trinity college dublin visit tour

How To Visit Trinity College Dublin

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: August 2, 2024

Trinity College in Dublin is one of the city’s main landmarks and it has a history stretching back to 1592.

Not only are its grounds lovely to walk around, it’s also home to a ton of history and some stunning artefacts, from The Book of Kells to the Long Room and more.

And, while the grounds are free to have a ramble around, there’s also a paid tour that you can take, but more on that in a minute.

Below, you’ll find info on everything from the history of Trinity College in Dublin and what there is to see to the tours and more.

Some quick need-to-knows about Trinity College in Dublin

Although a visit to Trinity College in Dublin is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.

1. Location

Trinity College’s central location makes it perfect for quick and easy visits. Situated just south of the Liffey and to the immediate east of the popular Temple Bar , the college is easily accessible by public transport – the Luas Green line stops right outside the College Green entrance.

2. Ireland’s highest ranked university

Trinity College isn’t just Ireland’s highest-ranked university, it’s one of the finest in the world and is just a hair’s breadth outside of the global top 100 (it’s ranked joint 101st). It’s also the 17th most international university, attracting a hugely diverse number of applicants and students.

3. Visiting as a tourist

So, as a tourist you are free to explore the grounds of Trinity College. It’s free to enter and you can ramble around and admire the architecture (see map above). If you want to visit the Book of Kells , you’ll need to buy a ticket.

4. What to see

The main things to see at Trinity College are the key landmarks (see map), the Book of Kells, the Long Room and the Douglas Hyde Gallery.

The history of Trinity College

Photos via Shutterstock

Though Trinity College has a long history, it wasn’t actually the first university in Dublin.

Founded in 1320 by the Pope, the Medieval University of Dublin was the city’s first attempt at establishing a university in the city.

While it lasted a couple of hundred years, it was ended by Henry VIII’s Reformation.

Created by a royal charter

Trinity College Dublin was created by royal charter from Queen Elizabeth I in 1592 amid the thought that it would bring prestige to Ireland at a time when many other European countries were also founding important centres of education.

The new university was to be built on the former site of All Hallows monastery to the southeast of the city walls, where Trinity College still stands today.

Growth years and religious questions

The 18th century was when Dublin started to see Trinity College emerge as a significant part of the city and many of its grand buildings were constructed alongside the elegant green and parks.

Following the Reformation, this time period in Britain and Ireland was an era of ascendancy for Protestants and for many years, Catholics were not allowed to join the university.

It was only in 1793 that Catholics were finally allowed admission to Trinity College, but even then, they were not allowed to be elected to Scholarship, Fellowship or be made a Professor.

Finally, in 1873, all religious tests were abolished, although Catholic Bishops themselves encouraged Catholics not to attend due to the university’s protestant history.

The 20th and 21st centuries

An important development kickstarted the 20th century as women were admitted to Trinity College as full members for the first time in 1904.

Another huge event took place just over a decade later, as the 1916 Easter Rising engulfed Dublin, and the university was lucky to escape unscathed. In fact, many of the discussions about what an Irish Free State would look like took place at Trinity in the aftermath of 1916.

The true growth in student numbers at the university began in 1970 when the Catholic Church relaxed its policy on Catholics attending Trinity College, and this led to new courses and buildings, especially in sciences and computing.

Now in the 21st century, Trinity is an iconic part of Dublin enjoyed by visitors and students alike.

Things to do at Trinity College

One of the reasons that Trinity is one of the most popular places to visit in Dublin is due to the sheer volume of things there are to see and do.

Below, you’ll find info on everything from the Book of Kells and the general architecture to the Long Room and more.

1. See the Book of Kells

Photos in the Public Domain

Top of most visitors lists when they visit Trinity College is this extraordinary book !

Dating back to the 9th century, the Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript Gospel book written entirely in Latin.

Made from high-quality calf vellum and extending to a total of 680 pages, some of the pages contain colourful, ornate illustrations of various religious figures and symbols that appear either by themselves or alongside the text.

2. Visit the Long Room

Put any library interior up against the Long Room inside the Library of Trinity College, and I’d say most would pale in comparison – this is Dublin architecture at its finest.

Three hundred years old and 65 metres long, there’s a good reason why the Long Room is one of the most photographed rooms in Dublin.

Admire its elegant wooden structure and how it’s lined with marble busts of prominent writers, philosophers and supporters of the college.

3. Grab a coffee and wander around the grounds

The leafy grounds of Trinity College are some of the prettiest in Dublin and it goes without saying that you should spend a bit of time just strolling around exploring them.

Whether it’s before or after your visit to the Library, it doesn’t really matter as there’s no rush on this particular activity.

And since the university is located at the bottom of Grafton Street, it’s a short walk from some of the best coffee shops in Dublin .

