The Clarence

With its mullioned windows, brooding gray stone, and carved gothic sign, the Clarence Hotel makes a handsome addition to this riverfront row of redbrick buildings. The property first opened its doors as a hotel in 1852, and in 1992 it was famously bought by Irish rockers Bono and The Edge of U2, and after an $8 million renovation, it reopened in 1996. It is self-dubbed as "Dublin’s original rock ’n’ roll hotel," but when guests step inside they'll find the scene more sedate. Picture an airy high ceiling, leather seating, and plenty of wood paneling. Just off the lobby, a lounge mixes quirky lighting and avant-garde artwork with a marble fireplace and traditional seating. The vibe is boutique and upscale without shouting luxury, and the hotel attracts mostly business guests during the week and weekending couples on city breaks. Its superstar connection also means other celebrities sometimes stay here, making the hotel be a bit of a VIP spotting area.

The hotel is located on Wellington Quay overlooking the River Liffey in the center of Dublin. There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars in the surrounding area, with the renowned Temple Bar nightlife within a couple of minutes' walk -- meaning it can get a bit rowdy when the pubs close. Most of the capital's main attractions are within walking distance; Dublin Castle is three minutes away on foot, Trinity College eight minutes, and Saint Patrick's Cathedral 10 minutes. Grafton Street shopping is also about a 10-minute walk, while the Guinness Storehouse museum is about a 10-minute drive. The Convention Center Dublin (CCD) is five- to 10-minute drive or taxi ride, while Dublin Airport is 20 to 30 minutes' driving time.

The Clarence has 50 rooms and suites, all of which are fairly simply styled with leather seating, stone-topped tables and desks, and Shaker oak floorboards covered with large rugs. Amenities include tea- and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi, and 32-inch flat-screen TVs; suites add Nespresso machines. Bathrooms are traditional and tiled, with shower/tub combos, heated towel rails, and designer bath products. Some rooms open to balconies overlooking the river, while others have uninteresting back views. A seriously impressive Penthouse is spread over two floors, with kitchen, dining room, even a open-plan loft with baby grand piano. The location in the Dublin's city center means, despite double glazing on the windows, rooms are inevitably prone to noise from its vibrant nightlife.

The Clarence certainly outpunches its weight when it comes to its eating and drinking options. While breakfast is not a culinary highlight (and not included in the rate), the Cleaver East restaurant is run by Michelin-star chef Oliver Dunne and serves excellent lunch and dinner menus in chic surroundings at reasonable prices. The Octagon Bar makes a great spot for nightcaps, featuring a side lounge with an open fire. In the basement The Liquor Rooms is a super-cozy bar with secluded areas and occasional live music. Spaces in a small underground car park can be reserved for a small daily fee, a real bonus for central Dublin. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.