
MoLI – Museum of Literature Ireland Dublin
Discover Ireland's literary heart at MoLI, a museum celebrating iconic writers in a stunning Georgian setting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

MoLI – Museum of Literature Ireland Dublin
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Ireland's literary heart at MoLI, a museum celebrating iconic writers in a stunning Georgian setting.
"A beautiful blend of history, literature, and tranquil gardens in the heart of Dublin."

Free Garden Access
Pass through the cafe to connect Iveagh Gardens & St. Stephen's Green. :ticket:
Literary Immersion
Dive deep into Ireland's literary giants like Joyce & Wilde. :books:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oscar Wilde's Wit
Exhibition Space
Engage with the life and works of the iconic Dublin-born writer, Oscar Wilde.

James Joyce's Legacy
Exhibition Space
Explore the profound influence of James Joyce and his groundbreaking literary contributions.

The Museum Gardens
Outdoor Terrace
A tranquil oasis offering a peaceful escape and a connection to nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Literary Heartbeat
A Garden Shortcut? Yes!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Garden Access
Pass through the cafe to connect Iveagh Gardens & St. Stephen's Green. :ticket:
Literary Immersion
Dive deep into Ireland's literary giants like Joyce & Wilde. :books:
Plan Your Visit
Check for special exhibitions or author events online. :calendar:
Coffee Break
Enjoy a coffee in the museum cafe with garden views. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Garden Access
Pass through the cafe to connect Iveagh Gardens & St. Stephen's Green. :ticket:
Literary Immersion
Dive deep into Ireland's literary giants like Joyce & Wilde. :books:
Plan Your Visit
Check for special exhibitions or author events online. :calendar:
Coffee Break
Enjoy a coffee in the museum cafe with garden views. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise MoLI for its beautiful Georgian setting, engaging literary exhibits, and the tranquil gardens. Many appreciate its role as a peaceful shortcut between major parks. Some find the exhibitions dense, suggesting prior knowledge enhances the experience.
"Interesting musuem. If you have a slight interest in Irish authors, a visit to this museum is worth a go. Price was a little steep, but the lack of a crowd help make the visit worth the price. The exhibit on James Joyce was informative. Learning about other Irish authors was eye-opening."
C. K.
"A lovely guy at the place where you buy the tickets (no need to buy in advance). The museum itself is nicely done in several floors. If you don't know many irish authors it may be maybe less interesting for you but its still a nice place to visit."
Pavla Kaprová
"A great exhibition. Especially if you're interested in James Joyce, you will thoroughly enjoy it (as basically half of it is dedicated to him). My highlight was a large table covering a variety of placed in Dublin mentioned by Joyce. It really allows you to dive into his work and get fascinated by it."
Matti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
MoLI is centrally located in Dublin, easily accessible by public transport. You can take various bus routes that stop near St. Stephen's Green or Iveagh Gardens. It's also a pleasant walk from many city center hotels. If you're coming from further afield, the nearest Luas (tram) stop is St. Stephen's Green.
Yes, you can! The museum was designed to connect these two beautiful parks. You can enter from the Iveagh Gardens side, pass through the cafe and gift shop, and exit towards St. Stephen's Green without needing an admission ticket for the exhibitions.
MoLI is committed to accessibility. The museum is largely accessible, with lifts available to access different levels. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date accessibility information or call ahead if you have specific needs.
From Dublin Airport, you can take an airport bus (like Aircoach or Dublin Express) to the city center, with stops near St. Stephen's Green. From there, it's a short walk to MoLI. Taxis are also readily available at the airport.
On-street parking in this area of Dublin can be limited and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk. If you must drive, there are several multi-story car parks within walking distance, such as the St. Stephen's Green car park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but typically there's a fee for full access to the exhibitions. It's best to check the official MoLI website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts for students, seniors, or families. Remember, you can access the cafe and gardens without a ticket.
While walk-in tickets are often available, booking your tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods or if you want to guarantee entry for a specific time slot. This can also sometimes offer a small discount.
MoLI's opening hours can vary seasonally and may differ for the exhibitions versus the cafe and gardens. Always consult the official MoLI website for the most accurate and up-to-date opening times before your visit.
While the main exhibitions typically require a paid ticket, the museum's cafe and garden area are accessible without admission. Keep an eye on MoLI's official website or social media for any special free entry days or events they might host throughout the year.
Generally, museum tickets are valid for a single entry. If you plan to leave and re-enter, it's best to clarify the museum's policy at the ticket desk or on their website. However, you can freely move between the cafe, gardens, and exhibition spaces once inside.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
MoLI showcases Ireland's incredible literary history. Don't miss the exhibits on giants like James Joyce and Oscar Wilde, featuring original manuscripts and personal items. The museum also highlights contemporary Irish writers and the evolution of literature.
