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Conveniently located on bustling O’Connell Street, Dublin’s oldest hotel has recently been refurbished, but Waterford crystal chandeliers still add a touch of 19th-century elegance.

A beautiful modern hotel, with floor to ceiling windows looking out over the surrounding parkland. Contemporary Irish art decorates communal areas, including the lounge and restaurant.

Three Georgian houses have been converted to make this hotel, which offers comfortable accommodation and is close to most conveniences.

All pale walls and beechwood furniture, the Morgan encapsulates the contemporary style of the Temple Bar area with its minimalist design. It can be noisy on the streets, so try for top-floor rooms.

A traditional hotel in style with dark wood, chandeliers and chintz fabrics, the Burlington is nevertheless home to Doyle’s, a thoroughly modern and lively Irish cabaret featuring song, dance and tall stories.

Converted from a 19th-century schoolhouse which saw some action during the Easter Rising, many original features have been retained at this unusual 4-star hotel. Former classrooms have been converted into a restaurant and bar – fortunately the modern Irish food is far better than school dinners!

With its dark wood foyer and bar and royal blue carpets, Brooks exudes old-world style. Downstairs, however, is Francesca’s restaurant, with a more modern decor, reflecting its menu of fine modern Irish food (see Francesca’s). Set in a quiet street, the lively pubs and bars around Grafton Street are just minutes away.

On the edge of St Stephen’s Green, this member of the Clarion hotel chain has been smartly decorated. Not as unusual as some of Dublin’s top hotels, but makes for a comfortable and central stay.

A wonderful futuristic-style hotel in the renovated Smithfield area. It is named after a 19th-century Irish-born Chicago Chief of Police, Francis O’Neill. Panoramic views of Dublin can be seen from the Smithfield Chimney in front of the hotel.

This new hotel overlooking the walls of Trinity College has paid attention to every detail, combining Art Deco influences with a modern twist. Most striking are its oversized lilac sofas in the foyer, and wonderful sculptures. Just in case Dublin goes up in flames, avoid lower level rooms – the hotel is located next to a fire station. Excellent Irish breakfast.