Ellis Quay Apartments

Before I came to Dublin, I did a lot of searching for inexpensive accommodation options for a few days’ stay in the central area of Dublin. Whilst there is plenty of accommodation around, a lot of reviews seemed to suggest that the typical areas such as Temple Bar were noisy well into the night, and I figured that with the jetlag I’d be carrying, I wouldn’t really need that to add to my fatigue. I’ve also been a long-​term fan of self-​contained accommodation, where I can buy and cook my own meals, stretch out on a soft and not feel like I’m just in a boxed-​in room with a kettle in the corner.
So when I found the website for Ellis Apartments, it seemed right up my alley. It was well-​priced (though best for a mid-​week stay) and seemed close enough to the centre of Dublin without being right on top of the really busy areas.
With all budget accommodation, to a certain extent you get what you pay for — but it depends on the place as to what luxuries are cut out. With Ellis Apartments, there is no bar, restaurant, or fancy lobby. The reception area is open limited hours (though there is a security guard on hand outside of hours) and it is about a 10 – 15 minute walk from Temple Bar or O’Connell Street. That being said, if you want to be lazy about it, the Luas (tram) runs into down from about a block behind the apartment block, and it is a pleasant enough stroll along the Liffey to the main centres of Dublin.
I dealt with the staff for my booking mostly online, and they were friendly and as helpful as they could be. I arrived in Dublin on a very early flight, but they allowed me to leave my luggage with them while my room was prepared, and I checked in at about 11am. They were also very helpful when I needed to stay another night.
The apartments are fairly basic, but everything is new and clean. The apartment I stayed in had a big double bed in one room, a futon sofa in the living area, and a brand new, well-​equipped kitchen with pots and pans as well as cutlery and crockery. The convenience store just across the laneway provided all the food-​stuffs I needed to make my own meals. Free wireless internet access was also much appreciated, as was the full-​sized bathroom with heated towel rail (it was January!) and personalised heating controls for the apartment.
If you’re looking for luxurious digs with shopping or entertainment venues right smack-​bang on your doorstep, this isn’t the place for you. But if you want cheap and basic but clean and handy accommodation, this is a great little spot.