City centre pubs - "The Goose on Union Street", just off Argyle Street near Central Station, big pub, very cheap pints.
20 yards along the road from there, The Horseshoe Bar, very old traditional pub.
For pub grub, All Bar One on St Vincent Street, just around the corner.
Just up the hill a bit, one of my favourites - The Drum & Monkey. Great pints, chesterfield couches, walls decorated with drums and....monkeys!
All these pubs within 2 mins walk of each other, all nice & friendly.
Re hotels - there are loads, well positioned in the city centre. Bewley's is as central as any, ask for a room on an upper floor for a good view over the city.
If you're pushing the boat out & looking for something a bit special, but still city centre, try One Devonshire Gardens.
If anyone needs advice on a specific area, I'll do my best to help.