Background

Áras an Uachtaráin, County Dublin Travel Guide

4.6 (134)

Explore the historic residence of the President of Ireland, nestled in Dublin's Phoenix Park. Free tours on Saturdays!

Áras an Uachtaráin, the official residence of the President of Ireland, is located in Dublin's Phoenix Park. Originally built in 1751, the house offers free guided tours on Saturdays, allowing visitors to explore its historic rooms and gardens.

A brief summary to Áras an Uachtaráin

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Áras an Uachtaráin.

  • Arrive early at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre on Saturdays to secure your free tour tickets, as they are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Bring photographic identification, as it is required for entry to Áras an Uachtaráin.
  • Check the official website in advance to ensure that tours are running on your chosen Saturday, as they may be canceled due to official State business.
  • Explore the surrounding Phoenix Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe, with various attractions like Dublin Zoo and the Wellington Monument.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Explore Áras an Uachtaráin on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Áras an Uachtaráin, mapped for you.

Unlock the Best of Áras an Uachtaráin

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Dublin city center, take the Dublin Bus route 26 to Conyngham Road, near the entrance of Phoenix Park. From there, it's approximately a 30-minute walk to the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre, where you can get tickets for the Áras an Uachtaráin tour. Alternatively, Dublin Bus route 99 operates within Phoenix Park and stops near the Phoenix Monument, a short walk from Áras an Uachtaráin. A single bus fare is approximately €3.

  • Walking

    If you are already within Phoenix Park, follow the signs towards the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre. From the Visitor Centre, Áras an Uachtaráin is a short walk away. Note that the park is quite large, so allow ample time to walk.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre or near one of the park's entrances. From the city center, a taxi ride to Phoenix Park will cost approximately €11-€16. From there, follow the signs to Áras an Uachtaráin.

Discover more about Áras an Uachtaráin

Áras an Uachtaráin, meaning "House of the President" in Irish, has been the official residence of the President of Ireland since 1938. Situated within the expansive Phoenix Park in Dublin, this elegant mansion began as a modest brick house in 1751 for the park's chief ranger. Over the years, it evolved into a grand residence, serving as the occasional home of the Lord Lieutenant during British rule.It is believed that Irish architect James Hoban drew inspiration from the garden front portico of Áras an Uachtaráin when designing the façade of the White House in Washington D.C. The house features 95 rooms and formal gardens that were established in the 1840s, showcasing Victorian elements like ceremonial trees and ornamental lakes.Today, Áras an Uachtaráin hosts numerous state functions and welcomes up to 22,000 visitors annually. Free guided tours are available on Saturdays, offering a glimpse into the State Reception Rooms and gardens. Visitors can obtain tickets on a first-come, first-served basis at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre. These tours provide insights into the building's history and its role as the center of Irish political life.
Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



Explore More of County Dublin

Looking beyond Áras an Uachtaráin? Discover County Dublin for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.

Explore County Dublin

Select Currency