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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 04 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Nicola Brady

Right on the edge of the beautiful Merrion Square, the National Gallery is a giant and cavernous space that feels like a calming reprieve from the city. This sprawling collection of rooms feature works in spaces that are as striking as the art itself – the Grand Gallery, in particular, is a masterpiece. The collection is eclectic, ranging from pieces by Caravaggio to the giant contemporary mural in the atrium.

Don’t miss 

The only space you’ll find busy is the little room that houses one of the gallery’s most prized possessions, a delicate watercolour by Frederic William Burton titled The Meeting on the Turret Stairs. It’s only on display for two hours per week.

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

The gallery is right in the city centre, with the Dawson LUAS line being the closest stop. The regular themed tours are free and excellent, running mostly at weekends – check the gallery website in advance for times.

When to do it

The gallery is open daily, all year round. It’s worth timing a visit to coincide with the opening of The Meeting on the Turret Stairs – it’s on display for an hour on Thursdays at 11.30am, Sundays at 2pm.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

The Merrion Hotel

Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland[0.3 miles]

Old-world glamour and romanticism linger at this luxury, 5-star hotel just steps from Merrion Square in the city centre.

Official star rating:

Shelbourne Hotel

Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland[0.3 miles]

Taste old world glamour and socialise with Dublin’s glitterati at the city’s most iconic hotel.

Official star rating:

Wilder Townhouse

Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland[1 miles]

Set in a Georgian townhouse, this hotel is all about eclectic style in a blissfully peaceful corner of the city.

Official star rating:

Dylan Hotel

Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland[1 miles]

A gorgeous boutique hotel that oozes style, blending bold design with superior service and a fun vibe.

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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Dublin

County Dublin, Ireland

Medieval history, literature, art and culture marry epic nightlife and dining in a charming urban village.

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Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Trinity College Dublin

Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland[0.3 miles]

Birthplace of Oscar Wilde, and originally built in 1592, Trinity College is Dublin’s hallowed seat of learning, and home to the world-famous Book of Kells.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

Guinness Storehouse

Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland[2.3 miles]

Dublin is the birthplace of the legendary pint of Guinness – Ireland’s national drink. This fun and interactive museum tells the story…

Best for ages: 18+ | £15

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