Nightlife in Dublin has changed beyond all recognition recently. Alongside the traditional Irish pubs sit stylish bars and buzzing pre-club haunts. The trendy Temple Bar area is the district most associated with the city's best nightlife hotspots and vibe.

The fortnightly magazine In Dublin (www.indublin.ie) is good for Dublin nightlife and events listings, with bar, restaurant and club reviews. Dublin Tourism (www.visitdublin.com) also has online events listings that are updated daily.

As a city with a large population of young people, both natives and students, not to mention a constant influx of young, up-for-it tourists all keen to party the Irish way, it comes as no surprise that clubbing features high in Dublin social life. The dance scene has been well developed in recent years.

Moreover, Ireland's nightlife is world renowned. From cozy country pubs to lively city nightclubs and cafes there is something for everyone here. The pub is still the centre of the Irish nightlife and is a great place for talking, meeting people, catching up on some local gossip, eating, drinking and generally having a good time.

Traditional pubs are still the most common type in the country with the basic pleasures of good beer, good conversation and few frills. Local musicians often play at such places so if that's what you’re after it's usually worth asking round. The larger towns and cities also have more modern / cosmopolitan type places including some continental-style cafe-bars, disco-bars and of course nightclubs. Dublin, with its young working population has probably one of the most eventful nightlife scenes in Europe. Ireland's position as one of the wealthiest countries in EU has brought many new venues and types of clubs into the frame. In other cities such as Belfast, Galway and Cork with their young student populations there are always music events on all year round.

Bars

Cocoon

Is a popular haunt owned by ex racing driver Eddie Irvine. Long deep sofas and plush armchairs are dotted around, while DJs play tunes over the weekend.

Royal Hibernian Way

Tel: (01) 679 6259.

Dawson Lounge

Ii is the smallest pub in Dublin, with room for about six people in the basement.

25 Dawson Street

Tel: (01) 677 5909.

Palace Bar

For a more traditional pub crawl, head to Temple Bar, where the Palace Bar can be found.

21 Fleet Street

Tel: (01) 677 9290.

Pravda

One of the most popular bars in Dublin is Pravda, which is set to be transformed into a new, funky, live music and club venue.

2-3 Liffey Street Lower
Tel: (01) 874 0090.
Website: www.pravda.ie

Clubs

Lillie's Bordello The exclusive Lillie's Bordello is where all visiting pop stars, actors and celebrities hang out for after-show parties. Adam Court,Grafton Street Website: www.lilliesbordello.ie PoD (Place of Dance) Once a clubbing wasteland, Dublin's reputation for top-rack nightclubs is growing year on year. PoD retains its popularity and has won awards for its outlandish décor. Harcourt Street Tel: (01) 476 3374. Website: www.pod.ie Ri Ra Combines a chilled bar with a free to enter hip club. Dame Court Tel: (01) 671 1220.Website: www.rira.ie

The Academy

Most live music venues host club nights after gigs. The Academy is enjoying a new lease of life and is attracting some big name international DJs as well as the cream of local talent.

57 Abbey Street Middle
Tel: (01) 877 9999.

Website: www.theacademydublin.com

O'Shea's Merchant Pub

Anyone can join in traditional Irish dancing after a pint or two at the O'Shea's Merchant Pub.

12 Bridge Street Lower
Tel: (01) 679 3797.