Best Museums in Ireland to visit in Dublin & Beyond
Are you a Museum fan? When planning your trip to Ireland you may want to visit one or more of the many museums across the country. Ireland is home to an amazing range of museums that celebrate its rich history, culture, art, and even science. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, there’s something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to Ireland or just want to explore its cultural side. Ireland is home to over 100 museums, ranging from national institutions to smaller, specialized collections that celebrate the country’s history, art, and culture. Here’s a guide to the best museums you should visit. Included are details about their locations, ticket prices, and what makes them unique.
Visiting museums in Ireland offers a rich and diverse cultural experience, where history, art, and heritage come alive. From the ancient treasures of the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin, which houses Celtic artifacts and Viking relics, to the contemporary art showcased in the Irish Museum of Modern Art, there’s something for every visitor. Many museums also highlight Ireland’s literary legacy, such as the Dublin Writers Museum, celebrating figures like James Joyce and W.B. Yeats. The blend of ancient history, vibrant art, and storytelling traditions make Ireland’s museums a must-visit. In Northern Ireland a must see is the Ulster Museum near Queens University, another free museum that is just chock full of intersting artefacts.
15 Dublin Don’ts what not to do in Ireland
- Best Museums in Ireland to visit in Dublin & Beyond
- 23 of the best museums to visit in Ireland
- National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
- Kilmainham Gaol Museum
- The Little Museum of Dublin
- The Chester Beatty Library
- Trinity College Museum
- Dublin Writer's Museum
- EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
- Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA)
- Irish Whiskey Museum
- Glasnevin Cemetery Museum
- Museum of Natural History
- National Gallery of Ireland
- The Hunt Museum
- Cork Public Museum
- Titanic Belfast
- Ulster Museum (Belfast)
- National Famine Museum
- Ireland's Folk Museums
- Ulster American Folk Park – Omagh
- The Irish National Heritage Park
- 23 of the best museums to visit in Ireland
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23 of the best museums to visit in Ireland
Visiting museums in Ireland and Northern Ireland is a journey through centuries of rich history, art, and culture. From the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin, showcasing treasures like the Ardagh Chalice, to Belfast’s Ulster Museum, where natural history meets contemporary art, these institutions offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and present. Whether you’re interested in ancient civilizations, medieval history, or modern innovations, the museums in both regions provide unforgettable experiences that capture the essence of Irish heritage.
National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
Location: Kildare Street, Dublin – Ticket Price: Free
If you’re fascinated by Ireland’s ancient history, the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology is a must-visit. It offers a deep dive into prehistoric and medieval Ireland. You can see the famous Ardagh Chalice, the Tara Brooch, and other significant treasures. The museum also has a fascinating exhibit on bog bodies—well-preserved bodies found in Ireland’s peat bogs, which give insight into ancient rituals and life thousands of years ago.
Kilmainham Gaol Museum
Location: Inchicore Road, Kilmainham – Ticket Price: €8 (Adults), €6 (Students/Seniors), Free (Children under 12)
Kilmainham Gaol (Jail) is one of Ireland’s most important historical sites. This former prison housed many of the leaders of Irish rebellions, including those involved in the 1916 Easter Rising, a pivotal moment in Ireland’s quest for independence. Visitors can tour the prison cells and learn about Ireland’s fight for freedom through immersive exhibits and guided tours.
The Little Museum of Dublin
Location: 15 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin – Ticket Price: €10 (Adults), €8 (Students/Seniors)
The Little Museum of Dublin is a gem, focusing on the history of Dublin in the 20th century. Set inside a beautiful Georgian townhouse, it tells the story of the city through artifacts, photos, and personal memorabilia, including fascinating items like the first edition of Ulysses by James Joyce and U2 memorabilia. The museum is small but charming, and guided tours are offered for a more personal experience.
The Chester Beatty Library
Location: Dublin Castle, Dublin – Ticket Price: Free
The Chester Beatty Library is home to one of the world’s greatest collections of manuscripts, miniature paintings, prints, drawings, and rare books. The library’s collection comes from Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia, showcasing the rich diversity of global artistic and literary traditions. Located inside the grounds of Dublin Castle, the library is a peaceful haven in the heart of the city.
Trinity College Museum
Location: Trinity College, 194 Pearse Street, Trinity College
The Trinity College Museum features an impressive array of artifacts and artworks that reflect Ireland’s rich cultural and academic heritage. The museum is renowned for its exceptional collection of manuscripts, including the world-famous Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript dating from the 9th century. In addition to the Book of Kells, the museum’s holdings encompass a wide range of historical and literary treasures, including early printed books, maps, and manuscripts from various periods. The museum’s exhibits offer visitors a unique glimpse into Ireland’s scholarly traditions and artistic achievements, making it a vital center for both historical research and public education.
Trinity College Dublin is home to several significant museums and cultural institutions, each offering a unique perspective on Ireland’s heritage and academic history. Here are the main museums and their locations:
Zoology Museum: Located on the first floor of the Zoology Building, this museum is open to the public from June to August, and admission costs €4 for adults, €2 for children, and €3 for groups of eight or more. The museum is not wheelchair accessible.
