Hotels near RDS Arena for Gifted – The Contemporary Craft & Design Fair – Featuring the Spectacular Christmas Food Emporium
Sorted by distance to RDS Arena — each room priced against Booking.com, Expedia, Agoda, Trip.com and Hotels.com
Which hotels are closest to RDS Arena?
The closest bookable hotel to RDS Arena for Gifted – The Contemporary Craft & Design Fair – Featuring the Spectacular Christmas Food Emporium is InterContinental Dublin by IHG, a 7-minute walk (0.28 km) from the venue. In total, 8 hotels sit within a 15-minute walk of RDS Arena, ranging from 0.28 km to 0.44 km away. Live nightly prices for 2–6 December 2026 are on the booking page, compared side-by-side with Booking.com and Expedia.
InterContinental Dublin by IHG
Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge
Clayton Ballsbridge
Premier Suites Dublin Ballsbridge
Herbert Park Hotel
Premier Suites Plus Dublin Ballsbridge
Herbert Park Hotel and Park Residence
Classical Residence Next To The City
Which nights should you book for Gifted – The Contemporary Craft & Design Fair – Featuring the Spectacular Christmas Food Emporium?
Exhibitors typically arrive the day before the fair opens to set up their stands, so booking for the night of 1 December is common. The fair runs from 2 to 6 December, and many exhibitors stay through the evening of 6 December to dismantle stands — meaning a checkout on 7 December is often needed. Visitors attending for just one day may only need a single night’s stay, but should consider arriving the evening before if they plan to be at the venue for opening on their chosen day. Since hall hours are early and late, staying within walking distance reduces fatigue over multiple days.
How do you get to RDS Arena?
All listed hotels are within a 13-minute walk of the RDS Arena, with the closest — Premier Suites Dublin Ballsbridge — just 5 minutes away. There is no train station within the precinct; public transport access relies on nearby bus routes and ride-share drop-off points. Services thin out late — check the last departure before you go. Walking is the most reliable way to reach the venue from these hotels, especially when carrying stock or stand materials.
Where do you eat and drink after the exhibition?
The Ballsbridge area has a range of pubs, cafés, and restaurants within easy walking distance of the RDS Arena. Many are open late, particularly during the festive period, offering places to unwind after long days on the exhibition floor.
What is the area around RDS Arena like?
The RDS Arena sits in the Ballsbridge district, a leafy, residential area with mature trees and Georgian architecture. It’s quiet but well-connected, with local shops, cafés, and green spaces like Herbert Park nearby. While not central Dublin, it feels more relaxed than the city core — useful for exhibitors needing rest after long days on their feet. The area is pedestrian-friendly and safe, with wide footpaths and good lighting.
Frequently asked questions
How close is the hall entrance to the nearest hotel?
The closest hotel, Premier Suites Dublin Ballsbridge, is a 5-minute walk from the RDS Arena. Other options range from 5 to 13 minutes’ walk — all measured, not estimated.
Can I store stand materials or samples at the hotel?
The provided information does not specify storage facilities at any of the listed hotels. Exhibitors should contact their chosen hotel directly to confirm whether luggage, boxes, or stand materials can be held before or after check-in.
What time do the halls open?
The event description does not state official opening or closing times for the RDS Arena halls. Attendees should consult the official Gifted Fair schedule for daily timings.
Is parking available at the hotels?
Parking availability is not mentioned in the provided data. Visitors planning to drive should contact individual hotels directly for details on on-site or nearby parking options.
Are these hotels suitable for exhibitors carrying stock?
All listed hotels are within walking distance — from 5 to 13 minutes — which minimises carrying distance. However, none are described as having freight lifts, ground-floor rooms, or dedicated loading areas, so exhibitors should verify accessibility features with the hotel before booking.
Event details are sourced from the venue's public calendar and may change — always confirm with the official ticket seller. Hotel availability and prices are live on the search page.