The best neighbourhoods for students in Dublin

The first thing you have to know about Dublin is that there are two differentiated areas in the city. On one side is the northern part and on the other the southern part, both divided by the River Liffey. In the northern part are the districts with odd numbers and in the southern part are those named with even numbers. Generally, the liveliest neighbourhoods are those near the River Liffey.

Now, let's go with the best neighbourhoods for students in Dublin!

Rathmines (Dublin 6)

This is one of the neighbourhoods that welcomes the most students every year in the Irish capital, so it’s without a doubt one of the best neighbourhoods for students in Dublin. Despite being a bit far from the city centre, it has a lively and young vibe. It’s part of the district of Dublin 6, which is south of the river Liffey.

Generally, the cost of rent in Rathmines is more affordable than in more central neighbourhoods, which is a plus for students. It also has a very convenient location. For example, it’s halfway between the centre of Dublin and the main campus of University College Dublin. In fact, you can reach it by bike in approximately fifteen minutes. Also, both the main campus of Trinity College and several buildings of Dublin Business School are very close. They can be reached in a few minutes by bicycle or bus.

In Rathmines, there are a large number of eateries frequented by students, including cafes, bars, and restaurants with cuisines from different parts of the world. There’s also a variety of art galleries, independent shops, and bookstores, as well as second-hand clothing shops. In addition, it has a shopping centre (Swan Shopping Centre) and two cinemas (the Omniplex and the Stella, which is more luxurious).

As for green spaces, students usually meet in Belgrave Square park, and also take walks along the river Dodder in its “Dodder Walk”.

Rathmines has good public transport links. Various bus lines pass through its main streets and are quite frequent. Additionally, many students choose to use bicycles, which allows them to reach the centre of Dublin in a short time.

Ranelagh (Dublin 6)

This neighbourhood is located next to Rathmines, extending to the east of it and also being part of the Dublin 6 district (south of the city). It’s also located very close to the centre of Dublin, but offers a more residential environment. In fact, it’s ideal for students who want to be close to everything but live in a quieter area.

Ranelagh stands out for its beautiful old architecture, with 19th century brick houses, and is also home to several embassies.

By being next to Rathmines, living in Ranelagh is also convenient for students of University College Dublin, because it’s very close. From here, you can also reach the campus of Trinity College in a short time by tram or bicycle.

This neighbourhood, although it has a more residential vibe, also offers several cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Most of them are located in Ranelagh road and Sandford road (its continuation).

To enjoy outdoor spaces, students usually meet in parks such as Dartmouth Square, Ranelagh Gardens Park and Mountpleasant Square. It’s also very close to the large Herbert Park (in the Donnybrook neighbourhood) and the famous St Stephen's Green.

From Ranelagh, you can easily reach different parts of the city with public transportation. For example, the green tram line Luas crosses the neighbourhood. In addition, there are several bus lines with stops on its main streets, and its streets are prepared for using bicycles.

Stoneybatter (Dublin 7)

Stoneybatter is located north of the River Liffey, in the Dublin 7 district. It’s one of the most popular neighbourhoods among young people, so it has a lively atmosphere and is without a doubt another of the best neighbourhoods for students in Dublin.

This area is ideal to live in, especially for students of Grangegorman Campus of TU Dublin. It’s also a few minutes by bike from Trinity College.

The greatest number of cafes, restaurants, bars, and pubs in Stoneybatter are located along its main street, Manor street. These places offer craft coffee or beer, gastronomies from different parts of the world and modernized traditional food. Additionally, many of the bars and pubs offer live music.

Regarding cultural visits, one that stands out is the National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks.

Stoneybatter is located next to the huge Phoenix Park, considered “Dublin’s playground”. It has wild animals such as deer, a zoo, historical monuments, sports courts, and plenty of trails to enjoy the outdoors.

As for public transport, there are several bus lines with stations on the streets surrounding Stoneybatter. Furthermore, from this neighbourhood you can reach the city centre in a few minutes by bicycle and on foot.

Phibsborough (Dublin 7)

Phibsborough is also in the Dublin 7 district, being a more residential area than Stoneybatter. However, it’s gaining popularity among students due to the affordability of its accommodation and its increasingly modern environment.

Living in this neighbourhood is also convenient for students of the Grangegorman Campus of the TU Dublin. In fact, there are several student residences here.

Phibsborough combines the traditional Victorian architecture and pubs with the modernity of new bars and restaurants. It also has more hipster sites, such as coffee shops, independent bookstores, and second-hand clothing shops. All this is found especially in its main streets: Phibsborough Road and North Circular Road.

In this neighbourhood is the beautiful Blessington Street Basin park, which is ideal for taking a walk outdoors and enjoying a little more nature, as well as the Mount Bernard Park. Students also tend to go to Griffith Park, which is very close.

Phibsborough is very well connected with the rest of the city through public transportation. For example, it has some stops on the Luas green tram line. It also has bus stops, the Drumcondra train station is a few minutes walk away, and it has several bike paths.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dublin