Dublin’s Finest: The Westbury and The Merrion Among Europe’s Elite City Hotels
Dublin continues to gain momentum as a luxury travel hub, and two of its iconic properties—The Westbury and The Merrion—have received international acclaim in Travel + Leisure’s 2025 rankings.
The Westbury Hotel – A Contemporary Classic
Ranked 12th among Europe’s City Hotels, The Westbury is celebrated for seamlessly blending timeless luxury with modern sophistication. Located in the heart of Dublin’s city center near Grafton Street, this Doyle Collection property offers guests proximity to key attractions such as Trinity College, St. Stephen’s Green, and the National Gallery of Ireland.
Inside, guests are welcomed by a stylish interior adorned with curated Irish art, fine furnishings, and plush accommodations. Its award-winning restaurant, Wilde, showcases Irish produce through seasonal menus, while the Sidecar Bar evokes the glamour of a 1930s cocktail club.
The Merrion Hotel – Georgian Grandeur Reimagined
Tied at 14th place in the city hotel category, The Merrion is a historic gem comprised of four Georgian townhouses facing Government Buildings. Renowned for its serene garden courtyard, Michelin-starred Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, and the indulgent Tethra Spa, The Merrion offers a deeply refined experience in the heart of Dublin.
Owned by Irish hoteliers Lochlann and Brendan Quinn and backed by Irish businessman Martin Naughton, The Merrion is consistently lauded for delivering discretion, classic style, and a genuine sense of place.
Kenmare’s Sheen Falls Lodge: Ireland’s Top-Rated Resort Hotel
Outside the capital, Sheen Falls Lodge in County Kerry ranked 15th among Europe’s Resort Hotels for 2025. Nestled on the banks of the Sheen River and overlooking Kenmare Bay, this 300-acre estate is an enchanting escape for luxury travelers seeking nature, tranquility, and wellness.
Originally a 17th-century fishing lodge, Sheen Falls has evolved into a five-star retreat with 68 elegantly furnished rooms and suites, an acclaimed La Cascade restaurant, and a spa offering signature treatments using Irish seaweed and botanicals.
Visitors can enjoy on-site fly fishing, falconry, horseback riding, and private tours of the Ring of Kerry. It’s a haven for guests looking to disconnect from urban life and immerse themselves in Ireland’s rich natural heritage.
Ireland’s Growing Reputation in Global Luxury Tourism
The recognition of these Irish hotels signals a broader trend—Ireland’s rise as a serious contender in the global luxury travel market. According to Fáilte Ireland, luxury travel demand has surged, with high-end international visitors spending nearly three times more than average tourists. The government’s “Luxury Ireland” initiative has helped highlight boutique accommodations, Michelin dining, and cultural richness throughout the island.
A mix of city sophistication and rural relaxation is drawing discerning travelers. Dublin offers arts, gastronomy, and nightlife, while the Wild Atlantic Way, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Ring of Kerry provide natural beauty and serenity.
Europe’s Best City and Resort Hotels: A Wider Landscape
Ireland’s rise parallels other top destinations featured in Travel + Leisure’s list:
Top City Hotels in Europe 2025:
- Raffles Istanbul, Turkey – Score: 99.91
- Fauchon L’Hôtel Paris, France – Score: 99.53
- Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul – Score: 99.04
Top European Resort Hotels 2025:
- Grace Hotel, Santorini (Auberge Resorts Collection) – Score: 99.00
- Castelfalfi, Tuscany, Italy – Score: 98.94
- Hôtel Crillon le Brave, Provence, France – Score: 98.48
These top-tier establishments share common traits with Ireland’s winners: personalized service, immersive design, gourmet dining, and authentic cultural connection.
Future Outlook: Irish Hospitality on the World Stage
As Ireland continues to invest in its luxury tourism infrastructure, more hotels and resorts are expected to enter the international spotlight. From new developments in Killarney and Galway to renovated manor houses in Donegal, the country is expanding its high-end offering.
In 2025, Irish luxury travel is not just about five-star beds—it’s about sense of place, emotional connection, and timeless Irish hospitality. Whether you’re sipping Champagne on a Georgian terrace in Dublin or fly fishing in Kenmare, the experience is curated with warmth, elegance, and care.
Conclusion: Ireland’s Luxury Legacy Is Just Beginning
With The Westbury, The Merrion, and Sheen Falls Lodge recognized among Europe’s best, Ireland’s future as a luxury destination is brighter than ever. These properties don’t just provide a place to stay—they offer stories to live, landscapes to absorb, and hospitality to remember.
As the global travel industry leans toward personalized, experiential, and high-quality journeys, Ireland is proving that its blend of charm, comfort, and character ranks with the very best in the world.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
