A speedy trip to Dublin is still a pricy undertaking, but finding the right hotel somewhat away from the maddening crowds can go some way to make the drive worthwhile.

There aren't many cheap hotels in Dublin, but what it lacks in afforability it more than makes up for in variety. From celebrated foodie spots and hip Dublin 7 bolt holes, to elegant Georgian townhouses and a mews seeped in contemporary art history, finding the right hotel for you can set the tone for your trip to the Big Smoke.

Here, we've rounded some of our favourite lesser known Dublin hotels, each one almost a destination in itself and sure to make your visit worthwhile.

King Sitric, Howth

Located in the scenic seaside enclave of Howth, King Sitric is renowned as a top foodie destination, serving fresh locally sourced seafood pulled straight from the sea. Fewer people know it as a quaint and comfortable inn, with eight nautically styled rooms facing Balscadden Bay, ideal for immersing yourself in the thriving neighbourhood.

It's also based right at the East Pier, a mere minutes' walk from the Howth cliff walk route, the Howth market and the stunning Balscadden Bay Beach – a true hidden gem. With the DART nearby, it's still just a 20 minute journey from the city centre. Rooms available from €170 per night.

The Maples House Hotel, Glasnevin

Hidden among the elegant Victorian red brick houses in Dublin's Glasnevin is The Maples House Hotel, a stately and intimate spot ideal for exploring Dublin's Northside. With 22 bedrooms, from single to quad rooms, this family-run hotel is housed in an Edwardian building, and features a homely restaurant on site.

Despite the leafy surroundings, it's only a few minutes from sights like Croke Park and the National Botanic Gardens, as well as top food spots like Shouk, Milo's and more. Prices for a double room start at €135 per night.

Number 31, Leeson St

Number 31

Located just off Leeson St, Number 31 is a hotel that straddles two Dublins: its regal Georgian heritage and its boundary-pushing modern art credentials. Occupying both a Georgian townhouse and its converted stables, the building was the former home of Sam Stephenson, the architect of the Wood Quay office blocks and the Central Bank on Dame Street.

Stephenson bought the disused stables in 1957 and turned it into an arty salon of sorts. In this spirit, the rooms give a nod to the heady days of Parisian bohemians and 1930s jazz clubs, with the rooms in the Georgian wing elaborately decorated in shades of red, gold and blue, with artwork by famed Irish artists like Patrick Scott.

While there's no restaurant on site, there is a charming terraced breakfast room presided over by Delia, who makes some of the best bread you're likely to taste in the city. St Stephen's Green is also just a short walk away. Intimate double rooms start at €132 per night.

Haddington House, Dún Laoghaire

If peace and quiet is what you're craving, the seaside village of Dún Laoghaire is the place for you. Haddington House is made up of a series of converted Victorian townhouses, all overlooking the bustling harbour.

The hotel leans into its old world heritage, with the luxurious Parlour offering food and drink in the day and cocktails at night. The rooms themselves are plush and opulent, while the Oliveto restaurant combines Italian techniques with local Irish seafood.

The hotel also encourages guests to delve into the local scene, with Hotel Experiences such as walks and talks, yoga, cycles and swims on offer, as well as complementary swim bags and house bikes available. Rates start at €145 for a Cosy Double Room.

The Hendrick, Smithfield

Hidden down a side street off of Dublin 7's bustling Smithfield Square, the Hendrick seamlessly fits into the area thanks to its sleek design, art-filled rooms and communal shared spaces, ideal for mingling with other guests.

Billed as Ireland's only street art hotel, the rooms are chicly outfitted with pared back furniture and striking and unique artwork on the walls.

Needless to say you'll be in walking distance of some of the cities best cafés, restaurants and shops such as Urbanity, Grano, Lilliput Stores and more. Also nearby is the eternally vibrant Light House Cinema, and the Jameson Distillery, where you can do a tour of the distillery.*

Flexible rates for a double room start at €119.

The Dean, Harcourt St

Part of The Dean hotel collective, the Dublin iteration of these slick hotels is predictably cool. Heavily inspired by the industrial-style hotels of Brooklyn and San Francisco, The Dean is designed as a gathering place as well as somewhere to rest your head, so expect plenty of buzz.

Rooms are outfitted in dark and sultry tones, with plush beds, minimalist fixtures, midcentury inspired decorations like retro record players and radios, and glossy, Insta-worthy bathrooms. For travellers on a smaller budget, the petite mod pod rooms offer plenty of comfort for a smaller price.

There's also the ever-popular Sophie's Rooftop bar, and a Power Gym complete with a pool and yoga classes. Rates start at €159 for a mod pod and €179 for a Cosy Townhouse room.

The dylan Hotel, Eastmoreland Pl

Nestled beside the minute St. Mary's Church park off of Upper Baggot St, the dylan Hotel is a striking five star boutique hotel already renowned for its sumptuous rooms and ambitious food and drink offering – so best suited to a special occasion trip to the city.

The site is the former home for nurses working in the nearby hospital on Baggot St, and is housed in an architecturally impressive building – the first stone of which was laid by Queen Victoria’s daughter, Princess Helena of Schleswig Holstein.

Rooms are plushly decorated in jewel tones, while the Eddison restaurant and Ruby Room serve up memorable dishes and drinks. Rates start at €287.10 for a Luxury Queen Room.

Butler's Townhouse, Ballsbridge

Another slightly more upmarket destination is the Butler's Townhouse in the heart of Ballsbridge opposite the Aviva Stadium. In 1995 the owners revamped the then-derelict building to its current state, and this 20-room boutique townhouse now features elegantly designed rooms.

The hotel is a 5 minute walk from the DART Station, a 15 minute walk from RDS, a 25 minute walk from the 3 Arena and a 15 minutes' walk from the Grand Canal Theatre, making it an ideal – though more luxurious – base to explore the city. Rates start at €75 for a Double Room if you book ahead.