An Teach Beag pub in Clonakilty, West Cork.Tourism Ireland
As February delivers some of the coldest days of the year and half-term getaways loom, new research has revealed the Irish cities and counties where pub fires burn brightest. An analysis of more than 8,900 online reviews by travel experts at JustCover places Dublin firmly on top for fireside cosiness, with County Clare leading the way among countryside escapes.
A new study from JustCover reveals the Irish destinations with the cosiest pubs, according to visitor reviews. Dublin is named Ireland's cosiest pub city, with a perfect cosiness score of 100.
Among countryside destinations, County Clare tops the list, based on online review data.
From city breaks in the capital to breezy coastal escapes, Irish pubs are a major calling card for winter holidaymakers looking to escape the cold while they explore the country’s beautiful landscapes.
Dublin is home to Ireland’s cosiest pubs
The Palace Bar, Dublin.
The research looked at ten of the highest-rated pubs in each city and counted mentions of words linked to comfort and atmosphere, from "snug" and "open fire" to "welcoming" and "relaxing", to create a "cosiness" score. Beyond cities, the study also discovered Ireland’s standout countryside destinations for cosy pubs.
The Irish capital comes out on top, steaming ahead of the likes of Galway and Kilkenny to take the top spot as the Irish city with the cosiest pubs of all. Meanwhile, County Clare pips popular Irish countryside destinations to the top spot, thanks to small towns like Doolin offering respite from the Atlantic weather
Ireland's top five cosiest pub cities
Dublin
Cosiness score: 100
Stag's Head, Dublin.
Dublin takes first place with a city cosiness score far ahead of the rest of the country, over 36 points higher than runner-up Galway. As the birthplace of Guinness, the city is renowned for its pubs with traditional snugs, dark wood interiors and crackling open fires, particularly around Temple Bar and the Liberties.
These historic venues offer a welcome retreat after a day exploring or doing some shopping in the capital, with over one thousand reviews of Dublin's top 10 pubs marvelling over their cosy surroundings.
Galway
Cosiness score: 63.8
Live trad music at Tig Coili, in Galway city.
Galway ranks second, standing out for its intimate music scene and strong community atmosphere, according to online reviews. In the Latin Quarter and around Shop Street, pubs often offer nightly live music sessions that keep visitors indoors and entertained. The city is an ideal base for those driving the Wild Atlantic Way: a warm welcome after a day of long walks and mountain views.
Kilkenny
Cosiness score: 29.6
The Left Bank, in Kilkenny.
Kilkenny takes third place, with a cosiness score of 29.6. Its medieval streets are lined with a thriving pub scene, and the small city centre means visitors can move easily between Kilkenny Castle and local breweries, then dip into one of the many traditional pubs along the historic Medieval Mile.
Cork
Cosiness score: 28.6
Rostrevor Inn, Cork.
Following closely behind Kilkenny, Cork comes fourth, with reviewers praising the old-school charm of its pubs. After visiting the English Market or strolling along the River Lee, many visitors enjoy dipping into one of the pubs with fireside seating. Not to mention the city's friendly reputation, which extends to its pub culture, where locals and tourists mingle.
Limerick
Cosiness score: 20.1
Wild Geese restaurant in Adare.
Limerick completes the top five, with plenty of traditional pubs that visitors online frequently highlight. Rugby fixtures at Thomond Park and riverside walks along the Shannon may draw people year-round, but it’s the city's pubs that provide shelter when the cold weather rolls in. While it does have a lower overall score, those who visit Limerick’s pubs are often sold on its authentic Irish pub culture.
Alongside the city rankings, the research also analysed a selection of well-known Irish countryside destinations with strong pub culture, to reveal the rural areas where visitors are most likely to find cosy winter pubs.
Countryside destination
1. County Clare
Cosiness Score: 99.8
Russell's Seafood Bar, Doolin.
County Clare tops the countryside ranking, driven by pubs with stone fireplaces and genuine hospitality in towns like Doolin and more inland villages. After days spent exploring the Cliffs of Moher, tucking into a warm pub and being greeted with a friendly face and roaring fire can offer respite from the cold.
2. County Kerry
Cosiness Score: 87.0
Tom Crean South Pole, Annascaul.
County Kerry follows closely, with rural pubs serving as natural stopping points along the Ring of Kerry and other scenic routes. Fireside spots in towns like Killarney draw winter hikers tackling nearby mountain trails and national parks.
3. Connemara (County Galway)
Cosiness Score: 58.6
Keane's Bar, in Maum, Connemara.
Connemara's remote location makes its intimate local pubs especially beloved by travellers. After exploring Connemara National Park or driving through coastal roads, visitors appreciate the warmth and shelter, landing it a solid ‘cosiness’ score of 58.6 out of 100.
Letitia Smith, Head of Communications at JustCover, said: “For many travellers, a winter trip to Ireland isn't complete without time spent in a traditional pub: a real fire, friendly locals and a place to dry off after the rain. Our research shows there's no shortage of welcoming spots across the country, whether you're exploring Dublin's historic pubs or discovering hidden gems in smaller towns and counties.
"We'd encourage people to plan ahead, check opening times and book key experiences in advance. It's also important to make sure you have appropriate travel insurance in place, as winter weather can bring storms and transport disruption. Having the right cover gives you protection if your plans are disrupted so you can still relax and enjoy your trip.”