A Cultural Gem with a Heartwarming Commitment. One of my greatest joys when traveling is witnessing governments embrace and champion culture and the arts for all. In Ireland, the fact that nearly all museums are free is a celebration in itself! The museum, a vast treasure trove of art and history, demands several hours to explore fully. What truly shines is the dedication to accessibility. Every space is thoughtfully designed to ensure that people with limited mobility or those using wheelchairs can fully partake in the experience. Moreover, I was delighted to discover that the exhibitions here are framed with a gender perspective, showcasing a commitment to inclusivity and diversity. My heartfelt congratulations go to the curators for the exceptional curation of the exhibits and to the dedicated museum staff for their hard work. It's heartening to see a museum that not only values its art but also the people who come to admire it. I eagerly look forward to returning for another enriching visit.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Not really fair to lose a star for the overriding impression of slight dullness but there you go. Lovely welcoming staff to provide information and advice on how to enjoy the museum's exhibits. Entry is free and has very clean toilets and a ubiquitous gift shop. The exhibits often form a written or documented narrative on all things Irish history. I had plenty of time and read my way around the rooms and corridors. I found the information around the Easter Rising and growth of Republicanism to be particularly interesting and displayed without obvious bias. The room given over to plaques, shields, commemorative paraphernalia and the like reminded me of how uninteresting are other peoples awards however that is simply documenting my own disinterest. There are many physical exhibits which command plenty of interest and my impression was that my visit was well worthwhile.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

As a rather broke student, I was initially concerned about going to Dublin, as it is a bit expensive. Yes, it is possible to spend both arms and both legs on museum tickets in the city, but for the life of me I don't know WHY anyone would do that when the National Museum of Ireland exists. This portion is housed in the oldest military barracks in Europe, and definitely merits a multiple day visit. It is a little labyrinthine inside, so I recommend getting a map and crossing off rooms as you go. I particularly enjoyed the temporary exhibit about rural penitent laundries, as well as the historical dress portion. The "Imaging Conflict" section was also really interesting. Don't skip the Asgard exhibit! The staff here were super helpful and kind, and supplied us with a whole bunch of new information. Thank you!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

My husband and I were enjoying our visit to the museum, until we were nearing the end of the visit. The museum was closing at 5pm and at 4:47pm an announcement went out to say that the museum would be closing shortly. As soon as this was said, two workers appeared and started forcing people out. We were only two rooms from the exit and could have easily had a look around them before closing time, but we weren't given the option as the two staff members were literally on our back the whole time telling us to move it along. This in itself was very uncomfortable, but this was made worse when one of them kept asking questions about why my husband had a walking stick in his 30's! Highly inappropriate! I work at a tourist attraction and my manager would be appalled if the staff acted in this way.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

This museum is part of the National Museum of Ireland, but housing the decorative arts and history exhibits. Much of the history covers the Irish soldiery and the Irish serving in the armed forces of various other countries. The decorative arts section contains some beautiful artefacts and the curator's selection is a must-visit, especially the William Smith O'Brien Gold Cup and The Fonthill Vase. The numismatics and silver collections are both worth visiting. I spent nearly 3 hours here and probably could've spent the entire day given the quality of the exhibits on show, Sadly, the building isn't located in the city centre and there's fewer visitor than it really deserves. The museum is easily accessible from using the tram, so it's definitely worth a visit if in Dublin.

If you like museums and history a must to check out. Even just for the building. Free entrance too. I was too short there, one hour. You need more time to stroll around care free. Last minute I had booked for the Dublin Castle, on time slot. So I was in a hurry. But in 1 hour you've walked through the Dublin castle. The part that is open for the public, pretty small compared to National Museum of decorative arts. Best is to safe the national museum for last, if you are doing a museum day out. No time slot needed plus no entrance fee. There is also a gift shop. Which I had no time to check out unfortunately. Next time for sure.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

The museum is enormous, you can find countless pieces of art, paintings and objects from all over the world. You really need more than a couple of hours to visit all the building, and if you want to know about history and recent conflicts in Ireland, it's the place to go. The real size wax figures were impressive, as the machinery and objects displayed, like the planes. The building is a really wonderful piece of architecture and a beautiful place to walk outside on a nice sunny day, we were because there was an outside fair and had a great day. We enter for free and the staff was so kind and willing to help. Definitely will be coming back.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

