Dublin is barely 90 minutes from London by plane, which makes it one of the easiest city breaks in Europe — and according to a new edit from Condé Nast Traveller UK, it's also a city where an Airbnb beats a hotel room. The editors have rounded up their current picks across the Irish capital, vetted for Superhost status, guest ratings, amenities, location and decor.

The shortlist is neatly sorted by traveller type. Couples are pointed towards a quaint 1870s cottage in Dundrum, a leafy southside suburb with its own village feel and a direct Luas tram link into the centre. Families get Woodtown Barn in South Dublin, which also doubles as the pick for the best view — a rare two-for-one on any accommodation list. Larger crews can take over a smart Georgian townhouse right in the city centre, putting the pubs, restaurants and cultural sights within walking distance. Design lovers are steered to a luxurious suite inside a historic manor house, also central.

What makes the picks useful is the range of neighbourhoods they cover. Staying central means you're steps from Dublin's ever-evolving dining scene — the city now has several Michelin-starred chefs anchoring its restaurants — while the outer picks trade location for space, character and a taste of residential Dublin, all red brick and quieter streets.

And the case for Dublin itself goes well beyond Guinness, the piece argues. Yes, the nightlife is bouncy and the pints are perfectly pulled, but the editors highlight open-water swimming spots, Gaelic hurling matches and boutique shopping as reasons to book, all wrapped up in a city famous for its easy-going locals in what's regularly called one of the world's friendliest countries. An Airbnb stay, they suggest, gives you more of that local texture than a standard hotel — jolly Irish tradition included.

For anyone planning a short break, the takeaway is simple: decide what kind of trip you're having first. A couple wanting atmosphere should look at Dundrum; a family needing room to spread out should eye South Dublin; a group prioritising nightlife and restaurants should fight over the Georgian townhouse beds. Either way, booking an entire home in Dublin often costs less than several hotel rooms — and gives you a kitchen and a living room to regroup in between pints.

Full listing details, prices and links are in the original edit.

Condé Nast Traveller UK