Smithfield

Gentrified Northside area with good traditional music, craft beer, and local character. Less touristy than Temple Bar but still accessible.

Smithfield is on the Northside and used to be a working-class market area. Time Out put it on their coolest neighborhoods list, and it's gentrified with craft breweries and cafes, though it still has local character. The big cobblestone square hosts a monthly food market and events. The Jameson Distillery brings in tourists during the day. Unlike Temple Bar, actual Dublin people drink here alongside visitors. The Cobblestone Pub has traditional music sessions every night with serious musicians and locals who care about the music. Eating alone feels normal since it's locals and workers, not tour groups. Safe during the day and early evening, but it's residential so streets empty out after 10pm. Stay on main streets like Church Street and Smithfield Square at night. The Luas Red Line gets you to the city center in 10 minutes.