If you’re interested in visiting one of the most historic sites in Ireland, this post will cover everything you need to know about getting tickets, including admission prices, opening hours, and even some discount opportunities!
Dublin Castle Tickets
Visiting Dublin Castle is a memorable experience. You'll gain access to many historical sights and attractions with a ticket. Here's a breakdown:
Included with your ticket:
- Access to the Chapel Royal.
- Entry to The State Apartments.
- Viewing of The Viking Excavation.
- A leisurely walk in the Castle Gardens.
- Exploring the depths of the Medieval Tower.
- Free Guided and Self-Guided Tours
Admission Fees:
- Adult Ticket: €8.00
- Senior Ticket (60+): €6.00
- Student Ticket (18+): €6.00
- Child Ticket (12-17yrs): €4.00
- Child Ticket (Under 12yrs): $0.00
- Family Ticket - 2 Adults and 2 Children (12-17yrs): €20.00
- Family Ticket - 2 Adults and 3 Children (12-17yrs): €20.00
Dublin Castle Opening Hours:
- Daily from 9:45 AM - 5:45 PM
- Last admission is at 5:15 PM
- Tours run from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Purchase Dublin Castle tickets or learn more.
Advance booking is necessary for both guided and self-guided group rates.
Although we also recommend reserving your tickets ahead of time if you're coming alone or with your family/friends, it is possible to pay for admission when you arrive at the castle ticket desk.
Please be aware that Dublin Castle may undergo adjustments to security, room access, and opening arrangements on short notice because it is a functioning government building.
Dublin Castle Discounts
This section will cover some of the best ways to save money on tickets to Dublin Castle, including opportunities to get a good deal on several other popular attractions in this historic city.
Discount Passes
There are currently 2 tourist discount passes that offer free admission to the Dublin Castle: The Go City All-Inclusive Dublin Pass, and the Explorer Pass.
These services are excellent for visitors who are planning to see a lot of popular attractions in the city, as they include access to over 30 activities for one low price.
Here are a few more landmarks and locations included with these passes:
- St. Patrick's Cathedral
- Christ Church Cathedral
- Museum of Literature Ireland
- Irish Rock & Roll Museum
- Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
- Guinness Storehouse
- Dublin Zoo
- And more!
For more information about both of these services, make sure to read our post covering Dublin tourist passes in greater detail.
Kids Go Free
Children under the age of 12 are allowed to enter for free with a paying adult.
If you're visiting with your family, this is probably going to save you the most money out of any discounts listed in this article.
Free Days
In the past, Dublin Castle offered free admission on certain days, but this is no longer true.
They may change this policy in the future, and we'll be sure to update this post with that information when and if it happens.
Group Rates
Depending on the size and purpose, Dublin Castle may be willing to offer special rates to groups of at least 8 or more visitors.
What to See at Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle is a magnificent testament to Ireland's rich tapestry of fascinating history, art, and culture. Nestled in the very heart of Dublin city, it offers a unique blend of architectural styles and stories from different eras.
Each corner of the castle reveals a chapter from Dublin's past, inviting visitors to step back and discover its secrets. Here are some of the standout features and areas of Dublin Castle that you shouldn't miss:
Chapel Royal: Known for its striking interior and Gothic architecture, it's a key spot for history and art enthusiasts.
Designed by Francis Johnston, this chapel also features a lot of fantastic sculptures and stained-glass windows.
The State Apartments: Historically used to house royalty, they're now used for state events. Their lavish decor reflects the castle's storied past.
They offer a free self-guided tour exclusively devoted to this area of the castle.
The Viking Excavation: Explore Dublin's Viking roots with the help of these archeological discoveries, evidence of the city's ancient past.
Located below the castle, this is technically an underground area, and it includes a section of the medieval curtain wall from the original construction of the structure.
Castle Gardens: The heart of the Gardens is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of manicured gardens and historical statues.
In addition to a lot of beautiful landscaping and plantlife, these gardens also feature several excellent sculptures and other artistic works.
Medieval Tower: The oldest part of the castle stands as a testament to the medieval history of Dublin Castle.
Due to the fact that it has been used for a variety of purposes over the many centuries that this historic site has stood on these grounds, this structure is also known as the Wardrobe Tower, the Record Tower, and the Gunner's Tower.
Chester Beatty Library: This location houses a variety of artistic treasures from throughout the history of Dublin, including manuscripts and paintings.
Bedford Tower: Representing a mix of both Georgian and Gothic styles, this toweer once housed government offices, but has since become more of a site for special government functions and events.
Dublin Castle Tours
Exploring the Dublin Castle grounds with tours are the best way to engage oneself in its rich history and architectural splendor. Several times are available, each tailored to give visitors unique experiences and insights.
Dublin Castle offers different tours, such as self-guided and guided tours. All of the tours offered by the castle operators are free with the price of a ticket.
Guided tours are available daily from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. The experience takes approximately 1 hour to enjoy.
Self-guided tours can be taken at any time during opening hours, and you should set aside 1-2 hours for this activity.
In addition to the tours offered directly at the castle, there are also combo guided tours that are offered by licensed local professionals. We'll list one of our favorite options below.
TIP: If you're not too concerned about seeing the interior of this historic site, or taking a tour of the grounds, there are free Dublin walking tours which include a stop at this attraction.
Early Access Book of Kells and Dublin Castle Tour
This exclusive experience grants you early entry to two of Dublin's most renowned landmarks. At Trinity College, you'll see the Book of Kells without the typical crowds, enjoying an intimate viewing experience.
The journey continues with a visit to Dublin Castle, where the guide illuminates its storied past and architectural gems.
Early access ensures a more personal experience, allowing you to absorb history and artistry in tranquility.
It involves some of the given highlights.
- Exclusive early entry to the Book of Kells exhibition.
- Key features of the guided tour of Dublin Castle.
- Insightful commentary from an expert guide sheds light on both attractions' history and significance.
This combined tour of the Book of Kells and Dublin Castle is a must-try for those interested in exploring Dublin's heritage.
The opportunity to explore these sites with fewer visitors around makes for a memorable and enriching experience.
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Constant Availability
- Time to Begin: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- €63/Adult | €58/Child | €0/Infant
- Book Your Tour or Learn More