Book of Kells: There are several ticket options for the Book of Kells and Old Library, including the Book of Kells Experience and Trinity Trails. The Book of Kells Experience includes entry to the Book of Kells and Old Library, and tickets start at €25.
Trinity Trails: This 120-minute experience includes a guided tour of the campus, entry to the Book of Kells and Old Library, and tickets start at €33.50.
The Science Gallery Dublin: Situated at the front of the College, this gallery is dedicated to exploring the intersection of science, art, and technology through innovative exhibitions and interactive displays. It is a vibrant space that fosters public engagement with scientific and artistic concepts.
The Museum Building: This building houses the College’s Natural History Museum and collections. It is known for its extensive collection of specimens, including fossils, minerals, and biological specimens.
Dublin Writer’s Museum
Location: Parnell Square, Dublin – ticket price entry typically costs around €7.50 for adults, with discounts available for students and seniors.
The Dublin Writers Museum is a literary haven celebrating Ireland’s rich literary heritage and its world-renowned authors. Located in a beautiful 18th-century mansion on Parnell Square, the museum highlights the lives and works of literary giants like James Joyce, W.B. Yeats, Samuel Beckett, and Oscar Wilde. Visitors can explore rare first editions, personal items, and fascinating exhibits that capture the essence of Ireland’s storytelling tradition. The museum provides a deep dive into the history of Irish literature, from its early origins to the modern day. As of recent information, the museum is temporarily closed for refurbishment.
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
Location: The CHQ Building, Custom House Quay, North Dock, Dublin – Ticket Price: €18.50 (Adults), €8.50 (Children), €46 (Family)
EPIC is an interactive museum that tells the story of Irish emigration, focusing on the millions of people who left Ireland and the global impact of the Irish diaspora. The exhibits are modern, digital, and engaging, making it a great choice for families or those looking for a multimedia museum experience. You’ll leave with a deep understanding of how Irish people shaped the world in areas like politics, music, and science.
Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA)
Location: Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Military Rd, Dublin – Ticket Price: Free (permanent exhibitions), Paid for special exhibitions (around €8–€10)
Located in a former 17th-century hospital, the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) is the premier institution for contemporary art in Ireland. It hosts an ever-changing lineup of modern art exhibitions by both Irish and international artists. The museum’s beautiful garden and outdoor installations make it a peaceful spot to explore art and nature.
Irish Whiskey Museum
Location: 119 Grafton Street, Dublin – Ticket Price: Begins at €19.55
The Whiskey Museum in Dublin, located on the historic College Green, offers an immersive journey into Ireland’s rich whiskey heritage. Situated just a short walk from Trinity College Dublin, this museum provides visitors with a fascinating exploration of the history, production, and culture surrounding Irish whiskey.
The museum features a range of interactive exhibits, including vintage whiskey bottles, historic artifacts, and multimedia displays that narrate the evolution of whiskey from its origins to the present day. Guests can also enjoy guided tours that delve into the intricacies of whiskey-making and offer tastings of various Irish whiskeys. As for ticket costs, the standard admission fee is typically around €20 for adults, with discounts available for students and seniors, and children often receive free entry. The museum’s engaging exhibits and prime location make it a must-visit destination for whiskey enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Glasnevin Cemetery Museum
Location: Finglas Rd, Glasnevin, Dublin – Ticket Prices: tours range from €8.00 to €14.00
The Glasnevin Museum, situated in the historic Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin, is a prominent institution dedicated to Ireland’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Located just a few kilometers north of Dublin city center, the museum provides an in-depth exploration of Ireland’s past through its extensive collection of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and engaging displays.
Visitors can learn about the cemetery’s significant role in Irish history, as it is the final resting place of many notable figures, including political leaders, writers, and cultural icons. The museum also offers guided tours of the cemetery, providing insights into the lives and contributions of those interred there.
Museum of Natural History
Location: Merrion St Upper, Dublin – Ticket Prices: Museum is currently closed pending a re-location
This Museum established in 1856, showcased Ireland’s diverse natural heritage through a vast collection of specimens, including fossils, minerals, and wildlife exhibits. The museum was particularly renowned for its extensive array of taxidermied animals, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s biodiversity and the broader natural world. The exhibits are arranged in a series of themed galleries, providing educational insights into various aspects of natural history.
National Gallery of Ireland
Location: Merrion Square W, Dublin – Ticket Price: Free to the permanent gallery
The National Gallery of Ireland, is a premier cultural institution dedicated to showcasing an extensive collection of Irish and international art. Established in 1854, the gallery is renowned for its impressive array of works, including masterpieces by Irish artists such as Jack B. Yeats and William Orpen, as well as renowned European artists like Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and Vermeer.
The museum’s collection spans a broad spectrum of periods and styles, from medieval to contemporary art. The National Gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and events, enriching the public’s engagement with the visual arts.
The Hunt Museum
Location: Rutland Street, Limerick – Ticket Price: €7.50 (Adults), €5.50 (Seniors/Students), Free (Children under 16)
Situated in the centre of Limerick, the Hunt Museum holds an eclectic collection of over 2,000 works of art and antiquities. Items include pieces by Picasso, Renoir, and Jack B. Yeats, alongside ancient artifacts from Ireland and across the world. The museum is located on the banks of the River Shannon, offering a lovely backdrop for a day out.
