Dublin's reputation as a nightlife capital isn't just hype - it's built on centuries of pub culture, world-class craic and an energy that pulses through the city streets long after dark. As our capital city, Dublin is melting pot of locals, students, young professionals and tourists, all coming together to create an electric atmosphere that's impossible to find anywhere else.
This melting pot of people and cultures makes for an unforgettable night out. You'll find everything from centuries-old pubs steeped in history to modern nightclubs that attract international DJs. The city's compact centre means you can easily hop between traditional Irish music sessions, cocktail bars and late-night student clubs - all within walking distance of each other.
If you're a student settling into your new city and looking to explore Dublin's legendary nightlife scene, this guide will help you find the top spots the city has to offer. And the best part? Getting to all these amazing venues is stress-free with Aircoach's convenient connections directly to Dublin City Centre.
Best Areas for Dublin Nightlife
You can find a good night out almost anywhere in Dublin, but there are a few areas that have become well known for their nightlife reputation. These districts are the perfect place to start in your first few months as a student in Dublin, before you discover your own regular haunts throughout the city.
Temple Bar
Temple Bar remains Dublin's most famous nightlife district, and for good reason. The cobblestone cultural quarter buzzes with traditional pubs, live music venues and late-night bars. It's a must stop location for anyone looking to experience Dublin nightlife for the first time.
O'Connell Street
Right in the heart of Dublin's city centre, O'Connell Street and its surrounding areas offer everything from classic pubs to modern bars. The street's central location makes it perfect for pub crawls (the best way to try out different spots before finding your favourite local), and you'll find venues that will suit every taste and budget.
Harcourt Street, Camden Street and Wexford Street
This trio of streets forms Dublin's central late night party district, especially popular with students and young professionals. The area boasts some of the city's best nightclubs, trendy bars and late-night venues. It's where you'll find the energy at its highest and the nights lasting the longest.
Capel Street
Once overlooked, Capel Street is emerging as one of Dublin's newest nightlife destinations. The street offers a more alternative scene with independent bars, unique venues and a creative crowd. It's perfect if you're looking to get away from the more tourist centric zones and find your roots in Dublin.
What's the Dublin Nightlife Dress Code Like for Students?
Dublin's nightlife dress code is generally smart casual, making it easy to enjoy as a student without breaking the bank. Most venues expect you to make an effort, but nothing too formal or expensive.
The most important thing to remember is to avoid sportswear, including tracksuits, football jerseys and trainers (especially obvious athletic trainers). Flip-flops and shorts are also typically not accepted at most bars and clubs.
For a safe bet, opt for the age old classic of jeans and a nice top. Smart shoes - think leather shoes, boots, or clean, stylish trainers will get you into most venues. When in doubt, it's better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed, especially for the more upmarket bars and nightclubs.
Student-Friendly Pubs in Dublin
Dublin is home to approximately 772 pubs, so you'll never run short of options! These student-friendly spots offer great atmospheres, reasonable prices and that authentic Dublin pub experience every student should have.
The Pav (Pavilion Bar, Trinity College)
Located on Trinity College cricket pitch, The Pav is the ultimate student pub. With cheap pints, regular events and a relaxed atmosphere, it's where Trinity students have been gathering for generations. On sunny afternoons you can sit outside on the grass, while the indoor space buzzes with life all year round.
Ryan's of Camden Street
This traditional Dublin pub offers regular drink specials / discounts, making it a popular spot for students. Plus, the pub's central location on Camden Street puts you nearby plenty of clubs that you can head to later in the night.
Temple Bar & Surrounding Pubs
While tourist-heavy, Temple Bar area pubs are essential for anyone new to Dublin. The concentration of traditional Irish pubs, live music and historic atmosphere creates an experience you won't find anywhere else. Yes, it's touristy, but there's a reason it's world-famous and every Dublin student should experience it at least once.
Student-Friendly Bar in Dublin
If pubs aren't really your style, Dublin's bar scene offers plenty of options that won't strain your student budget while delivering memorable nights out.
Dicey's Garden
A Dublin institution among students, Dicey's Garden (affectionately known as 'Dicey's') is famous for its cheap drinks, lively atmosphere and outdoor smoking area that's become legendary in its own right. It's not fancy, but it's authentic Dublin student life at its finest.
The Bernard Shaw
Featuring food trucks, an outdoor area and regular events, The Bernard Shaw draws a regular student crowd. Plus, with affordable drinks and a unique atmosphere that feels more like a festival than a traditional bar, it's perfect if you're looking for something a little different.
Xico
If you like cocktails, Xico is a must visit spot. The underground bar offers great drinks at reasonable prices and hosts regular events that keep the energy high throughout the week.
Student-Friendly Nightclubs in Dublin
No Dublin student nightlife guide would be complete without some nightclub recommendations. Luckily, Dublin's nightclub scene offers plenty of options, many with special student nights and discounted entry.
Copper Face Jacks (Coppers)
Arguably Dublin's most famous student nightclub, 'Coppers' is a rite of passage for Dublin students. Known for its eclectic mix of music, friendly atmosphere and late-night dancing, it attracts everyone from students to celebrities and some of the country's biggest sporting teams (yes really). Student nights offer great deals on entry and drinks.
Dtwo
Right in the heart of Harcourt Street, Dtwo is a student favourite thanks to its huge beer garden, affordable drinks and buzzing late-night dance floors. With DJs playing everything from chart hits to throwback classics, it's the perfect spot for a big student night out. Keep an eye out for their student nights with great entry deals and drink promotions.
The Button Factory
Located in Temple Bar, The Button Factory is a much loved live music venue with a nightclub. Students can catch concerts earlier in the evening before the space transforms into a dance floor. The venue regularly offers student discounts and hosts events with student crowds in mind.
Live Music Venues for Students in Dublin
Last but not least, we couldn't talk about Dublin nightlife without mentioning its live music scene. These venues are our favourite picks for students, where you can experience everything from traditional Irish music to modern contemporary acts.
Whelan's
A small and intimate venue has hosted everyone from emerging Irish artists to international stars. Whelan's offers students the chance to discover new music in a setting that feels personal and authentic.
The Cobblestone
For traditional Irish music, you can't miss The Cobblestone. The venue hosts trad sessions everyday so you can visit any time to experience Irish folk music at its best.
O'Donoghue's
Famous as the pub where The Dubliners started their career, O'Donoghue's continues to showcase the best in Irish traditional music with live sessions hosted most nights of the week.
All of Dublin's Student Nightlife Within Walking Distance
The best part about all of the suggestions above is that they are in easy walking distance from each other. Part of the beauty of Dublin's compact city centre is that you can start off at one of the more traditional pubs, then move onto a cocktail bar and end your night dancing away at a student friendly club night.
Everything is within easy reach so you don't need to spend your student budget on taxis between venues. All you have to do is get to the heart of Dublin City Centre to start. Luckily, that's really easy with Aircoach:
- 700/700X: fast, frequent service from Dublin Airport to the city centre, operating 24/7.
- 704X: direct express service from Cork to Dublin City Centre and Dublin Airport
- 705X: express service connecting (L)Derry and Belfast to Dublin
Tickets start from only €6, with flexible bookings and late-night returns available to get you home safely after your night out. And as a student you can save even more with a 50% discount using your Student Leap or Young Adult Card on Dublin and Cork routes or 20% off our Derry/Belfast route with our Young Person Fare.
With all routes, we drop you right in the city centre so you can get to where you need to be, whether it's enjoying a pint at The Pav or Dicey's, dropping in on a session at The Cobblestone or dancing the night away at Dtwo. Book your ticket online today and dive into the best of Dublin's student nightlife.