We love visiting Dublin, and for many visitors, it is the starting point of their Ireland holiday. We have visited all of the best attractions in Dublin, but it wasn’t until last year that we finally visited Dublin Castle.
Dublin Castle sits right in the heart of the city centre, just a five-minute walk from Temple Bar, and it is one of those top things to do in Dublin that often gets overshadowed by the big hitters. Most first-time visitors to Ireland head straight for the best attractions in Dublin, such as the Guinness Storehouse or Kilmainham Gaol, and we get it, those are genuinely unmissable places to visit in Ireland.
But we think Dublin Castle deserves a place on a two-day Dublin itinerary, and here is everything you need to know before you go.
A Quick History of Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle isn’t your typical-looking castle in Ireland, like Blarney Castle or Kilkenny Castle. Dating back to the early 13th century, Dublin Castle was built by the Normans on the site of a Viking settlement under the order of King John of England. For over 700 years, it served as the seat of British administration in Ireland.
After Ireland gained independence in 1922, the castle was handed over to the new Irish government and has since been used for state functions, presidential inaugurations, and official ceremonies. Today, Dublin Castle stands as one of the most historically significant and most visited attractions in Dublin.
What We Loved Most
Dublin Castle is a beautiful mix of medieval, Georgian, and modern buildings, and the difference between them as you walk through the complex is genuinely impressive. Our personal highlight is the Chapel Royal, and we would strongly recommend paying the small extra fee to see it. The details inside Dublin Castle are incredible, with beautiful stone carvings, Gothic ceilings, and stained glass windows that many visitors walk straight past.
We did the self-guided tour with the audio guide on our visit, but this was not by choice to be honest. When planning a visit, take note of this – if you want a guided tour of Dublin Castle, you must book in advance!
We did not realise this until we arrived and missed out. The feedback we got from our friends who did the guided tour of Dublin Castle said it is definitely worth it, as the stories you do not get on the self-guided tour about the castle’s role in Irish political history are very interesting, especially for those who love Irish history.
Is Dublin Castle Good for Families?
Honestly, visiting Dublin Castle with kids could go either way. The history here is quite in-depth, so it may be boring for younger kids. That said, there is a kids’ treasure hunt running throughout the castle that works really well for keeping them engaged, a smart touch that saves the day on a family visit.
There are lockers on site where you can leave your bags before going in, which is always handy.
How to Spend two-Days in Dublin
If you only have one day in Dublin, then we would say visit the top attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse and Kilmainham Gaol – These are very popular attractions in Dublin and book out months in advance, so be prepared and book ahead. Seriously, you run a big chance of missing out.
We honestly believe one day in Dublin is not enough, in fact you could spend a week here, so we’d recommend spending at least two days in Dublin, and Dublin Castle fits perfectly into a second-day itinerary alongside several nearby attractions
After you visit the castle, take a short stroll to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, one of the most beautiful attractions in Dublin and only a few minutes on foot. From there, head back towards the popular Temple Bar area for lunch and a few pints of Guinness, you are in Ireland after all!
If you want to make the most of your Dublin two-day itinerary, this Book of Kells and Dublin Castle Guided Tour combines Trinity College’s Old Library, the historic Book of Kells, and Dublin Castle into one tour.
It is one of the best ways to cover several of the top Dublin attractions in one go without spending hours planning the logistics yourself.
🔥 Top-Rated Dublin Tours 🔥
As we mentioned, you could spend many days in Dublin; there are many great attractions in the capital of Ireland! These are some of the best tours in Dublin that we recommend.
Visit Trinity College’s Old Library and the Book of Kells, then explore Dublin Castle‘s hidden gardens and historic state rooms on this top-rated Dublin experience. 👉 Secure your spot today – Check availability and ticket prices here.
This popular Dublin tour includes entry to the Guinness Storehouse, a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour around the best Dublin attractions, and stops right outside Dublin Castle — Click to check prices and availability.
Take a walking tour of Dublin that explains the 1916 Easter Rising and includes a photo stop at Dublin Castle, Trinity College and the GPO – Check availability and ticket prices here
This is a fun one, and our personal favourite tour in Dublin, especially for Irish whiskey lovers. Visit the world-famous Jameson Distillery, followed by some of the best pubs in Ireland and live traditional Irish music. – Do not miss out and book in advance.
Where to Stay in Dublin for Sightseeing
We usually visit Dublin midweek to avoid the biggest crowds and get better hotel prices. Dublin accommodation can be expensive, so it is worth booking early before the best deals disappear.