4. Drop into The Douglas Hyde Gallery

Focusing on artists who push at the boundaries of form and convention and who also might be overlooked or marginalised, The Douglas Hyde is one of the more popular art galleries in Dublin , and you’ll find it at Trinity College’s Nassau Street Gate.

If you’re feeling inspired by the art inside the Book of Kells then this could be the place for you!

First opened in 1978, the gallery has showcased work by significant  Irish artists such as Sam Keogh, Kathy Prendergast and Eva Rothschild and also brought well-regarded international artists to Ireland for the first time too, including Marlene Dumas, Gabriel Kuri and Alice Neel.

Things to do nearby

One of the beauties of the Trinity College tour is that, when you’re finished, you’re a short walk from many of the best things to do in Dublin .

Below, you’ll find a handful of things to see and do a stone’s throw from Trinity:

• Dublin Castle : One of the city’s most impressive structures
• Cathedrals: Christ Church and St Patrick’s Cathedral
• Food and pubs: See my guides to the best restaurants in Dublin and the finest pubs in Dublin
• Itineraries:  Need a route to follow? Here’s how to spend one day in Dublin or a weekend in Dublin

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Everything to know about visiting the historic Trinity College in Dublin

Trinity College is full of fascinating history and things to do

• 17:51, 29 APR 2024
• Updated 22:52, 29 APR 2024

Trinity College Dublin is a hugely popular attraction for those visiting Ireland's capital city. The historic campus is, at times, an Instagrammer's dream.

However, it is also a fascinating place for history lovers. The extensive campus is located in Dublin City Center, stretching from College Green all the way to Pearse Street.

For many, it is an essential stop when in Dublin. Here is everything you need to know about visiting Trinity College Dublin.

• New path for one of Ireland's most scenic viewpoints opens

Unique Irish island trip you can take from Dublin that many don't know about

Is Trinity College Dublin free to visit?

Yes. You can explore the campus of Trinity College for free. On a sunny day, you can enjoy the manicured fields and walk around the old architecture.

However, there are experiences within Trinity College Dublin that you can pay for.

Are there tours of Trinity College Dublin?

You can take a guided tour of Trinity College Dublin's campus. On these tours, you will discover old architecture, learn about famous alumni of the university, and even learn about the flora and fauna found on the campus.

The 45-minute walking tours of the campus cost €16.

The Book of Kells experience

Also located on the campus of Trinity College Dublin is the new and improved Book of Kells experience . The Book of Kells has been a longtime favorite for tourists visiting Ireland and it has recently been incorporated into an immersive new visitor experience.

The experience first brings visitors to view the Book of Kells in the Old Library. The Old Library in Trinity College Dublin might be familiar to movie fans as it was the inspiration for the sets of some huge film franchises such as Star Wars and Harry Potter .

After you have marveled at the book itself and the gorgeous library, the experience moves on. Enter the Secret Life of the Collections, where you will see stories and sculptures come to life before your eyes. You will then be immersed in the 360° pavilion The Book of Kells 360.

For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage here .

• Most Recent

How to Visit Trinity College Dublin (A Guide for a Non-Student)

One of the most prestigious universities in the world, Trinity College Dublin was packed with both students and visitors, leisurely walking or rushing through the main campus, on an unseasonably sunny morning when I made my way to the university. 

Last updated: February 25, 2024

Trinity College Dublin through the Eyes of a Visitor 

One of the guides I had read before traveling to Ireland insisted that Trinity College Dublin was one of the first places you needed to visit when in the city. Praising its opulent architecture and academic influence on the world, the article went on dissecting the best places where you as a visitor could take pictures. 

A self-guided walking tour through the university, however, wasn’t the first thing I would eagerly add to my Dublin itinerary . But it was Trinity College Dublin, the oldest surviving university in Ireland… So reluctantly, I added it to the list. 

Two weeks later, standing in front of a long wall with a narrow gate-entrance to the famous university, I had a second thought.   

With only a few entrances cut out in the enclosed wall, Trinity College Dublin looked fortified. The whole structure appeared almost like a place reserved only to a few chosen – students that showed high levels of achievement and educational excellence and faculty staff, even more superior in their knowledge and expertise. 

It took me a few seconds to contemplate whether I should’ve entered the ground of this sacred educational institution. The urge to peek inside, to see what Trinity College hid behind its massive wall was great, though. 

So, I joined the “flow” of students rushing through the gate at that moment (it must have been the time for lectures to start), and got carried onto the main campus of Trinity College. 

On the Ground of the Main Campus

The “stream” receded almost instantly as soon as it squeezed through the narrow opening-gate in the wall. Like ants charging out of an anthill, the students rushed in the opposite directions.

I proceeded straight ahead to the Campanile of Trinity College Dublin , university’s iconic bell tower. Large green lawns surrounded the towering structure, pleasantly contrasting with the grey color of the buildings. This area sees many students and faculty staff every day. Needless to say, it’s one of the main points of interest for the majority of the visitors.   

