Top Ireland Museums

The Little Museum of Dublin is the perfect introduction to life in Dublin prior to the 21st century—and Ireland’s story as a whole. This ticket guarantees you a place on one of the museum’s hilarious, moving, and authentic guided tours. Learn about everyone from iconic Dublin rockers U2 to the horrors of the 1920s Irish Civil War, and even as far back as Georgian Dublin.

Uncover more than 260 years of brewing history when you visit the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin with this entry ticket. Take a self-guided tour of the restored brewery that is now built around a pint-shaped atrium. Through interactive exhibits, learn about the Guinness family, the ingredients, craftsmanship, and world-famous advertising campaigns that have put this iconic stout on the map. At the end, savor a pint at the Gravity Bar with panoramic views of the city skyline.

If you're keen to understand Irish history beyond the modern day, then a visit to Waterford Treasures: Medieval Museum is a must. As Ireland’s only purpose-built medieval museum, it houses artefacts you simply won't find anywhere else. Marvel at some of Europe’s rarest medieval treasures, and gain a deeper insight into a fascinating period of time. As you explore, enjoy an immersive and engaging experience you won't get from a history book alone.

A visit to the Jeanie Johnston is an experience the whole family will enjoy. It’s suitable for people of all ages. From tall ship fans to history buffs to curious kids, our guides will keep everyone entertained. Take a deep breath and go below deck to experience the cramped quarters where up to 250 passengers spent most of their time, only emerging for a half an hour of fresh air each day.

Celtic Loft offers a captivating 45-minute cultural tour in the heart of Dublin, showcasing the essence of Irish heritage. Discover the intricate details of the 1,200-year-old Book of Kells replica, delve into the rich history of Riverdance, and experience the vibrant busking culture on Grafton Street. Engage with Ireland’s national sports through the GAA exhibit and enjoy a lighthearted atmosphere in the Laughter Lounge. This museum is perfect for adults, students and families alike, featuring friendly local guides who bring each aspect of Irish culture to life. - Immerse yourself in Irish culture with exhibits on music, dance, and sports - Enjoy hands-on interaction with traditional instruments and sports gear - Conveniently located on Grafton Street, easily accessible to shoppers - Hosted by knowledgeable local guides passionate about Irish history

Discover the history of Irish whiskey during a tour of the captivating Irish Whiskey Museum. Delve into the origins of the amber nectar and enrich your knowledge of the beloved drink’s development and progression throughout the ages. Hear anecdotes surrounding Ireland’s industrial heritage and enjoy interactive and insightful exhibits in the galleries. Conclude your tour by pleasuring your palate with complimentary whiskey samples, or upgrade to enjoy premium aged whiskey and select a souvenir of your choice.

Ideal for fans of the spooky and macabre, entry to the Museum of Curiosities in Dublin gives you an up close and personal look at the bizarre side of the city’s history. Get an introduction to the exhibit, ensuring you don’t miss any of the highlights, and explore the rest of the museum at your own pace.

Enjoy a more immersive way to learn about Irish whiskey, and guarantee your admission in advance, on a guided tour of Jameson Distillery Bow St. in Dublin. Learn the history of the iconic Irish brand as you explore the distillery and listen to commentary from your guide. Discover the secrets behind the complex distillation process—and then cap off your experience by tasting whiskey in the elegant distillery bar.

Spike Island, located in Cork Harbour, invites visitors to delve into its rich history as a military fortress and notorious prison. Guided by expert storytellers, explore captivating exhibitions and interactive museums while uncovering tales of heroes, villains, and the complex past of this historic site. The island’s stunning natural scenery complements your visit, with scenic walking trails offering breathtaking views of Cork Harbour. Perfect for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike, this tour provides a unique blend of cultural exploration and outdoor adventure. - Guided tours led by knowledgeable storytellers - Discover the island's history through interactive exhibitions - Scenic walking trails with picturesque views of Cork Harbour - Ideal for families, history lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike

Explore Ireland’s sacred funerary traditions at the country’s first Wake Museum on this unique small-group tour. Whilst most museum tours offer a broad perspective on a country’s history and culture, this guided experience delves deep into Irish wake traditions with expert interpretation of their origin, meaning, and context. Discover superstitions, ceremonies, and customs from early Christian times through to the current day.

Located beside Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin’s historic quarter, Dublinia brings over 1,000 years of Viking and medieval history to life through immersive exhibitions and interactive storytelling. Climb aboard a Viking warship, explore a bustling Viking street and longhouse, and discover the sights, sounds, and smells of medieval Dublin. Learn about daily life, medicine, trade, and punishment in a city shaped by centuries of change. See authentic artefacts on loan from the National Museum of Ireland, including discoveries from the famous Wood Quay excavations.

