trinity college tourist visit

A Guide To Visiting Trinity College In Dublin (History + Tour)

By Author James March

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

A visit to Trinity College is one of the most popular things to do in Dublin .

Not only are its grounds lovely to walk around, it’s also home to a ton of history and some stunning artifacts, from The Book of Kells to the stunning Long Room and more.

And, while the grounds are free to have a ramble around, there’s also a paid tour that you can take, but more on that in a minute.

Below, you’ll find info on everything from the history of Trinity College in Dublin and what there is to see to the tours and more.

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about Trinity College in Dublin

Photo © The Irish Road Trip

Although a visit to Trinity College in Dublin is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.

1. Location

Trinity College’s central location makes it perfect for quick and easy visits. Situated just south of the Liffey and to the immediate east of the popular Temple Bar, the college is easily accessible by public transport – the Luas Green line stops right outside the College Green entrance and most city centre buses have a stop nearby.

2. Ireland’s highest ranked university

Trinity College isn’t just Ireland’s highest-ranked university, it’s one of the finest in the world and is just a hair’s breadth outside of the global top 100 (it’s ranked joint 101st). It’s also the 17th most international university, attracting a hugely diverse number of applicants and students.

3. Home to a heap of history

Founded way back in the 16th century, the college has seen a ton of changes unfold within its walls and outside them over the course of its 400+ year history. From significant political developments to some of Ireland’s most well-known public figures making their mark here, there are endless stories to tell.

4. Plenty to see and do

While it might be a living and breathing university for its students, Trinity College leads a double life as a popular Dublin attraction, and there are loads to check out. From its pleasant greens to the Book of Kells and the stunning library, you can definitely pass a few hours in this elegant quarter of the capital.

The history of Trinity College

Though Trinity College has a long history, it wasn’t actually the first university in Dublin. Founded in 1320 by the Pope, the Medieval University of Dublin was the city’s first attempt at establishing a university in the city and while it lasted a couple of hundred years, it was ended by Henry VIII’s Reformation.

Created by a royal charter

Trinity College Dublin was created by royal charter from Queen Elizabeth I in 1592 amid the thought that it would bring prestige to Ireland at a time when many other European countries were also founding important centres of education.

The new university was to be built on the former site of All Hallows monastery to the southeast of the city walls, where Trinity College still stands today.

Growth years and religious questions

The 18th century was when Dublin started to see Trinity College emerge as a significant part of the city and many of its grand buildings were constructed alongside the elegant green and parks.

Following the Reformation, this time period in Britain and Ireland was an era of ascendancy for Protestants and for many years, Catholics were not allowed to join the university. It was only in 1793 that Catholics were finally allowed admission to Trinity College, but even then, they were not allowed to be elected to Scholarship, Fellowship or be made a Professor.

Finally, in 1873, all religious tests were abolished, although Catholic Bishops themselves encouraged Catholics not to attend due to the university’s protestant history.

The 20th and 21st centuries

An important development kickstarted the 20th century as women were admitted to Trinity College as full members for the first time in 1904. Another huge event took place just over a decade later, as the 1916 Easter Rising engulfed Dublin, and the university was lucky to escape unscathed. In fact, many of the discussions about what an Irish Free State would look like took place at Trinity in the aftermath of 1916.

The true growth in student numbers at the university began in 1970 when the Catholic Church relaxed its policy on Catholics attending Trinity College, and this led to new courses and buildings, especially in sciences and computing.

Now in the 21st century, Trinity is an iconic part of Dublin enjoyed by visitors and students alike.

Things to do at Trinity College

One of the reasons that Trinity is one of the most popular places to visit in Dublin is due to the sheer volume of things there are to see and do.

Below, you’ll find info on everything from the Book of Kells and the general architecture to the Long Room and more.

1. See the Book of Kells

Photo left: Public Domain. Right: Ireland’s Content Pool

Top of most visitors lists when they visit Trinity College is this extraordinary book , and believe me when I tell you it isn’t like other books! Dating back to the 9th century, the Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript Gospel book written entirely in Latin. Though to be honest, just saying the word ‘illuminated’ doesn’t quite do justice to just how elaborate this ancient book is.