Modeled after the collegiate universities of Oxford and Cambridge, Dublin’s main educational institution is compact. The main campus of Trinity College is divided into large quadrangles, often described as squares. The surrounding buildings look inward.

Smaller structures, hidden behind these pioneers of education, reluctantly disobey this architectural order. On the other hand, these nooks are quieter. You hardly see any tourists here. Leaving the noiseless, charming corners for the most curious, the majority of the visitors linger in the main square that houses two largest treasures: the Long Room of the Trinity College Library and the Book of Kells .

History of Trinity College Dublin

Trinity College Dublin was founded on March 3, 1592 by Elizabeth I. “ The mother of a university ” as she is often referred to, the queen modeled it after some of the most esteemed educational institutions in Europe . 

Originally The College of the Holy and Undivided Trinity Queen Elizabeth near Dublin was set outside the city walls. Over the years as the city continued to grow, the university found itself in the heart of Dublin. 

Many eminent Irish have attended Trinity College. The institution has shaped the minds of some of the country’s most influential poets, authors, playwrights, philosophers, mathematicians, and politicians, including Oscar Wilde, Jonathan Swift, William Rowan Hamilton, George Berkeley, and William Trevor.

The educational contributions of Trinity College span centuries. In fact, the establishment outlived many other prestigious universities, becoming one of the seven ancient educational institutions of Britain and Ireland and Ireland’s oldest surviving university. 

The status and influence of Trinity College has grown stronger over the years. Today, it’s one of Europe’s elite institutions. In 2023, the university was ranked 161st in the world.

Up to this day, the main campus of the university is considered one of the most iconic in the world. It’s been included in an endless amount of urban legends and featured in many novels and films. That said, J.K. Rowling used the famous Trinity College Library as an inspiration for Hogwarts School in her fantasy novels about a young wizard named Harry Potter.

The Trinity College Library and the Book of Kells

The Trinity College Library has raised interest for years. Its massive floor-to-ceiling shelves, filled with books for every subject, allure people from all over the world, both readers and non-readers. The tranquil collegiate atmosphere of the library sets the mood for countless researches and studies. 

And there is a lot to reference to. As a legal deposit library for Ireland and Great Britain, the Library of Trinity College houses nearly 7 million printed volumes and manuscripts. The most popular of them is the Book of Kells . The illuminated manuscript Gospel book joined the library’s expansive collection in 1661 after the destructive Cromwellian raid on religious establishments.

Yet the Book of Kells is not the only work worth mentioning here. In the Long Room, an iconic part of the library, resides a rare copy of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic . The same room harbors some 200,000 of the library’s oldest books, 40 marble busts of the college’s famous students, and a 15th-century wooden harp . The latter served as a model for the current emblem of Ireland. 

Things to Know before Visiting the College

• You can roam and explore the university at your own pace. There is no fee to visit Trinity College Dublin. If you long to know more about the famous institution, join a guided tour led by current students.
• The admission to the Trinity College Library is not free. You can purchase a ticket on the university’s website. Alternatively, you can obtain a pass that allows you to explore the library and see some other landmarks of Dublin. 

• Step Inside 7 of the World’s Most Remarkable Libraries

You may also enjoy:

The 5 best pumpkin patches in los angeles, 7 reasons to visit lake mary ronan, montana, grinnell glacier trail – a must-do hike in glacier national park, here is why you need to visit italy, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Get in touch

Sign up for newsletter.

Join Roads and Destinations' mailing list and get new blog updates, upcoming events, and exclusive travel resourses.

• Click to open search
• Open the main navigation
• Newsletter Opens in a new window

The Book of Kells

Trinity College, in Dublin City, is Ireland’s oldest university and home to the world famous 9th century manuscript, the Book of Kells. A handwritten copy of the four gospels of the New Testament, the Book of Kells is filled with ornate Latin text and intricate illustrations. View the ancient manuscript in the heart of the Old Library, before marvelling at the awe inspiring Long Room library chamber. Some of the Long Room’s hidden gems include the Brian Boru Harp, Ireland's oldest surviving harp, and a rare original copy of the Proclamation, a seminal text in Irish history.

A once in a lifetime event is currently taking place in the Old Library, and 200,000 books are now removed from the Long Room library chamber. On your visit you will witness this historic event, which is part of the landmark Old Library Redevelopment Project.

Make the most out of your visit and add on a tour of Trinity campus with the Book of Kells and Trinity Trails tour.

• Pet-Centric
• Washington DC
• Reflections

Trinity College: Top-Ranked Dublin Tour

Trinity College , located in the heart of Dublin, is Ireland’s oldest university. It was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. The monarch wanted to create an institution in Ireland modeled after Oxford and Cambridge. The iconic university campus appears in movies and novels.

