State Apartments, County Dublin Travel Guide

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Explore Ireland's regal past in the opulent State Apartments, where history and grandeur meet in the heart of Dublin Castle.

The State Apartments at Dublin Castle offer a glimpse into Ireland's past, serving as the former residence and public entertaining quarters for the Lord Lieutenant. Today, these opulent rooms host presidential inaugurations, state functions, and EU Presidencies.

A brief summary to State Apartments

Dame St, Dublin 2, Dublin Castle, IE
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Monday 9 am-6 pm
Tuesday 9 pm-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-6 pm
Thursday 12 am-6 pm
Friday 9 am-6 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring State Apartments.

Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid potential queues, especially during peak season.
Consider taking a guided tour to access areas like the Viking Excavation and Chapel Royal, and to gain deeper insights into the castle's history.
Check the Dublin Castle website for closures due to government events.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the State Apartments and the surrounding Dublin Castle complex.

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Explore State Apartments on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near State Apartments, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Dublin Castle is located in the city center and is easily accessible on foot from many major tourist attractions. From Trinity College, walk southwest along Dame Street. The Palace Street entrance to Dublin Castle will be on your left in about 5 minutes. From St. Patrick's Cathedral, walk northeast along Patrick Street, turn left onto Lord Edward Street, and the Castle Street entrance will be on your right. Allow approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

Many bus routes stop on nearby Dame Street, Lord Edward Street, and George's Street. Bus routes include 9, 13, 15, 16, 27, 40, 49, 54a, 56a, 65, 68, 68a, 77a, 122, 123, 140, 150 and 151. The closest Luas (tram) stops are St Stephen's Green (Green Line) and Jervis (Red Line). From the bus stop on Dame Street, walk a few minutes west to the Palace Street entrance. A single fare on Dublin Bus or Luas is approximately €2.00-€3.30, depending on the distance.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Dublin. A short taxi ride from O'Connell Street to Dublin Castle will typically cost between €9-€11 and take approximately 5 minutes, depending on traffic. There is no visitor parking at Dublin Castle. The nearest public car parks are Q-Park Christchurch and Park Rite Drury Street.

Discover more about State Apartments

Located in the south range of Dublin Castle's Upper Courtyard, the State Apartments are a collection of lavishly decorated rooms that once served as the residential and public entertaining spaces for the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. For centuries, Dublin Castle was the center of English, and later British, administration in Ireland. Today, the State Apartments host significant state events, including presidential inaugurations and Ireland's Presidencies of the European Union.The State Apartments showcase a variety of architectural styles and decorative arts. Key rooms include St. Patrick's Hall, the grandest of the apartments, known for its stunning painted ceiling and historic events. The Throne Room offers a glimpse into the political significance of the castle throughout the centuries. The State Drawing Room exhibits a selection of portrait oil paintings. The State Apartments Galleries, once the private quarters of the Viceroy and his family, now display vibrant exhibitions.Visitors can explore the State Apartments through guided tours or self-guided visits. Informational brochures are available in multiple languages. The complex is a must-see for those interested in Irish history and architecture.