The best way to get to know a new place is to discover its history. Museums are a great way to get a feel for a city through the eyes of someone who lived here before us. Dublin’s museums are as diverse as our population. There are some traditional museums with relics and artefacts in glass boxes, and some interactive and dynamic museums, depending on your interest.
Many of our national museums are free of charge to visit and others have discounted rates for families, students, and seniors. Book a culturally enriched trip to Dublin, choosing serviced apartment accommodation in PREMIER SUITES and explore the city in style. Book our best available rates exclusively on our website.
1. EPIC IRISH EMIGRATION MUSEUM – €19 GENERAL ADMISSION
A trip to Epic is one of the most popular and interesting things to do in Dublin. Located in the modern CHQ district of Dublin the museum explores all aspects of Ireland’s history of Emigration past, present, and future. The museum has won Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction numerous times and it’s not hard to see why.
They’re breaking down stereotypes of a ‘typical’ Irish person and exposing us as the scientists, politicians, poets, artists and even outlaws that we are, all over the world. There are dozens of interactive exhibitions for all ages to enjoy and a genealogy tracer for those interested in their family tree.
2. NATIONAL MUSEUM OF IRELAND – FREE ADMISSION
The epitome of a modern yet traditional museum, the National Museum of Ireland is broken into several themes:
The National Archaeology Museum and National Galleries are located on Kildare Street in the city.
The Natural History Museum is close by but has been closed on and off for renovations so check before you plan a trip.
Collins Barracks is also part of the group and gives visitors an overview of the decorative arts and history of the state.
In the museums, there are often exhibitions which are free to enjoy and a program of children’s activities during school holidays.
3. THE LITTLE MUSEUM OF DUBLIN – €15 GENERAL ADMISSION
No trip to Dublin is complete without a visit to the award-winning Little Museum of Dublin. Join a guided tour of one of Dublin’s iconic Georgian townhouses. Enjoy various exhibitions on numerous floors, the first being an exhibition on the Golden Age of Dublin.
You’ll move onto their permanent display showing what life was like through the 20th century, covering the likes of women’s rights, aviation and a whole lot in between. There is an interesting exhibition about U2, one of Ireland’s greatest music exports and you’ll see parts of life in the city that are unique to the area and the time. It’s a short visit that takes just half an hour but it’s well worth your time.
4. KILMAINHAM GAOL – €8 GENERAL ADMISSION
Kilmainham is less of a museum and more of an experience. You won’t find dusty relics here, but you’ll get to experience what life was like in Ireland’s more infamous jail.
Opened in 1796 as Dublin’s county jail, Kilmainham went on to become the setting for some of the most significant moments in Ireland’s history. It housed and became the site of execution for many of Ireland’s most famous revolutionaries including the leaders of the 1916 Rising. It’s one of Dublin’s most popular attractions and is fascinating for lovers of military and social history. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.
5. CHESTER BEATTY – FREE ADMISSION
The Chester Beatty is the only museum in Dublin to have been named ‘European Museum of the Year’ and once you visit you’ll understand why. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Dublin Castle and its gardens, the museum is a unique and colourful collection of Asian, Western, and Islamic works.
Opened in 1950 by explorer Chester Beatty to display his personal collection, the museum is still home to one of the finest assortments of manuscripts and books ever held by a private collector. It welcomes hundreds of thousands every year and its temporary exhibitions change often so you can revisit any time you’re back in the city.
We’d recommend spending a couple of days exploring the best museums in Dublin. You’re guaranteed to learn something new about life in the best city in the world.
Author Bio: Katie McGarr is a resident writer for PREMIER SUITES Ballsbridge, a luxury all-suite hotel located in the heart of Ballsbridge Dublin. Writing articles about travel, food, and lifestyle is one thing she finds enjoyable, next to taking pictures of her cat, April.
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