Things to Do in Dublin at Night

Dublin's evening options go well beyond the busiest stretch of Temple Bar.

Live music venues

Whelan's, on Wexford Street, has hosted live music seven nights a week for decades and has a track record of booking artists early in their careers alongside established acts — see current listings at whelanslive.com. Vicar Street, on Thomas Street, is a larger seated/standing venue that's hosted acts from Christy Moore to major international names — check vicarstreet.ie for what's on.

Traditional music sessions

The Brazen Head, Dublin's oldest pub (see our Food & Drink guide), runs traditional Irish music sessions most nights. Session nights and lineups change, so check ahead if a specific night matters to you.

A free evening walk

Walking the River Liffey quays from the Ha'penny Bridge out toward the Docklands after dark costs nothing and shows the city differently — Georgian, Victorian and glass-fronted contemporary buildings lit up along the same stretch of river. The Grand Canal Dock area, with its converted warehouses and waterside seating, is a quieter version of the same idea.

Theatre and comedy

Dublin has an active theatre scene, including the Abbey Theatre (Ireland's national theatre) and the Gaiety Theatre, both established venues with year-round programming. Check each venue's own site for current listings before booking.

Planning tips

• Public transport (Luas, Dublin Bus, DART) runs into the evening but not 24 hours — check last services if you're heading somewhere outside the immediate city centre.
• Book gig and show tickets in advance for anything popular; walk-up availability isn't guaranteed.

Related reading

• Food & Drink in Dublin
• Things to Do in Dublin for Couples
• Dublin in One Day