Abbey Court

Hostels are not a dime a dozen, and this is especially the case in Dublin. There are the expected sorts of differences between hostels, of course—some are spic-and-span and some are, err, not—but the most telling difference among hostels has to do with management style. Abbey Court benefits from a detailed, hands-on and responsive approach to management.

Yes, the rooms are very clean, and yes, there are the expected common spaces and all that, but what really sets Abbey Court apart from the pack is the can-do spirit of its owner and team.

Rooms sleep between one and 12 people. They are run-of-the-mill in aesthetic terms, but they are done in welcoming, spunky bright colors. Most rooms have private bathrooms, supplemented by additional shared external showers. We especially liked the family-sized apartments, which can accommodate up to three guests. For the best deals, book the shared rooms; we have found that the private double rooms are a bit expensive.

The location, at the Leeson Bridge, is more or less at the epicenter of Dublin’s routes of foot and car traffic. It’s is great for night owls and culture vultures both.

Breakfast is included in the room rate, and the hostel offers an Internet station and Wi-Fi connection, both free of charge.