Attention incoming first-year students – as you prepare to explore Dublin nightlife, Kate Kavanagh will guide you through some essential do’s and don’ts for a memorable experience.
Exploring Dublin's dynamic nightlife scene is one of the most exciting aspects of your journey as an incoming student. So, delve headfirst into the heart of Dublin’s nightlife, with recommendations for great spots to visit, and a few ‘do’s and don't’s’ that will help you to navigate the city’s nightlife safely while still having a good time.
Do:
Catch a Nightlink bus to or from the City Centre, if you’re on a budget. Nightlink buses, the unsung heroes of broke uni students, run throughout the night, 7 days per week.
Check the age requirements of bars and clubs to avoid disappointment, as some venues adjust their age limits for weekend crowds. The last thing you want is to be turned away from a bar after a busy week of lectures.
Stock up on a few testing kits to make sure your drink doesn’t get spiked. CYD Drink Spike Tests offer extra security and peace of mind. Discreet and available in most pharmacies across Dublin, they are perfect for tucking into your pocket or your night-out handbag.
Don’t:
Expect to get into Copper Face Jacks if you are under 21. The venue is strictly over 21’s and over 23’s on weekends. Coppers is also like that one ex everyone has had: when you’re around them you make questionable decisions, and you have to be very drunk to even contemplate going back.
Go anywhere near Temple Bar if you are looking for reasonably priced drinks; this tourist hot spot will charge you an extortionate amount for a pint. Nobody wants to kick start their night by spending €12 on a watery G&T.
Recommendations:
If you want to grab a drink and enjoy a trendy, laid-back atmosphere, look no further than Kodiak and Blackbird. Located in Rathmines, these bars tick all the boxes for a first date, casual drinks or even the first stop on a big night out.
Why not take it up a notch and head to Whelan’s or Flannery’s? Located on Camden Street, they’re arguably the busiest bars in the City Centre and remain popular amongst students. With bustling atmospheres, fantastic pints and great music, what’s not to like? Flannery’s also has a killer beer garden and an ideal location for bar hopping.
Otherwise known as a sweatbox full of arts students, The Workman’s Club is the perfect place to chain-smoke rollies and discuss the impact of neoliberalism on Irish society with a bunch of newfound acquaintances. Beyond the lighthearted banter, this Wellington Quay-based venue is full of character and promises an experience worth your while.
The Workman’s Club is the perfect place to chain-smoke rollies and discuss the impact of neoliberalism on Irish society.
Wigwam should be your go-to for pumping live music and DJ events. The fun never stops at Wigwam – they always have a lineup of cool happenings. Think drag brunches, Karaoke nights, tiki bingo and to top it off, packed nightclub events on the weekends.
If you want to go clubbing on a tight budget, look no further than Dicey’s on Harcourt St. With deals on drinks for as little as €2 and a huge open-air dancefloor, it is the perfect spot for your next class night out.
The George nightclub, an integral part of Dublin’s LGBTQ+ community, has been hosting unforgettable nights for over thirty years. With a rich history and reputation as fierce as the queens they have hosted, the George knows how to throw a party that will have you on the dancefloor all night long.
You will make unforgettable memories on college nights out in Dublin, just stay clear of the €7 Temple Bar pints.
You will make unforgettable memories on college nights out in Dublin, just stay clear of the €7 Temple Bar pints.