Four Days Based in Smithfield: A Dublin Neighbourhood Guide

Smithfield puts you ten minutes' walk from the city centre, on the Luas Red Line and beside some of Dublin's best food and drink — here is how to spend four days from that base.

Why Smithfield Works as a Base

Smithfield sits on the north side of the River Liffey, roughly 1.5 kilometres west of O'Connell Bridge, and the Luas Red Line stops at Smithfield and Museum to serve the area directly. Heuston Station, the main intercity rail terminus, is one stop away or a 15-minute walk. Most of the hotel stock is contemporary build near the square itself or along North King Street, with rates typically lower than comparable rooms around St Stephen's Green, especially from November to February.

The square is anchored by the old Jameson distillery building, now the Generator hostel and a cinema, and by the Lighthouse Cinema on Market Square. Light rail runs until around half past midnight, so late dinners are not a problem. If you want quiet, ask for a room away from the square: the pubs on Bow Street and the Cobblestone on King Street North carry music into the night, and sound travels.

Day One and Two: Old Dublin on Foot

Start at the National Museum of Ireland on Collins Barracks, a ten-minute walk east across the river; admission is free and the decorative arts collections can absorb two hours. Loop back via Arbour Hill and the graveyard of the 1916 leaders, then take a late lunch around Manor Street. In the evening, the Cobblestone is the pick for traditional music, and fresh fish is the thing to order at the restaurants along Benburb Street.

Day two belongs to the Liberties. Walk south past St Michan's Church on Church Street, whose crypt is worth the small tour, then through the markets at Smithfield and into Francis Street for antiques. Continue to Christ Church Cathedral and Dublin Castle, both within 25 minutes on foot. Book the Kilmainham Gaol tour online several weeks ahead — it sells out — and take the 13 or 40 bus back rather than walking the extra kilometre after a long day.

Day Three: Phoenix Park and the Quays

Phoenix Park's north gate is about 20 minutes on foot from Smithfield, or two Luas stops to Heuston and a short walk. The park is 707 hectares, twice the size of New York's Central Park, and the visitor centre at Ashtown Castle gives the orientation you need. Walk the main avenue to the Papal Cross, look for the deer herd near the Fifteen Acres, and finish at Farmleigh House. Allow half a day and bring water; the cafés inside are limited.

Spend the afternoon along the quays. The Jameson Distillery on Bow Street runs guided tours of about 45 minutes and is a five-minute walk from most Smithfield hotels; book a slot rather than turning up. For dinner, head east to Capel Street, which has the densest run of casual restaurants in the area. Skip the guided bus tours that loop the city — you can cover the same ground faster on the Luas and on foot.

Day Four: Day Trips and What to Book

Use the fourth day for a half-day trip. Malahide Castle and gardens are 25 minutes by DART from Connolly, and Howth, with its cliff walk and harbour seafood, is 30 minutes on the same line — best from May to September. Alternatively, Glasnevin Cemetery and the Botanic Gardens are 20 minutes by bus from Smithfield and make an easy, inexpensive morning. Glendalough is 90 minutes by car and needs a full day, so save it for a longer trip.

For accommodation, I would book a room on the square itself if you want the cinema, restaurants and tram on the doorstep, and look east towards King Street North for cheaper rates at the cost of a five-minute walk. Smithfield suits couples and solo travellers who want neighbourhood character over postcard views; families with young children may prefer the quieter streets around Stoneybatter. Compare rates for your dates, and check whether breakfast is included.

Questions, answered

Is Smithfield a good area to stay in Dublin?

Yes, for travellers who want lower rates than the south city centre and a genuine neighbourhood feel. It is on the Luas Red Line, about 15 minutes' walk from O'Connell Street, and close to Heuston Station for intercity trains.

How do I get from Dublin Airport to Smithfield?

Take the 747 or 16 bus towards the city and get off near O'Connell Street, then walk or take the Luas Red Line two stops to Smithfield. A taxi takes roughly 25 to 40 minutes depending on traffic.

What is within walking distance of Smithfield?

The Jameson Distillery on Bow Street, the Lighthouse Cinema, Collins Barracks, St Michan's Church and the Capel Street restaurant strip are all within 15 minutes on foot. Christ Church Cathedral and Dublin Castle take about 25 minutes.

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