My son, Dominic, and I visited the museum and Arbor Hill in September. It was a pleasure to visit the museum and pay our respects at the memorial. The displays and commentaries made the whole experience real. What really made the day was the guide, Enda, provided us with literally a running history of the of the whole history. Not only that, he was respectful and appreciative of my own grandfather's contribution to the cause of Irish freedom. Enda, was a credit to your establishment. Please convey our thanks and best wishes to him.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Very interested museum right in the heart of Dublin. The building used to be the military headquarters for the British army. There are military history and decorative art permanent exhibitions. The military history part of the museum is the most interesting. The exhibition covers the time periods from the middle ages up to the present.The admission these days are free and it is not too crowded. Highly recommended for a visit if you are in Dublin. Covid-19 safety protocols are fully implemented. You are required to wear a mask and keep social distance. Hand sanitizer stations are widely available.

Okay so I just want to start off by saying the venue and most of the stewards were really nice and good at their job. But my god you guys need to have a better mindset for concerts. I attended a yungblud concert on the 23rd of this month and ye just did not seem ready for the energy he brought to the museum. I'll start off by saying that ye were the strictest staff most of us have met. And two of your security guards didn't let Tom (yungbluds photographer) to take any pictures, meaning the only publicity that that gig got was from fans on their personal social media. Not on lads

Free entrance which makes it better, very good to wander around and see the Irish history ☘️ really cool items in here. The only fault was the creepy security man at the desk, perhaps he has an intellectual disability. I went here with my partner and he asked were we sisters? And when I nodded my head no .. he asked where we family mother and daughter because we have the same eyes??? Extremely creepy, especially given when we look nothing alike. Especially our “eyes”. Regardless of who visits this museum under no circumstances should any man be asking females their history.

Have been here a number of times, This time me and my son visited this museum on easter saturday. We enjoyed the visit, it was a lovely day for a trip down memory lane, we learnt about the asgard ship, we took picture of liminal spaces in the museum, something my son wanted to do. The overall visit was worth a trip to see old school art, and some contemporary art within the museum. The museum is free to enter which was great, and the views around the area are spectacular.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Poor experience, 3/4 of the structure is closed to the public, the museum as a whole looks terribly abandoned, the tarmac court feels desolated and they even closed the cafe. Every time we’ve been there, including today, the personnel kicked us out at 4.30, half an hour before closure. The exhibition is very confused, from military items, to modern boats, geology, renewable energy. All superficially described with summary labels. The building and its historical value deserve a better Museum leadership.
Wait time
Up to 10 min

A very interesting museum - there is a separate exhibition of numismatics and money that was used in Ireland, an exhibition of furniture from different eras in retrospect - and it is incredibly cool) an exhibition of household items made of gold and silver - incredibly delicate work ... also a lot of very interesting and interesting things - in my opinion - you need to spend a couple of days to see all the treasures in the museum
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Excellent museum with free admission. Asks for a small donation which is optional but recommend as they do work hard and are all friendly. Lots to do. Lots to see. Spread over 3 floors with some beautiful designed exhibitions. Little miffed the coffee shop has gone as would have loved a coffee,cake and a sit down as a lot of walking around the building. The large reception are would be a beneficial place for a coffee area as this is where everyone enters & exits through. Just a food for thought!

Great museum! Lots of different exhibits, and much to choose from depending on what you would like to see. We really liked the fashion exhibit and the Asian exhibit in particular. The flow of the museum really works as you go from room to another and it makes sense. We happened to go on a day when there was a big GAA match happening in town so the museum was completely empty and I think that added to the experience as it was more pleasant that way. Definitely go when it’s empty, worth a visit!