Trinity College looms large when I first encountered it during the Christmas season walking down Grafton Street, Dublin’s most prestigious shopping corridor. The university’s tall walls cannot be breached so it feels like a castle more than a college.

Architecture buffs will be drawn to the historic buildings, cobblestone sidewalks, and marble statues stationed on the green. (I also highly recommend touring 14 Henrietta Street , a townhouse-turned-tenement museum, and the James Joyce Centre .)

Rather than skirting the brick wall or simply walking under the ancient front arches and peeking into the green on my daily rambles in the city, I wanted to learn more about Trinity College’s most famous professors, students, and ghosts.

Table of Contents

Trinity Trails

Trinity College offers “Trinity Trails,” a 75-minute guided tour of the campus, seven days a week that includes access to the Old Library and Book of Kells. (Check out my video tour on Instagram.)

A ticket costs 29 euros for one adult or 65 euros for a family (two adults and two children). There is also a free self-guided tour. A campus-only tour costs 15 euros.

“Take an immersive guided walking tour through the rich cultural heritage of Trinity College Dublin. Learn about world famous alumni, discover ancient buildings and get an insight in to the cutting-edge innovations of Ireland’s leading University.” Trinity Tours

Trip Advisor Award

In my opinion, this is a must-see Dublin tour. In fact, Trip Advisor honored Trinity University with its 2022 Traveller’s Choice award. It is ranked #7 of 671 things to do in Dublin.

“This is an incredibly pretty school, the grounds and the architecture are amazing. I love beautiful old buildings, Trinity College has some incredible buildings inside and out.” Trip Advisor review

My guide was a former student who now works for the college. “Trinity College was exclusively Protestant until the 1970s. It used to be an old Augustinian monastery. You can still see evidence today. The remains of the monastery are below ground,” she explained.

The average age of university buildings ranges from 1780 to 1790. The style is Georgian architecture. But the “oldest” buildings date back to 1702.

For the first three centuries, only male students could enroll at Dublin University All this changed in January 1904 when Marion Weir Johnston, Averina Shegog, and Ellen Tuckey entered Dublin College. They were given full academic status. (We would learn more about a provost who resisted any female student matriculating at Trinity University during our tour!)

Student Life

We learned that students attend “Commons,” which is the dinner meal, which begins precisely at 6:15 p.m. and ends at 7 p.m. Dining is limited to 45 minutes. “You must eat fast,” laughed the guide. Students can also order Guinness beer with this meal because “the Guinness family is a big patron of the university.” In fact, the portrait of the Earl of Guinness hangs in the building.

Trinity College is home to the oldest student societies, including a philosophical society and a historical society. But the former hasn’t run continuously since it was temporarily disbanded due to student hijinks. “The 1730s were a rough decade for the university. There was a strong Jacobite faction James on the throne,” said the guide.

Trinity College Ghost

In fact, drunk students murdered Edward Ford (former student and fellow) in 1734 in Building 25. He lived in the Rubrics, which is Trinity’s oldest building. Ford was disliked by students as “obstinate and ill-judging man” and interfered with student affairs.

The drunk students threw bricks up at his window during the cover of the night. He whipped out a pistol and shot at them through the broken window pane. They returned later with firearms and shot him. He died two hours later.

“It is believed that Ford’s ghost still lingers at his old residency, and he is said to wander around the Rubrics, dressed in wig, gown, and knee breeches.” Trinity News

His ghost reportedly still stalks the hallways of the student dormitory around the doorway of 25. “There are reports of shadowy figures walking the halls. Four students were charged with murder but the judge threw it out. Students told different stories. The university expelled the four students. Students say the room is haunted.”

Haunted Bell Tower

The dormitories aren’t the only place haunted. Students also avoid the university’s Bell Tower (known as the Campanile). It was built in 1852. The legend is a student will fail all their exams if they walk underneath the Campanile as the bell tolls within the tower.

Since the bell rings at irregular intervals, there is no guarantee that a student won’t get caught. “You don’t see students walk under the Bell Tower. They’ll fail all their exams if the bell rings. But students will run under when they graduate,” said the guide. It is considered a mark of triumph over the Curse of the Campanile.

(Hint: You can visit college green without paying for a tour if you want to take an Instagram photo.)

There is one loophole. If the student can reach Provost George Salmon’s statue before the bell stops ringing and touch his foot, he is saved.

Salmon’s Statue

Interestingly, Salmon is the provost who refused to let women matriculate at Dublin College. He vowed no woman would ever study at Trinity. But despite his opposition to female students, women students began attending Dublin College in 1904.

“He did great things for the university. He famously said ‘under my dead body will a woman attend this college.’ On the day he died, the first women students entered Dublin University,” said our guide.

Apparently, Salmon is quite famous with current female students who like to show him up. “On graduation day, women line up to take their picture with him,” she added.

