The Marker

Grand Canal Sq., Docklands, Dublin, Co. Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland, Dublin, Ireland

Why We Like It

Modern and design-heavy, The Marker doesn't sacrifice style for substance, and boasts a fantastic rooftop bar in summer, a great restaurant, comfortable rooms and a gorgeous spa.

Fodor's Expert Review

The first big addition to the Dublin hotel scene since the economic crash, the checkerboard facade and sloping, honeycomb ceilings of the Marker make a bold architectural statement, and there's more wow-factor to be found in the lovely views from the hotel's rooftop bar as well as the great spa and space-age downstairs bar in this canal-side property. The design can feel a little self-conscious and perhaps a bit much in the public areas, but overall it's a swanky modern joint with 21st century luxury to spare.

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Room

The bedroom aesthetic is Scandanivan modern with random spashes of bold colors like purple and citrus green. The rooms themselves are large, light, and well-equipped with all mod-cons from a Nespresso machine to a large TV, and alongside design classics like Philippe Starck lamps, feature the work of leading Irish designers.

Tip It's worth springing for the deluxe category for the great views of Grand Canal Square and the Dublin cityscape.

Bathroom

Bathrooms are in white and black marble, with Villeroy + Boch sinks and showers. Most rooms have a separate bath, and toiletries are by Malin+Goetz, a high-end NYC-based brand.

Lobby

The lobby, with its white overhanging ceiling and modern desk, is a statement of the hotel's mission to be a different kind of Dublin hotel, with global design chops. In the main, it works, although can feel a little too much like an actual space ship for some.

Tip The hotel boasts all sorts of hidden extras for guests, from the Sunday morning rooftop yoga class to the docklands tours.

Pool

A really lovely infinity pool, with a skylight and a sense of secluded luxury.

Spa

The Marker has a top-notch spa, all decked out in modern dark greys, with treatments available alongside a sauna, jacuzzi, and eucalyptus-infused steam room.

Gym

The hotel gym has cardio machines, resistance equipment and free weights.

Dining

The Brasserie offers bright, modern Irish cooking in an attractive space, and also caters for theater-goers at the next-door Bord Gais Theatre with a sprightly pre-theater menu. The hotel's tasty breakfast isn't always included in the room rate, so make sure to check.

You Should Know Occasionally private events close the restaurant or bar spaces, which can be annoying for guests.

Drinking

The Marker's bars - a seasonal rooftop bar as well as a year-round drinking den - are destinations in themselves, and pleasingly guests get preferential access above the rest of the Dublin cool crowd hoping to ogle the view of the docklands from the stunning rooftop bar. The Marker Bar has a similarly vibe-y feel - some guests have suggested it could do with a bit more atmosphere although it was buzzing enough on our visit.

What's Nearby

Getting Around

The hotel is a bit of a stroll outside the main tourist sights, located in the modern Grand Canal Square business district, but it's a pleasant walk along the river and the waterside location of the property itself is a bonus.

Restaurants

Pleasant cafe-style herbstreet (1-minute walk) has sustainably sourced classics in a light, modern setting. Or try the impeccable two-Michelin star Restaurant Patrick (20-minute walk) for a treat.

Bars

O'Reilly's (17-minute walk) is a lively spot under three 170-year-old candlelit arches. Or HQ Gastrobar (1-minute walk) has a great terrace in summer.

Quick Facts

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 01-687–5100