National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology Dublin
Discover Ireland's ancient past with captivating bog bodies, Viking treasures, and dazzling Bronze Age gold. Free entry!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology Dublin
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Ireland's ancient past with captivating bog bodies, Viking treasures, and dazzling Bronze Age gold. Free entry!
"A must-visit for history lovers, offering an incredible journey through Ireland's ancient past for free!"
🎯 Free Entry & Tours!
Admission is free! Look out for free public tours to get the most out of your visit.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the vast collections.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bog Bodies
Prehistoric Ireland Gallery
Eerily preserved Iron Age human remains, offering a chilling glimpse into ancient rituals and lives.

Viking Treasures
Viking Ireland Gallery
Discover intricate swords, jewelry, and artifacts from Dublin's Viking past.

Treasury of Gold
The Treasury Gallery
Marvel at stunning Bronze Age gold artifacts, including torcs and collars, showcasing ancient craftsmanship.

Egyptian Collection
Egyptian Collection
Explore mummies, sarcophagi, and artifacts from ancient Egypt, a surprising but fascinating addition.
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Rewards
Navigating the Collections
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry & Tours!
Admission is free! Look out for free public tours to get the most out of your visit.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the vast collections.
What are some History Museums in Dublin worth visiting?
Moving between the National Museum archaeology and natural history wings in Dublin
🗺️ Separate Buildings
Archaeology and Natural History wings are not connected. Plan your route.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the amazing artifacts, but check for any specific restrictions.
History lovers, recommendation for one day to see two good museums please
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry & Tours!
Admission is free! Look out for free public tours to get the most out of your visit.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the vast collections.
🗺️ Separate Buildings
Archaeology and Natural History wings are not connected. Plan your route.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the amazing artifacts, but check for any specific restrictions.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! You'll want at least 2-3 hours to explore the key exhibits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology for its incredible, free collections, particularly the captivating bog bodies and rich Viking and Bronze Age artifacts. While some find the layout a bit spread out between buildings, the sheer historical value and educational experience make it a highly recommended Dublin attraction.
"It was my second time visiting the National Museum and I still haven't been able to see all of it properly. It's a impressively dense museum with A LOT of great historical treasures. The viking section is mind blowing. The bog bodies are definitely the protagonists, spend at least an hour reading about this remarkable act of archeology and anthropology. The visit is free, which makes it even better. The architecture of the place is astonishing. The bathrooms were very clean."
Breno Martinelli
"Free entry. Beautiful building. Gorgeous museum with historical items dating 1000s of years old. The architecture of the museum itself is worth a visit. It was very busy on Sunday so I'd recommend a weekday visit. Still, it wasn't too much bother with all the people either. No waiting to get in."
Michael
"Stopped in quickly but could have spent a lot more time looking around! Very cool to see the history of many different groups of people all throughout Ireland's history. Really appreciate the donation based entry, so it's always worth popping in you're in the area doing something else. Would highly recommend looking at the big bodies if you aren't too squeamish! They themselves and their histories are fascinating!"
Samuel Schwiebert
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is centrally located on Kildare Street, Dublin 2. It's easily accessible by public transport. Numerous Dublin Bus routes stop nearby, and it's a short walk from the Dawson Street Luas (tram) stop. Many visitors also find it convenient to walk from other central Dublin attractions.
On-street parking is very limited and expensive in this central Dublin area. It's highly recommended to use public transport or walk. Nearby car parks include the Q-Park St Stephen's Green and the Drury Street Car Park, but these can also be costly.
Yes, it's a very short and pleasant walk from Trinity College to the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology. It's just a few minutes down Kildare Street, making it easy to combine visits.
No, the Archaeology and Natural History wings are in separate buildings. You'll need to walk between them, which takes about 10-15 minutes.
From Dublin Airport, you can take the Aircoach or Dublin Express bus services, which will drop you off in the city center. From there, it's a short walk or a quick bus ride to the museum. Taxis are also readily available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology is completely free! This makes it a fantastic option for exploring Dublin's history without any cost.
The museum is typically open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sundays from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. It is usually closed on Mondays and public holidays. Always check the official museum website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Since entry is free, advance booking is not required. You can simply walk in during opening hours.
Yes, the museum often offers free public guided tours on certain days and times. These tours are highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the exhibits. Check the museum's schedule upon arrival or on their website.