Made from high-quality calf vellum and extending to a total of 680 pages, some of the pages contain colourful, ornate illustrations of various religious figures and symbols that appear either by themselves or alongside the text.

2. Visit the Long Room

Photos via Shutterstock

Put any library interior up against the Long Room inside the Library of Trinity College, and I’d say most would pale in comparison – this is Dublin architecture at its finest.

Yes, there’s a touch of hubris within that statement, but I stand by it! Three hundred years old and 65 metres long, there’s a good reason why the Long Room is one of the most photographed rooms in Dublin.

Admire its elegant wooden structure and how it’s lined with marble busts of prominent writers, philosophers and supporters of the college. The Long Room is also the longest single-chamber library in the world, housing some 200,000 books and including one of the last remaining copies of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic.

3. Grab a coffee and wander around the grounds

Photos via Coffeeangel on Facebook

The leafy grounds of Trinity College are some of the prettiest in Dublin and it goes without saying that you should spend a bit of time just strolling around exploring them. Whether it’s before or after your visit to the Library, it doesn’t really matter as there’s no rush on this particular activity.

And since the university is located at the bottom of Grafton Street, it’s a short walk from some of the best coffee shops in Dublin .

4. Drop into The Douglas Hyde Gallery

Focusing on artists who push at the boundaries of form and convention and who also might be overlooked or marginalised, The Douglas Hyde is one of the more popular art galleries in Dublin , and you’ll find it at Trinity College’s Nassau Street Gate.

If you’re feeling inspired by the art inside the Book of Kells then this could be the place for you! First opened in 1978, the gallery has showcased work by significant  Irish artists such as Sam Keogh, Kathy Prendergast and Eva Rothschild and also brought well-regarded international artists to Ireland for the first time too, including Marlene Dumas, Gabriel Kuri and Alice Neel.

Places to visit near Trinity College

One of the beauties of the Trinity College tour is that, when you’re finished, you’re a short walk from many of the best things to do in Dublin .

Below, you’ll find a handful of things to see and do a stone’s throw from Trinity (plus places to eat and where to grab a post-adventure pint!).

1. Irish Whiskey Museum

Trinity College developed some of Ireland’s finest minds (Oscar Wilde, for example) and just a stone’s throw from the university you can learn all about another of Ireland’s most well-known exports. Opened in 2014 and independent of any distillery, the Irish Whiskey Museum offers visitors the opportunity to taste and experience a huge selection of Irish Whiskey.

2. Dublin Castle

Photo by Matej Hudovernik (Shutterstock)

If Dublin Castle doesn’t really resemble a traditional castle in the way you might see one in a movie, that’s because the cylindrical Record Tower is the only remaining remnant of the old Medieval castle. It’s a fascinating place, though and was the seat of British power in Ireland until it was handed over to Michael Collins and the Provisional Government of Ireland in 1922.

3. Endless attractions in the city

Photo left: SAKhanPhotography. Photo right: Sean Pavone (Shutterstock)

With its handy central location, there are loads of other Dublin attractions to check out within a short walk or a tram or taxi ride. Whether you want to learn about the city’s most famous export at the Guinness Storehouse or go for a bucolic stroll through St Stephen’s Green , there’s plenty of entertaining directions to head when you’re leaving from Trinity College.

4. Food and trad bars

Photos via Tomahawk Steakhouse on Facebook

Located next to the famous Temple Bar area, there’s a plethora of pubs, bars and restaurants to get stuck into when you’ve finished exploring Trinity College. Here are some guides to nip into:

• 22 of the best restaurants in Dublin
• 7 of the oldest pubs in Dublin
• 10 mighty pubs in Dublin with music

FAQs about visiting Trinity College in Dublin

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘Can you visit Trinity College Library Dublin?’ to ‘Is it hard to get into Trinity College Dublin?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

Can you walk around Trinity College Dublin?

Yes. You can walk around the grounds of the college. You can also visit the Long Room in the Old Library as part of the Trinity College Tour.

Is the Trinity College tour worth doing?

If by the Trinity College tour you mean the Book of Kells tour, then yes, the Trinity College tour is well worth doing, as it’s packed with info.

Was Harry Potter filmed in Trinity College?