Museum Building (Exterior)

I realized that Trinity College is truly a “living museum” when our guide took us to see the Museum Building. You don’t want to miss this structure which is a virtual zoo! We went on a “visual scavenger hunt” trying to identify the sculptures of animals that perched on the structure.

Home to the Geology Department for over 160 years, this Museum Building was built between 1853-1857. Architects Thomas Deane and Benjamin Woodward designed it. Their inspiration was Venice’s Byzantine architecture.

The architects used multiple and contrasting forms of marble, including Calp Limestone and faced with Ballyknockan granite (exterior walls), Portland stone from Dorset (quoins, columns and capitals), and Caen stone from France (tympanum). The college crest sits above the heavy wooden door.

It was no surprise to me when I learned the exterior amounted to just under half the cost for the entire building.

I was amazed by the intricate exterior carvings of florals and animals on the building. In fact, John and James O’Shea used fresh flowers to carve their floral leaves and flowers. 

We stood several minutes outside the building trying to identify where the O’Shea brothers hid the animals. 

“The building is like an Aesop fable,” declared the guide. “You’ll see sculptures of cats, monkeys, and foxes.”

Museum Building (Interior)

The fantastical architecture continues inside the Museum Building. I discovered a dinosaur skulking in the lobby. (This building reminded me of the Smithsonian Castle in Washington, DC. It was also constructed in the 1850s. The Norman Revival style of architecture.)

When you enter the main entrance hall, you step back into the Victorian age. There are large (Irish) marble pillars, balustrades, and banisters.

The domed roof features blue, red, and yellow enameled bricks. At the end of the hall, students and professors must climb two sweeping marble staircases to get to the second floor. Their voices bounce off the canyon-like space.

“This elaborate and much-celebrated historical building is central to Trinity’s campus, a focal point for all students, and represents Geology’s long and rich academic history.” Trinity College

Rose Garden

After leaving Deane’s Museum Building, our group meanders down to the Rose Garden. What a lovely place where students can escape after classes or exams.

While the rose might be considered special property of Britain, poet William Butler Yeats often incorporated the rose as a symbol for Ireland. 

“Red rose, proud rose…Rose of all my days!” William Butler Yeats

Interestingly, the black rose was a code word for Ireland since English law banned reference to Ireland as a nation.

The green space features benches as well as a velvet lawn for lounging. (Hint: Visitors can also avail themselves of this rest stop since the entrance to Trinity University’s courtyard is free.)

Self-Guided Tour

There is also the option of paying 5 euros to listen to a tour guide on a Trinity University app. It is billed as “perfect for the independent traveler, who wants to experience Trinity’s rich culture and heritage at their own pace.”

This tour features 14 “points of interest” across the campus. It includes a virtual tour, virtual artifacts, and audio commentary by subject matter experts. The Visit Trinity App can be downloaded in the App Store and on Google Play .

My name is Terri Markle. I love to travel & blog about it. Please join me on my adventures.

You Might Also Like

Winterthur Historic Home Tour in Delaware

Saluda, North Carolina: Mountain Escape

Exploring Savannah on Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil Walking Tour

This tour sounds awesome! I love incredible architecture and history, which it sounds like this tour has, and the haunted elements are so much fun too. Thanks for sharing this, I’ll keep it on my radar if I am ever in Dublin!

I do hope you get to visit Ireland soon. I can’t believe I waited so long to tour Dublin. It is a writer’s dream city.

simplyjolayne

Looks like a fun way to spend an afternoon. I am a fan of architecture, so I am sure I would enjoy taking lots of pictures.

Me too! I took a lot of videos so I can remember what I saw. But I wish I took more photos,especially of the watch tower. I will post the video on my Instagram page.

This is such a beautiful college. I’d love to visit it someday.

I agree! The campus is absolutely beautiful to explore. It was fun to have an alumni give the walking tour.

Catherine - Savvy Family Travel

I’ve been twice but still haven’t done a full tour, this is fascinating! We are heading to Dublin in November so I need to make it a priority!

Check out all my posts on Dublin. This was my first time visiting Ireland in December. I wore myself out exploring the city. There are wonderful walking tours at the history museums. You will enjoy!

I was there ages ago and your post is a lovely reminder of my time there and in Ireland. Your photos are great I don’t think I saw all that I should have!

Even though it was freezing cold in Dublin (there was actually snow on the ground), I still thoroughly enjoyed my campus tour. I am glad that my post reminded you of your visit to Trinity College.

This is definitely on my list of places to see when in Dublin. Great photos and description.

A Capone Connection

I’ve never given much thought about touring a college before but this is genius! I love architecture (studied it in college) and so many colleges have incredible architecture to look at. Thank you so much for sharing!

If you studied architecture, then you really should take this tour when you visit Dublin.

Karen Warren

The last time I was in Dublin, I wondered about visiting Trinity college. I wasn’t sure what the hype was for it, but this post gives me a lot of information about why I should have taken the tour. Sounds fascinating.

