Louis Fitzgerald Hotel

The hotel's strategic location near major motorways and public transport links, combined with free parking, serves as a practical base for exploring Dublin or for business travelers. Guests frequently highlight the friendly and helpful staff as a major asset, consistently contributing to a positive stay. The hotel is often chosen by event attendees due to its convenient access to various venues and by budget-conscious tourists seeking value compared to city center options. While many appreciate the cleanliness and comfortable rooms, some guests note that certain areas appear dated and could benefit from refurbishment. To ensure a smooth experience, it is advisable for guests to confirm the hotel's deposit policy and accepted payment methods prior to arrival, and if sensitive to noise, consider requesting a room located away from the main motorway.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers several convenient facilities for guests. Many appreciate the presence of an ice machine in the lobby, providing easy access to ice. Rooms are generally equipped with a kettle and complimentary tea and coffee, which guests find useful. While some reviews mention a fitness center, feedback on its quality is mixed, with some noting outdated equipment. A recurring concern is the lack of air conditioning in rooms, which can lead to uncomfortable temperatures, especially during warmer periods, though fans are often provided upon request. Some guests also mention issues with the elevator functionality, including muted voice notifications and occasional breakdowns. The hotel also provides free Wi-Fi, though its reliability can vary, particularly in certain areas like the fitness center.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is mixed. Many guests find the rooms to be spacious, clean, and tidy, with comfortable beds and clean linens ensuring a restful night's sleep. However, a significant number of reviews highlight issues with room temperature, noting that rooms can be excessively hot and lack air conditioning, often requiring the use of provided fans which may not fully alleviate the heat. Some rooms are described as dated, with signs of wear such as torn carpets, stained curtains, and cracked tiles in bathrooms. Shower functionality is a common complaint, with issues like shower curtains sticking, poor water pressure, fixed shower heads, and flooding on the bathroom floor. Noise from the nearby motorway, restaurant vents, or other guests can also be a concern, impacting sleep quality for some. Additionally, guests sometimes note a lack of plug sockets near mirrors for grooming.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive varied but generally positive feedback. The breakfast is frequently praised, with many guests highlighting the delicious and excellent full Irish breakfast and a good variety of hot and cold options. However, some mention that cooked items can be cold or that the coffee from machines is not always to their liking, sometimes served in paper cups. The restaurant and bar food are often described as good or excellent, with guests enjoying the quality and value, though some find the menu choices limited or the food inconsistent. Service in the dining areas is largely commended, with many staff members noted for being friendly and helpful. Some guests, however, report slow bar service or a lack of staff attentiveness, particularly during busy periods. Overall, the hotel provides convenient and generally satisfying food and drink options for most guests.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a key aspect, offering both advantages and disadvantages. It is conveniently situated near major motorways like the N7 and M50, making it easily accessible by car, and free parking is a significant bonus for many guests. However, finding the hotel can be challenging due to poor signage and its position behind a petrol station, often leading to guests missing the turn. While not in the city center, it offers good access to public transport, including the Luas (tram) and bus services, though the walk to these stops can be up to 20 minutes and along busy roads, which some find inconvenient or unsafe. The proximity to the motorway also means some rooms experience noise from traffic. Despite being somewhat isolated with limited walking-distance amenities, its connectivity makes it a practical base for exploring Dublin or attending events.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the hotel consistently receive high praise from guests. Many describe the staff as friendly, helpful, professional, and attentive, often going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. The check-in and check-out process is frequently noted as quick and efficient. Guests appreciate the staff's willingness to assist with various requests, from providing extra fans to helping with taxi bookings. Positive mentions extend to staff across all departments, including reception, restaurant, and bar. While the vast majority of feedback is positive, a few guests report isolated instances of rude or unhelpful staff, particularly concerning specific issues like payment policies or during very busy periods. Overall, the dedication of the staff to providing excellent customer service is a recurring theme and a significant highlight of the guest experience.

Additional Information
A notable point of contention for many guests is the hotel's deposit policy, which often requires a significant upfront payment, typically €100-€200, that is not clearly communicated during booking. Guests frequently express frustration over this unexpected charge and the delay in receiving the refund after check-out, sometimes taking several days. There have also been isolated issues regarding the acceptance of cash payments, with some guests being initially told only card payments are accepted. The hotel is a popular venue for events and gatherings, including weddings and work functions, which can sometimes lead to increased noise levels in public areas or corridors. Some guests also mention a destination fee or specific early check-in fees. The hotel offers free parking, which is a highly valued amenity for those traveling by car.