Get a true taste of Irish heritage at the Jameson Experience in County Cork. On this tour of the old Midleton distillery, learn about the distillation process, visit a restored 19th-century warehouse where Jameson is aged in oak casks, and sample some of the finished product during a tutored tasting in the Jameson Bar.

Experience Dublin’s World of Illusion, where you can see more than 70 exhibits that promise to challenge your very perception of reality. There are mind-melding interactive installations across three floors, from optical illusions to rooms that defy gravity to a huge kaleidoscope. Learn more about what it takes to make an illusion seem real.

Indulge your love of music on a guided tour of the Irish Rock ‘N’ Roll Museum in Dublin. Alongside your guide, you’ll admire memorabilia from musical superstars such as Michael Jackson and U2, while learning about the history of Ireland’s thriving music scene. See photographic exhibitions that include the likes of The Script and Sinead O’Connor before following in the footsteps of an iconic guitarist in the Thin Lizzy Exhibition. On this small-group tour — limited to four people — you’ll receive personalized attention from your guide.

Discover the grandeur of Georgian Waterford, and keep the whole family entertained, with a visit to the Bishop’s Palace Museum. Explore centuries of history through remarkable 18th- to 20th-century treasures—including Napoleon Bonaparte’s mourning cross, sparkling Waterford crystal, elegant period furniture, rare paintings, and exquisite silver and glassware. Trace the city’s story from the 1700s through to the late 20th century, including powerful local moments like the War of Independence. Join the housekeeper (or butler) on a lively reenactor tour and uncover the secrets of the household. Or, take your time on a self-guided tour and soak up the lavish surroundings

Foynes Flying Boat & Irish Coffee Experience located in Co. Limerick along the Wild Atlantic Way, offers four experiences in one unforgettable visit. Step into the golden age of aviation and discover how Foynes became a key gateway for the world’s first transatlantic passengers, brought to life through immersive exhibits and a full-scale replica of the iconic Boeing 314 flying boat. Discover where Irish Coffee was invented first created here to warm weary travellers. Dive into Foynes’ rich maritime heritage, and experience a touch of Hollywood glamour in the Maureen O’Hara exhibition, featuring her personal collection and Academy Award.

Experience the beauty and history of Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin in your own time by pre-purchasing your entrance ticket. Make your own way to the 1,000-year-old cathedral and explore independently at a time that suits you. Admire the neo-Gothic nave and roam the medieval crypt to see its historical treasures and artefacts, including a mummified cat and rat, and the country’s first copy of Magna Carta.

Discover the craft of Irish whiskey-making on a guided tasting tour at Distillery Bow St. in Dublin. Led by a Jameson ambassador, learn about distilling processes, key ingredients, and the people behind the spirit. Along the way, sip premium whiskey, mix your own cocktail, or create a whisky blend. Leave with a free cocktail book to remake your boozy creations at home.

Explore one of Ireland’s most beautiful stately homes, and discover its esteemed art collection, on this private tour. Pick from a range of daily departure times, and meet your guide upon arrival. You’ll see the mansion’s opulent interior, can admire masterpieces by artists the likes of John Singer Sargent and Thomas Gainsborough, and will enjoy time at your leisure to wander Russborough House’s verdant parklands (or lose yourself in its beech hedge maze).

Located in the heart of Kilkenny city, Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny is a multi-sensory experience that immerses you in the history of Ireland's oldest ale. Harvested from our land, seasoned by our history, Smithwick’s has been brewed in Ireland since 1710. Enjoying your favourite Smithwick’s Ale, while one of our local staff explains what makes it so unique, makes this one of the most enjoyable tours in Ireland.

Learn about film history during a visit to The Quiet Man Museum in Cong, in the west of Ireland. Skip-the-line with a priority access ticket and explore the museum, devoted to the 1952 film The Quiet Man starring John Wayne. See original artifacts from the movie, newspaper articles about the filming in Cong, and film-inspired costumes.

Enjoy a star-studded meet and greet at Dublin’s National Wax Museum and come face-to-face with movie stars, politicians and pop icons. Marvel over the lifelike waxworks of Irish writers like James Joyce and Oscar Wilde; pose for photos with Irish icons like U2, Liam Neeson and Ronan Keating; brave a visit to Dracula’s Chamber of Horrors; or make your very own wax hand (extra cost). The fun interactive exhibitions are both educational and entertaining, with the chance to learn about Irish history, discover the human body and even have a go at being a record producer!

Go beyond a simple visit and take a deep dive into medieval life at Dalkey Castle with this unique tour that uses interactive screens, scale models, and costumed actor guides to create an immersive experience. Learn about the culture and economy of the 14th century with an archer, barber-surgeon, and cook plus visit the nearby church, graveyard, and Writers’ Gallery as part of admission.