I definitely think that you’ll enjoy the tour.

Thanks for sharing this experience! I visited Trinity College grounds last year, but didn’t have a chance to see the inside. Next time I’ll consider joining this tour for sure!

I highly recommend.

I wish I would have done this Dublin tour when I was there! What an incredible place! I love tours like this always because you always learn the most interesting facts about the place.

I almost didn’t didn’t the money for the guided tour but I decided I really wanted to learn about the college’s history.

I loved Trinity! So much history!

I agree. I was so glad that I took the tour.

Linnea Jordan

I need to go back to Dublin!! These are amazing tips!

I agree! There is so much to do in Dublin.

Andrea Cannon

The story about the ghost is intense. Sounds like a very interesting tour.

Reportedly there are two other ghosts that haunt the college!

I’ve done this tour of Trinity College and loved it. Your post brought back wonderful memories.

I am glad the article brought back good memories!

This looks so fun! I’ve only visited the incredible library at Trinity College, but looks like I should have taken more time for the campus!

We visited Trinity College but didn’t have time to go on a tour of it properly. Next time I’ll have to add it to the itinerary because it looks great.

Trinity College is amazing with all of the architecture and history!!! Hoping to some day visit and check out the Museum Thank you for your wonderful information

Jenn | By Land and Sea

We are headed to Ireland in April so I’m loving all of these posts about things to do and see!

A lot of hauntings going on at Trinity! I never would have found this tour on my own!

Trinity College looks absolutely stunning! I would totally love to study here, it must feel very special!

Visit Trinity 4+

Trinity college dublin commercial, designed for iphone.

• 2.3 • 47 Ratings

iPhone Screenshots

Description.

Trinity College Dublin is Ireland’s leading University. Located in the heart of Dublin City Centre, the 47 acre University campus is filled with leafy, cobblestone squares and iconic architecture. Download the Visit Trinity App and get access to immersive walking tours and audio guides that bring the fascinating heritage of Trinity College to life. Explore Trinity’s ancient buildings, unearth its hidden gems, learn about famous past students and get insight in to Trinity’s world renowned research and innovation. The Visit Trinity App includes everything you need to know about visiting Trinity College, with up to date information on accommodation, visitor experiences and dining on campus.Get exclusive access to special offers and discounts and use the app to get the most out of your visit to Trinity.

Version 1.2.5

Minor bug fixes

Ratings and Reviews

Does not work well.

They ask you to download this app to get the book of kells tour. Of the 12 “stops” only 4 worked for me. I dumped and re-downloaded the app. It did not help. The good news is, there is pleanty of printed information within the book of kells exhibit to get a good understanding of the history of the book.

So-so experience

If you buy a ticket to the Book of Kells Experience in advance, the system now sends you a suggestion to bring your own headphones along, which is the only reason I did, so I at least appreciate that. But according to their own materials, the app is supposed to trigger audio when you get near a relevant point and on my iPhone that never once happened. There are also no signs telling you when you’ve reached an audio point (as is typical at museums/sites with audio guides) so it took me at least ten minutes in the extremely crowded exhibition before I realized it was completely up to me to regularly check the app to try to figure out if I was at an audio point. The content itself is good (albeit not as in-depth as I personally would have expected) but even with noise-canceling AirPods, I had to turn the volume to maximum and still sometimes had difficulty hearing as there were fellow visitors listening to the audio guide on speakerphone and no staff ever asked them to stop.

App works perfectly fine

I don’t know why there are so many negative reviews. My sister and I both downloaded and used this app with no problems while visiting Trinity College and during the Book of Kells tour. Also there is wifi inside where the Book of Kells is. You might wanna download the app before you arrive but it is not a necessity.

App Privacy

The developer, Trinity College Dublin Commercial , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Not Collected

The developer does not collect any data from this app.

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

English, Arabic, Bengali, Dutch, French, German, Hindi, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Spanish, Thai, Traditional Chinese, Turkish, Vietnamese

• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

More By This Developer

Trinity Open Day

You Might Also Like

British Museum Audio

Chester Beatty Guide

Louvre Museum Visitor Guide

Bird Buddy: Tap Into Nature

Metropolitan Museum of Art NYC

Trinity College Library

Photos & videos.

See all 254 photos

See All 254

Review Highlights

“ The book of Kells was the reason for our visit, I did not expect a lot from the tour, but was pleasantly surprised. ” in 26 reviews

“ Or do what I did and immediately walk up the stairs to the old library to admire its awesomeness. ” in 6 reviews

“ Make sure to see the Brian Boru Harp on display, as well as the busts lined along the corridors. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

College Street

Republic of Ireland

South Inner City

Amenities and More

Recommended reviews.

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

Absolutely stunning. Full of tourists but 100% worth the visit to see the space and the Book of Kells, plus you get to walk around Trinity College. Filled my librarian heart to witness the wonderful history of this space and the stories within it.

