Find answers to common questions about visiting Kilmainham
Tickets for Kilmainham Gaol must be booked online in advance through the Heritage Ireland website. Tours are extremely popular and often sell out weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist season (May-September). We recommend booking at least 2-3 weeks ahead.
Yes! IMMA offers free admission to all visitors. The museum is open Tuesday to Friday from 11:30am to 5:30pm, Saturday from 10am to 5:30pm, and Sunday from 12pm to 5:30pm. The grounds and gardens are also free to explore.
We recommend allowing at least 3-4 hours to explore the main attractions. The Kilmainham Gaol tour takes approximately 1.5 hours, and you'll want at least 1-2 hours for IMMA and the Royal Hospital grounds. If you plan to visit multiple sites, a half-day is ideal.
The easiest options are the Luas Red Line (get off at Suir Road or Heuston) or Dublin Bus routes 13, 40, 69, or 79. The area is also walkable from Heuston Station in about 15 minutes, or from O'Connell Street in about 40 minutes via the quays.
IMMA and the Royal Hospital grounds are largely accessible for wheelchair users. Kilmainham Gaol has limited accessibility due to its historic nature - contact them directly to discuss specific requirements. The cemetery sites have uneven ground that may be challenging.
Limited parking is available near Kilmainham Gaol and at IMMA. Street parking in the area is Pay & Display (approximately €2.90 per hour). We recommend using public transport as parking can be difficult to find during busy periods.
Yes! The IMMA cafe offers refreshments with views of the formal gardens. There are also several cafes and restaurants along the South Circular Road and in nearby Inchicore. Kilmainham Gaol has a small cafe in its visitor centre.
Bully's Acre is accessible through the IMMA grounds during opening hours. Goldenbridge Cemetery is open during daylight hours. Both are free to visit. Please remember these are historic burial grounds and should be treated with respect.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking, often on cobblestones or uneven ground. Kilmainham Gaol can be cold inside, so bring a layer even in summer. Ireland's weather is changeable, so an umbrella or rain jacket is always a good idea.
Yes, Kilmainham is a safe area to visit. Like any urban area, use common sense - keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. The main tourist areas are well-maintained and regularly patrolled.