Dublin is a city that captures the hearts of many with its diverse and rich heritage. From the bustling street culture of the Temple Bar area to the stunning architecture of Trinity College, one has plenty of options to do and see in Ireland's vibrant capital city. But if you're an international student who's just arrived in Dublin, navigating this exciting new world can feel overwhelming. With a lot to explore and cultural nuances to absorb, it's easy to feel a little lost. That's why we've created this guide.
Dublin is steeped in history, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about Ireland's fascinating past. If you're studying at one of the city's universities, you'll likely be based in or around the city centre. This area is packed with museums, art galleries, restaurants, and pubs, and it's easy to spend hours exploring the winding streets and hidden alleyways.
It's important to note that Dublin is a city that's always on the move. New restaurants, bars, and shops are constantly opening up, so it's worth keeping an eye on local blogs and websites to stay up-to-date with what's happening in the city. And don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with a local - the Irish are known for their warmth and friendliness, and they're always happy to share their love of Dublin with newcomers.
If you want to discover more about this amazing city and pursue higher education in Ireland, you can book a free consultation with SI-Ireland today to learn about the best options, scholarships and entry requirements.
Living and Studying in Dublin as an International Student
Best Places to Live in Dublin
For students looking for accommodation in Dublin, it is essential to take into consideration several factors, such as proximity to your university, cost of living, and the availability of amenities such as shops, restaurants, and public transportation. The average student rent in Dublin can vary depending on the location, size, and quality of the accommodation. However, according to a recent report by Daft. i.e., the average student rent in Dublin for a room in a shared housing is around €650 to €800 per month.
Many universities in Dublin offer accommodation options on-campus or through partnerships with local providers, which can be a more affordable option for students. Additionally, they can also consider sharing a home or apartment with other students to reduce overall costs. If you still choose off-campus options because of any reason, the following are some of the best places to live in Dublin:
- Rathmines: This neighbourhood is located south of the city centre and is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse population. Rathmines has plenty of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and cafes, and is close to many of the city's universities.
- Stoneybatter: Stoneybatter is a popular neighbourhood for students due to its proximity to Dublin City University (DCU) and also the National College of Art and Design (NCAD). It has a bohemian vibe and is known for its independent cafes and vintage shops.
- Ranelagh: Ranelagh is a leafy suburb located just south of the city centre. It is a popular location for international students due to its proximity to the University College Dublin (UCD) campus and its many bars and restaurants.
- Smithfield: Smithfield is a trendy neighbourhood located in the north of the city centre. It has a vibrant nightlife scene and is close to many of the city's universities, including TCD and the Dublin Institute of Technology.
- Drumcondra: Drumcondra is a quiet residential neighbourhood located just north of the city centre. It is popular with students due to its proximity to DCU and its many parks and green spaces.
- Portobello: Portobello is a bohemian neighbourhood located just south of the city centre. It is known for its independent cafes and restaurants, as well as its proximity to the Trinity College Dublin campus.
Cost of Living in Dublin
Rent prices in Dublin can be quite high. On average, a shared room in a student apartment or a rented house can range from €400 to €800 per month. Private apartments or studios may cost more, typically ranging from €1,000 to €1,800 per month. Students can expect to pay around €100 to €150 per month for utilities and €50 to €100 on transportation. On average, a monthly food budget can range from €200 to €400, depending on your lifestyle and eating habits as well.
International students usually need to have health insurance while studying in Ireland. The cost of health insurance can vary, but it is typically around €300 to €600 per year, depending on the coverage.
If you are an international student looking for accommodation in Dublin, contact an SI-Ireland consultant today for free advice on where to live and what location is ideal for you.
Things To Do
As an international student, there are plenty of things to do in Dublin to make the most of your time in the city. Here are some of the major things to consider adding to your list:
- Explore Dublin's museums and art galleries: Dublin is packed with museums and art galleries that are well worth a visit. Some of the most popular include the National Museum of Ireland, the Irish Museum of Modern Art, and the National Gallery of Ireland.
- Take a stroll through Phoenix Park: It is among the largest urban parks in Europe and a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It's home to several attractions, including Dublin Zoo, the Victorian People's Flower Gardens, and the residence of the President of Ireland.
- Experience Dublin's pub culture: Ireland is known worldwide for its pub culture, and Dublin is no exception. There are countless pubs throughout the city, each with its own unique atmosphere and charm. You could try a pint of Guinness or a traditional Irish drink while you're here.
- Enjoy the local cuisine: Dublin has a thriving culinary scene, with plenty of restaurants serving delicious Irish fare. Make sure to try classic dishes like fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and Irish stew, and don't forget to indulge in some traditional Irish sweets like soda bread and scones.
- Take a day trip outside the city: Ireland is a small country, and you can take several day trips from Dublin to explore the surrounding areas. Consider visiting the seaside town of Howth, the historic city of Kilkenny, or the stunning Cliffs of Moher.
Where To Go
If you're a new international student in Dublin, there are many exciting places you should consider visiting to help you settle into the city and make the most of your university time here. Here are some top suggestions:
- Trinity College: Trinity College is one of the most famous and historic universities in Ireland, and it's a great place to start exploring the city. The campus is home to several landmarks, including the Old Library and also the Book of Kells exhibition, which offers a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage.
- Temple Bar: Temple Bar is one of the most vibrant and popular areas of Dublin, and it's a great place to socialise and network. The area is packed with pubs, restaurants, and shops, and it's always buzzing with activity.
- Dublin Bay: If you're looking to escape the city altogether, consider taking a trip to Dublin Bay. The bay offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside, and there are several seaside towns and villages to explore.
Famous Landmarks
Dublin is home to several famous landmarks that are very popular with visitors from around the world. Here are some of the most iconic:
- St Patrick's Cathedral: St. Patrick's Cathedral is Ireland's largest church and is among the most popular tourist attractions in Dublin. It was founded in 1191, and it's believed to be the place where St. Patrick was baptised into Christianity.
- Dublin Castle: The famous castle was built in the 13th century and served as the seat of British rule in Ireland for many years. Today, the castle is open to visitors, and it houses several museums and art galleries.
- The Spire: The Spire is a 120-meter-tall stainless steel monument located on O'Connell Street, one of Dublin's main thoroughfares. It was erected in 2003 and has since become one of the city's most recognisable landmarks.
Top Universities in Dublin
Trinity College Dublin
Trinity College Dublin is known to be the oldest university in the country, founded in 1592. It is consistently ranked among the top 100 universities in the world, and it's known for its academic excellence and historic campus.
- Acceptance rate: 10%
- Popular courses: Computer Science, Business, Law, and Psychology.
University College Dublin
UCD is currently the largest university in Ireland, with over 30,000 students. It is known for its strong academic and research excellence.
- Acceptance rate: 25%
- Popular courses: Computer Science, Engineering, Medicine, and Business
Dublin City University
Dublin City University is a young and dynamic university that has quickly established itself as a leading institution in Ireland. The university is known to have a strong focus on research and innovation.
- Acceptance rate: 30%
- Popular courses: Communications, Engineering Computer Science, and Business
Technological University Dublin
TU Dublin is one of the newest universities in Ireland, formed in 2019 from the merger of several institutions. The university is focused on providing students with practical, hands-on learning experiences.
- Acceptance rate: 50%
- Popular courses: Engineering, Science, Computing, and Business
Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
RCSI is a specialist institution that focuses on health sciences education and research. The institution has a strong reputation for producing world-class doctors and healthcare professionals.
- Acceptance rate: 20%
- Popular courses: Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing and Dentistry
