Avalon House, the International Hostel

Avalon House, a colourful old building just off Aungier Street in Dublin 2, hits a happy medium between hotel and hostel, with friendly helpful staff, clean rooms and an adjoining café also frequented by locals. It’s surely one of the best hostels in Dublin, and many guests have enjoyed the famous hospitality of this city centre accommodation.

Avalon House is located close to Temple Bar and the many watering holes of Wexford Street. It is one of the only hostels in Ireland that uses wind and solar energy to power itself.

A free walking tour leaves every morning at 10.30am. The hostel also offers free Wi-Fi to all, and there’s a large games room on site, if you want to challenge a fellow guest to a duel across the ping pong table. Plus, they will also refund your travel from the airport! Simply take the 16a to Georges Street, and present your ticket when checking in to be refunded.

No curfew exists and the front desk is open 24 hours for those who may be partying, while private parking is also available on site.

The best thing about the hostel though, we think, is the adjoining Bald Barista Café. Home to one of Dublin’s best espressos, you’re likely to be flanked by students from the local Dublin Institute of Technology as well as local suited workers, all of whom have unearthed the secret of the brilliant homemade desserts, wraps and sambos and top-notch coffee.

Avalon’s prices begin at €10 per night. This hostel is renowned as a great alternative to pricey local hotels, with a truly city centre location to boot!