Botanic gardens Dublin near DCU Rooms hotel

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Your Guide to Exploring Dublin from DCU Rooms

Staying at DCU Rooms gives you an affordable and convenient base for exploring Dublin. Whether you’re here for a few nights in summer or need longer-term student or group accommodation, you’ll have quick access to all the best bits of the city. In this guide, we’ll show you how to get around and what to do, eat, and see – all from the comfort of DCU Rooms.

Where is DCU Rooms Located?

DCU Rooms is located across three campuses, Glasnevin, St Patrick’s and All Hallows – on the northside of Dublin city. All campuses are well served by public transport and cycle lanes, and just 15 to 20 minutes from the city centre by bus.

Nearby Transport Options:

  • Multiple Dublin Bus routes (11, 13, 44, 155)
  • Local taxis and Bolt/Uber availability
  • Dublin Bikes stations nearby
  • Quick access to M50 and Dublin Airport

If its heading into town for the day, catching a gig, or exploring the suburbs, you’ll have no trouble getting around.

What to Do in Dublin (Starting from DCU)

Dublin has plenty to offer within easy reach of DCU Rooms. Here are some top picks across different interests.

For Culture and History:

  • Glasnevin Cemetery and Museum (15-minute walk): Learn about key figures in Irish history and take the award-winning tour.
  • National Botanic Gardens: Right next to Glasnevin Cemetery, and free to visit. Great for a relaxing stroll.
  • Dublin Castle and Chester Beatty Library: Head into town and explore the historic heart of Dublin.
  • Kilmainham Gaol: Book a tour to get a real sense of Ireland’s revolutionary past.

For Shopping and Markets:

  • Henry Street and Jervis Centre: Great for high street fashion and department stores.
  • Capel Street and Georges Street Arcade: Independent shops, vintage stalls and cool cafes.
  • Dublin Flea Market (seasonal): If your stay overlaps, it’s worth checking out for crafts, books and art.

For Nature and the Outdoors:

  • Phoenix Park: One of the largest city parks in Europe: home to deer, the Zoo and Áras an Uachtaráin.
  • St Stephens Green and Iveagh Gardens: Lovely green spaces for lunch or downtime between exploring.
  • Howth Cliff Walk or Dublin Bay: Just a DART ride away, perfect for a coastal day trip.

Top Food and Drink Spots Near DCU

You’ll find good food options on campus, but it’s worth exploring a bit further. Here are a few places locals love.

  • Andersons Creperie (Drumcondra): Excellent for brunch and coffee.
  • Shouk (Drumcondra): Middle Eastern food with loads of veggie options.
  • The Gravediggers Pub (beside Glasnevin Cemetery): One of the city’s oldest pubs, known for Guinness and Irish stew.
  • The Bernard Shaw (Drumcondra): A great spot for pizza and drinks with an outdoor vibe.
  • DCU’s own NuBar: Handy for a drink or bite to eat without leaving the campus.

Events and Live Music

Dublin is known for its festivals, music, sport and theatre. Staying at DCU Rooms means you’re just a short trip from:

  • 3Arena: Catch major concerts and shows.
  • Croke Park: GAA matches and big gigs. It’s walkable from DCU Rooms.
  • The Abbey or Gate Theatres: For top-class Irish and international productions.
  • Temple Bar: A tourist spot but full of energy with street performers and pubs.

Check what’s on at Visit Dublin or Dublin.ie during your stay from Pride and St Patricks to summer outdoor cinemas, there’s always something happening.

Tips for Getting Around

  • Leap Visitor Card: Saves you money on public transport and works across bus, Luas and DART.
  • Dublin Bikes: Handy for short trips and available near DCU.
  • Walk: Many areas are surprisingly close on foot once you’re in the city centre.

DCU staff can also help you find the best routes, especially if you’re travelling in a group or attending a summer course.

Why Base Yourself at DCU Rooms?

  • Affordable Rates: Great value for individuals, families or groups during the summer months.
  • Spacious Rooms: Private rooms with access to shared living and kitchen spaces.
  • On-Site Facilities: Free WiFi, self-service laundry, and 24-hour security.
  • Campus Amenities: Cafes, green spaces, and student services available.

If you book direct, you’ll also get access to perks like drink vouchers for NuBar and 10 percent off campus merchandise.

Final Thoughts

Exploring Dublin from DCU Rooms is easy, affordable and flexible. With everything just a bus or bike ride away, you can get the most out of your trip without spending a fortune on accommodation.

Ready to plan your stay?
Book direct at dcurooms.com for the best rates and added perks.

Picture of Sarah Corcoran

Sarah Corcoran

Sarah is a part-time travel writer and a full-time Dubliner, born and bred in this colourful city. She loves nothing more than exploring the beauty that’s on her doorstep and enjoying the many attractions and history that Dublin has to offer. She is passionate about writing and promoting her home town to anyone who will listen!

What's Nearby?

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Our rates are always €10 cheaper than other websites.  Guaranteed.

Flexible Cancellation Policy

Even the best-laid plans can change.
When you book direct, you have the option to cancel your reservation up to 48 hours prior to arrival with no penalty

Best Room Priority

We will automatically give priority to guests who book on our official website. That means if we have a room upgrade available as a direct booker, you’re more likely to get it.  

Drinks Voucher

Enjoy a free drink on us!
Book directly with DCU Rooms and receive a complimentary voucher for NuBar – choose from a soft drink or something stronger.

10% off Merch

Book direct and save 10% on DCU merchandise; available to use at the DCU Shop right on campus.