No. Although the Long Room looks like the library from Hogwarts, it wasn’t actually used during the filming.

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Schedule a campus visit

Thank you for your interest in visiting Trinity College! To register for a visit, click on an available date on the calendar at the bottom of this page and then select a visit time.  A Campus Visit is 90 minutes and includes a 30-minute information session and a one-hour guided tour of the campus. The tour is conducted primarily outdoors, but does enter specific buildings. The information session is conducted indoors and is led by student ambassadors and an admissions counselor.  On-Campus Interviews Students who are entering college in 2025 also have the option to register for an admissions interview while on campus. An interview is 30 minutes and is conducted by a Senior Admissions Associate or an Admissions Counselor. You may register for an interview as part of your campus visit registration form. *If you have visited our campus before and would like to come for just an on-campus interview, please select a date below and register for a campus visit including an interview. Just let us know when you arrive that you're only staying for the interview! Please select a date on the calendar below to register for a campus visit. If you have any questions about visiting our campus or need assistance with scheduling a visit, please contact us at 860-297-2180 or [email protected] .

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Trinity College

• Family friendly

Trinity College Dublin was created by royal charter in 1592 and modelled after the universities of Oxford and Cambridge.

Originally lying some distance east of the walled city, on the site of the former Priory of All Hallows, Trinity College is now in the heart of Dublin, opposite the historic Parliament House.

Ireland's highest ranked university, Trinity College is also one of Dublin’s most popular visitor attractions, due in equal measure to its history and stunning architecture.

The main entrance at College Green boasts a magnificent front arch and wooden doorway. As you emerge from it, the cobbled Parliament Square opens out before you with the Campanile, or bell tower, in the centre, flanked by stone buildings featuring arched doorways and Doric columns. Amongst them is the Old Library Building, home to the Book of Kells, one of Ireland's greatest cultural treasures. Learn all about the famous medieval manuscript handcrafted over 1,000 years ago, witness the book’s exquisite colours and intricate illuminations and then visit the magnificent Long Room, home to 250,000 of Ireland’s oldest books and historical documents.

How to Visit Trinity College Dublin

Read our travel guide on things to see and do in Trinity College Dublin, Ireland. Includes tips on how to get there, where to stay, or when to go.

Thanks to the Book of Kells, Long Room, and the gorgeous university itself, Trinity College is among the best things to do in Dublin.

With a history stretching back to 1592, this Ireland's highest-ranked university is a fascinating place to visit for all history enthusiasts and art and architecture admirers.

The grounds that surround this Ireland's leading university are open to the public, making it a must-stop on a visit to Dublin.

Therefore, it's a great place to visit for those looking for free things to do in Dublin .

Visiting Trinity College is very easy and straightforward. Still, there are a few important things you should know about Trinity College before you go.

What to See and Do

Though it's most well-known for being home to Book of Kells and Long Room, Trinity College is a great place to visit even if you don't plan on spending money on tickets.

Yes, you can freely roam the college grounds without spending a single dime, which is just another reason why Trinity College should make it on your Ireland itinerary .

However, most visitors come to Trinity College to see the ancient Book of Kells and the gorgeous Long Room full of books.

Trinity College

Trinity College Dublin was established in 1592 by royal charter and modeled after Oxford and Cambridge universities.

It was a time when many universities were founded troughout Western Europe, and Dublin was becoming the capital city of Ireland.

The English ruled on the island during the 1600s, and the idea of Trinity College that supported learning and strengthening the Protestant Reformation in this region was only logical.

The history of Trinity College Dublin is far more interesting, and we recommend taking one of the guided walks around the campus to discover more.

You will learn even more interesting facts about its remarkable history, famous students, and current development, but also discover some hidden corners of the campus.

By the way, Oscar Wilde, Jonathan Swift, and Samuel Beckett were among the most famous students at Trinity College.

Book of Kells

Being one of the top attractions in Ireland, the Book of Kells is a fantastic place to visit for all types of visitors.

The museum is divided into three separate sections, each providing a different experience.

History lovers will adore the first part of the Book of Kells experience, a well-laid-out museum containing interesting and informative exhibits on the Book of Kells.

The main highlight of the exhibition is the Book of Kells, which you can admire in the next part of the museum.

