stone’s throw from Dublin Castle and minutes away from Temple Bar, George Street.

Which room: With private balconies overlooking Dublin Castle, the Terrace Suites are perfect for those seeking a room with a view.

Chopbreak Tip: Pack a swimsuit and nip down to the Wellness Hub to sample the WaterDream Mini Pool - perfect for unwinding after a busy day or recovering from the night before.

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3. The Shelbourne

Having recently celebrated its 200th birthday, it’s safe to say that The Shelbourne is one of Dublin’s most iconic hotels. Steeped in history, The Shelbourne has played host to presidents and movie stars over the years and continues to epitomise old-school glamour - think crystal chandeliers and concierges. With its prime central location, the hotel boasts some of the most breathtaking views Dublin has to offer. Head to the spa and avail of a massage or facial. Feast on an afternoon tea in The Lord Mayor’s Lounge. A nightcap in The Horseshoe Bar is an absolute must.

Where is it? The hotel overlooks St. Stephen’s Green, one of Dublin’s most beloved parks.

Which room: Depends on your budget but you can’t go wrong in The Shelbourne - each room is a five-star experience.

Chopbreak Tip: Like your whiskey? The Horseshoe Bar hosts whiskey tastings with guests invited to sample four whiskeys, one from each province of Ireland.

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4. The Dean

Dublin’s hippest hotel, The Dean, is an urban sanctuary for creative types. With its industrial chic style and James Earley-curated modern art collection, locals outnumber residents in its rooftop restaurant and late-night bar. Rooms range from ‘punk bunks’, to suites where all-back-to-mine parties are welcomed – as demonstrated by the fully-stocked Smeg fridge and Marshall speakers. The list of helpful features go on forever, but it’s the funky, friendly atmosphere that secures its lasting impression. Where is it? Harcourt Street, right in Dublin’s city centre. The Guinness Storehouse is about a mile away, and you’re a ten-minute wander from St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Which room? The James and the Dylan Suites are colourful and glorious, with awesome free-standing baths. But if it’s just the two of you? Even the small double will do just fine.

Time Out tip: Rooms on the road can be a bit noisy as there are clubs nearby, so if you’re a particularly light sleeper, mention that when you book (staff here are super helpful).

Chopbreak Tip: Pack a swimsuit and nip down to the Wellness Hub to sample the WaterDream Mini Pool - perfect for unwinding after a busy day or recovering from the night before.

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5. Number 31

The award-winning No 31 is technically a B&B, but actually a secluded boutique hotel exuding edge and elegance. It’s a two-parter; the stunning mews house is designed by renowned architect Sam Stephenson and features a sunken lounge, mezzanine space, and feature fireplace. Venture past the back garden to find the Georgian townhouse, which hosts the majority of the cosy rooms with high ceilings, beautiful design and most importantly, Voya toiletries.

Where is it? In the south of the city, close to Fitzwilliam Square, St Stephen’s Green and Ranelagh. Far enough away from the hubbub to be quiet; close enough for it all to be accessible.

Which room? We like the Georgian townhouse best; the cosy rooms are literally that (proper home-from-home stuff) and the art deco look really quite stunning.

Chopbreak Tip: Don‘t sleep on what’s an incredible, freshly-prepared breakfast. Also, make sure you try the award-winning Little Museum of Dublin nearby – it’s lots of fun.

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6. Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel

Classy, minimalist and modern, The Marker is the place to be in the Grand Canal Dock, and not only for its five-star accommodation. On a sunny day, there’s no better place to admire Dublin’s skyline than its expansive rooftop bar - perfect for enjoying a custom-made cocktail at sunset.

Where is it? Right in the Dublin Docklands, on Grand Canal Square. On the water, right in the cultural centre – a doozy, basically.

Which room? Any of the ones 'with a view’ are worth asking for but really, all the rooms here are exceptionally well kitted out and you’re going to sleep very well.

