If you’re coming to Dublin this Christmas, you couldn’t pick a better base than REZz Hotel. Right in the middle of town, you’ll step out the door and be straight into the glow of Christmas lights, buzzing markets, festive bits and bobs, and some of the cosiest, best-decorated pubs in the country. To give you a hand planning your trip, we’ve pulled together a guide to the best spots and experiences around the city at Christmas from the famous markets to proper old-school pubs and magical light shows.

Start your trip off right with a guide to some of the best places to visit:

Shopping, experiences and things to do:

• 📍 Dublin Castle Christmas Market – 5 min walk
  Transforming the historic courtyard into a winter wonderland, this market features over 30 stalls with artisan crafts, festive treats, a vintage carousel, and live music. Perfect for picking up gifts and soaking up holiday cheer.
• 📍 Twinkle Town Christmas Market, Smithfield Square – 10 min walk
  A magical market filled with twinkling lights, artisan stalls, festive bites, and a cozy Christmas bar. Ideal for a cheerful evening stroll or a festive catch-up with friends. Open – 28th November – 4th January.
• 📍 Grafton Street – 5 min walk
  Famous for its dazzling Christmas lights, this bustling shopping street is ideal for festive window shopping and enjoying street performers while sipping on hot chocolate.
• 📍 Smithfield Square Christmas Spectacular – 20 min walk / short Luas ride
  A fun-filled market featuring a Big Wheel, ice rink, Nutcracker Snug, and festive food stalls – perfect for families or those wanting a full festive experience.
• 📍 Guinness Storehouse – 20 min walk / taxi
  End your day with a unique Christmas experience: mulled Guinness, a hidden festive snug, and seasonal storytelling. A memorable way to celebrate Dublin at Christmas.
• 📍 Dublin Christmas Lights Festive Bus Tour with Afternoon Tea – departs from City Centre (minutes from REZz)
  Hop aboard a vintage double-decker bus for a guided tour of Dublin’s dazzling Christmas lights, complete with festive afternoon tea, carols, and city sparkle at every turn.
• 📍 Dublin Zoo – 15 min drive
  Dublin Zoo hosts its magical Wild Lights event, illuminating the grounds with stunning themed lantern displays from evening, paired with a festive Santa’s Grotto experience.
• 📍 Dundrum on Ice – 20 min Green Line Luas from the City
  Glide into the festive spirit at one of Dublin’s favourite outdoor ice rinks. Set against the backdrop of Dundrum Town Centre, it’s the perfect spot for skating, hot chocolate, and Christmas shopping all in one trip.
• 📍 Alpine Skate Trail, Dún Laoghaire – 20 min Dart
  Experience Ireland’s longest ice skating trail, winding through a sparkling alpine forest setting. Enjoy festive music, lights, and seaside charm at this must-do winter activity.
• 📍 Elftown, RDS – 15 min drive / short bus ride
  Step into a world of wonder at Elftown, where Santa’s helpers bring Christmas magic to life through interactive shows, toy workshops, and a visit to Santa’s Grotto. Perfect for families and little believers.
• 📍 Beauty and The Beast at The Gaiety Theatre – 5 min walk
  Enjoy a Dublin Christmas tradition with this year’s panto extravaganza. Expect laughter, music, and a magical retelling of the classic tale perfect for all ages.

Festive Pubs worth trying

• 📍 disndat – on the ground floor of REZz Hotel
  Our very own pub offers a Festive Fuinneog with hot Christmas drinks, seasonal cocktails, and delicious Christmas sandwiches. A cosy, cheerful spot with live music seven days a week to get into the festive spirit without leaving the building.
• 📍 The Ginger Man – 20 min walk
  One of Dublin’s most Christmassy pubs, decked out in lights, garlands, and decorations. A cosy spot to warm up with a pint or mulled drink after a day of sightseeing.
• 📍 Hole in the Wall – 25 min walk
  This historic Phoenix Park pub goes all out with Christmas décor, making it a must-visit for festive charm and a traditional Irish pub experience.
• 📍 The Storyteller – 15 min walk
  Near Grand Canal, this pub is famous for its Christmas decorations and lively, friendly atmosphere a perfect evening stop for food, drinks, or live music.
• 📍 Temple Bar – 5 min walk
  The cobbled streets come alive with fairy lights, giant bows, and festive energy. Enjoy live music, vibrant nightlife, and the magical atmosphere of Dublin’s most famous district. Visit The Auld Dubliner, The Norseman and Temple Bar Pub.