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.

Welcome to the Home of Guinness. Located in the heart of St. James’s Gate, the Guinness Storehouse was once the old fermentation plant of the brewery where today, you can experience the history, heart, and soul of Ireland’s most iconic beer. As you explore the space, find out what makes the brewing process so special, hear about the history of the brewery and check out the archive of award-winning Guinness advertisements on display. Your final stop is the Gravity Bar, where you can enjoy the perfectly poured, perfectly chilled pint of Guinness included in your ticket with panoramic views of Dublin city and beyond.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Discover some of Northern Ireland’s top attractions with ease on this day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Giant's Causeway from Dublin. Leave the city behind and delve deep into rural Northern Ireland with your guide and enjoy photo stops at scenic locations, such as Dunluce Castle. In addition, the trip also visits the Dark Hedges and Belfast.

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.

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.

History enthusiasts uncover a piece of Cork's past with a visit to the Cork City Gaol. Step into this castle-like former prison, and find a museum showcasing the realities 19th century prison life. With your entry, enjoy a self-guided tour of the prison complex, an optional audio guide upgrade, and access to the Radio Museum, which presents relics from when the Gaol was a broadcasting station.

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

Peruse the three collections of the Hunt Museum on your own time with this prepaid pass. The ticket is valid anytime during opening hours and allows independent travelers to explore at their leisure. The collection contains a variety of items from Ireland and across the world, from paintings to sculptures to other curiosities.

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.

Save your precious vacation (and drinking) time with his tour that includes skip-the-line admission to Dublin's Guinness Storehouse and Jameson Distillery. Listen as your guide explains the ingredients used and learn of the complex brewing and distilling processes then enjoy tastings of two of Ireland's most-loved drinks.

Avoid the crowds and explore Irish history in peace on this Book of Kells and Dublin Castle exterior tour. Visit the Trinity College Library, home to the famous Book of Kells—widely considered among the most important of all Ireland’s ancient treasures. Listen as your guide brings medieval Ireland to life, shedding light on the Book of Kells’ profound historical significance. Afterward, enjoy a guided walking tour around Dublin Castle’s mighty exterior. Visit the gardens and yards, and learn of the castle’s role as court, fortress, treasury, and jail.

Sightsee Dublin's top attractions with a pass that lets you explore at your own pace and saves you money on admission. The Dublin Explorer Pass by Go City lets you choose your favorite 3, 4, 5 or 7 attractions from a list of over 25, and visit them over a course of 30 days. Discover the secrets of Ireland's beloved beer with a visit to the Guinness storehouse, hop on and off a Big Bus Dublin City tour for a day, explore Dublin's many historic landmarks including Dublin Castle, St. Patrick's Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral, and much more. Your Explorer Pass is fully digital and comes with a digital guidebook to help plan your itinerary. Display it on your mobile device or print your pass and take it with you. Simply show it at the gate for scanning and you're in! Please note: some attractions may need advanced reservations before you visit. Check for instructions on the digital guide.

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

The Old Barracks in Cahersiveen invites visitors to explore its rich history through a fascinating exhibition and an interactive escape room experience. Originally built as a police station for the Royal Irish Constabulary, this impressive structure now showcases the stories of the region, including the Fenian Rising and Daniel O’Connell's legacy. Visitors can enjoy a multi-storey interactive exhibition and breathtaking views from the turret. For those seeking adventure, the ‘Break from the Barracks’ escape room offers a thrilling challenge for teams of 2 to 6 players. The Old Barracks is perfect for history enthusiasts and families alike. - Explore the Old Barracks’ exhibition detailing local history and the Fenian Rising. - Experience the ‘Break from the Barracks’ escape room for a fun team challenge. - Enjoy panoramic views from the turret and learn about the architecture. - Accessible audio guide available in multiple languages via the Old Barracks app.

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!