Best Christmas Shopping in Dublin 2026
The best Christmas shopping in Dublin is centred on Grafton Street and Henry Street, home to Brown Thomas, Arnotts and dozens of Irish boutiques. For something different, browse the Powerscourt Centre and George’s Street Arcade, hunt for vintage gifts around Temple Bar, head out to Dundrum Town Centre for over 120 shops under one roof, or pick up handmade treasures at the city’s festive Christmas markets all within easy reach of the city centre.
Dublin comes alive at Christmas, and there’s no better base for a festive shopping trip than The Mercantile Hotel on Dame Street a short stroll from Grafton Street, Henry Street and the Temple Bar markets. Whether you’re after luxury labels, one-of-a-kind Irish crafts or last-minute stocking fillers, this guide covers where to go Christmas shopping in Dublin in 2026, street by street.
Christmas Shopping on Grafton Street
Dublin’s best-known shopping street is a joy to wander in winter, with twinkling lights overhead and beautiful window displays at every turn and it’s just a short walk from The Mercantile.
- Brown Thomas
Grafton Street is home to Brown Thomas, one of Ireland’s most iconic department stores and a true Christmas shopping hub. From kids’ toys to men’s fashion, beauty and designer labels, there’s something for everyone under one roof.
- Powerscourt Centre & George’s Street Arcade
Nearby you’ll find the Powerscourt Centre, a hidden gem blending boutique shops and big-name brands under one elegant Georgian roof. Right beside it, George’s Street Arcade fills up with market-style stalls selling quirky, unique gifts through the festive season.
- St Stephen’s Green
Just off Grafton Street sits St Stephen’s Green and the St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre, along with classic Irish keepsakes think tweed caps and Aran knit jumpers. The Sweater Shop on Nassau Street, renowned for its stitching, is only a two-minute walk away.
5. Irish Boutiques – Kilkenny Design & Avoca
For Christmas gifts no one else will think to buy, this is the area for Dublin’s independent Irish boutiques. Two long-standing favourites are Kilkenny Design and Avoca, both champions of Irish craft and bespoke gifting, each just a few minutes’ walk away.
Feeling peckish after all that browsing? Enjoy a cosy pint and a bite back at The Mercantile Bar or make an evening of it look at dining at The Mercantile and reserve a table in advance, as December fills up fast.
Christmas Shopping on Henry Street
Cross the Liffey and you’ll find Dublin’s other great shopping district. A short walk from the hotel, pedestrianised Henry Street is packed with high-street names and department stores and comes alive with buskers and festive lights in December.
- Arnotts, Marks & Spencer, Penneys & Dunnes
The street’s anchor is Arnotts, Ireland’s oldest department store trading on the site since 1843 and now part of the same group as Brown Thomas, so you’ll find plenty of familiar brands across its several floors, from fashion and homeware to a food hall. Alongside it are Marks & Spencer, Penneys and Dunnes Stores, giving you almost everything in one stretch.
- Ilac Centre & Jervis Centre
Henry Street is also home to two of the city’s biggest shopping centres. The Ilac Centre houses over 80 stores and restaurants (plus the free, quiet Central Library a handy place to rest between shops), while the Jervis Shopping Centre, just off Henry Street on Mary Street, brings together a raft of high-street favourites under one roof.
- Moore Street Market
For something more traditional, the Moore Street market nearby is a Dublin institution a lively spot for festive fruit, flowers and a slice of the city’s character.
Shopping with friends? Base yourselves in a Deluxe Twin room so you’re moments from both sides of the river.
Tips for a Stress-Free Christmas Shopping Trip in Dublin
- Start early or go midweek. Grafton Street and Henry Street get busiest on December Saturdays, so mornings and weekdays are far calmer.
- Stay central. Basing yourself in the city centre means you can drop your bags and head back out, rather than hauling them all day.
- Wrap up warm. Dublin winters are chilly and damp layers and comfortable shoes make a long day much easier.
- Shop Local in The boutiques, arcades and craft fairs are where you’ll find gifts you won’t see anywhere else, while supporting local makers.
- Mix it up. Pair a morning on Grafton Street with an afternoon at a Christmas market for the full festive experience.
Where to Stay for Christmas Shopping in Dublin ?
There’s no better base for a festive shopping trip than a hotel right in the middle of the action. From The Mercantile Hotel on Dame Street, Grafton Street, Henry Street and the Temple Bar markets are all a short stroll away.
Browse all our rooms, from a snug Cosy Double to a spacious Deluxe Double, and look around in ours gallery. Planning a festive get-together for colleagues or friends? See our group events options too.
Planning a last-minute trip? Look at our latest special offers and book your festive stay at The Mercantile Hotel today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Grafton Street and Henry Street are the two main Christmas shopping streets in Dublin, anchored by Brown Thomas and Arnotts. For boutique and independent gifts, head to the Powerscourt Centre, George’s Street Arcade and the Temple Bar area.
No. Dublin Castle is closed to the public until January 2027 while Ireland hosts the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, so there is no Castle Christmas market in 2026. Instead, try the Christmas Spectacular at Smithfield Square, the Gifted craft fair at the RDS, or Christmas at Farmleigh in the Phoenix Park.
Most of Dublin’s Christmas markets and festive events run through December, with several opening in the last week of November. Dates vary each year, so check the Visit Dublin Christmas guide for confirmed opening times.
Grafton Street (southside) and Henry Street (northside) are Dublin’s two principal shopping streets, both a short walk from The Mercantile Hotel on Dame Street.
5) Where should I stay for a Christmas shopping trip in Dublin?
The Mercantile Hotel on Dame Street is ideally placed for Christmas shopping, within walking distance of Grafton Street, Henry Street, Powerscourt and the Temple Bar markets.
