Grafton Street is one of central Dublin’s best-known pedestrian shopping streets. Running between the College Green area and St Stephen’s Green, it brings together shops, cafés, historic businesses and street performers in a compact part of the city.
A central Dublin street
The street is the main shopping route south of the River Liffey, with a mixture of department stores, international brands and independent businesses. Buskers and other performers are a familiar part of its atmosphere, particularly during busy daytime hours.
Grafton Street’s exact mix of shops and cafés changes over time. For current ideas, the official Visit Dublin shopping guide is more reliable than an old list of individual businesses.
Landmarks and nearby places
Trinity College and College Green lie near the northern end of the street, while St Stephen’s Green is at the southern end. Bewley’s Café is a longstanding Grafton Street landmark, known for its historic interior and Harry Clarke stained glass. Nearby streets lead towards the National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin Castle and the city’s Georgian squares.
Planning a visit
Grafton Street is a public pedestrian route and can be explored as part of a walk through central Dublin. Individual business hours and temporary street arrangements vary, so check directly with any venue you intend to visit.
To place Dublin within a wider journey, browse our private tours of Ireland. The itineraries are presented for planning inspiration and do not guarantee a Grafton Street visit.
