Dublin’s Literary Pubs: A Book Lover’s Dream Tour

Dublin, the vibrant capital of Ireland, has long been a haven for literary enthusiasts. With a rich history of storytelling and a deep connection to some of the world’s most famous writers, the city’s literary pubs offer a unique blend of culture, history, and atmosphere. If you’re a book lover, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in Dublin’s literary heritage than by taking a tour of its iconic pubs. From sipping a pint of Guinness in a cozy corner to walking the same streets as James Joyce, this journey is one you won’t soon forget.

Dublin’s literary pubs are more than just places to grab a drink; they are steeped in history and charm. Each pub has its own story, its walls adorned with portraits of famous writers, and its shelves lined with books that have inspired generations. The ambiance in these pubs is something special—there’s a sense of timelessness, where you can almost hear the echoes of conversations between literary giants.

The pubs themselves are often located in historic buildings, with dark wooden interiors, warm lighting, and a welcoming atmosphere that invites you to stay a while. As you step inside, you’re transported to a different era, where the clinking of glasses and the soft murmur of conversations blend with the scent of old books and freshly poured pints.

The Palace Bar

Located on Fleet Street in the heart of Dublin, The Palace Bar is a must-visit for any literary enthusiast. Established in 1823, this pub has been a favorite haunt of writers, journalists, and poets for nearly two centuries. The Palace Bar is known for its traditional Victorian interior, complete with dark wood paneling, stained glass windows, and an impressive collection of whiskey. It was a regular spot for Patrick Kavanagh and Flann O’Brien, two of Ireland’s most famous literary figures.

How to Get There: The Palace Bar is easily accessible by foot if you’re staying in the city center. It’s a short walk from popular landmarks like Trinity College and Grafton Street. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi if you’re coming from further afield.

Estimated Cost: A pint of Guinness at The Palace Bar costs around €6, and if you’re in the mood for a whiskey tasting, expect to pay between €15 and €25 for a flight of premium whiskeys.

Davy Byrne’s

Another iconic literary pub, Davy Byrne’s, is located on Duke Street and has been immortalized in James Joyce’s Ulysses. This pub has a more modern feel compared to The Palace Bar, but it retains a strong connection to Dublin’s literary past. Joyce himself frequented Davy Byrne’s, and it’s mentioned in his famous novel as the place where Leopold Bloom orders a glass of Burgundy and a Gorgonzola sandwich.

How to Get There: Davy Byrne’s is also centrally located and can be reached easily on foot. It’s close to St. Stephen’s Green, making it a convenient stop during a day of sightseeing.

Estimated Cost: A glass of wine at Davy Byrne’s costs around €7-€10, and if you want to try the famous Gorgonzola sandwich, you can expect to pay around €10-€12.

The Long Hall

The Long Hall on South Great George’s Street is one of Dublin’s oldest and most beautiful pubs. Established in 1766, it has a rich history and is known for its ornate Victorian decor. With its red leather benches, vintage mirrors, and chandeliers, The Long Hall is a feast for the eyes as well as the soul. It’s a popular spot among both locals and tourists, and its literary connections run deep—Brendan Behan, another famous Irish writer, was a regular here.

How to Get There: The Long Hall is a bit further from the city center but still within walking distance. Alternatively, you can take the LUAS tram to St. Stephen’s Green and walk from there.

Estimated Cost: A pint of beer here will set you back around €6-€7, and there’s a small menu of traditional pub fare available, with prices ranging from €10-€15.

If you’re planning a literary pub tour in Dublin, you’ll want to stay somewhere that complements the experience. Fortunately, Dublin offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and tastes.

Luxury: The Merrion Hotel, located near St. Stephen’s Green, is one of Dublin’s most luxurious hotels. It’s housed in a series of beautifully restored Georgian townhouses and offers elegant rooms, fine dining, and a world-class spa. A night at The Merrion will cost you around €350-€500, but it’s worth every penny for the experience.

Mid-Range: The Morgan Hotel, located in the Temple Bar district, offers stylish and comfortable accommodations at a more affordable price. With rooms starting at around €150-€200 per night, it’s a great choice for those who want to be close to Dublin’s vibrant nightlife while still enjoying a touch of luxury.

Budget: For travelers on a budget, The Generator Hostel in Smithfield offers clean and modern dormitory-style accommodations starting at just €25 per night. It’s a fun and lively place to stay, with a bar, café, and regular events, making it a great choice for solo travelers or groups.

No trip to Dublin would be complete without indulging in some traditional Irish cuisine. Fortunately, many of Dublin’s literary pubs offer delicious food in addition to their famous drinks.

Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Irish breakfast at Bewley’s Grafton Street Café. For around €15-€20, you can enjoy a hearty meal of eggs, sausages, bacon, black pudding, and toast, all washed down with a cup of Bewley’s famous coffee.

Lunch: For lunch, head to The Brazen Head, Dublin’s oldest pub, which dates back to 1198. Here, you can enjoy a classic Irish stew or fish and chips for around €15-€20. The pub also has a rich literary history, with connections to famous writers like Jonathan Swift and Brendan Behan.

Dinner: For dinner, Kehoe’s Pub on South Anne Street offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu of traditional Irish dishes, such as shepherd’s pie and bangers and mash. Expect to pay around €20-€30 for a main course, with a pint of Guinness to accompany your meal.

While Dublin is a safe and welcoming city, there are a few things to keep in mind when planning your literary pub tour.

Weather: Dublin’s weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack layers and a waterproof jacket, especially if you’re visiting in the fall or winter months. The city’s pubs are cozy and warm, but you’ll want to be prepared for rain when you’re walking between them.

Crowds: Dublin’s pubs can get crowded, especially on weekends and during popular events like St. Patrick’s Day. If you prefer a quieter experience, try to visit the pubs during the day or early evening when they’re less busy.

Budgeting: Dublin can be an expensive city, especially when it comes to food and drink. It’s a good idea to budget accordingly and keep an eye out for happy hour deals or lunch specials at the pubs you visit.

Conclusion

Dublin’s literary pubs offer a unique and unforgettable experience for book lovers. As you explore the city’s historic streets and step into its iconic pubs, you’ll feel a deep connection to the writers and stories that have shaped Dublin’s literary heritage. Whether you’re sipping a pint of Guinness at The Palace Bar or enjoying a Gorgonzola sandwich at Davy Byrne’s, this literary tour is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

So pack your bags, grab a good book, and get ready to explore the literary heart of Dublin—one pub at a time.