The Museum is really interesting, not boring at all ! I liked the fact you have many galleries representing different perspectives, eras and countries. The exhibition about Mothers and Baby homes was the most impressive one in my opinion. Also all the sculptures representing people looked very real and kind of creepy because of the eyes. It seemed like they were alive. I truly recommend this museum
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Huge selection of War related materials and relics. There's a free guided tour and the admission is free as well. The building is massive and very clean. Staff is super nice. I found that the geology section was rather a "beginners' exhibition" but it must be rather interesting for kids. You can take pictures without the flash. Thursday is long opening hours and there are generally not so many ppl.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Very informative space about the history of Ireland. Some interactive sections alongside many artifacts, replicas and props to create the story of the war. The history section took us 40 minutes to walk through, with multiple rooms. And at the end finishing off in a room for geology which was also very interesting and designed well. Accessible entrances, elevators and assistance given at the front desk. Free to enter. Good for any age range Recommend a visit for the day

Wonderful place to visit while in Dublin. Easy access with the Luas (public train—fairly cheap) and free to the public. So many beautiful and informative things to see—and the place is HUGE. You could easily spent an entire day there, and they have exhibits covering everything from the military history of Ireland, to its geology, geography, arts, and fashion. Not to mention the building it is located in is both historic and beautiful. Greatly enjoyed my time there.

It is a Free Museum with 2 exhibitions, one for history and military, and the other for decorative arts and mode. Each one is divided into parts and it leads you to every floor of the Museum. We did it in thesame day as going to the Zoo in Phoenix Park, a good itinerary to do to visit both Phoenix Park and this Museum at thesame day. In the West side of Dublin.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Hidden gem in a not heavily visited area of Dublin but worth seeking out if you enjoy history. Regularly changing exhibitions plus a very wide variety of interesting artifacts both from Irish history and further afield. Parking on site (€2 an hour), fully wheelchair accessible. Free entry. What sets this museum apart is that the very building is a former army barracks and a very big part of Irish (particularly Dublin) history by itself.

Haven't been there yet I visited here with my friend to mark International Women's Day. We wanted to take part in the tour of the rôle of women in the struggle for Irish independence. This was a superb tour enhanced by the presence of a granddaughter of one of the signatories of the 1916 Proclamation. This was a unique experience laid on by the Museum for the day that was in it.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

A must visit! Very helpful staff, lovely curio shop that I returned to the next day to go buy a gift. Only saw half the museum as our time was limited. Beautiful exhibitions, curator's choice is a must-see and by far our favourite! We loved the interactive exhibitions. The information given was wonderful to read. We will go back to see more.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

The National Museum of Ireland is located in Dublin 7 and has a little bit of everything, history, art, archaeology and Irish culture. Admission is free, it is a very clean museum, well organized and easy to access since one of the Luas (tram) stations is located in front of the main entrance of the museum. It is definitely worth visiting.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A lovely free museum with a great variety of exhibitions on design, architecture, fashion, furniture, war and more. You can tell that some exhibitions are aged but they are all still very informative. The layout is nice and straightforward, because the museum is a square shaped building. Good way to spend some time if you’re in the area, museum is grand and spacious with beautiful green spaces outside.

Superb day out. Soldiers and Chiefs exhibition is excellent, and there really is a huge amount of information there to go through. We'll presented, bilingual (As Gaelige). Shame to.miss out on the AV stuff, but that is COVID related. I only had an hour and a half, but I saw the military exhibit, geology of Ireland and the Asgard Very interesting day and for sure I'll bring the kids along next time.

It’s one of my favorite museums in Dublin. There you’ll find many artifacts about the Irish history and art. My favorite part was the exhibition of Mother and Baby Homes, it was a very touching and immersive experience about this sad part of history. I’d recommend going there and focus on what you like, there’s a lot to see, so if you cover everything in one visit you may lose something important.

Really amazing I would say. The place just looks so spectacular from outside - like a palace. Inside, there are a ton of things that you can see. I really liked the war related stuff. And the costumes and furnitures section too. You will always find something that you love. Plus the entry is free and there are free Dublin city maps available at the reception. Very friendly staff as well.