Written by monks in the 9th century, the Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript of the four gospels of the Christian New Testament.

At the end of the self-guided tour, you will step back in time into a Long Room, an old library with more than 200.000 books.

Even though a Book of Kells ticket is fairly expensive, we believe this museum is definitely worth seeing.

We recommend booking this tourist attraction in advance to avoid missing out.

Registration is easy and straightforward and should only take a couple of minutes. You will also receive a free audio guide with your ticket.

Even though we've briefly mentioned the Old Library in the text above, we feel that Long Room deserves its separate section.

Also referred to as the Old Library, Long Room represents the final part of the Book of Kells Experience.

Here you can find another version of the Book of Kells, the 15th-century Brian Boru Harp made of oak and willow with 29 brass strings, or an original copy of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic.

On top of that, the 65-meter-long library is home to more than 200.000 books.

The main chamber, decorated with busts of famous scholars, philosophers, and writers, was built between 1712 and 1732.

All the shelves were filled with books by the 1850s. Although these are some interesting facts, they don't reflect that the Long Room library is simply stunning.

Be prepared that this is one of the most visited places in Dublin, so don't expect to have the library just for yourself.

Sphere Within Sphere

Also known as Sfera con sfera, this bronze sculpture is one of the hidden gems you can stumble upon when exploring the campus.

The sphere depicts the world itself and was created by the Italian sculptor Arnaldo Pomodoro.

According to the artist, "the inner ball represents the Earth and outer ball represents Christianity".

You can find it in a small plaza in front of Berkeley Library.

An interesting piece of trivia is that different versions of this shiny sphere can be seen in cities across the world, such as New York , Rome, and Tel Aviv .

Douglas Hyde Gallery

Undoubtedly, Douglas Hyde Gallery is one of Trinity College's hidden gems.

The gallery is located on the university grounds, and you can visit it for free.

The wonderful space consists of two exhibition spaces featuring exciting works of contemporary art and allows you to enjoy modern exhibitions in a relaxing manner.

The exhibits are rotating, so make sure to check their website for the most current exhibit information.

As it's often common with contemporary art, each exhibit is highly unique and will provide a very different experience.

The official website also includes information on each exhibition to get a sense of what you will find there, as some of the modern art can be difficult to understand.

While Douglas Hyde Gallery is not a must-do, it's worth visiting for every art lover, especially on one of those Dublin's rainy days.

Opening Hours

Trinity College is open year-round, all days of the week. The Book of Kells and Old Library has seasonal opening times.

It is open from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM in summer, Monday to Saturday, and from 9:30 AM to 5 PM on Sundays.

Opening hours vary throughout the year, so check opening hours before your visit.

Entrance Fee

There is no entry fee to Trinity College grounds and Douglas Hyde Gallery, though you have to pay to enter the Book of Kells Experience and the Long Room.

How Much Time Do I Need

In general, 30-60 minutes in Trinity College should be more than enough for those who want to just walk around the complex.

In case you want also to visit the Book of Kells Museum or even the Douglas Hyde Gallery, allow yourself about two hours for Trinity College.

If you're staying in Dublin for a few days, Trinity College is one of those places you can visit repeatedly without ever tiring of it.

Trinity College can be visited at any time of the year, though Dublin is especially beautiful from late spring to early fall.

With great weather, activities, and festivals, summer is the most popular time to visit Dublin.

In principle, Trinity College is a place that is fun to explore, even in winter.

Honestly, figuring out when to visit Ireland is much more important, especially if you want to do the Wild Atlantic Way and explore places such as the Ring of Kerry and the Cliffs of Moher .

By the way, thanks to its museum and gallery, Trinity College is a great place to visit on a rainy day.

What to Pack

Depending on the time of the year, you have many options, so whatever you decide to wear, make sure you feel comfortable.

Wear your favorite clothes and shoes , and don't forget to keep your rain jacket in your daypack just in case.

Here you will find our complete Ireland packing list to learn more about this topic.

How to Get There

Trinity College is located in the heart of Dublin, on Green College plaza.

The complex is only a short walk from O'Connell Bridge, Temple Bar, Dublin Castle, or Merrion Park.

There are several ways to reach Trinity College.