Chopbreak Tip: Hit the spa. Sure, you’d expect a five-star hotel like this to serve up high-quality treatments but the spa and wellness centre here is peerless. Holistic heaven.

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7. The Merrion

Dublin doesn’t get more refined than The Merrion, an 18th century townhouse with Ireland’s only two-Michelin-starred restaurant. Its pristine rooms and manicured gardens are decadent delights, aided only by staff who insist nothing is too much trouble. Don’t miss their Art Afternoon Tea, inspired by paintings around the hotel including that of Louis le Brocquy, Jack B Yeats and Pauline Bewick.

Where is it? In the heart of things, with Trinity College, the National Museum of Ireland, Merrion Square Park and St. Stephen’s Green all super close.

Which room? There are only three options, each exceptional. Rooms have views of either Merrion Gardens, the government buildings or laneway; go for Merrion Gardens – quite the backdrop to a morning coffee.

Chopbreak Tip: If you’re feeling flush then dinner at the Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud is a total must. Less flush? Still go, but book in at lunch, where prices are accessible (and the value remarkable).

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8. The Westbury

It’s nothing but luxe vibes at this five-star joint right in the heart of Dublin’s shopping district. From the floor-to-ceiling marble bathrooms to the Art Deco chandeliers, it’s another opulent offering from The Doyle collection which also includes London’s The Kensington, The Marylebone and The Bloomsbury. When you’re not enjoying a fine china afternoon tea in The Gallery or drinking cocktails in Balfe’s brasserie, ask staff about the best shops and boutiques in the area and fill your bags.

Where is it? Between Trinity College and St. Stephen’s Green, on Grafton Street. Dubh Linn Garden and the Statue of Molly Malone are nearby – and so is pretty much all of central Dublin’s must-sees.

Which room? If you can bag a suite with a terrace then you’re in a lot of luck (they even have automated verandas for inclement weather).

Chopbreak Tip: Cocktails at the Sidecar Bar are exceptional, and are made by some of the best (and friendliest) mixologists in town. What to drink? A Sidecar, of course. Expertly made.

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9. Generator Hostel

Like its counterparts across Europe, Generator’s Dublin hostel has the priorities of a modern traveller in mind: a cool design, free Wi-fi, enough sockets, and convivial bar for making new best friends over a pint or several. It’s located in the cool area of Smithfield, and just a whiskey stone’s throw away from the Jameson Distillery.

Where is it? Smithfield Square, close to the train station and right in the midst of all the city-centre fun. Plus it’s on the Luas tram line, too.

Which room? The dormitory rooms are cheap as chips, and you can bulk book if there’s a bunch of you. Single rooms are available, too – including a deluxe king that doesn’t feel like a hostel at all.

Chopbreak Tip: Check out the free live entertainment on most evenings, as well as a vibrant games room and bar. There’s also a laundry facility in the hostel for when you need to wash your pants.

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10. The Alex Hotel

You know that Millennial style that Oliver Bonas does so well? The one with *that shade* of pink, lots of velvet chairs and a great array of vintage-inspired ‘clutter’ that isn’t actually clutter? Well, The Alex is all over that. And while we might sound like we’re being snarky, the truth is: we love this look as much as the next early-30-something. This is a thoroughly modern hotel with beautiful rooms AND a really great collection of dining options. Yes, you’re right in the centre but do make time for dinner at the in-house Carriage Restaurant or – if you can’t manage that – certainly pop in for a cocktail or two.

Where is it? Very, very central. Trinity College and the National Museum are right on your doorstep.

Which room? Book an Executive Room or Suite and you’ll get day time access to the rather charming Executive Lounge – the perfect spot for grabbing a cold drink and catching up on some reading.

Chopbreak Tip: The Secret Garden is the hotel’s adorable terrace dining area, crowned with a brilliant array of hanging blooms. A perfect spot for a very long and very giggly lunch.

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