Some interesting exhibitions but several, including the military vehicles and aircraft, were closed. The large cannon from the Civil War, advertised on the website, was also not on display! Long queue for the car park pay and display machine... which were overly complicated to use.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No

Awesome museum with no charges to see. There's a place if u fell up for a donation. Impossible to see all in one visit!!! There's 3 floors with so much that i can't describe in a simple review. Only the building it self it's already admirable.. highly recommend more than 2 visits.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

SUCH an amazing venue for gigs, super well organized, clean, deposit required for beer cups to encourage people to return them and not litter, food trucks with vegan and veggie options, super friendly staff and security. Can't wait to go again when someone good is lined up there.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Brilliant and free which is great, there is a donation box if you'd like to give even a few euro but no pressure to. Place is great with maps for the lay out and plenty there to take up a couple of hours if your looking at it all and reading up all the info on all the stuff there.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Awesome museum! As a lover of history, it had so much stuff to see, they showed how the Irish are very much part of the World in the grand scheme of things. My kids did get a lil board, but that is to be expected. The gift shop was nice and there is no fee for admission. Will come back to explore some more.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

Service is quick and efficient. Interesting decor around very casual atmosphere. Food was quite good we had a mixed platter between two. Meats were excellent also came with some corn and beans plenty of food for 2 people. I would return here for some casual dining.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Neat use of the old barracks building. You'll want to spend around 2 hours walking around to see most everything depending on which exhibits they have available. It's an interesting and informative way to take shelter from the rain on a dreary afternoon.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A bit off the beaten tracks but very worthwhile visiting. It takes you to a journey through Irish fashion, everyday life and military history. A combination that might sound odd but it falls in place when you see it. Good educational value.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Free entrance check the website for updates before your visit Large numbers of art crafts displayed Quiet and beautiful you can spend couple of hours without being disturbed Jewelry collection in display covers design, metals and timeline
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Way better than expected from the simple name. Extensive collection of well displayed make artifacts from all across history. Took me two days to see the whole place. :O The back room of off-display artifacts was particularly cool.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

This free museum starts out with you going through a large green park. There is a gallery on the other side with a variety of photos and a video exhibit downstairs. You can explore the art and the natural space at your leisure.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

My favorite museum experience in Dublin. Exhibits are engaging and memorable. Well worth the trip. Admission is free but leave a donation. The exhibits are far better than any of the pay to see venues. This museum is a gem.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Had a great Sunday strolling through the museum. Took the opportunity to learn more about Eileen Gray the fabulous Art Deco and modern furnishing designer and architect. Will have to go back as 2 hours was not enough time!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

The Museum was very interesting and I learned quite a lot! It's a must see for every tourist. It's free, it's huge (so plan some time) and it has two separate sections - decorative & arts and military history of Ireland!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

So much interesting historical information from all around the world! Relevant art exhibits, interesting history, and educational. On top of that, it is all free of charge. A great, meaningful experience for travellers.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

It's an interesting museum. On the map, you get at the entrance, you can see the big selection. I really liked the military spots. But all in all its an kind of boring museum. No active games or something to touch.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

I only had time to look at the military exhibits. They were eye-opening. I had not previously looked at the Anglo-Irish conflict from other than the British perspective. I recommend this place unreservedly.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Several different collections on display. Some were really impressive, and others didn't really speak to me. I would still suggest giving this museum a visit. Overall, this location is highly recommended!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Enjoyed this museum immensely. Lots of history about Ireland. The courtyard is a sight to behold. You can spend quite a lot of time examining everything or walk leisurely through fairly quickly.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Super interesting if you want to understand the last 300 years of Irish history, the complex military relationship with England and the struggle to independence and self-discovery as a nation. Amazing as a foreign person. Don’t miss a visit to the side exhibit about the Asgard.

I am speechless after witnessing this building, it is 250yrs old building and stand like a giant. Building itself a master piece they maintained it so well. I found this museum awesome, astonishing. You can not digest all its things in a single day. I will visit it again soon.

Excellent exhibitions about Irish society and culture. Because of Ireland s varied military history it covered in a tasteful way our involvement and did not glorify it. A very enjoyable experience coupled with the fact that admission is free and the Luas stops right outside.

Went to the Eileen Gray exhibition and loved every minute. The guide was fantastic. I will return as I am sure I missed quite a bit about this extraordinary Irish woman.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

A bit confused about the opening hours. Google Maps said till 21:00, the sign at the entrance 17:00. However, it was actually open and we even received a tour starting at 18:00. The tour was very good. The visible storage in one of the wings is very curious.