For a central base, Leonardo Hotel Dublin Christchurch is one of the best places to stay in Dublin for sightseeing. Top attractions like Trinity College Dublin, Dublin Castle, and the Guinness Storehouse are all within easy walking distance, which saves a lot of time and taxi fares. Check availability here.
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Is Dublin Castle the Best Castle in Ireland?
Dublin Castle is a unique castle in Ireland in that it functions less like a traditional fortress and more like a historic government complex, setting it apart from many of the other great castles in Ireland.
If visiting Dublin Castle sparks an interest in Irish castle history, we have a full guide to the 10 Best Castles in Ireland, covering everything from Blarney Castle in Cork to Rock of Cashel in Tipperary and the most luxurious Castle hotel in Ireland. We have some extraordinary castles, and Dublin Castle is a brilliant starting point.
If you are planning to stay for three days in Dublin or more, another great option is to visit Howth and Eye Island.
For more options, check out our guide to the Best Day Trips from Dublin. Other related articles are:
Our Honest Take
Dublin Castle is a genuinely great Dublin attraction, but if you are working with limited time, prioritise accordingly. If you have two days in Dublin, absolutely include it. If you are only in Dublin for one day, we would put the Guinness Storehouse and Kilmainham Gaol ahead of it — those are truly unmissable Dublin experiences.
That said, Dublin Castle works beautifully as part of a guided combo tour that takes in several of Dublin’s highlights in one go. The mix of medieval history, political heritage, and stunning architecture makes it one of the most rewarding things to do in Dublin once you know what to look for.
Practical Information — Dublin Castle
- Location: Dublin City Centre — 5-minute walk from Temple Bar
- Time Needed: 90 minutes (add 30 min for Chapel Royal)
- Opening Hours: Mon–Sat 9:45am–5:45pm | Last entry 5:15pm
- Admission: State Apartments €12 adults | Chester Beatty Library free | Chapel Royal small additional fee
- Guided Tours: Must be booked in advance — walk-up guided tours are not guaranteed
- Getting There: Public transport or taxi, our personal favourite is to walk – we are Happy Irish Wanderers after all!
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings before 10am to avoid tour groups
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with lifts available in most sections
- Bag Storage: Lockers available on site
FAQ Dublin Castle 2026
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How many days do you need in Dublin? Two days in Dublin is the minimum we recommend. Two days in Dublin gives you time to cover the main attractions like the Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol, and Dublin Castle. Three days in Dublin lets you explore Howth and Eye Island, or take a day trip from Dublin
What are the must-see attractions in Dublin? The Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol, Trinity College and the Book of Kells, and Dublin Castle are the essential four best attractions in Dublin to visit. St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the National Museum of Ireland round out a solid Dublin itinerary without stretching the budget.
What is the best time of year to visit Dublin? May, June, and September are the sweet spots. The weather is at its best, the days are long, and the city is busy but not overwhelmed. July and August are peak season in Dublin with higher prices and bigger crowds. Winter visits are cheaper, but expect rain and shorter daylight hours.
When is the best time to visit Dublin Castle? Weekday mornings before 10 AM are the best times to visit Dublin to avoid tour groups and crowds. Visiting Dublin in the off-season also tends to mean cheaper accommodation in Dublin if you are planning a longer stay.
Is Dublin Castle worth visiting? Yes, Dublin Castle is definitely worth visiting, especially if you have two or more days in Dublin. The architecture, Chapel Royal, and Irish political history exhibitions make it one of the most rewarding attractions in the capital of Ireland.
Ireland Packing List
Make sure you have everything you need for your holiday in Ireland. Check out our essential packing list below and grab any last-minute items now.
Travel Adapter (UK/IRE)
Type G for Irish three-pin sockets.
Power Bank
Reliable all-day phone charging.
Packing Cubes
Maximize luggage organization.
Security Waist Pack
RFID protection for valuables.
Travel Daypack
Lightweight, perfect for daily excursions.
Travel Umbrella
Wind-resistant & compact design.
Waterproof Jacket
You are in Ireland! Essential rain and wind protection.
Packable Puffer Jacket
Keeps you warm without taking up any space.
Digital Camera
High-res shots of the landscapes of Ireland.
We would love to hear about your visit to Dublin. Please let us know in the comments below, and check out our latest adventures on Instagram.
Slán go fóil
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