Undoubtedly, the best way to get to Trinity College is on foot.

Dublin's city center is walkable, meaning you only need to use public transport when staying on the outskirts. Yes, walking is the best way to get around Dublin .

Trinity College is only 600 meters from Temple Bar, 700 meters from Dublin Castle, 500 meters from St. Stephen's Green, and 1.5 kilometers from Docklands.

Trinity College is a major attraction in Dublin and can also be visited on a guided tour.

In fact, this is one of the best ways to explore this complex for all history lovers. Plus, this is one of the most popular Dublin Tours .

Here you can reserve a popular Book of Kells Ticket and Dublin Castle Tour .

Public Transport

In case you're staying in Dublin's outskirts, you can take a bus or tram.

Pearse and Tara are the nearest DART station, while St. Stephen's Green and Abbey Street are the nearest stops for those using LUAS.

Trinity College has no parking for tourists. Therefore, you need to leave your car at one of the designated parking lots nearby, such as Q-Park Setanta.

Just remember that parking in Dublin is expensive.

In fact, while we recommend renting a car in Ireland , driving in Dublin can be quite difficult, at least for inexperienced drivers.

Travel Resources

When renting a car, we use Rentalcars.com .

Where to Stay

Trinity College has a central location, which is ideal for your next visit to Dublin.

The area around the university is one of the best places to stay in Dublin, so it's not surprising that you will find many great hotels within walking distance from here.

Here are our tips on the best hotels near Trinity College for all budgets.

Budget | Jacobs Inn Hostel - One of the best hostels in Dublin is located only a 10-minute walk from Trinity College. The hostel has a modern design, clean dormitories with lockers, cozy private rooms, and helpful staff.

Mid-range | Wren Urban Nest - Discover one of the best choices among mid-range hotels in Dublin. This hotel has a modern design, uses cutting-edge sustainable technology, and provides a relaxing experience. On top of that, it's located less than a 5-minute walk from Trinity College.

Luxury | Westin - There are several great luxury hotels in Dublin, but Westin has the best location, right next to Trinity College. The hotel is set in a historic former bank and has stylish rooms, a fine dining restaurant, and excellent staff and service.

Staying Safe

Trinity College is a very safe place to visit while in Dublin. From our experience, the Book of Kells museum was really crowded.

Pickpockets target tourists in busy places, even museums.

As usual, staying vigilant and protecting your belongings is the best defense against pickpockets.

Leave your valuables in your hotel room, wear pickpocket-proof clothing, and never leave your phone in your back pocket.

Otherwise, Dublin is a safe place to visit , and Trinity College is no exception.

If you're still curious, you can also check out our helpful post on staying safe in Ireland .

Travel Insurance

We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.

Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.

SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.

Travel smarter and safer!

Is Trinity College Worth Visiting?

Trinity College is a top attraction in Dublin, and we believe it's definitely worth visiting.

The college is home to the Book of Kells, one of Ireland's national treasures.

The Long Room is absolutely breathtaking, and the Douglas Hyde Gallery is in striking contrast with everything you can see around.

On top of that, the college grounds are free to explore, which is great news for all budget-minded travelers .

Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.

Accommodation : When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld .

Tours : Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.

We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator .

Rental Cars : When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com , a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.

Flight Tickets : When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.

Travel Insurance : World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.

How to Visit Trinity College Library in Dublin

Planning my trip to Dublin, Ireland , I thought that a visit to Trinity College Library was at most importance for such a bookworm like me. I was wrong. Filled with some of the most prominent national treasures, a visit to Trinity College Library tops itineraries of almost every traveler who explores Dublin for the first time .

Last updated: February 25, 2024

How to Visit the Library of Trinity College Dublin

A long, symmetrical room entices your eyes, creating an illusion that there is no end to these massive walls. Day and artificial lights seem to also be overwhelmed by the size of the room. Unable to unveil centuries-old secrets of the Long Room of the Trinity College Library , they settle for a rather humble visit.

But even in this dim light, you can see books. A great amount of them. In fact, there are so many books that they fill all the shelves that align the tall walls.

This was my first virtual visit to the Long Room of the Trinity College Library in Dublin . I wasn’t looking for any specific pictures to inspire my first trip to the capital of Ireland . But, frankly, they came in handy. Once I laid my eyes on the photos of the Library of Trinity College Dublin, I knew I had to visit it sooner or later.

Meet Trinity College Dublin

Fast forward a few weeks and I marched straight to Trinity College in attempt to see its famous library on my first day in Dublin. Despite the early morning hours, the place was packed.

Tourists, impressed by the size and opulent architecture of Trinity College, gathered in the main square. Just arrived college students were hurriedly leaving the maddening crowds behind and streaming in different directions of the campus.

After admiring the main square for a few more minutes, I followed their lead.

Visit Trinity College Dublin

Founded in 1592, Trinity College Dublin is one of the oldest universities in Western Europe. Its creation came in time when European cities strived for prestige and significance that would be bestowed on them upon the establishment of their own universities. For Ireland and Dublin, having its own university also meant an alignment with European school system and weakening of English control over the country.

Interestingly enough, Queen Elizabeth I, often called “the mother of a university”, founded the college. The royalty modeled the new establishment after the collegiate universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Sadly, only one college, the College of the Holy and Undivided Trinity of Queen Elizabeth near Dublin, was built in the city.

The long official name of the institution, however, never gained popularity. Even today, both locals and visitors stick to the shorter names, such as Trinity College or University of Dublin.

Not being particularly popular, the early establishment occupied only a small part of today’s Front Square. The place set outside the walls of the city. As Dublin grew, it slowly swallowed the university, positioning it in the center of the city.

Today Trinity College, Ireland’s oldest surviving university, occupies 47 acres (190,000 square meters). It is recognized as one of the seven ancient universities of Great Britain and Ireland and one of the top academic institutions in Europe .

Library of Trinity College Dublin

One thing that differentiated Trinity College Dublin from other European newly-established universities was its eagerness and urgency of assembling its own library. Although the Library of Trinity College Dublin didn’t have its own space until the beginning of the 18th century, its collection started to grow almost instantly.

In 1661, Henry Jones presented the library with the Book of Kells. Up to this day, this ancient manuscript is one of the reasons why many people visit the Trinity College Library in the first place. In 1801, the library received legal deposit rights, allowing it to hold a copy of every book published in Ireland.

It was only a matter of time for such devotion and love for books to take shape in several buildings. Six of these library establishments are located on the Trinity College campus.

Visit the Old Library of Trinity College

While all the library buildings hold impressive book collections, the Old Library is the highlight of the visit to Trinity College Dublin.

The construction of the building started in 1712 and lasted twenty years. At the time of its completion, it was one of the tallest buildings on the campus. You can hardly notice the large scale of the Old Library when visiting Trinity College Dublin nowadays. Other structures of similar size surround the building, making it less profound from outside.

The interior, however, unveils the unprecedented character of the most famous library in the country. Even J.K. Rowling couldn’t resist it, using the Library of Trinity College Dublin as an inspiration for Hogwarts in Harry Potter .

Read more: How to Visit Cuypers Library in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam

The Long Room

The highlight of the visit to the Old Library is the Long Room. Home to 200,000 books and manuscripts, this 65-meter-long chamber impresses with an old charm and the 19th-century decor.

With its barrel-vaulted ceiling and floor-to-ceiling bookcases, the Long Room is rather dark. The natural light penetrates into the chamber through large windows. But trapped between the endless book shelves, the sun rays lose almost all their power by the time they make halfway through the room.

Fortunately, 14 white marble busts create a welcoming resonance, allowing for more light inside to the obvious delight of all those who visit the Long Room of the Library of Trinity College Dublin for the first time. Lining the chamber, these sculptures help your eyes adjust to the dim light quicker.

Once the overall darkness of the room ceases to bother the visitors of the Trinity College Library, the busts present themselves in full glory. The marble faces of great philosophers and writers of the Western World suddenly become your silent guides. With their strong connections with Trinity College Dublin, you can’t ask for the more knowledgeable companions.

The Book of Kells

While the Long Room entices with the Brian Boru Harp and one of the last remaining copies of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic , the Book of Kells always steals the show.

The finest example of the illuminated manuscript dates back to 800 AD. It contains the four Gospels of the New Testament with such opulent illustrations and ornamentations that surpass those in other Insular Gospel books.

The Book of Kells has been one the most cherished possession of the Trinity College Library since 1661. The manuscript first appeared on display only in the 19th century. To this day, thousands of tourists visit the Trinity College Library in attempt to see this ancient book.

Read more: Step Inside 7 of the World’s Most Remarkable Libraries

Planning Your Visit to Trinity College Library

Address: College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland

Admission to Trinity College Dublin

To visit Trinity College Dublin and learn more about its history, including its famous library, you can join student-led tours. They run from June though September. The ticket includes a tour through the college and admission to the Book of Kells. The tours are optional. If it is not your cup of tea, skip them and explore the Trinity College Dublin at your own pace, free of charge.

Admission and Times to Visit Trinity College Library and See Its Exhibits

Trinity College Library and its exhibits are open to visit seven days a week. You can purchase tickets online. The admission to the Book of Kells exhibit also includes a visit to the Old Library and the Long Room of the Library of Trinity College Dublin.

• Monday – Saturday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Sunday: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Monday – Saturday: 9:30 a.m – 5:00 p.m.
• Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Getting to Trinity College

Due to its central location, you can visit the Trinity College Library while exploring other landmarks of the city. Although Dublin’s public transport functions well, I would recommend exploring the center of the city on foot. Dublin with its colorful abundance offers many interesting places you otherwise risk to miss. Moreover, Trinity College Dublin is just a short walk away from Temple Bar and the famous Ha’penny Bridge.

• Inside Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin

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Hi, if I understand correctly, the admission fee is 18€ for the both of them and only for 30 minutes, which I find quite expensive. Is it possible to buy a ticket only for the old library (without the book of Kells)?

I’m afraid you have to pay for both, even if you don’t want to see the Book of Kells. There are discounts for students and seniors. I used my California student ID to purchase the ticket. When it comes to the time inside the library, I definitely took my sweet time and spent more than 30 minutes. Nobody rushed me out or checked what time I entered the library.

Must a ticket be purchased to simply visit the Long Hall of the Old Library?

The Long Room is one of the main attractions of the library. Yes, tickers are required. Only Trinity College students and staff can visit the library free of charge and bring along up to 2 guests.

Sind die Trinity Bibliotheken zwischen Weihnachten und Neujahr geöffnet?

Ich glaube sie sind geschlossen.

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Group Visits

We are pleased to welcome your group to Trinity College!

We can accommodate group visits with the following guidelines:  

• Registration is required at least two weeks in advance .  We will organize your group into subgroups with student guides in order to tour campus simultaneously.  
• Visitors are no longer required to show proof of vaccination upon arrival to campus but must continue to wear masks while in indoor settings .
• If there is predicted inclement weather, we reserve the right to cancel your group visit by 4:00 p.m. the day prior to your visit.  

To schedule a group visit, please fill out this form or contact us at [email protected]  or 860-297-2180.   

Please follow the guidelines below on the day of your campus visit:

• If your group will be delayed for any reason, please notify us as soon as possible by calling (860) 297-2180.
• If your group will be arriving in a large bus, please instruct the driver to drop off students at the gates of the Admissions Office, located at 300 Summit Street. Do not proceed into the circular drive. The driver should then proceed to Broad Street and park the bus in the Ferris Athletic Center parking lot.
• If you plan to arrive by car or van, parking is available in the Admissions lot and in the visitor parking along Summit Street.
• We ask that chaperones stay with the group at all times during the visit.

We look forward to seeing you on campus!

Trinity College Admissions Office

Request A Campus Tour

Campus tours may be scheduled monday through friday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m..

Please complete the request a campus tour form, the admissions team will be in touch regarding your request. We look forward to hosting you soon.

By submitting contact information through this form, I agree that Trinity College of Florida may call and/or text me.

Tour Itinerary

All of our tours are customized to our prospective students, (most tours take about one hour.) your campus tour is personal, so the length of time depends on your needs. some prospective students coordinate their tour by meeting with financial aid and/or the department head of the degree they are seeking. other students sit in on a chapel and attend a class to catch a glimpse of on-campus life. .

LL Speer Residential Hall

Living on campus is a way to grow relationally and socially as you build life-long friendships that extend beyond your time at Trinity College of Florida. R.A.’s live in the residence hall with the students. These leaders are always available to give advice, assist in conflict resolution, and offer prayer. L.L. Speer Residential Hall was built in 2018 and includes beautiful views of the surrounding area, commons areas, laundry.

W.T. Watson Admin Bld.

W.T. Watson Administration Building

Named for the college founder, Dr. Watson, the W.T. Watson building houses on the first floor: Admissions, Financial Aid, Student Development, Quest Degree Completion, Cafeteria, and fully video integrated classrooms A103, A112, and A113. The second floor contains the Administrative Offices, Office of the President, VP for Academics, VP for Enrollment, Finance Office, Registrar, Faculty Offices, C.S. Lewis Society, Honors Program, Elementary Education, and additional classrooms.

Raymond H. Center Bld.

Dr. Raymond H. Center Library Building

Raymond H. Center Library carries a number of books, journals, and other information sources that are intended for educational purposes and for providing multiple perspectives on diverse subjects. The Raymond H. Center Library has been fortunate to obtain and display multiple special collections. These include the personal library of a beloved faculty member,  Dr. E. C. Bragg. His lectures have been digitized and are available under the E.C. Bragg digital library collection. The Library and Student Learning Center offer personalized resources to equip students for becoming academically confident. In addition the building houses the Learning Resource Center, classrooms, and the Chapel with an original 1611 KJV Bible.  Raymond H. Center Library

Answers to Your Questions About Campus Visits

How long is a personal campus tour.

All of our tours are customized to our prospective students, but most tours take about one hour. Your campus tour is personal, so the length of time depends on your needs. 

Day of your visit:

• Begin at the W.T. Watson Administration Building
• Meet with the director of Admissions Kenyata Hayes/Financial Aid
• Tour Speer Hall (Student dorms)
• Tour Library & Student Learning Center
• Tour Classrooms

Can I meet with someone in financial aid when I visit?

Of course! This is your time and we want to help you make the most of it. When you schedule your tour date, just let us know if you have specific requests. We’ll customize your day for you.

What is a Campus Meet-n-Greet?

Campus Meet-n-Greets are events the college admissions team provides for you to tour the campus and attend Trinity 101 where you will learn all about student life and academic life. You will meet current student leaders,  the academic advisor/program directors (professors) for all Trinity College Degree programs ending your visit with ice cream!

Campus Meet-n-Greet dates are on three dates in fall and three in the spring. RSVP for a campus meet-n-greet.

[email protected] 800.388.0869 2430 Welbilt Blvd. Trinity, FL 34655

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Elektrostal is a small place in Russia and can be easily explored within a day. There aren’t many things to do and attractions to visit in this town. Also, being a small town, there are fewer accommodation options. People usually consider making a quick stop here before heading to the neighboring cities. You can halt here for a quick snack and take a little break from your journey.

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The Moscow Kremlin

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• Trinity Trails

Discover iconic architecture

Begin your tour at the Campanile in the heart of Trinity’s Front Square. Learn about the interesting superstition it holds amongst students and hear the secrets of the 18th century buildings surrounding it.

Walk in the footsteps of famous alumni

Walk along pathways that were once frequented by some of Ireland’s most famous writers, actors and changemakers. You’ll pass by the homes of two of the world’s oldest student societies, with past members such as Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett and Mary Robinson.

Immerse yourself in Trinity’s colourful flora and fauna

Soak up Trinity’s tranquil, leafy squares and learn about the rich biodiversity across the campus. Keep an eye out for native plant life and the unique ways Trinity is protecting nesting birds and bees across its 47 acre campus.

Book of Kells Experience & Trinity Trails

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Testimonials

Terrific campus walking tour with Luca The highlight of our time at Trinity College was the walking tour with Luca. He was very knowledgeable and entertaining – the perfect mix for an outstanding tour guide.

Guided campus tour highly recommended We took the guided tour of the campus that included a visit to the library. The tour with Sarah was excellent – she was bright, funny and knowledgeable. The campus is beautiful and the stories behind some of the buildings are fascinating. The old library was of course amazing as well.

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• City-Centre Location Located in the heart of Dublin City