Dublin Castle

The basics

Dublin Castle is a popular stop on hop-on hop-off bus tours, Dublin bike tours, and combo Book of Kells experiences. Guided Dublin Castle tours take visitors through many parts of the castle and the castle gardens.  Tour guides can tell you about the castle's role in the history of Dublin and the purpose of each part of the complex.

Other highlights include the entertaining halls of the State Apartments, the Record Tower, and St. Patrick's Hall. Don't miss the State Drawing Room, the Chapel Royal, the Medieval Undercroft, and the Throne Room. If you don't want to go on a guided tour, you can buy Dublin Castle tickets and visit independently.

Things to know before you go

• Plan to spend about two hours at the castle learning about Irish history and exploring the highlights.

• City Hall and Trinity College are about a five-minute walk from Dublin Castle and both are well worth a visit.

• Wheelchair users can access most of Dublin Castle. However, the Viking Excavation and parts of the Chapel Royal are inaccessible.

How to get there

Dublin Castle is located on Dame Street in the Dublin city center, south of the River Liffey. There's no parking at the castle, but it's easy to get to on foot, by taxi, or via public transportation.

When to get there

The castle is a year-round attraction, but expect crowds and lines during the summer. It's typically open from morning until early evening. It closes for some holidays and special events, such as state functions.

Other Irish castles

Ireland is a country of castles, plenty of which you can visit from Dublin and beyond. Don't miss Blarney Castle, famous for the Blarney Stone—according to legend, it gives the "gift of the gab" to those who kiss it. Other castles include the Cahir Castle in Tipperary and Kilkenny Castle, with its ornamental gardens. Trim Castle, which you may have seen in Braveheart, is another popular spot.

How long does it take to tour Dublin Castle?

It takes about an hour to tour Dublin Castle. Visitors can choose between a self-guided tour that includes the state apartments and exhibitions only or a one-hour guided tour that includes the state apartments, medieval undercroft, Chapel Royal, and exhibitions. Admission tickets for both options can be booked online.

Is it worth going inside Dublin Castle?

Yes, it is worth going inside Dublin Castle. While some visitors only explore the castle's exterior, they are missing out on discovering a landmark with impressive art, architecture, and history. Set out on a one-hour guided tour to see the state apartments, chapel, medieval undercroft, and more.

Can you take photos in Dublin Castle?

Yes, visitors can take photos inside Dublin Castle during self-guided or guided tours. However, visitors to this historic landmark are requested not to use a flash while taking photographs, as the collection in the state apartments is light-sensitive. Dublin Castle encourages the sharing of photographs on social media.

Are there restrooms at Dublin Castle?

Yes, there are restrooms available at Dublin Castle. The bathrooms are located near the ticket desk. The facilities at Dublin Castle include a wheelchair-accessible toilet. However, there are no toilet facilities available within the state apartments. Dublin Castle also offers an on-site café that serves breakfast, lunch, snacks, and refreshments.

Do Dublin Castle tickets sell out?

Yes, sometimes tickets for Dublin Castle sell out, especially during the busy summer season. To secure a time of your preference, book tickets online in advance. However, some tickets are usually available for walk-ins. To ensure availability, call Dublin Castle ahead of time on the day of your visit.

What is the best time of year to visit Dublin Castle?

Dublin Castle is a popular landmark to visit all year long, with peak tourist season in the summer months. For this reason, many visitors prefer spring or fall as the best time to explore Dublin and visit Dublin Castle, as temperatures are typically mild and the summer crowds aren’t present.

Ways to explore

Dublin walking tours often visit the castle’s exterior for photo opportunities and to give the lowdown on the site’s history and use. These tours often combine this outside visit with stops at places such as St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity College Dublin, the Book of Kells, and Guinness Storehouse.

If you want to go inside the castle, it’s worth booking an entry ticket or official guided tour in advance, online. Otherwise, a limited number of tickets are available to buy at the ticket desk each day. Tours cover the state apartments, chapel, medieval undercroft, and more.

Accessibility

The state apartments, coach house (for temporary exhibitions), and gardens are accessible for wheelchair users. The chapel is considered partially accessible.

Age limits

Children under 12 years can enter for free.

What to pack

Earphones or earbuds to listen to the audioguide (downloaded to your cellphone), baby carrier if you bring small kids

What to wear

Comfortable shoes for exploring, waterproof jacket if you plan to explore the gardens

Not allowed

Strollers, flash photography

Amenities

Café, coatroom, restrooms, ticket office

Address 

Dublin Castle is in the city center on Castle Street. You can walk to it from St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Trinity College Dublin.

Driving

Avoid driving in central Dublin to avoid traffic congestion, and use public transportation instead. If you have to drive, there’s no parking at the castle but there are paid-for parking lots at Q-Park Christchurch and Park Rite Drury Street. Both are within walking distance.

Public transportation

Dublin Castle is well-served by public buses. Opt for a route that stops on nearby George’s Street, Lord Edward Street, or Dame Street. Alternatively, take a green-line tram to St. Stephen’s Green or a red-line tram to Jervis.

Best times to visit

Come at opening time in the morning or in late afternoon for the best chance of visiting with less people.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are quieter for visitors at Dublin Castle.

Best months to visit

June through August offer the best chance of a sunny sightseeing day, although the shoulder season months of April, May, September, and October offer fewer tourist crowds.