Skip the hotels, bed and breakfasts and other less-than-exciting digs your next trip to the capital of the Emerald Isle. The best place to stay in Dublin is a hostel called Kinlay House.

Situated far enough from Temple Bar to avoid many of the tourists, but close enough to walk to loads of great restaurants, pubs and sights like the Guinness Storehouse, you really can’t go wrong staying at Kinlay.

Two weekends ago, I caught a few nights of Zzzz in the famous brick red building  across from Christ Church Cathedral so I could give you guys an accurate review of one of the most well-known hostels in Dublin.

The Kinlay House in Dublin

The Good

The Rooms – Hostels are not meant to be the Four Seasons, but the Kinlay is top-notch when it comes to accommodations. The bathrooms, showers and rooms are very clean and there are enough bathrooms and showers to accommodate all guests.

It’s Connected to a Bar – You don’t have to look far to get your first pint of Guinness as the Kinlay is connected to Darkey Kelly’s pub in the rear. Plus, ask the guys at the front desk of the hostel for a coupon for 1 Euro off your first pint. Just make sure to go on karaoke night.

Storage and Security – Not all hostels have lockable storage, but the Kinlay has two such options – one for small laptops and electronics and one for larger luggage. The entire hostel itself is locked 24 hours-a-day and you have to show a pass to get in and use a key card to enter your room. There’s no need to worry about leaving your laptop or luggage when you head out for the day.

Free Stuff – Free Internet and WiFi, free calls home and free breakfast. The Internet is not exactly the fastest and the computers aren’t the latest iMacs, but they serve the purpose to check Facebook and e-mail.

The Bad

The Temperature – If you’ve been to Dublin this summer, you know it’s been a bit warmer than usual. While it isn’t scorching, if your Dutch roommate closes the window in the middle of the night, it can get a bit warm in the room.

On you’re next trip to Dublin, check out our hostels section of statravel.com and book a night at the Kinlay.