Christmas Shopping

Luke McLeod | Last Updated 11 Oct 2023 | 5 Minute Read 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Dublin becomes magical at Christmas, with families coming from the Pantos, the smell of roast chestnuts comes from the Christmas Markets, and the jeers of the pubs bellow out as you walk by.  

Checking in to the Arthaus is a perfect start to Christmas Shopping in Dublin. Our boutique 4* hotel is just a 2-minute walk to St. Stephen’s Green shopping centre and Grafton Street. These are the home to the biggest shopping district in Dublin. 

However festive shopping in Dublin spreads much wider than just the Grafton St area. There are Christmas Markets, Department stores and shopping centres.  

There is a little-known piece of history about Christmas Shopping in Dublin. On the 8th of December it is tradition for country families to visit Dublin to complete their Christmas Shopping.  

This date used to mark the start of the Holiday Season in Ireland. Santa’s Grotto would always be busiest on the 8th. However, with the rise of online shopping and the incorporation of Black Friday, “Farmer’s Christmas” is not as popular as it once was.  

Where to go Christmas Shopping in Dublin

Shopping in Dublin has never been better, with huge stores opening every month. You can find some of our favourite family stores that have been ran for hundreds of years to the boutique stalls in one of the many Christmas markets in Dublin this year. Get in the festive spirit and find some of your favourite specialist shops. 

Christmas Markets

While Dublin does not offer a huge number of fairs, we do have some incredibly unique markets. Whilst you can find one traditional ‘Bavarian' style market, you can find a lot of other modern markets around Dublin and its suburbs this festive season.

Christmas in the Castle happens on the grounds of Dublin Castle each year. This ticketed event is the most traditional market and has food stalls as well as traders of ornaments, paintings, jewellery and much more.

There are some modern markets that are planned to take place in 2023. The Gifted Fair in the RDS happens each year before Christmas. It features Irish producers and crafters. The Botanic Gardens Fair takes a focus on sustainable gifting. Products on offer are all eco-friendly and support local creators.

There are other markets further out of the city. They are in Swords Castle and Bremore Castle. Although you may find a few smaller markets too.

Check out our guide to Christmas Markets in Dublin 2023 now.  

Shopping in Grafton St & Stephen’s Green

Grafton Street is probably one of the more famous streets in Dublin for shopping. It's wide range is home to some of the biggest design names, nestled in the department store Brown Thomas, Grafton St is the perfect destination for buying the last of your Xmas presents or finding the perfect gift ideas during the festive period.

Shopping on one of Dublin's largest shopping streets can be a long day. There are lots of restaurants to choose form for a quick bite before you go back out to brave the cold.

On the South end of Grafton Street, you will find St. Stephen's green shopping centre. It's beautiful interiors combined with its shops, offering anything from clothing, accessories and food to exceptional items like Irish Knitwear supply a unique and relaxed shopping experience.

Between Georges St arcade and Grafton Street stores, you will find Powerscourt Centre. It is a brilliant place to find unique jewellery, antiques, art shops and some high-end fashion pieces.

Find out all there is to know about Shopping in Dublin.   

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Shop at Dundrum Town Centre

Dundrum Town Centre is the closest shopping centre outside of the city. Just a 20 minute drive or a 16 minute tram ride from the Arthaus.

Dundrum Shopping Centre offers four floors of retail space and over 150 stores. Making this the biggest shopping complex in Dublin. Whether you are just starting your Christmas shopping or are looking to pick up the final few bits then a stop in Dundrum is a perfect way to finish your shopping break to Dublin

Temple Bar

At Christmas Time, Temple Bar is best known for warm lights illuminating the cobblestones, but you can find some incredible deals here.

You may find yourself trying not to enjoy the festivities of the Temple Bar or indulging in an excellent meal from O'Shea's. However, if you look between the pubs, you will find some quaint shops offering vintage clothing, antiques, boutique gift shops and stunning visual prints.

There are some attractive old world shops too with beautiful window displays, book shops, and locally owned shops are all around Temple Bar. 

Reasons to Shop and Stay at the Arthaus

A stay at the Arthaus will be one of the most unique offerings in the city. Our 4* boutique hotel was designed with inspiration from the Bauhaus school of Art. The Arthaus Hotel shows a rich tapestry of art and design are woven throughout by a series of artists, craftsmen, and skilled workers in a contemporary setting. 

As you enter the lobby, you will be warmly greeted by the scent of fresh pine from the trees before you check in. Upon arriving in your room, you will discover the beauty of your stay that is about to unfold.  

Take time to relax in our wonderful surroundings before taking a trip to one of the many shopping areas around our hotel.  

Stay and Save at the Arthaus Hotel

Take the stress out of travelling and stay in Dublin’s Shopping District, just seconds form one of Ireland’s most well-known parks.  

Enjoy a luxurious overnight stay in one of our boutique rooms in the heart of Dublin. Inspired by the best of the Bauhaus Art Movement our stylish and creative rooms are the perfect touch of luxury to begin your Dublin journey. 

Our artwork in the Boutique rooms features works inspired by the Bauhaus teacher Wassily Kandinsky, often hailed as the pioneer of abstract art. In his own words, ‘’Colour is a power which directly influences the soul. 

Stay two nights at the Arthaus Hotel and get €20 off per night.  

The Wrap Up

Christmas Shopping in Dublin needs more than one day as it has so much to offer. Check into the Arthaus this winter and explore Dublin city’s shopping streets while experiencing the Culture of our city.   

Walk out of the hotel and you’re right in the heart of Dublin’s Shopping District and within walking distance of the second largest shopping streets. Wake up each morning in our luxury King Koil beds refreshed and ready to get back to shopping in the capital city. 

FAQ - Christmas Shopping

The Arthaus is a perfect 4* boutique hotel located just a 2-minute walk from St. Stephen’s Green shopping centre and Grafton Street, the biggest shopping district in Dublin. 

On the 8th of December it is tradition for country families to visit Dublin to complete their Christmas shopping. This date used to mark the start of the Holiday Season in Ireland.  

Yes! Dublin is a magical place during the Christmas season, with many family-friendly activities such as Pantos, Christmas Markets and pubs. 

About the Author

Meet our passionate and seasoned Travel and Culture Editor, Luke McLeod. With an insatiable wanderlust and an unquenchable thirst for cultural exploration, Luke is your trusted guide to unlocking the soul of Ireland. 

With years of experience in the realms of travel and culture journalism, Luke has made it their mission to hand-pick the most captivating and authentic experiences that the Emerald Isle has to offer. 

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