Beautiful grounds on the prestigious campus of Trinity. Was a nice visit here to see some of the history. Oh, by the way Oscar Wilde studied here.

Trinity College, Dublin

STUNNING! If you love Harry Potter like I do than you're going to love this library because is it was inspired the library in Harry Potter! Photos and videos do no justice of how marvelous this library and history actually stands for. The mahogany wood will take your breath away once you see through the two doors!

Buy tickets for the book of Kells exhibition at the ticket office when you first enter the college or online. The exhibit was very crowded with people hovering all the displays. The exhibit leads up to the Book of Kells display, which you cannot take a picture of. It is very cool to see. After the viewing of the book of Kells, you go into the old library which is a cool sight. I went during the restoration project so all the books were gone but still a cool spot. They also had the harp on display.

Absolutely beautiful Trinity College was a Protestants college in Catholic Dublin Interesting to note in September, 2023 the majority of students are Catholic females... Both Trinity College and Trinity College Library are Must visits We have a previous visit and felt compelled to return

Truly a must-see if you're visiting Dublin! Make sure to buy tickets in advance online because they can sometimes sell out if you show up the day of. There is an exhibit dedicated to the Book of Kells when you first enter and you can see the original book, although no photos are permitted of the book itself. The library is gorgeous and although I went during the restoration project it was still a beautiful site to see. So much history is preserved within the library and it was an incredible experience walking through.

See all photos from Leilani G. for Trinity College Library

The library is magnificent! The natural light is so surprising, bookcase ladders, 2 stories, just in awe for book lovers! Frankly this was much more interesting & enjoyable than the Book of Kelly's alone. No bathrooms in these buildings so watch for signs on campus.

See all photos from Evelyn M. for Trinity College Library

This is beautiful and historic library. I love that they are going through a very rigorous process of cleaning all the books and furthering to protect them. Taking a tour today you only see a few sections with books, the rest are bare but this is a great way to see a unique view of the library too. This section was my favorite part of the tour.

Trinity college was very cool. Campus was very nice and so was the weather. I did the book of kells tour and it was very cool. The only thing I didn't like is that I went while they were preserving the books so in the long library a lot of them were missing but that's ok also I don't know why there's a massive globe in the middle of the long library. Eveything else was cool.

The tour of Trinity library is a not to be missed sight for all book lovers. We expected to glove the library and we did, We were unexpectedly delighted with the tour of the college. Great guide. Interesting history.

5 other reviews that are not currently recommended

Collections Including Trinity College Library

Dublin Recommendations

By Kevin P.

By Stephanie S.

Dublin, Ireland 🇮🇪

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin Deets

By Georgia H.

Places To Visit - Dublin

Photography - Dublin

By Kelly B.

People Also Viewed

Marsh’s Library

Chester Beatty Library

National Library of Ireland

Kevin Street Library

Rathmines Library

Central Library

Dublin City Library & Archive

cabra library

Pembroke Library

Blanchardstown Library

Other Libraries Nearby

Find more Libraries near Trinity College Library

Can't miss places to visit for FSU, local football fans going to Ireland in August

Tallahassee and Dublin, Ireland are 4,000 miles apart.

Yet for the past year, the two distant cities have been connected by one thing, more specifically, one week in late August.

The connection stems from two football programs, Florida State University and Maclay School , as both Tallahassee programs will play football games in Dublin.

The Seminoles headline the weekend with its Saturday kickoff against Georgia Tech in the Aer Lingus Kickoff Classic Aug 24, while the Marauders play Friday afternoon along with other United States high schools.

With Seminoles head coach Mike Norvell visiting Dublin this week and looking at all that it has to offer and St. Patrick's Day Sunday, let's take a look at some of the best things to do in Ireland's capital for those traveling from the Big Bend to the Emerald Isle.

Things to see

Tour the historic trinity college.

One of the world's oldest institutions, Trinity College is filled with things to explore.

With a campus located in downtown Dublin, the college is free to visit, including the school's historic library that showcases classic Gothic architecture and houses thousands of books, including the historic Book of Kells.

While pay tours that give a more detailed look at the college are available, Trinity College can be explored mostly for free. One of Dublin's most iconic venues, be sure to add Trinity College to your list of things to do when visiting Ireland.

Visit one of the many downtown museums

Dublin houses many museums that range from documenting history to exploring art and more.

One of the most popular visits and a recent stop for Norvell is the EPIC Museum . The museum explores the Irish emigration experience and how it impacted not only the country but also the places that Irish people went to in their travels away from home.

If art is more your style, Dublin houses multiple art museums that all give a different look at what artistry has to offer. For history buffs, the National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts and History is your pick, if painting is more your style check out the National Gallery of Ireland. If you want a modern take, visit the Irish Museum of Modern Art.

