A Guide to Dublin’s Most Unique Nightlife

There are three things that define Dublin: its impressive literary heritage, rich history, and a universal love for good craic. With iconic live music venues like The Workman’s and Whelan’s alongside over 700 pubs steeped in history - and the occasional spilt drink - you’re spoilt for choice.

But what if you’re looking for something a little different? We’ve got you covered. Read our guide to Dublin’s weirdest and most wonderful places to drink after dusk.

1) Try Your Luck at Dublin's Most Exclusive Pub

While most venues aim to keep their doors wide open, the Hacienda bar takes a different approach; here, the door is always closed. Knock, though, and you might be lucky enough to be welcomed inside. The entry requirements remain a mystery, with many suggesting that it’s simply a case of whether the owner likes the look of you. It may also have something to do with the huge number of celebrities that have walked through its door: plastered all over the walls are hundreds of famous faces stood next to the bar’s lovely owner, Shay Duignan, including Taylor Swift and Dublin’s finest, Hozier. So, if you’re turned away, don’t take it personally; maybe you were a few steps away from an A lister.

You’ll find Hacienda tucked away in a quiet corner of Smithfield, hailed by Timeout as ‘the second coolest neighbourhood in the world’. The pub itself is cosy and intimate with a pool table and a great drink selection – but the real highlight is the owner. Friendly and eccentric, Shay shines in loud suits and funky round sunglasses. You’re definitely in good hands here.

2) Board the MV Cill Airne Boat Bar

Dublin’s docklands have gone through boatloads of modern renovation in recent years, but the best part is the MV Cill Airne, a passenger liner from 1961 that’s still making waves. Originally commissioned to service passenger ships between England and New York, the boat now floats on the River Liffey – happy news for Dubliners, who crowd onto the ship’s upper deck every Friday for a post-work pint.

3) Uncover the Secrets of The Blind Pig, Ireland’s Longest Running Speakeasy

What can we say about The Blind Pig? Well – not much, if you don’t want to spoil the surprise. It’s the journey, not the destination, that makes this bar so special, so we recommend making a booking first and awaiting your secret instructions. Expect live jazz, moody surroundings, and the star of the show, prohibition-style cocktails that’ll transport you back in time.

4) Go to Church

Not your typical idea of a night out in the city, but certainly a memorable one, The Church is one of Dublin’s busiest nighttime venues. Don’t let the straightforward name mislead you: this is indeed a church, but with a twist. Originally built in the 18th century as St Mary’s, it has since been transformed into a bar and restaurant serving up more than communion. In Summer, the church’s huge terrace spills out onto the streets, while in colder months, patrons retreat inside to admire the building’s 282-year-old organ, baroque stained-glass windows, and even burial crypts.

BONUS: Order a Chicken Roll at Gay Spar

Yep, you read that correctly! The convenience store chain has a special branch on Dame Street affectionately known by locals as ‘Gay Spar’. But how did it earn its name? Gay Spar has been a staple of Dublin’s nightlife for years, thanks to its 24/7 deli counter serving up greasy breakfast buns to late-night revellers. The shop quickly became recognised as ‘Gay Spar’ because of its proximity to The George, one of Dublin’s biggest gay clubs (and famously frequented by Sherlock star Andrew Scott). It wasn’t until 2022 that the branch officially came out, with 2022’s Pride month décor featuring LGBTQ flags and a huge poster that read, ‘Happy Pride from Gay Spar’.

Come here after savouring the best of Dublin’s nightlife for a post-club tradition: the chicken fillet roll. Choose your baguette, pile on fried chicken fillets, slather with mayo, and finish off with cheese for a hangover cure from the gods.

Dublin’s nightlife couldn’t be more exciting. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the MV Cill Airne or hunting down The Blind Pig, there are limitless options for those craving adventure in Ireland’s capital. Even better, bar hopping is a fantastic way to improve your language skills, especially when paired with one of our immersive English language courses. Take a look at what our Dublin centre has to offer here.