While searching for colorful boutique hotels, I found myself drawn to the Arthaus Hotel in Dublin. Inspired by the Bauhaus movement, this hotel blends bold pops of color with sleek, functional design—think clean lines, geometric shapes, and art that’s as practical as it is beautiful.
For those unfamiliar, Bauhaus originated in early 20th-century Germany, focusing on uniting art and everyday life. At Arthaus Dublin, that philosophy comes alive in the striking blue, green, and coral room palettes, playful artwork throughout the property, and the sense that you’re staying in a little gallery as much as a hotel.
It also feels right at home in Dublin, a city famous for its creativity—whether that’s the bold colors of Georgian doors, the literary legacy of Joyce and Wilde, or the music spilling from every pub. Arthaus taps into that same spirit, offering travelers a stylish retreat in the heart of the city.
Of course, I don’t pick a hotel just for its looks (though they definitely caught my eye). Location, comfort, and convenience matter too—and Arthaus Dublin delivered on all fronts. Here’s what I loved most about my stay.
How to Get to Arthaus Hotel Dublin
Arthaus Hotel Dublin is centrally located near Grafton Street and St. Stephen’s Green.
From the Dublin airport, head outside the terminal, 1 or 2, and find the Dublin Express bus stand. If you book online in advance, it’s €12 round trip. What does in advance mean? I tempted fate by booking inside the terminal while grabbing an iced latte. In advance appears to be before walking up to the stand.
Did I get on the right bus closest to the hotel? No. Did I know there was more than one route other than the airport to downtown Dublin? Also, no. My advanced research led me to take the Dublin Express; I was not aware of the multiple routes available. It never occurred to me to ask either because after 18 hours of flights, you don’t always make the best decisions.
Besides, it was 7:00 a.m. The best way to wake up is a leisurely stroll through the streets of Dublin, following Google Map directions. Dublin was showing her best self that morning – the streets were clean and it was quiet. Now my walk returning to the bus stop on Saturday morning – ewww. The suitcase went into the shower when I got home; I would have bleached it if I could have.
To save you the stroll, choose the 783 Dublin Express bus and get off at Portobello (New Street South). It’s a much quicker 10-minute walk to the hotel.
Explore the Art at Arthaus Hotel Dublin
One of my favorite parts of staying at the Arthaus Hotel Dublin was discovering the artwork scattered throughout the property. This isn’t just decoration—it’s curated like a gallery, with pieces that highlight the Bauhaus philosophy of merging art and everyday life. From geometric prints in the rooms to bold murals in the hallways, there’s always something eye-catching around every corner.
The hotel also offers an Art Map, guiding guests through all the pieces on display. Several of my favorite pieces are below. Even if you’re not a hardcore art fan, it’s a fun way to experience a boutique hotel that feels uniquely Dublin.
Learn more about the Arthaus Dublin art map here
Room Tips: Executive Twin at Arthaus Dublin
I booked the Executive Twin Room, which is the hotel’s largest option and features a striking blue design. If you want extra space and a true Bauhaus vibe, this is the room to go for. The beds are incredibly comfortable, the layout feels airy, and there’s plenty of room for two friends (or solo travelers who just like to spread out).
Honestly, the design alone makes it worth booking, but add in the quiet, cozy atmosphere, and you’ve got a room that’s perfect for relaxing after a full day of Dublin exploring.
Color, Comfort & Quirks: What I Loved at Arthaus Dublin
When I first saw the photos of Arthaus Dublin, the colorful room designs had me sold—bold shades of blue, green, and coral. But design only goes so far if the bed is awful. Thankfully, the beds were wonderfully comfortable, and the room was beautifully appointed. I slept like a dream.
The free bottled water—both sparkling and still—was a standout amenity. My best friend and I refilled our bottles daily, and fresh ones magically appeared outside our door each time. Charging for water? Ridiculous.
The shower water pressure was chef’s kiss. Warm enough and just the right pressure for two people to shower back-to-back, morning or night.
Minor Quirks I’d Tweak
Truly nitpicky, but the bathroom only had one towel hook. There was a towel bar in the shower, but for two people, it was awkward moving towels back and forth. That’s it—everything else about Arthaus Dublin was perfection.
More Reasons Arthaus Hotel Dublin Deserves a Spot on Your List
I did not book our reservation with breakfast, but that’s an option. Honestly, I very rarely eat breakfast at a hotel more than once because I want to try other restaurants in the area.
But if you’ve got a sweet tooth, around the corner is The Rolling Donut. If you need eggs or yogurt, in the opposite direction from the hotel is Metro Cafe. This is where I ate most mornings.
I love a hotel with a convenience store nearby and Arthaus Dublin had multiple. There was a Spar on the corner and a Dunnes inside the mall on Grafton Street. Why do I care about a convenience store? Cold water when the hotel doesn’t have a fridge. Internationally? Junk food. I love bringing home chocolate from Europe.
Who Will Love Staying at Arthaus Dublin?
I stayed while traveling with my best friend, and it couldn’t have been a better fit. The quiet vibe and central location made it easy to explore during the day and crash at night without being bothered by city noise. For reference, our weekend coincided with Coldplay’s Chris Martin walking down Grafton Street barefoot, along with Burna Boy, Little Simz, Elyanna, and Tini, to film the music video for We Pray. Even with our window open, we could barely hear the commotion—proof that Arthaus Dublin is a serene hideaway in the heart of the city.
This hotel is perfect for:
- Friends traveling together who want a stylish, calm spot to recharge.
- Solo travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and a colorful, art-filled stay.
- Couples who want a boutique, centrally located base for exploring Dublin.
It’s not a party hotel—and that’s exactly why it works. Cozy, colorful, and calm: just how I like it.
Final Thoughts – I’d Return in A Heartbeat
The Arthaus Hotel Dublin is a rare gem that nails style, comfort, and location all in one. From the bold Bauhaus-inspired colorful room designs to the thoughtful touches like free sparkling and still water bottles and excellent shower pressure, it’s a stay that feels curated for travelers who appreciate both art and convenience.
Whether you’re wandering Dublin’s historic streets, hunting down the best coffee shops, or just relaxing after a long day of sightseeing, Arthaus offers a peaceful, colorful retreat right in the heart of the city. Even on a weekend when Coldplay and friends were filming a music video just steps away, the hotel stayed blissfully quiet—a true testament to its serene vibe.
If you’re looking for a boutique, art-filled hotel that’s central, quiet, and totally charming, Arthaus Hotel Dublin should be at the top of your list. I’d stay here again in a heartbeat—and I can’t recommend it enough to anyone looking for a stylish Dublin base.
1 comment