MoLI offers an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. While the core content is literary, the interactive displays and the beautiful gardens can be enjoyed by children. Check their website for any family-specific events or activities.
To fully appreciate the exhibitions and perhaps enjoy a coffee in the garden, plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. If you're a literature enthusiast, you might want to allocate more time to delve deeper into the displays.
MoLI often offers guided tours that provide deeper insights into the collections and the history of Irish literature. Check their schedule online or inquire at the information desk upon arrival for tour times and availability.
MoLI typically offers visitor facilities including restrooms, a cafe, a gift shop, and often cloakroom services for your belongings. The cafe is a great spot to relax and enjoy refreshments with garden views.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, MoLI features a lovely cafe located within the museum. It's a popular spot for visitors to enjoy coffee, tea, pastries, and light meals while taking in views of the gardens.
The cafe at MoLI typically offers a selection of hot and cold beverages, baked goods, sandwiches, and salads. It's a great place to refuel during your visit or to simply enjoy the atmosphere.
Absolutely! MoLI is situated in a vibrant part of Dublin, close to St. Stephen's Green and the Merrion Row area, which are packed with cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines and price points.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition areas of museums to protect the artifacts. However, you might be able to consume your own food in designated outdoor areas or if you're just using the cafe as a thoroughfare. It's best to confirm with staff.
Yes, the cafe at MoLI is accessible to everyone, including those who are not visiting the exhibitions. You can enter through the garden entrance to access the cafe and gift shop without purchasing an exhibition ticket.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography without flash is often permitted in exhibition areas for non-commercial use. However, some special exhibits or displays might have restrictions. Always look for signage or ask museum staff.
The museum's Georgian architecture, the beautiful gardens, and the literary artifacts themselves offer great photo opportunities. The exterior of the historic buildings and the tranquil garden terrace are particularly picturesque.
Yes, the gardens are a lovely spot for photography. Capturing the serene atmosphere and the architectural details of the museum from the garden perspective can yield beautiful shots.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and around cultural institutions due to privacy and safety concerns. It's highly unlikely that drone photography would be permitted in or around MoLI. Always check local regulations.
A versatile camera that handles low light well is ideal, as some indoor exhibition spaces might be dimly lit. A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing memories, especially with good lighting in the gardens.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider using MoLI as a pleasant walk-through between Iveagh Gardens and St. Stephen's Green, allowing children to enjoy the outdoor spaces. While the main exhibitions might be more suited for older children or teens with an interest in literature, the overall experience of exploring a historic building and its grounds can be enjoyable for all ages.
📚 Book Lovers & Literary Enthusiasts
Beyond the historical figures, MoLI also keeps a finger on the pulse of contemporary Irish writing, showcasing new voices and the evolving landscape of literature. The museum's location in the heart of Dublin, a UNESCO City of Literature, further enhances the experience, allowing you to connect the exhibits with the city's rich literary heritage.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers
Don't forget the unique 'shortcut' aspect of MoLI, allowing you to seamlessly transition between Iveagh Gardens and St. Stephen's Green, making your exploration of the city more efficient and enjoyable. The cafe also provides a comfortable spot to rest and recharge.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Literary Journey Through Dublin
Beyond the iconic figures, MoLI also celebrates contemporary Irish literature and the ongoing evolution of storytelling. The museum's architecture itself, a blend of historic Georgian villas and modern design, provides a unique backdrop for exploring Ireland's literary soul. It's a place where history, art, and literature converge, offering visitors a profound connection to the nation's cultural identity.
For those interested in the literary history of Dublin, MoLI is an essential stop. It provides context for the city's many literary landmarks and offers a deeper understanding of the creative spirit that has flourished here for centuries. The museum is more than just a collection of books and papers; it's a vibrant hub that continues to inspire new generations of writers and readers.
The MoLI Garden and Cafe: A Tranquil Escape
The garden also serves a practical purpose, acting as a charming connector between Iveagh Gardens and St. Stephen's Green. As Reddit users have noted, you can pass through the museum's cafe and terrace to move between these two popular Dublin parks without needing an exhibition ticket. This makes MoLI a convenient and pleasant shortcut for pedestrians.
Whether you're a literature buff or simply seeking a quiet moment, the MoLI cafe and gardens provide a welcoming environment. It’s a place where you can enjoy refreshments, admire the surroundings, and perhaps even find a moment of inspiration, much like the writers whose legacy the museum celebrates.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit