St Patrick's Cathedral, Book of Kells and Dublin Castle Tour

Dublin , Ireland

St Patrick's Cathedral, Book of Kells and Dublin Castle Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a privileged journey through Dublin's historic center on this exclusive priority timed access tour. Gain entry to iconic landmarks, including St. Patrick's Cathedral, where you'll have ample space to admire its architectural wonders. Next, you'll enter Trinity College Library to witness the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript of unparalleled beauty before visiting Dublin Castle & Gardens.
Packed full of incredible insights and up-close historical visits including a visit to the must-see St Patrick’s Cathedral & Garden Park. Learn about Ireland’s patron saint and his incredible life story while your expert first-class local friendly guide offer a fully guide tour of this Dublin top landmarks.
This tour continues to the Trinity College established in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth 1. Enjoy priority timed access ticket entry to the Book of Kells.
Next, continue this fascinating walking tour to explore the 13th century Dublin Castle and Gardens.

Available options

Tour in Spanish

Spanish: Our popular Triple Headliner Tour (St Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin Castle and Book of Kells) with Spanish Guide

Tour in English

English Tour Guide: Our popular Triple Headliner Tour (St Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin Castle and Book of Kells) with English Guide

Ultimate Full Day Dublin(6hrs)

with Guinness Upgrade: Our popular Triple Headliner Tour (St Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin Castle and Book of Kells) with Guinness Storehouse entry

What's included

Entry to the Oldest Vaulted Library in Europe - Book of Kells 360 & Long Room reimagined Experience

Skip-the-Line Guinness Storehouse entrance and a pint of Guinness is included on the Full Day Option

Skip the Line Entry to St Patrick's Cathedral & Timed Easy Access to Book of Kells

Exterior tour of the13th Century Dublin Castle

Optional Upgrade: Add Guinness Storehouse to your experience & see Dublin`s most iconic landmarks

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Enjoy Skip the Line access and avoid the long lines for a fully comprehensive tour of Ireland's most famous Cathedral and Gardens where you will learn about the works of Johnathan Swift, Dean of St. Patrick's Cathedral as well as Bram Stoker, author of Dracula and student of the 16th century Trinity College.

Stop 2

Continue on this fascinating fully guided tour to Dublin Castle. Originally built in the 13th century on a site previously settled by the Vikings it functioned as a military fortress, a prison, treasury, courts of law and the seat of English Administration in Ireland for 700 years.
Rebuilt in the 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, Dublin Castle awaits to enthrall all who enter her gates. On this fully guided exterior tour, see the original 13th century Record & Octagonal Towers, the Upper & Lower State Yards and their architectural highlights. Led by an expert local English-speaking guide who will unveil incredible secrets including tales of intrigue and mystery, this tour is a "must do" for anyone interested in the history of Ireland. Enjoy and added bonus on this magnificent tour of the 13th century Castle to visit the Castle Gardens, which is the very location where the first Vikings landed in Dublin in 795 AD. Today it is a magnificent Celtic inspired landscaped lawn.

Stop 3

Visit Dublin's mascot 'Molly Malone Statue' where your local guide will introduce you to Dublin's heroine and her famous song. The song's tragic heroine and her barrow have come to stand as one of the most familiar symbols of the capital. As well as being known and sung internationally, the popular song 'Cockles and Mussels' has become a sort of unofficial anthem of Dublin city.

Stop 4

Visit the 9th century Book of Kells, described in the 1007 Historical records off Ulster as 'the most precious object in the western world'. The cultural and historical value of the Book of Kells has only increased in the millennium since - this exquisite work of art has stood for 1,200 years as the greatest example of medieval illumination. This tour starts by delving into its rich ornamentation and explores its dense symbolism and meaning and its merit as an artistic masterpiece.

Stop 5

After your visit to the Book of Kells and Library enjoy 10 minutes at the venues souvenir shop.

What's not included

Hotel Pick Up & Drop Off / Transportation / Food and Drink / Gratitude

Interior visit to Dublin Castle

Guinness Storehouse entrance is included for guests, who booked the upgrade option

Full Day Tour guests will need a single public transportation ticket (Luas)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

606 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.7

212 reviews

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please wear comfortable shoes as this tour involves a fair amount of walking, including over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, hills, inclines, declines and stairs.

Participants should be in good health - consult first with your doctor if you have any medical condition or are not used to regular exercise.

Wheelchairs, motorised scooters or any other device to assist mobility are not recommended, as we cannot guarantee: that all footpaths/sidewalks/curbs will have suitable ramps.

Anybody under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by somebody aged 18 years or older.

