phone-icon/
Book Now
Book Now

The Irish Pub Bucket List

Live trad, cold pints, match days and great deals

This list brings together some of the most iconic spots across Dublin and Cork – from historic pubs with centuries of stories to lively neighbourhood favourites built for great nights out. Whether it’s live trad sessions, match-day energy, or a perfectly poured pint in a buzzing crowd, these are the venues that define a proper Irish pub experience.

 

Guests enjoying lively night at hotel's vibrant bar with live sports. Warm atmosphere with drinks and cheerful company.

Best Spot for Live Music & Late-Night Craic

The Auld Dubliner | Temple Bar

If you’re looking for delicious pints, traditional pub grub and live music all day, The Auld Dubliner is your answer. As the unofficial birthplace of “craic agus ceoil” (fun & music) in Temple Bar, you can expect an unforgettable night, every night. They can also be your city-centre base with Double and Triple rooms available upstairs.

See More
Guests enjoying lively evening at cosy hotel bar with ambient lighting and festive decor, sharing drinks and laughter.

Best Pub for Match Day Pints

T.P. Smith's | Jervis Street

Heading into Dublin City for a match, concert, or night out? T.P. Smith’s is the perfect meeting point. Right outside Jervis Luas stop, it’s ideal for pre-event pints, hearty food, and catching the action of their big screens.

See More
Guests enjoy live folk music session in cosy pub with warm lighting and friendly atmosphere at hotel.

Best Place to Find a Sunday Trad Session

The Brazen Head | Usher's Quay

Step into centuries of history at The Brazen Head, Ireland’s oldest pub. This legendary spot dates back to 1198 and serves traditional Irish food, live trad music, and plenty of stories. It’s a bucket-list experience for anyone visiting Ireland for the first time.

See More

Exploring Cork? Why not try…

 

Vibrant hotel nightclub with lively crowd, DJ playing upbeat music, illuminated neon signs create an energetic atmosphere.

Best Place For a Late-Night Boogie

Rearden's | Washington Street

With four unique venues under one roof, Rearden’s is one of Cork’s most iconic late-night spots. Grab cocktails with friends, catch all the live sporting action, or celebrate something special while enjoying live music, DJs, and an electric atmosphere right in the heart of Cork City.

See More
Live band performing at vibrant hotel bar with cheerful guests enjoying music, surrounded by glowing ambient lighting.

Best Pub For A Traditional Irish Experience

Oliver Plunkett | Oliver Plunkett Street

With four unique venues under one roof, Rearden’s is one of Cork’s most iconic late-night spots. Grab cocktails with friends, catch all the live sporting action, or celebrate something special while enjoying live music, DJs, and an electric atmosphere right in the heart of Cork City.

See More

Time to Start Planning!

Great pints, live music, big games, and even bigger nights out are waiting across these pubs. The only question is: where will you go first?