Local Dubliners will be adamant that the Temple Bar neigbourhoud is a tourist trap with overpriced pints, too many tourists and rowdy bachelors parties.
But visitors flock to this area, Temple Bar is a high-profile tourism destination attracting approximately 3.5 million visits a year.
Which are the most popular pubs in the Temple Bar area? Tourists flock to most of these regardless of price.
The Temple Bar Pub
The Temple Bar dates all the way back to 1840 and you can’t knock anywhere that offers over 450 different types of rare whiskey (the largest collection in Ireland). It’s also got a pretty cool bronze statue of James Joyce.
Oliver St. John Gogarty’s.

If you are planning to visit Dublin, then Gogarty’s must be on your list. An award winning Restaurant serves the best in traditional Irish food & a lively Bar has traditional Live Irish Music sessions every day of the week. Accommodation offers Self Catering Apartments & affordable hostel options in the heart of Dublin city.
The Quays

A visit to Dublin would not be complete without a trip to the
Quays Irish Restaurant. With their ‘craic agus ceol’, live music and friendly staff, you won’t be disappointed!
Old Storehouse Bar

A classic Irish Bar located in the heart of Dublin’s Cultural Quarter at 3 Crown Alley, Temple Bar, Dublin 2. The Old Storehouse location is between Dame Street and The Halfpenny Bridge directly behind the Old Central Bank building.
The Palace Bar

Untainted, unspoiled and unperturbed by the passage of time – that’s what makes The Palace Bar one of Dublin’s best-loved original Victorian pubs.
Owned by the Aherne family since 1946, we bottled our own whiskey under the Palace Bar brand, a commonplace practice among Dublin pubs throughout the 1940’s , 50’s and 60’s. However, with the development of on-site distillery bottling this practice disappeared from Dublin in the 1970’s only to be resurrected by Cooley Distillery and The Palace Bar in 2011.
Is the Temple Bar owned by U2?
Bono, the Edge and Paddy McKillen snr continue to retain ownership of the Clarence hotel building in the Temple Bar district in Dublin
Is there live music at Temple Bar?
Live music is available from Monday to Sunday, all year long. At least 3 music sessions daily from 2pm until closing time 7 days a week, as winner of the Irish Music Pub of the Year every year from 2002 to 2013,
Why is it called Temple Bar?
Temple Bar in Dublin is on the south bank of the Liffey River, or what’s considered central Dublin. It’s believed that the Temple family is responsible for the name of the area. Sir William Temple was the provost of Trinity College and had his house and gardens at the area now called Temple Bar in Dublin.
Why is the Temple Bar so famous?
One of the most famous pubs in Dublin is the Temple Bar (established in 1840), famous for its location but also because it offers over 450 different kinds of rare whiskies
(Ireland’s largest collection). You can’t miss this red building, it looks typically Irish and it is always buzzing.
When is the best time to visit Temple Bar
The busiest time of the year is during summer and on St. Patrick’s day you will find it hard to find a more crowded place. If you’re looking for a less crowded day or night definitely go to the Temple Bar during the week, and if you’re looking for a full pub experience go on the weekends. On the weekend the Pub tends to get very warm due to the crowds, wear something light or layer with a jacket that can easily be removed.
How do I get to Temple Bar from the airport?
Buses 700, 747 and 757 all get you within 5 minute walk of Fleet Street and leave every 5 to 10 minutes or so. You can also just take a taxi.
Looking for a non-touristy alternative to Temple Bar?
A few suggestions below.
Ryan’s of Parkgate Street.

With its original Victorian features, including gas lamps, whiskey barrels, tea drawers and traditional snugs, Ryan’s interiors is where oldie worldie meets modern finesse. Enjoy the perfect pint of Guinness, a great wine list or cocktails set to the backdrop of a plethora of interesting pictures from the past century such as Mr Royce and his 1930’s Mercedes motor racing team, the original Guinness toucan and even the zookeeper’s box with kangaroos!
The Long Hall.

Estd 1766 One of Dublin’s oldest, most beautiful and best loved pubs. Attentive Bartenders, a warm welcome and a friendly atmosphere await you.
One of the oldest pubs in Dublin, this pub was named after a chapel dedicated to Saint George in 1181. The Long Hall preserves a Victorian atmosphere evoking a by-gone age.
John Kavanagh, Gravediggers.

If you are about to visit for the first time, a regular, or dropping in to look you will feel welcomed at The Gravediggers. Evening Tapas is Tuesday to Friday 12 noon-8.30pm, Saturday 2pm to 8.30pm No food on Sundays or Mondays
The Cobblestone.

The Cobblestone, Tom Mulligan’s traditional Irish music bar and venue. The Mulligan family have been playing Irish music for five generations, no one can remember back any further. Tom’s laid back and friendly pub is built on family tradition – respect for music and culture.
So, your thoughts. – Is Temple Bar a tourist trap to avoid?
Secure Your Dream Irish Experience Before It’s Gone!
Planning a trip to Ireland? Don’t let sold-out tours or packed attractions spoil your journey. Iconic experiences like visiting the Cliffs of Moher, exploring the Rock of Cashel, or enjoying a guided walk through Ireland’s ancient past often sell out quickly—especially during peak travel seasons.

Booking in advance guarantees your place and ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery without stress or disappointment. You’ll also free up time to explore Ireland’s hidden gems and savour those authentic moments that make your trip truly special.
Make the most of your journey—start planning today and secure those must-do experiences before they’re gone!
West-Gaul Bob
Thursday 20th of October 2022
Bob West-Gaul The Temple Bar In Dublin, IrelandAsk Kim Andrews On Wednesday March 1, 2023.