Find the perfect stay near Aviva Stadium

Aviva Stadium stands as the home of Irish rugby and football, uniquely designed with a sweeping glass roof that brightens the Dublin skyline. Visiting this UEFA Category 4 Stadium allows you to feel the energy of a match day or explore the architecture of a site that hosted the 2024 UEFA Europa League Final. It is a brilliant place to soak up the local atmosphere, especially when the crowd breaks into song during a home game.

Located in the leafy suburb of Ballsbridge, the stadium. The ground replaced the old Lansdowne Road, which was the oldest international stadium in the world before its reconstruction.

Matches and big performances

The venue hosts high-profile international rugby fixtures, including the Six Nations Championship, and Republic of Ireland football matches. Beyond sport, it transforms into a massive concert space for global music acts. The stadium has a seating capacity of 51,700 spectators, ensuring a loud and energetic atmosphere during any event.

Because it is a bowl-shaped arena, the views are generally excellent from most angles. However, the North Stand is notably lower than the others to allow sunlight into the gardens of the nearby houses. If you are attending a match, aim to arrive at least 45 to 60 minutes before kick-off to navigate the security checks and find your seat without rushing.

Securing your spot

Tickets for major international rugby matches are often distributed through local clubs first, making them harder to find on the general market. Football tickets and concert passes are usually sold via major online platforms. It is worth booking well in advance, as sell-outs are common for the big summer gigs and autumn rugby tests.

For those who want to see behind the scenes without an event ticket, guided tours are available. These tours typically last 60 minutes and take you through the players' tunnel, the dressing rooms, and the press area. You can usually find several tour slots per day, starting from 10:00 until the late afternoon, though they do not run on match days.

What to expect inside

The concourses are packed with food kiosks and bars serving Irish stout and quick snacks. If you have specific accessibility needs, the stadium is well-equipped with level access, elevators to all floors, and dedicated wheelchair viewing spaces. There are also sensory rooms available for those who might find the crowd noise overwhelming.

To keep things moving quickly, the venue operates as a cashless site, so make sure you have a card or mobile payment option ready. Keep in mind that there is a strict large bag policy in place; anything bigger than an A4 size sheet of paper will likely be turned away at the turnstiles.

Making the most of your visit

If you are heading to a game, follow the local tradition and wander through the surrounding streets of Ballsbridge or Irishtown. Many supporters gather in the local pubs within a 10-minute walk of the gates to soak up the pre-match build-up. After the final whistle, the walk back toward the city centre takes about 30 minutes, which is often faster than waiting for the crowded trains.

Since schedules for matches, concerts, and tours can change frequently due to team requirements or weather, always check the official Aviva Stadium website for the most up-to-date opening times and event information.

Navigating the area near Aviva Stadium is easy, and you can pick from plenty of great places to stay nearby. If you want to be right in the middle of the action or in a quieter neighbourhood, you will find reaching the ground is a straightforward walk or a quick hop on the train.

Where to stay nearby

The best area to base yourself is the leafy district of Ballsbridge, which sits right on the doorstep of the stadium. This part of Dublin feels quite posh but relaxed, filled with red-brick houses and embassy buildings. You can find everything here from high-end hotels with 24-hour reception to smaller, family-friendly guesthouses. If you prefer a more modern vibe, look towards the Grand Canal Dock area, which is roughly a 15-minute walk away. This spot is great for those who enjoy waterfront views and trendy boutique apartments. Both areas allow you to avoid the busiest parts of the city centre while still being surrounded by local pubs and cafes that buzz with energy on match days.

Getting to the stadium

The most convenient way to travel is by taking the DART train to Lansdowne Road Station, which is located directly underneath the stadium structure. If you are coming from the city centre, the journey from Pearse Station takes about 5 minutes, while those arriving at Connolly Station or Busáras can expect a 10-minute trip. For a more scenic route, several bus routes stop within 500 metres of the entrance, and the entire site is designed with level access for those with mobility requirements.

Pick your ideal stay near the Aviva Stadium by browsing the latest offers on Opodo. You can look at hotels that match your specific needs and pick out the best deals in seconds. Whether you want to be just 500 yards from the turnstiles or a short stroll from the local pubs, searching for hotels is simple and fun. Grab a great price on your hotel today and get ready for the match. Book your spot now and enjoy your trip to Dublin.