Cork Public Museum
Location: Fitzgerald Park, Cork – Ticket Price: Free
Cork Public Museum provides a great insight into the history of Cork and Ireland. Set in beautiful Fitzgerald Park, the museum has a wide array of exhibits, including everything from prehistoric tools to objects from the Irish War of Independence. The building itself is historic, and the surrounding gardens are a perfect spot to relax after exploring.
Titanic Belfast
Location: 1 Olympic Way, Queen’s Road, Titanic Quarter, Belfast, Northern Ireland – Ticket Price: £25 (Adults), £12 (Children), £62 (Family)
Though located in Northern Ireland, Titanic Belfast is too important not to include. This award-winning museum is dedicated to the tragic story of the RMS Titanic, which was built in Belfast. The museum is an architectural wonder and includes interactive exhibits that cover everything from the building of the ship to its fateful voyage. It’s a must-see for history buffs and families alike.
Ulster Museum (Belfast)
Location: Near Queen’s University Belfast – Tickets free but there may be a charge for special exhibits
I also can’t not mention Northern Ireland’s largest museum, it combines art, history, and natural sciences, with notable exhibitions on Irish history and the Troubles. They also have exhibits on the Game of Thrones Tapestry modelled after the Bayeux Tapestry in Normandy.
National Famine Museum
Location: Cloonradoon, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon – Ticket Price: €14.50 (Adults), €7 (Children)
The new National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park, located in County Roscommon, Ireland, is a tribute to the Irish Great Famine of the mid-19th century. Opened in 2018, the museum is set within the historic Strokestown Park House and its grounds, which played a significant role during the famine period.
The museum’s exhibits are curated to offer an in-depth exploration of the famine’s impact on Ireland, featuring personal stories, historical documents, and artifacts. Explore the parallel lives of Strokestown Park’s aristocratic landlords and their tenants during the Great Irish Famine.
Learn about the political, social, economic, and environmental factors that played a part in the Great Irish Famine and contributed to its devastating human cost.
Ireland’s Folk Museums
Ireland’s folk museums provide a fascinating window into the country’s traditional rural life, customs, and crafts, offering visitors a chance to experience Ireland’s rich cultural heritage. These open-air and indoor museums recreate historical settings, showcasing how people lived, worked, and celebrated in Ireland in the past. Some of the most notable folk museums include:
Ulster Folk and Transport Museum – Belfast, Northern Ireland
Location: Cultra, near Belfast – ticket Price between £8-11 sterling
This expansive museum recreates a traditional Irish village with over 30 restored buildings, such as cottages, farms, schools, and shops. Visitors can explore rural life from the 1900s, with live demonstrations of traditional crafts like blacksmithing, weaving, and bread baking. The museum also has a transport section featuring vintage vehicles, trains, and early forms of transportation in Ireland.
Ulster American Folk Park – Omagh
Location: near Omagh, County Tyrone – Ticket Price £9.75 – 12.00
This open-air museum tells the story of Irish emigration, particularly to America during the 18th and 19th centuries. It features reconstructed buildings from both Ireland and America, allowing visitors to follow the journey of emigrants from rural Ulster to a new life across the Atlantic. The park also includes costumed interpreters, demonstrations of traditional crafts, and seasonal events.
The Irish National Heritage Park
Location: County Wexford – ticket price – €6 -12 euros
This outdoor museum spans over 35 acres and takes visitors on a journey through 9,000 years of Irish history. It features reconstructed dwellings, from Stone Age huts to Norman forts, providing hands-on experiences of how people lived, farmed, and defended themselves through the ages.
Bunratty Folk Park
Location: County Clare within the Bunratty Castle Park – ticket price: €17.00 adults
Located next to the famous Bunratty Castle, this folk park recreates a 19th-century Irish village, complete with thatched cottages, a village street, and rural farmhouses. Actors in period costume bring the past to life with interactive demonstrations, such as butter making, traditional music, and storytelling.
The Museum of Country Life
Location: Castlebar, County Mayo – ticket prices free entry
Part of the National Museum of Ireland, this County Mayo museum focuses on rural life from the mid-19th to mid-20th century. It offers exhibits on farming, fishing, domestic life, and seasonal celebrations, with an extensive collection of artifacts such as tools, clothing, and household items.
These folk museums provide a vivid and immersive way to explore Ireland’s rural past, connecting visitors to the country’s agricultural traditions, folk art, and social history. They often feature interactive exhibits and live demonstrations, making them ideal for family visits and those interested in traditional Irish culture.
Ireland’s museums offer a rich tapestry of history, culture, and art that reflects the country’s long and complex past. Whether you’re looking to learn about ancient Ireland, marvel at modern art, or dive into the story of the Titanic, there’s a museum for every interest. Most museums are reasonably priced, and several are free, making them accessible to everyone. Be sure to include at least a few of these remarkable places on your itinerary the next time you visit Ireland!