History is intertwined with the city of Dublin, and there is plenty of museums to showcase that. From Dublina, a look at Viking exploration and medieval Dublin, to the National Museum of Ireland, there is plenty to learn throughout Dublin.

While these are some of the headlines, there are plenty of museums around the city.

Stop by Moore Street

Located near the center of Dublin, Moore Street is one of the city's best places for shopping. From the weekly market that features hundreds of vendors to the everyday stores located on Moore Street, the street is a more relaxed and reserved way to enjoy the city of Dublin.

Explore St. Patrick's Cathedral

One of the most historic landmarks in all of Ireland, St. Patrick's Cathedral is located in central Dublin and will be walkable from most hotels in the area. It is the national cathedral of Ireland and is the location where Saint Patrick preached. Worth the price of admission for its architecture alone, St. Patrick's Cathedral is a must-visit according to Norvell.

Experience playing Irish sports

What's a list of things to do in Dublin without sports?

Obviously, the football games will be the focus for visitors, but a trip to Experience Gaelic Games in Dublin will introduce visitors to the national sport of Ireland, hurling , and an Irish favorite in Gaelic football . The experience will allow you to play the sports for three hours and professional trainers will teach visitors how to play through drills and a smaller version of the game.

The two sports are rich in history and take the national spotlight in Ireland. Take a visit to Croke Park to see the host for the All-Ireland tournament finals for the pair of sports.

Just walk around

There is plenty to experience in Dublin, and some of the best things to see or visit often can't be listed. The city is filled with different stores, restaurants, museums and experiences, so sometimes the best thing to do is just to walk around and explore.

From the iconic red exterior of the Temple Bar to the many restaurants and shops that line the streets or even a trip to St. Stephens Green, a walk around the city will provide plenty of opportunity to enjoy what Dublin has to offer before the big games.

Liam Rooney covers preps sports for the Tallahassee Democrat. Contact him via email at [email protected] or on Twitter @__liamroone y

Dublin to Galway: 7 places to visit in Ireland

Dublin to Galway, Ireland's charm unfolds. Explore Trinity College and Temple Bar in Dublin, drive the scenic Ring of Kerry, marvel at the Cliffs of Moher, savor the artsy vibe of Galway, witness the geological wonder of Giant's Causeway, kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork, and embrace the stunning Dingle Peninsula. Each destination reveals Ireland's rich history, natural beauty, and lively culture

Dublin to Galway, discover Ireland's allure with Trinity College, Temple Bar, Cliffs of Moher, Galway's charm etc. Rich history, natural wonders, and vibrant culture await

Dublin, is a vibrant and lively city with a mix of historical and modern attractions. Visit Trinity College and see the Book of Kells, explore Dublin Castle

The Ring of Kerry is a scenic drive that takes you through some of Ireland's most breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, you'll encounter picturesque villages, lakes, mountains

One of Ireland's most iconic natural landmarks, the Cliffs of Moher, offer dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The cliffs rise to heights of over 700 feet

Known for its colorful streets, lively atmosphere, and artistic community, Galway is a charming city on the west coast of Ireland

Giant's Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity. It's a fascinating and otherworldly natural wonder

Blarney Castle in County Cork is a must-visit for those seeking a bit of Irish folklore. Legend has it that kissing the Blarney Stone grants the gift of eloquence

The Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry offers breathtaking coastal scenery, charming villages, and a rich cultural heritage

Welcome to Trinity

Why choose Trinity?

Study at Trinity

As Ireland’s leading university, we are inspiring the next generation of global citizens and global leaders.

Latest News

Kamala Harris is walking a tightrope on the conflict in Gaza. She can’t afford to lose votes

Daniel Geary, School of Histories and Humanities, writes in the Irish Times about how what happens at next week’s Democratic convention in Chicago may determine whether or not Harris wins the US presidential election in November.

16 Aug 2024

Research, Society

Scientists revolutionise microscopy by reimagining the logic of imaging

Their new method significantly reduces the time and damaging radiation used to image fragile specimens.

02 Aug 2024

Innovation, Research, Science

ADAPT Centre and University of Pittsburgh sign MOU on AI Safety

The partnership will focus on advancing research, AI safety assessments, and best practices for the development of AI technologies.

31 Jul 2024

Innovation, Research

Trinity College Dublin – an introduction

Our university is pulsing with people, energy and ideas. Discover more about our community of staff, students and alumni, and how one of the world’s great cities is home to one of the world’s great universities – Trinity College Dublin. #ThinkTrinity

Connect with us

• Book of Kells Experience

Book of Kells Experience & Trinity Trails

Old Library & Trinity Trails

Book of Kells & Old Library

• Trinity Trails

Self-Guided Trinity Trails

• Best Price Guarantee You won't find a better deal anywhere else!
• No Booking Fee Book Now - Pay Later!
• Free Cancellation Up to 72 hours before arrival
• City-Centre Location Located in the heart of Dublin City