Rathgar Travel Guide
Dublin
Popular places to visit
Trinity College
Walk the cobbled lanes of Ireland’s oldest university, alma mater to literary greats and home of the precious Book of Kells.
St. Stephen's Green
Take a break in Dublin’s most popular public park with green lawns and flower beds, a stone bridge and statues, a swan-filled lake and a playground.
Guinness Storehouse
A tour of this pint-shaped hall in a historic brewery provides an intoxicating journey through the making of Ireland’s signature drink.
Dublin Castle
On Dame Street, south of the River Liffey in the heart of Dublin, stands the mighty architectural achievement that is Dublin Castle, parts of which date back to 1200. Over the centuries Dublin Castle has been a fortress and treasury, a royal palace and a prison. Prior to Irish independence in the 1920s, it was also the centre of British rule in Ireland. Today, Dublin Castle is a government building and significant historic emblem.
Grafton Street
Watch the talented street performers as you search the boutiques in this shopping haven for something special to take home.
Aviva Stadium
If you’re heading to Dublin for a rugby or football match at the Aviva Stadium, then you’re in for a real treat. Situated just south of Dublin’s bustling city centre, the Aviva Stadium is a state-of-the-art, four-tiered sports stadium and concert venue, located on the rushing River Dodder not far from Ireland’s east coast.
Things to do
Dublin: Guinness Storehouse Entry Ticket
Dublin Open-Top Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour with Live Guides
Glendalough, Wicklow, Kilkenny and Sheep Dog Demonstration
Activity Kilkenny-Wicklow Mountains-Glendalough
Full Day Tour to Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough and Kilkenny
Howth Coastal Boat Tour (Ireland's Eye Ferries 50 mins trip)
Top hotels in Rathgar
Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport
"Super convenient. Hotel shuttle was easy."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport Central
"Great location if you’re flying out of Dublin, not close enough to stay if you want to see Dublin"
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin by IHG
"Friendly staff with good food and drinks. A short walk away from all the key spots. Definitely recommend"
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Marlin Hotel Stephens Green
"The hotel's location is excellent in the city center. The room is clean. Breakfast is on average. We arrived near 6pm but the room was not ready."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Temple Bar Hotel Dublin by The Unlimited Collection
"We had a nice room with a really good bed. The location is perfect for walking to most important tourist spots. However, people who want peace and quiet should not stay here- A constant street party and loud music."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Clink i Lár
"Seems a bit all over the place. The room was not clean at all and supplies were not replaced in time. Upon check in (I paid for luggage storage and came 4 hours after check in time started), they didn’t seem to have a bed ready for me but eventually found one. The staff is either super helpful or ..."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Rathgar
Rathmines
Rathmines is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Swan Shopping Centre and Cathal Brugha Barracks while you're in town.
Ranelagh
When in Ranelagh and the surrounding area, you'll want to check out sights like Grafton Street or Dublin Castle and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Ranelagh Station or Charlemont Station.
Portobello
Though Portobello may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Dublin Castle and Grafton Street.
The Liberties
While you're in The Liberties, take in top sights like Guinness Storehouse and jump on the metro at Heuston Tram Stop to see more of the city.
Ballsbridge
A noteworthy feature of Ballsbridge is its fantastic nightlife. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Aviva Stadium and Royal Dublin Society.
Dundrum
Noted for its shopping and restaurants, there's plenty to explore in Dundrum. Top attractions like Dundrum Town Centre and Marlay Park are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Dundrum Station or Balally Station to see more of the city.
