The hype
Travelers love the grand lobby and the central location, but opinions are split on the modern, uncarpeted room renovations.
Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin
$150-270/ night
Book this if You want a historic 'Grand Dame' hotel right in the chaotic heart of Dublin with freshly renovated rooms (as of mid-2024) and a legendary breakfast.
Why People Love It
- The 2024 renovation updated 404 rooms, replacing tired decor with modern (if stark) finishes
- Location is unbeatable for public transit—Aircoach and trams stop literally at the front door
- The breakfast buffet at the Gallery Restaurant is consistently rated as one of the best spreads in the city
Quick Take: It's a massive, busy machine of a hotel where the lobby feels majestic but the standard rooms can feel a bit like a premium dormitory due to the new lino floors.
Reviewed by @jetoffwithjess: I stayed in the Senior Suite and honestly felt like I was on a movie set. The antique decor and four-poster bed are stunning, and the living room is bigger than my apartment! Definitely ask about the upgrade at check-in—it was totally worth it for us.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'soundproofing' doesn't block the Luas tram announcements or the hallway noise, and the new hard floors make echo worse.
- You prioritize being dead-center in the action over quiet seclusion
- You love a massive hotel breakfast buffet to start the day
- You need easy airport access (Aircoach stops outside)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally efficient daily service, though some reports of missed dust in corners.
- Bathroom hygiene: Renovated bathrooms are mostly sparkling, but watch for hair in drains in older reviews.
- Maintenance: Newly renovated (2024), so peeling paint is rare, but check AC controls.
- Linens & towels: Standard hotel quality; clean but not luxury plush.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells expensive; rooms are neutral (no carpet means less musty smell).
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Luas tram announcements and bells from the street
- Corridor noise amplified by hard laminate flooring
- Sirens and late-night revelers on O'Connell Street
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel went cashless in many areas—bring a card.
- Luggage storage is available if you arrive before the 3 PM check-in.
- The 'gym' is small and functional, not a destination fitness center.
What to pack
- Thick socks or slippers (the new laminate floors are cold)
- Earplugs (essential for street-facing rooms)
- Universal travel adapter (though many renovated rooms have USB ports)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Deluxe Rooms in the 'Lavery Wing' for more space and a dressing area
- Rear-facing rooms on high floors (5th/6th) to minimize street noise
Rooms to avoid
- Standard Double rooms facing O'Connell Street (unless you enjoy people-watching and noise)
- Rooms near the elevators (high foot traffic)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would like to request a quiet room facing the rear of the hotel or an internal courtyard, away from O'Connell Street noise. If available, a room in the Lavery Wing would be appreciated.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is breakfast included?
Often yes, and it's a highlight—huge buffet with hot and cold options. Check your specific rate plan to be sure.
Does the hotel have parking?
No. You must park at Q-Park The Spire (Thomas Lane) for about €30 per 24 hours.
Is there air conditioning?
Yes, the renovated rooms have AC, though effectiveness can vary by floor.
How far is Temple Bar?
A 5-10 minute walk across O'Connell Bridge.
Is the area safe?
O'Connell Street is safe but gritty. Expect to see homelessness and drug use nearby, but it is heavily policed and busy.
Can I request a late check-out?
Standard check-out is 12:00 PM. Late check-out is available for a fee, subject to availability.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The Writer's Lounge is a hidden gem for a quiet afternoon tea or whiskey away from the lobby chaos.
- ✨
Don't eat dinner on O'Connell Street; walk 5 minutes to Parnell Street for authentic Asian food.
- ✨
The Aircoach (blue bus) to the airport stops directly in front of the hotel—no taxi needed.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Standard' rooms have lino/laminate floors that feel very clinical/hospital-like to some.
💡You can hear the 'ding' of the Luas tram from the front rooms constantly.
💡The elevators can be slow during the morning rush due to the sheer size of the hotel.
💡The heating system in some bathrooms is linked to the lights/fan and can be tricky to adjust.
💡Security is tight—you often need to show a key card just to get to the elevators in the evening.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin is located and what's nearby.