While the main collections are free, special temporary exhibitions may sometimes have a separate charge or require pre-booking. It's best to check the museum's official website for details on any current special exhibitions.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Visitors rave about the Bog Bodies, the Viking treasures (including swords and jewelry), and the stunning Bronze Age gold artifacts in the Treasury. The Egyptian collection is also a popular highlight.
To truly appreciate the collections, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you're a history enthusiast, you could easily spend half a day exploring everything.
The museum is generally accessible, with lifts available to access different floors. However, due to the historic nature of the buildings, some areas might have limitations. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information if needed.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in the museum, but without flash. Tripods and selfie sticks may be restricted. Always look for signage regarding photography rules in specific galleries.
Yes, the museum has restrooms available. While there isn't a full-service cafe on-site, there are often vending machines for snacks and drinks. Many cafes and eateries are located just outside the museum in the surrounding Dublin streets.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not have a full-service restaurant or cafe. However, there are often vending machines available for light snacks and beverages.
The museum is located in a very central part of Dublin, surrounded by numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants. You'll find options ranging from quick bites to more formal dining experiences just a short walk away on Grafton Street and surrounding streets.
Yes, Dublin city center offers many budget-friendly options. Look for sandwich shops, bakeries, and casual eateries. Many pubs also offer affordable lunch deals.
Generally, it's best to consume your own food and drinks outside the museum galleries. There might be designated areas for eating, but it's usually not permitted within the exhibition spaces.
You can expect a wide variety of cuisines in the vicinity, including traditional Irish fare, international options like Italian, Asian, and Mediterranean, as well as modern European dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography for personal, non-commercial use is generally permitted inside the museum. However, please refrain from using flash, as it can damage delicate artifacts over time.
While general photography is allowed, tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are typically not permitted to avoid obstructing other visitors and to prevent accidental damage. Always check for specific signage in each gallery.
The Treasury Gallery with its gleaming gold artifacts, the Bog Bodies (though often dimly lit for preservation), and the intricate details of Viking swords and jewelry offer fantastic photo opportunities. The Egyptian sarcophagi are also visually striking.
Short videos for personal social media are usually fine, provided you adhere to the no-flash policy and don't use professional filming equipment. For commercial filming, you would need to seek special permission from the museum.
While rare, some temporary exhibitions might have specific restrictions on photography to protect the artworks. Always be observant of any signs or staff instructions within the galleries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember that the Natural History museum (the 'Dead Zoo') is in a separate building, so plan your route if you intend to visit both. Pack snacks and drinks to keep energy levels up, as food options inside are limited. The free public tours can also be engaging for older children if they are interested in the stories behind the artifacts.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your savings, pack your own lunch and snacks, as on-site food options are minimal and nearby cafes can add up. Utilize Dublin's excellent public transport or enjoy walking between attractions to save on taxi fares. The free public tours are also a great way to get expert insights without paying extra.
🤓 History Buffs
Consider dedicating a significant portion of your day to this museum, as there is a wealth of information to absorb. Researching specific periods or artifacts beforehand can enhance your experience. Don't miss the opportunity to see items that shaped Ireland's past and its connections to the wider world.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Bog Bodies
These finds are not just morbid curiosities; they are invaluable historical and archaeological resources. Scientists study them to understand ancient diets, health, and societal practices. The museum's careful preservation and display allow visitors to connect with a distant past in a profoundly tangible way. It's a stark reminder of the deep history embedded within Ireland's landscape.
Exploring Dublin's Viking Heritage
Among the highlights are examples of Viking weaponry, including swords that demonstrate the quality of their craftsmanship and their importance in a warrior society. The presence of these artifacts underscores the significant impact the Vikings had on shaping early Dublin and Ireland. The museum's displays help visitors understand the complex interactions between the Vikings and the native Irish population, moving beyond simple narratives of invasion to a more nuanced picture of cultural exchange and settlement.
The Dazzling Treasury of Gold
The gold itself was often sourced from distant lands, indicating extensive trade networks that existed during the Bronze Age. The intricate designs, often featuring spirals and geometric patterns, showcase a sophisticated understanding of metallurgy and artistry. Seeing these gleaming artifacts up close provides a tangible connection to Ireland's ancient past and the advanced civilization that flourished on the island long before recorded history.
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