Early Access Book of Kells & Dublin Castle Tour
From€79
2 hours
Dublin, Ireland
About this activity
Experience Dublin's rich history with early access to the Book of Kells and a guided tour of Dublin Castle's exterior, led by an expert local guide.
Highlights
- Skip-the-line access to the Book of Kells
- Explore Dublin Castle's historic exterior
- Learn about Ireland's rich history
- Enjoy a guided walking tour through Dublin
- Capture memorable photos of iconic landmarks
Full description
Dive into Dublin's rich history with this exclusive tour offering early access to the Book of Kells, Ireland's most famous medieval manuscript. Skip the lines and immerse yourself in the intricate artistry and historical significance of this ancient treasure. Afterward, enjoy a guided walking tour of Dublin Castle's exterior, where you'll learn about its transformation from a Viking fortress to a symbol of Irish heritage. Led by an expert local guide, this tour provides a captivating glimpse into Dublin's storied past, all within a convenient 2-hour timeframe. Don't miss this opportunity to explore two of Dublin's most iconic landmarks in one enriching experience.
Included / Excluded
- Priority entry to the Book of Kells exhibition
- Guided tour of Dublin Castle's exterior
- Expert local guide with historical insights
- Interior access to Dublin Castle
Itinerary
1
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.
Duration: 40 minAdmission: YES
2
After your visit to the Book of Kells and Library enjoy 10 minutes at the venues souvenir shop.
Duration: 10 minAdmission: YES
3
Continue on this fascinating fully guided tour to Dublin Castle, the heart of historic Dublin. 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. 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. (This tour does not visit the Castle Apartments)
Duration: 50 minAdmission: YES
4
Visit the Statue of Molly Malone and join your guide and tour group for a few lines of good Irish cheer as you sing "Cockles & Mussels" alive alive oh"s well as being known and sung internationally, the popular song 'Cockles and Mussels' has become a sort of unofficial anthem of Dublin city. The song's tragic heroine Molly Malone and her barrow have come to stand as one of the most familiar symbols of the capital.
Duration: 5 minAdmission: YES
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately.
- Photography is allowed in the Book of Kells exhibition.
- Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes early.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the tour.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- 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.
Traveler reviews
4.74,079 reviews
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Excellent tour of Book of Kells and surrounding Dublin
This was a brilliant tour! The book of Kells itself it grand but the tourguide, Richard was phenomenal. Very witty, great knowledge and passion about the history of the area. Lots of great suggestions about restaurants, shopping and museums. 10/10 would take another tour with Richard again.
davidwO4ZSJul 6, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Fantastic tour!
We had a fantastic tour! Richard was so knowledgeable and expertly depicted multiple Irish buildings, relics, and the culture overall. Would definitely recommend this trip!
F8575PBalexkJul 6, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Dublin Tour
Richard was excellent! Dublin castle was closed but he more than made up for it with his recommendations and knowledge!
jettw113Jul 6, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Book of Kells
Dermot was awesome! Highly recommend. He is extremely knowledgeable about the book of Kells and Dublin.
Simon_MJul 6, 2026VIATOR
Sean is the best!
Sean was amazing and a plethora of knowledge.
KLNAStokesJul 6, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
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.