From inspiring international artists through to waxing lyrical, Dublin is one song-filled city, with bars and pubs soundtracked nightly with a whole host of genres. Whether it's jigging to Irish trad at a backstreet pub or moshing at a rock gig, we've rounded up some of Dublin's best live music bars, pubs, clubs and venues for when Spotify just won't cut it.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 16th June 2025
Fancy seeing some fantastic artists perform in a traditional Irish pub? Then head to Disndat, a quirky venue in the city centre boasting a bustling atmosphere and live music seven nights a week. What's more, their cocktail selection is to die for - alongside plenty of pints as well.
A neighbourhood bar and event space in the Portobello area, The Fourth Corner promises a regular lineup of entertainment. They host both live bands and cracking DJ sets, with a dedicated stage area to watch them from.
Sip pints or cocktails while you enjoy the show, and be sure to check out their food menu too. Bolt Burger are in the kitchen, cooking up tasty patties and sides, from chicken wings to nachos.
When only traditional Irish music in a vintage-look pub will do, The Rag Trader is where to head on Wednesday and Thursday nights from 8pm onwards. There's fireplaces, mis-matched furniture and trinkets galore across the space, while the bar also stocks over 100 whiskies - plus your usual stout, craft beer and cocktails.
Nancy Hands in Dublin city centre hosts regular live Irish music sessions, as well as encouraging customers to showcase their own talents too. Located close to the Guinness factory, this cosy pub boasts a near-perfect pint as well as a selection of international dishes.
The Market Bar is one cool, relaxed setting for watching live music in Dublin. Performances here range from brilliant ballads and cocktail sipping, to full blown gigs and beer chugging, explore their calendar and you're sure to find something that fits your taste.
Humphrey's is the perfect spot for live music lovers in Dublin! Every Thursday, the pub hosts a lively traditional (trad) music session that brings the best of Irish culture to the heart of the city.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's no better way to spend a Thursday night than with a pint in hand, surrounded by the sounds of live music. With its welcoming atmosphere, fantastic beers, and delicious tacos, Humphrey's offers a perfect combination of good food, great tunes, and a cosy vibe.
Opium is a cracking Dublin live music venue, club, bar and restaurant all rolled up into one. A relaxed restaurant serving the finest in Asian cuisine by day, this place transforms into a fun-loving party bar and raucous gig space when the night rolls in.
One of Dublin's rowdier spots, The Workmans Club has hosted some huge names, including the likes of Cillian Murphy on the DJ decks, and Father John Misty crooning. When it's not cranking out live music, the bar is keeping you entertained with poetry readings, comedy and more.
A real Dublin live music experience, Kehoes Pub is keeping things low key with ale, trad music and original decor. Stop by on a Tuesday for acoustic tunes, which make for the perfect for a date night if you're snuggled up in one of their wooden clad booths.
If you're more about the fiddle than EDM, The Temple Bar is the place for you. A stalwart on Dublin's music scene, this pub hosts a live band every darn night and has even been named 'traditional Irish music pub of the year' 10 years in a row.
An iconic spot for a pint in the city, the original Porterhouse also likes to keep it lively with traditional Irish music over the weekends. Head to this Temple Bar joint as they serve craft beer, Irish ale and lively tunes to see you into the wee hours.
A venue of many talents that never seems to sleep, Bad Bobs hosts shows every single day. Check out the multi-storey venue for local acts, which over the weekend are followed by DJs and saxophonists and delve into their cracking cocktail menu.
Set in Temple Street, The Button Factory puts on shows five nights of the week, whether that be an EP release or a rock band trying out their electric guitar. If you're looking for a place to see some of the best live music in Dublin, this venue promises to deliver.
Preserving Ireland's traditional music scene, The Cobblestone is a charming boozer in the heart of Smithfield. Expect rustic wooden interiors and comfortable seating, as well as a cracking range of beers behind the bar.
They host live music seven days a week, promising old-school performances from all kinds of artists, and it's one of the most famous traditional music pubs around.
If you're looking for some international talent or the latest superstar, you can start at The Academy. The Middle Abbey Street plot puts on regular gigs, with past acts ranging from cult favourites Bowling For Soup through to Indie kids You Me At Six.
The Grand Social has got live music in Dublin down. Dedicated to bringing you the best and the brightest talent, the bar has a hot lineup throughout the week. When you're not in the mood to boogie? Head up to the roof terrace for a drink or check out the weekly quiz.
