The Gibson Hotel stands at Point Square in the Docklands, the redeveloped area east of the city centre where glass offices, theatres and the 3Arena have replaced the old port warehouses. It is a contemporary hotel designed for the modern city traveller, and its position makes it especially convenient for concert-goers, because the arena is next door and the Luas stop at The Point is close. For general sightseeing it is a little removed from the Georgian and medieval core, but the Luas and the coastal rail network make the centre easy to reach, and the walk along the quays to O'Connell Street is pleasant on a dry day. Rooms are modern, with contemporary finishes and well-designed bathrooms, and the Docklands setting gives some rooms views over the river, the bay or the surrounding cityscape. The hotel has a restaurant and bar for guests and visitors, though facilities and opening patterns change, so check when you book. For travellers attending concerts or events at the arena or the Convention Centre, it offers a short walk home at the end of a late night.
Location, honestly
The Docklands are a modern, business-like district with a different feel from historic Dublin. By day, the area is busy with office workers, and at night it can be quiet except on event nights, when the arena fills and the surrounding streets are busy. Expect crowds and some noise on concert nights, and book early for major shows, as rooms in the area can sell out quickly and prices climb.
The city centre is roughly a twenty-five to thirty-minute walk along the river, and the Luas and buses make the journey shorter. Visitors who want pubs and live music on the doorstep may prefer Temple Bar, while those who prefer a calmer base and easy transport will find the Docklands a comfortable alternative.
Living in it
Rooms are comfortable and contemporary, and the hotel is built for the type of visitor who arrives for a show, a conference or a short city break. Check the details of breakfast, parking and facilities when you book, as arrangements vary and event days can be busy. The staff are used to guests heading to nearby events and can advise on transport and restaurants in the area, and the Docklands have a growing choice of restaurants and bars within a short walk.
Because the district is flat and well lit, walking at night feels straightforward, though as in any city centre you should use normal sensible precautions.
Who it suits
Concert-goers, business travellers, couples who prefer a modern hotel to a period property and visitors who want good transport links. It is less suited to travellers who want to be among the historic sights, who will find the Fitzwilliam or a Temple Bar hotel closer to the action. Pair your stay with a morning at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, which sits in the Docklands, a walk along the quays to the GPO Museum and a DART ride to Howth or Dun Laoghaire for a coastal afternoon.
The Marker Hotel, also in the Docklands, offers an alternative for travellers who prefer a pool and a rooftop bar.
Why stay here
- ✓Next to 3Arena
- ✓Luas stop nearby
- ✓Contemporary rooms
- ✓Docklands riverside setting
- ✓Restaurant and bar on site
- ✓Walk to EPIC museum
- ✓Easy DART links
- ✓Event-night convenience
Good questions
Is The Gibson close to the 3Arena?+
Yes, it is beside the arena at Point Square, so it is very convenient for concerts and events.
How far is it from the city centre?+
Roughly twenty-five to thirty minutes on foot along the river, or a short Luas or bus ride.
Is it noisy on concert nights?+
The area is busy around events, so expect crowds and some noise. Ask for a quieter room when you book.
