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.
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Dublin guide.
"Pipers Corner" in Dublin was opened because the owner, Seán Potts, an uilleann piper, was tired of how commercial the Temple Bar area had become...
By
"MediKate Garden" in Dublin is a neighborhood garden that fulfills the locals' need for organic food & a place of tranquility.
By
Artists from The Icon Factory have made "The Icon Walk" in Dublin's Temple Bar - it will give you an idea about why Irish are Irish!
By
"Sandymount Beach" in Dublin is quite long - here you can enjoy the unique view & the general good vibe of an active beach - also, fire dancing!
By
"Merrion Square Park" is my absolute favorite park in Dublin! It's not just that it's big - it's simply charming and has plenty of things to do!
By
"Moore Street" in Dublin is home to one of the city's oldest street markets. Come here and take in a very honest representation of today's Irish society...
By
"Fibber Magees" in Dublin is a truly non-touristic place, a true rock bar that has been around for more than 30 years - and closes after most other pubs!
By
The "Rosie Hackett Bridge" in Dublin is a relatively new bridge. People love coming here to catch the last rays of sun in the evening!
By
At that one corner in Temple Bar in Dublin,
By
This is a real Teachers Club in Dublin! It has a lovely bar that is open to the public and if you're lucky, you might even catch some singing lat at night!
By
"The Cobblestone" in Dublin has kept the spirit of old traditional Irish music! They even have a special part of the pub for musicians & their audience...
By
"Hacienda" is Dublin's semi-exclusive, speakeasy bar. It's one of these places you really need to know where to look, but it's worth it...
By
0 Insider Tips from Locals
Authentic Stories
Escape the Crowds
Full Access to our Art & culture Blog & App!
✓ 0 Hidden Gems only Locals know
✓ Full Access to the Art & culture City Blog & App!