County Dublin, Ireland
Destination guide
Medieval history, literature, art and culture marry epic nightlife and dining in a charming urban village.
Travel bucket list idea:
National Gallery of Ireland
Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland
- https://www.nationalgallery.ie
Bucket List Experience
© Fennell Photography. Photo by Chris Bellew
Last updated: 13 March, 2024
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.
Logistics
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.
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