Not recommended for travellers with limited mobility

Meeting point

Meeting Time: 15 minutes before the scheduled start time
Meeting Place: St Patrick's Garden, Bull Alley St, Dublin, Ireland
Meeting Point: Meet your guide at the fountain in the middle of St Patrick's Garden

Important notes

Optional Upgrade: Add Guinness Storehouse to your experience and see Dublin`s most iconic landmarks on our all in one tour option (Tour duration: 6hr)
Your voucher is not an entry ticket to the venue. To participate in your tour, you must first check-in with the guide 15 MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE. You can only access the venues as part of your organised group tour.
Late arrivals cannot be accommodated and missed tours or tickets cannot be refunded or rescheduled.
Wheelchairs, motorised scooters, or any other device to assist mobility are not recommended.
Participants should be in good health, consult first with your doctor if you have any medical condition or are not used to regular exercise.
Wear comfortable shoes as this tour involves a fair amount of walking, including over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, hills, inclines, declines and stairs.
Operates in all weather conditions.
Parents must be aware that this tour serves alcohol and that under no circumstances are children under 18 years of age permitted to drink or sample any alcohol during the tour duration.

About Dublin

Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a vibrant city rich in history, culture, and charm. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, literary heritage, and lively pub scene, Dublin offers a unique blend of medieval architecture, modern amenities, and stunning coastal landscapes.

Top Attractions

Trinity College and the Book of Kells

Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university and home to the famous Book of Kells, a beautifully illustrated manuscript from the 9th century.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (Book of Kells exhibition)

Guinness Storehouse

The Guinness Storehouse is a seven-story interactive experience dedicated to the history and brewing process of Ireland's most famous beer.

Cultural 2-3 hours €25-€30

Kilmainham Gaol

Kilmainham Gaol is a former prison that played a significant role in Irish history, particularly during the struggle for independence.

Historical 1-2 hours €8

Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle has been a symbol of British rule in Ireland for centuries and is now a major government complex and tourist attraction.

Historical 1-2 hours €10-€12

St. Patrick's Cathedral

St. Patrick's Cathedral is one of Dublin's most impressive churches, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.

Religious 1 hour €7.50

Phoenix Park

Phoenix Park is one of the largest urban parks in Europe, offering a peaceful escape from the city with its lush greenery and wildlife.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Irish Stew

A hearty dish made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, slow-cooked to perfection.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Boxty

A traditional Irish potato pancake made with grated and mashed potatoes, flour, and buttermilk.

Side Dish Vegetarian

Coddle

A comforting dish made with sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, slow-cooked in a rich broth.

Main Course Contains meat

Soda Bread

A traditional Irish bread made with flour, baking soda, and buttermilk, known for its dense texture and slightly tangy flavor.

Bread Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Wicklow Mountains Kayaking on the River Liffey Rock climbing at Dublin Rock Climbing Centre Spa day at a luxury hotel Strolling through St. Stephen's Green Enjoying a pint in a cozy pub Visiting museums and galleries Attending a traditional music session

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with the warmest weather and longest daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Irish, English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or GMT+1 during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Dublin is generally safe, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in tourist areas and on public transport.

Getting there

By air

Dublin Airport • 10 km (6 miles) north of the city center

By train

Heuston Station, Connolly Station

By bus

Busáras Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Dublin Bus offers a comprehensive network covering the entire city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Temple Bar Dublin 2 (City Center) Dublin 4 (Ballsbridge and Sandymount) Dublin 7 (Smithfield and Stoneybatter) Dublin 8 (The Liberties)

Day trips

Howth

13 km (8 miles) from Dublin • Half day to full day

A charming coastal village known for its scenic cliffs, fishing harbor, and fresh seafood.

Malahide Castle and Gardens

14 km (9 miles) from Dublin • Half day

A historic castle and beautiful gardens offering a glimpse into Ireland's medieval past.

Glendalough

50 km (31 miles) from Dublin • Full day

A scenic monastic site and glacial valley in the Wicklow Mountains, known for its ancient ruins and hiking trails.

Festivals

St. Patrick's Festival • March 17 Dublin Theatre Festival • September-October Temple Bar Traditional Music Festival • March

Pro tips

Visit the Guinness Storehouse for a complimentary pint and stunning views of the city
Explore the historic Trinity College and the Book of Kells, but book tickets in advance to avoid long queues
Take a stroll through St. Stephen's Green, a beautiful urban park in the heart of the city
Experience traditional Irish music in a cozy pub, such as The Brazen Head or The Cobblestone
Try Irish stew, a hearty and comforting dish made with lamb or beef, potatoes, and onions