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Smithfield: Dublin's Historic Market Square
Discover Smithfield, Dublin: a historic marketplace turned vibrant cultural hub with distilleries, cinemas, traditional music, and modern attractions.
Smithfield, also known as Smithfield Square or Smithfield Plaza, is a vibrant area in Dublin with a rich history dating back to medieval times. Once a bustling marketplace for livestock and fairs, it has transformed into a modern urban hub with a blend of old-world charm and contemporary attractions. Today, it's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a mix of culture, entertainment, and dining experiences.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Smithfield
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Dublin, Smithfield, IE
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Getting There
Public Transport
The Luas Red Line provides direct access to Smithfield via the Smithfield Luas stop. From Dublin city center, take the Red Line towards Saggart or Tallaght and disembark at Smithfield. The 90-minute TFI fare is applicable for journeys on Dublin City Bus services (operated by Dublin Bus and Go-Ahead Ireland), Luas, DART and commuter rail services in Zone 1 when using a TFI Leap Card. A single Luas fare from Abbey Street to Four Courts (one stop before Smithfield) is approximately €1 - €2.
Bus
Dublin Bus routes 26, 37, 39A, 782, and several others serve Smithfield. Many buses stop along the quays near Smithfield, such as Ormond Quay. A single Dublin Bus fare generally costs around €3. The TFI 90 Minute fare applies to journeys made on Dublin City Bus services (operated by Dublin Bus and Go-Ahead Ireland), Luas, DART and commuter rail services in Zone 1 when using a TFI Leap Card.
Walking
Smithfield is approximately a 10-minute walk from Dublin city center. From O'Connell Street, walk west along the River Liffey, then turn north towards Smithfield Square. The walk is relatively flat and straightforward.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Dublin. A short taxi ride from Dublin city center to Smithfield typically costs between €10-€13 and takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic.
Parking
There are several parking options near Smithfield, including the Smithfield Market Car Park and the multi-story car park accessed from Queen Street. Hourly rates at Smithfield Market Car Park are approximately €3.40, with a daily maximum of €27. Evening and weekend rates are around €10. Discounted 24-hour rates may be available at some locations. Maldron Hotel Smithfield offers discounted parking rates for hotel residents from €18 for 24 hours. Monthly parking spaces are also available for rent in the area, ranging from €110-€150 per month.
Local tips
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Visit the Jameson Distillery Bow Street for an immersive whiskey experience, including tours, tasting sessions, and blending masterclasses.
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Catch a film at the Lighthouse Cinema, known for its diverse selection of independent, classic, and foreign films.
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Experience traditional Irish music at The Cobblestone pub, a renowned spot for nightly music sessions.
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Explore the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts and History at Collins Barracks, with free admission to exhibitions on Irish history, design, and more.
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Check out Smithfield Square for seasonal events like the Smithfield Fleadh and the Horse Fair, offering a glimpse into the area's cultural heritage.
Discover more about Smithfield
Smithfield, or Smithfield Square, has evolved from its medieval origins as a marketplace into a dynamic Dublin neighborhood. Originally a place for trading horses, cattle, and other livestock, the square was enclosed in the 17th century and became known as Smithfield.
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Smithfield was home to the Old Jameson Distillery, a significant player in the Irish whiskey industry. Although the distillery closed in 1971, its legacy is preserved as a visitor center. The area underwent significant regeneration in the late 20th century, transforming into a hub for commerce, art, and entertainment.
Today, Smithfield boasts attractions like the Lighthouse Cinema, known for its independent and classic films, and the Cobblestone pub, a mecca for traditional Irish music. Visitors can also enjoy the Jameson Distillery Bow Street, explore street art, and visit the National Museum of Ireland at Collins Barracks. The area hosts various events, including the Smithfield Fleadh, a free folk and traditional music festival. While the observation tower is currently closed, Smithfield offers a mix of historical charm and modern attractions.
A brief summary to Smithfield
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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