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1 city · 2 museums · 2 free

The best museums in Ireland

By World Museum Guide editors Updated Facts checked How we check facts

Quick answer

The best museums in Ireland are National Gallery of Ireland and National Museum of Ireland. World Museum Guide covers 2 museums in Ireland across 1 city, with admission prices, opening hours and highlights for each. 2 have free standard admission.

Visitor information last reviewed 30 June 2026. Check the official museum site for current details.

All 2 museums in Ireland, ranked

Dublin, Ireland

National Gallery of Ireland

Art Museum · Best for art lovers & first-timers

The National Gallery of Ireland in Dublin was founded in 1854 and houses Ireland's national collection of Western European and Irish art from the 14th century to the 20th century. Admission is entirely free. The permanent collection of approximately 16,500 works spans Italian Renaissance, Dutch and Flemish Golden Age, Spanish Baroque, French Impressionism, and an unparalleled survey of Irish art.

Free entry · ⏱ 2–3 hours

Dublin, Ireland

National Museum of Ireland

Art Museum · Best for history enthusiasts & first-timers

The National Museum of Ireland was established in 1877 and now operates four sites across Dublin and County Mayo. The principal site — the Archaeology branch on Kildare Street — holds the national collection of Irish antiquities, which is internationally recognised as one of the most important collections of early medieval art in the world.

Free entry · ⏱ 2–3 hours · Closed Mondays

Museums in Ireland: FAQs

What are the best museums in Ireland?

The best museums in Ireland are National Gallery of Ireland and National Museum of Ireland, ranked by visitor numbers and collection strength.

How many museums in Ireland does World Museum Guide cover?

World Museum Guide covers 2 museums in Ireland across 1 city — 2 with free standard admission.

Are museums in Ireland free to enter?

2 of 2 museums in our Ireland guide have free standard admission: National Gallery of Ireland and National Museum of Ireland. Special exhibitions can still be ticketed.