Trinity College Dublin

The basics

With its handsome Georgian and classical architecture, the Trinity College campus is a top destination for visitors to the Irish capital. Sightseers can tour the grounds independently or join a guided tour. Most walking tours of Dublin city center include Trinity College, along with other neighboring landmarks, such as the General Post Office (GPO), the Molly Malone statue, and Dublin Castle.

The campus is also home to several standalone attractions including Dublin’s Science Gallery and the Zoological Museum, though the biggest crowd-pleaser is the Book of Kells in the Old Library, visitable for a small fee.

Things to know before you go

• Founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592 for the exclusive use of Protestant men, the university now welcomes all religions and genders.

• Book an entrance ticket in advance or sign up for an early-access guided tour to see the Book of Kells without the lines and crowds.

• As a large portion of the campus is open-air, bring an umbrella and waterproof layer in case of rain.

• The parts of Trinity College Dublin visited on a tour are wheelchair accessible, though there are some cobblestones outside the library.

How to get there

Trinity College is south of Dublin city center, near pedestrian-only Grafton Street. Take the Luas Green Line tram to Stephen’s Green, the Luas Red Line tram to Abbey Street, or the DART train to Dublin Pearse station. From all three, the walk to campus is less than 10 minutes.

When to get there

Go early in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid the midday rush. If you plan on seeing the Book of Kells, buy a Trinity College Library ticket in advance, or be prepared to wait in line. Student-led, 30-minute campus tours, which depart from the Main Gate, are available in the summer.

View the Book of Kells

Trinity’s headline attraction is the illustrated 9th-century manuscript known as the Book of Kells. The illuminated manuscript of the four gospels was created by Irish monks, who painstakingly covered each page in elaborate and colorful Celtic-inspired imagery. Four pages from two volumes of the book are displayed in glass cabinets at Trinity College’s Old Library, which also contains an exhibition chronicling the book's creation and storied history.

What is Trinity College known for?

Trinity College is known as one of Ireland’s highest ranked universities, and it’s also the country’s oldest. The Trinity College Library is a popular attraction for international visitors and houses The Book of Kells, which is on display.

How do I get to Trinity College from Dublin Airport?

If you don’t have a car to drive to Trinity College from Dublin Airport (DUB), take a taxi. Other options include the Airlink bus: Take route 747 and get off at College Green Street, near the main entrance. You also can take the Aircoach; route 700 goes directly to Dublin’s city center.

Can you visit the Book of Kells at Trinity College?

Yes, you can visit the Book of Kells at Trinity College. Although the college is free to enter, the Book of Kells requires an admission ticket. Lines can be long, so it’s best to plan ahead and purchase your ticket in advance. Fast-track entry also is available.

What are the opening hours of Trinity College Library?

Dublin’s Trinity College Library is open to visitors on the weekdays, typically from between 8am to 6pm. Plan ahead for your visit, as the Trinity Library also is closed during certain times, such as exam periods.

Is it possible to tour Trinity College?

Yes, you can book a guided walking tour of Dublin’s Trinity College campus, or choose to pay for the school’s Trinity Trails self-guided tour that leads you to 14 points of interest across the campus. You can add The Book of Kells Experience to the campus tour, too.

Are there any famous landmarks near Trinity College?

Yes, the school houses the Book of Kells and is close to several famous landmarks, including Dublin Castle, which is about an 18-minute walk away. Alternatively, take a quick bus or taxi ride to the National Museum of Ireland or Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison turned museum—both are nearby.

Ways to explore

The Trinity College campus is a top destination for visitors to the Irish capital. Most walking tours of Dublin city center include a stop here, along with nearby landmarks, such as the Dublin General Post Office (GPO), the Molly Malone Statue, and Dublin Castle. You can also visit on hop-on hop-off bus tours of the capital or see it from outside on an afternoon tea tour. The campus is home to several standalone attractions, including a couple of museums. Arguably, the biggest crowd-pleaser is The Book of Kells in the Old Library, for which you should book tickets in advance.

Accessibility

The areas of Trinity College Dublin that can be visited on tours are wheelchair accessible, and there are adapted bathrooms on-site. Wheelchairs are available for loan. Service dogs are welcome.

Age limits

None

What to pack

As much of the campus is outside, bring an umbrella and a waterproof layer in case of rain.

What to wear

Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring central Dublin.

Not allowed

Photography of The Book of Kells is not allowed for conservation reasons, and food and drink are not permitted within exhibition areas.

Amenities

Restrooms, eateries, gift shop, baby-changing facilities

Address 

Trinity College is in the heart of Dublin, less than a 10-minute walk east of Temple Bar.

Driving

There is a paid parking lot on Trinity Street, but no visitor parking on campus. When exploring central Dublin, it’s generally easiest to travel on foot.

Public transportation

Take the Luas Green Line tram to St. Stephen’s Green, the Luas Red Line tram to Abbey Street, or the DART train to Dublin Pearse station. From all three, the walk to campus is less than 15 minutes.

Best times to visit

The Book of Kells Experience is open 9:30am to 5:30pm from Monday through Saturday, and 10am to 5pm on Sundays. It is closed over the Christmas and New Year period. In general, it’s best to visit early or late in the day.

Best days to visit

This is a popular attraction, so aim to visit midweek rather than at weekends.

Best months to visit

If you visit during the summer break (early June through late August), you can book accommodation and stay on campus.