If you’re looking for a huge music venue in Dublin, visit the 3 Arena, the largest indoor arena/music venue in the country. If you’re looking to see up and coming or well-established alternative bands perform in a more unique and intimate venue, Whelan’s Pub on Camden Street is your very best bet. It’s well-known on the underground music scene in Dublin and has played host to a whole lot of acts in its 25-year existence. It’s actually the place that world-famous performer Ed Sheeran first played in Ireland and he visits every time he’s back in the Emerald Isle.

As well as being a brilliant music venue, it’s also a very fun bar with a wide variety of patrons, from students to after-work drinkers frequenting. There is a good atmosphere in Whelan’s whether you visit on a Tuesday afternoon or a Friday night and that’s one of the best things about drinking here. They have ticketed gigs on a couple of times a week in the venue part (upstairs) and often have alternative club nights like silent discos and indie/rock clubs.

I think Whelan’s has well and truly cemented itself into the Irish music scene. Don’t expect any airs and graces when you visit but do expect friendly service, a great drink selection and some of the best musical acts performing to a small but dedicated crowd.