Opened in June 2022, City Quay is the newest of Staycity’s collection of premium Aparthotels in Dublin’s city centre. Located on the south bank of the River Liffey just east of Trinity College, this sleek hotel is situated perfectly for those who want to be close to the action, but not within earshot of the late-night noise of the famous Temple Bar area. Guests can walk to Temple Bar, Dublin Castle, St Stephen’s Green, Ha’penny Bridge, and O’Connell Street in 10-15 minutes. Several major bus stops and the Tara Street train station are within a few minutes walk away.
The unique features of this hotel make it stand out from traditional options. First, the standard rooms suited for up to 3 people are all equipped with brand-new king-size beds and an oversized armchair that folds down into a single bed. Along the wall of each room is a fully equipped kitchenette featuring a fridge, stovetop, microwave oven, sink, dishwasher, kettle, toaster, and all the kitchen utensils required to cook full meals if you so desire. It is worth noting that the washrooms are on the smaller side and do not have tubs, but the dual shower heads (one handheld, one waterfall) make up for it.
-
- King Bed and Fold-out Chair
-
- Sitting Area and Kitchen
There is a large tech component integrated into the design of the hotel that allows guests to navigate all amenities and communicate with staff directly from their mobile phones. Guests have the option to check in on their mobile devices in advance and have their key cards ready and waiting upon arrival. Once in your room, a QR code is provided which loads all hotel information on your device, including the option to place orders at the lobby café and chat with staff on Whatsapp.
Each room also has numerous outlets including 2 USB ports, digitally controlled heating and air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. It goes without saying that this high-tech hotel also has an exceptional WiFi signal that is easy to access (no sign-up necessary).
-
- Reception Area
-
- Lobby Cafe
The hotel lobby is mostly comprised of a large mixed seating area, partly lounge and partly restaurant, to accommodate 24/7 drinks and meals. Breakfast is served buffet-style from 7-10 am and offers a wide range of hot and cold options from cereals, fruits, and yogurts, to classic full Irish breakfast items like eggs, sausage, ham, and toast. Breakfast is not included in the price of the stay, but can be purchased for 11 EUR per person, which is great value for what is provided. Outside of breakfast hours, several convenience snack options and essentials are offered a la carte, along with a full-service bar. For those hoping for a quick late-night meal, a selection of pizzas and flatbreads are made to order at any hour for under 10 EUR. Orders can be placed at the bar or via Whatsapp, and staff will notify you when your order is ready for pick up.
Other amenities include laundry facilities, which are a convenient option for those choosing an aparthotel for longer stays. The brand new machines are high efficiency and clothes will be fully washed and dried in under two hours. The laundry room is located next to the reception area, making it easy to do a load while enjoying breakfast or a drink in the lounge. There is also a small gym available to guests in an adjoining building equipped with cardio and strength equipment.
-
- City Quay Exterior
-
- Laundry Facilities
Of the many features of Staycity City Quay, the staff is an outstanding highlight. From welcoming guests at the hotel entrance to being available in person or online to answer questions 24/7, the quality and friendliness of service at this hotel exceeds the expectation of traditional Irish hospitality in the comfort of ultra-modern accommodation.
PROS:
- Exceptional staff ready and waiting to help 24 hours a day
- 24-hour café and pizza made to order
- 24-hour chat with staff from your device
- Laundry facilities
- Fully equipped kitchenette in all suites
- King-size beds in standard rooms
- Central location just south of the river
- Very reliable, easy-to-access WiFi
CONS:
- Since all communication regarding the hotel amenities is found via QR code, and the only way to reach staff from your room is via Whatsapp, this hotel may not be suited to clientele who are not tech-savvy.
- Breakfast is not included; however, the price tag of 11 EUR/pp is great value for what you get.