The 5 best venues to hear music in Dublin

The Sugar Club is perhaps one of the most unique clubs in Dublin as it welcomes a very eclectic range of artists. Best known for its hip-hop, funk and jazz, it also hosts screenings of classic films and cult favourites. With its wood-panelled walls and unique tiered seating, it is an exciting and important multi-purpose Arts Centre.

A down-and-dirty dive bar, wooden countertops, tables and stools, lit by candlelight. It’s one of the best places in the city to catch live music, seven nights a week, from a mix of local talent and international touring bands.

After 30 years, Whelan’s has become an Irish institution at this point. The roster of artists is ever evolving with everything from trad to rock and metal being played. Kila, Hozier, Sleaford Mods, Jeff Buckley, Lee Scratch Perry, Nick Cave and the Arctic Monkeys have all played here. They also do comedy nights.

With the parlour (the front bar) and the ballroom (the larger, more spacious bar), the ground floor of The Grand Social is a great place for a more laidback drink with friends any time of the week. Upstairs is the loft, a live music space where bands as eclectic as Primal Scream, Egyptian Lover and Suuns have played. On the roof is the garden, an outdoor terrace where everyone tends to congregate on weekends.

This place has reopened and remains one of the last bastions for live jazz and blues in the city. Downstairs is a classic old-style Irish pub, with a real turf fire and live music every night. Five nights a week however, upstairs transforms into a jazz and blues jam session, with doors usually opening at 8. Check their website for updates.