It is also a military museum, which I just found by chance - I was heading towards Guinness and thought some decorative art might be interesting, but this place has so much more to offer. Bring some time if you want to see everything, but it seems worth it!

Not many things free and this is well worth a visit . Yes you pay for car park but so. At least you can park in the grounds which is great. Great place to bring the kids/partner date or strole alone through irelands chaotic military past and so much more .

I reccomend pre planning your visit. Incredibly large museum. Anyone will find something they are interested here. Also, if you want a picnic before or after your visit there is a couple of tables in from of the museum where its real calm and nice. More

Fascinating place with a very dramatic exhibition of photos from the 1916 rebellion and the civil war. Highly recommended. Visit the memorial garden afterwards.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

this museum was bigger than expecting and had a great range of exhibitions for a free museum! It wasn't too busy. I particularly enjoyed the modern war part of the museum. There's too much to do in one day so i'd recommend a couple of visits

Conveniently located at a red line Luas stop, the National Museum of Ireland is an architectural gem, with its massive and impressive structure. The best part? Entry is free. Inside, you'll find diverse sections covering Irish war history,

Super tour of the barracks and some of its key 5000 artifacts, including the Stokes tapestry. As a fan of Eileen Grey, I visited her exhibition too. Super displays of fashion garments, jewellery and musical instruments including an old

Very interesting museum to visit, there are lots of cool things to see there and also touch! Some areas you’re allowed to touch some items.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Wow, free 2pm tour on Sunday, well done . Might take a second visit to visit it all former army garrison, kids roam freely, well done
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No

This is a treasure trove of Irish history which is free to enter and explore. There are some wonderful exhibitions and artefacts to see.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Amazing museum. So much to do and see. We love the Pride trail and the geology room best. Sadly, the geology room is going away. :( The museum is fairly large and diverse, and we enjoy going over and over.

One of the most important place to visit in Dublin, if you are visiting Ireland don’t forget to visit and it’s located in city Center. pictures from St Patrick’s day festival. #Explore Irish History.

Great museum with free admission. Big and interesting irish coin collection. A small collection of jewelry and fashion clothing, but I done really beautiful exhibits were interested for me

Very nice and helpful staff. The museum is very large and has wide choice of attractions. Is constantly updated. Is good to spend about 2h of time. Admission is free. There are toilets.

Great display and performance by the bands of the Irish Defence Forces School of Music, on the parade aquare at Collins Barracks
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

We attended a concert here not knowing it was a museum, as the venue was listed as Collins Barracks. I was amazed by it as a concert venue! Great spot!
Visited on
Weekday

Interesting museum. Covers Irish military history, fashion over the centuries, contains artefacts like pottery and jewellery from all over the world. The museum is very varied.

A large museum. It feels a bit outdated but it’s free. The buildings are really impressive.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Beautiful building with a huge choice of areas to visit. The red Luas stops right outside.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Amazing parts of history, was really happy to see representation of the Irish brigade in the American Civil War! Awesome weapons and amazing details of each part of history!

Awesome museum to visit. 3 floors of just amazing stuff. So much different things.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Some really cool exhibits, several areas were not available during our visit.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A great museum. Unfortunately when I visited it some rooms was closed.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

A lovely look at the old Irish times, kids loved it and was very interesting
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Worth a visit. Since it's free, there is no reason not to go here. Vastly improved from the last time I was here, A pretty good and interesting collection.

Lots to see. Took a few hours to walk around. Luas stops right outside.will bring you back to city centre. Train station just to the right over the bridge.

A big part of exhibitor were closed. So free entrance looks nice
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Not all of the Museum is open, but it is free, there are still interesting things to see and the setting inside Collins Barracks is impressive.

Pretty decent museum there are a lot of exhibits on.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Fab museum and free entry. We allowed a couple of hours to wander around some of the exhibits, but you could spend the whole day.

Beautiful, highly recommend if you want to learn about everything related to Ireland !
Visited on…
More

Interesting collection of both decorative arts and military history. The best portion is the military wing.

Displays that provide detailed info of Ireland's history. Well worth a visit.
Visited on…
More

Interactive, educational and a thoroughly enjoyable embrace of Irish culture

Not the museum it self but collin barracks! Great space

Really good museum with free entry.

Great museum, free entrance.