Dublin Castle - Opening hours, price and location
Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle is now one of the capital’s major tourist attractions and is used by the Irish government for state dinners and conferences.  

Dublin Castle has played an important role throughout the centuries; once a former Viking settlement site, it was then transformed into a military fortress, a royal residence and then became the Irish Court of Justice. It is most famous for being the center of the Irish government under British rule.

Guided tour

To discover the castle’s history and rooms in detail, you can join a 45-minute English-speaking guided tour in which you’ll explore most of the palace, including the Battleaxe Landing, where the Royal Guards would stand to protect the Throne Room.

Next, you’ll visit the State Apartments, including the James Connolly Hall, the Granard Hall, the King and Queen’s chambers and the Throne Room.

Once you’ve seen the building’s interior, you’ll learn about twentieth century Dublin by visiting the Powder Tower. The castle’s underground vault houses the remains of a cobblestone road.

A historical castle

Although the fortress’ exterior was nearly entirely reconstructed due to a severe fire in 1684, its interior is preserved beautifully. The former royal residence is exquisitely decorated with numerous carpets, antiques and delicate lamps.

Taking a guided tour of Dublin Castle is one of the best ways to learn about the capital’s conflicting past and marvel at its richly adorned rooms.

Schedule

Every day: from 9:45am until 5:45pm. 

Price

Entry:
Adults: 8 (US$ 8.60)
Students and over 60s: 6 (US$ 6.40)
Children 12 - 17: 4 (US$ 4.30)
Guided Tour:
Adults: 12 (US$ 12.90)
Students and over 60s: 10 (US$ 10.70)
Children 12 - 17: 6 (US$ 6.40)

Transport

Buses: Werburgh St., lines 50X, 56A, 77, 77A, 77X, 150 and 151.

Nearby places

Chester Beatty Library (84 m) Dublin City Hall (119 m) Christ Church Cathedral (287 m) Dublinia (323 m) Temple Bar (346 m)