Aer Lingus College Football Classic 2026 Heads to Dublin
Where to Stay, What to Do &Experience Authentic Dublin
College Football Comes Back To Ireland
Few things unite fans quite like American College Football, and each year the Aer Lingus College Football Classic brings that unmistakable game-day energy across the Atlantic to one of Europe’s most exciting cities, Dublin of course! This iconic across the pond match has become a bucket list event for American fans, blending the thrill of College Football with Ireland’s rich history, legendary nightlife and famously warm welcome.
Whether you’re flying in from the US or planning an extended European trip around the game, Dublin offers plenty activities for a long weekend of sport, culture and celebration. From historic streets and traditional pubs, to world class dining and premium city centre hotels, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of your trip to watch the College Football, but it all starts with where you stay.
What Is the Aer Lingus College Football Classic?
The Aer Lingus College Football Classic is an annual NCAA College Football game hosted at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, home to our legendary Rugby team! Since its launch, the event has welcomed tens of thousands of American fans to Ireland, making it one of the most popular international College Football games in the world.
As Grafton Street fills with excited tourists, and our parks host pep rallies, the Irish welcome the American Football fans and join them in cheering on their teams, even if the Irish aren’t sure who we want to win…
The experience goes far beyond the 60 minutes on the field. Teams arrive days in advance, pep rallies filled with cheer leaders and bands pop up across the city, and Dublin transforms into a sea of school colours as fans explore, celebrate and embrace Irish culture. It’s College Football, just with castles, cobblestone streets and a pint of Guinness always in reach.
Read more details here
What to Do in Dublin During College Football Weekend
Dublin is compact, walkable and packed with things to see and do, ideal for visitors coming in for a College Football weekend.
Soak Up the Atmosphere in Temple Bar
Temple Bar is Dublin’s most famous cultural quarter and the heart of the city’s nightlife. Expect live Irish music, buzzing pubs and a lively crowd of locals and visiting College Football fans. Staying nearby means you can experience it all without worrying about transport.
Explore Irish History & Culture
Between College Football events, take time to explore Trinity College and the world famous Book of Kells, stroll through St Stephen’s Green, or visit Dublin Castle for a taste of Ireland’s past. If you are looking for some alternative ideas, any Dublin local will tell you The Viking Splash is the best activity to do! The Guinness Factory tour is also a staple, and Jameson Bow Street Distillery is a fascinating activity for whiskey lovers!
Experience Irish Food & Drink
Irish cuisine has evolved far beyond pub classics, with Dublin now home to an exciting mix of traditional and modern dining. From fresh seafood to classic Irish stews, it’s the perfect chance to sample local flavours ideally paired with a whiskey tasting or a perfectly poured Guinness. If you have done your research, you’ll have learnt about the humble “Spice Bag”, which comes from our Chinese takeaways. The Mercantile always recommends “The Crafty Fox’s” spice bag bowl, and they do €5 Guinness!
Pre-Game and Post-Game Celebrations
College Football weekend in Dublin feels like a city wide festival. Expect fan events, live music, pop-up bars and spontaneous celebrations throughout the city before and after the game. We don’t do tailgates on this side of the Atlantic, however every pub will be alive with music and buzzing fans.
Where to Stay for College Football in Dublin
When travelling from the US for a major College Football event, choosing the right hotel is key. You want central, comfortable accommodation that keeps you close to the action and that’s where The Mercantile Hotel stands out.
Why American Visitors Love The Mercantile Hotel
Located in the very heart of Dublin City Centre, The Mercantile Hotel offers American College Football fans the perfect blend of convenience, comfort and authentic Irish charm.
Prime City-Centre Location
The Mercantile Hotel is just steps from Temple Bar, Grafton Street and some of Dublin’s best restaurants and bars. The Aviva Stadium is easily accessible via public transport or a short taxi ride, making game day completely stress-free. Located within a 5 minute walk of Grafton Street, there is no better option for exploring Dublin! Just a short walk to The Aviva Stadium and other locations, read whats in walking distance here!
Comfort After Game Day
After a full day of College Football excitement and city exploring, retreat to stylish, modern rooms designed for comfort and relaxation. It’s the ideal place to recharge before another day of Dublin adventures.
Food, Drinks & Entertainment On-Site
With popular bars and dining options within the hotel, you won’t have to go far for pre-game drinks or post-match celebrations. And with Temple Bar right outside your door, the nightlife options are endless.
Irish Hospitality at Its Best
American visitors consistently praise Ireland for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere, and The Mercantile Hotel is no exception. Expect warm service, local recommendations and a relaxed environment that makes you feel at home from the moment you arrive.
Make College Football a Full Irish Experience
For many American fans, the Aer Lingus College Football Classic is their first trip to Ireland, and it rarely ends up being their last. Dublin offers the perfect introduction to Irish culture, combining historic charm with a modern, energetic vibe that feels familiar yet refreshingly different.
By staying at The Mercantile Hotel, you place yourself at the centre of it all, allowing you to experience College Football in Dublin the way it’s meant to be enjoyed with great food, great company and unforgettable memories.
Book Early for College Football Weekend
College Football fans travel from across the United States and beyond for this iconic event, and Dublin hotels fill quickly. To secure a central location and make the most of your trip, booking early at The Mercantile Hotel is highly recommended.
