Best Things To Do In Dublin At Night

The Temple Bar Quarter is often considered a tourist hub, especially at night, but for locals it’s something a little different. Located by the River Liffey, the Temple Bar Quarter is home to some of the best galleries, cafes, quirky shops, cultural and quieter spots aside from the general atmosphere of crazy drinking and revelry. Full of guaranteed laughs and high profile comedians, The Comedy Crunch takes place every Sunday, Monday and Tuesday at The Stag's Head, located on Dame Lane in the city center. Showcasing the best in Irish and international stand up, The Comedy Crunch run run their shows year round only taking a break around Christmas. Doors open at 8:15pm but it’s best to get there around 8pm to ensure seats. There’s free ice cream provided during the break! If you’re wondering about Dublin nightlife on weekdays, you won't find a better night’s entertainment anywhere across the whole city on Sunday, Monday or Tuesday. It's always packed with a buzzing atmosphere.

For the best of Dublin nightlife on Saturdays, try the Saturday Circus at the Academy. Check out a live band or concert first then stay out for an impressive and unique clubbing experience; featuring huge production pyro, confetti cannons, and spectacular circus performances such as aerial and onstage circus performances, fire dancers, and contortionists. There are three rooms with different music playing in each; the main room is home to hip hop, house, club bangers & future sounds, the green room has RnB, 90’s and disco at its heart, while the Academy 2 room is home to rock, indie, metal, and curveballs. The Academy is independent and fun non-touristy things to do in Dublin if you like staying out late and dancing the night away.

Serving as a relaxed and cozy cafe and bar during the day, Dublin’s Pygmalion morphs into an intimate nightclub and bar by night. With cosy brick walls and arched walkways, the Pygmalion hosts comedy performances, up-and-coming bands of local and international talent and DJ sets. Home to an eclectic mix of people on the dancefloor, everyone is welcome at the Pygmalion. They serve great pygtails (or cocktails) and have a multi-cultural array of affordable dishes, such as yummy tapas plates, in the elegant surroundings of the Powerscourt Townhouse. My other favourite spot for great cocktails are the Vintage Cocktail Club which has a refined, speakeasy-vibe bar and candle-lit cocktails. The 1920s-style clandestine bar serves up an extensive menu of spirits and specially crafted, award winning cocktails, as well as a menu of yummy bites.

Dublin is known for its old pubs and there are plenty to choose from! Head the Brazenhead, which is the oldest pub in the city, dating back to 1198. It could be fairly busy but the food is delicious and hearty and the atmosphere is of pure Irish charm, as each evening you can experience the storytelling of great Irish folklore. Alternatively, try traditional Irish food at The Hairy Lemon. Every Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday from 8pm onwards, the pub hosts live music, known as The Hairy Lemon Trad Sessions. It has a long traditional menu and is considered one of the best pubs in Dublin for food and live music. The extensive menu features a famous beef and Guinness Pie, traditional Irish stew, and Dublin coddle, among other better-known dishes. To complete your unique pub experience, eat at The Church. Enjoy coffee, drinks, great Irish food, and traditional music beneath the beautiful stained glass window and the original Renatus Harris-built organ. Appreciate the art, history, architecture, and luxury of the old building and see for yourself why The Church has established itself as one of the best pubs in Dublin for live music.