Parnell Square Dublin
A historic Georgian square in Dublin, home to the Hugh Lane Gallery and Garden of Remembrance, offering cultural depth and central access.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Parnell Square Dublin
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Georgian square in Dublin, home to the Hugh Lane Gallery and Garden of Remembrance, offering cultural depth and central access.
"It's a central hub with great art and history, just be mindful of your surroundings at night."
🚶♀️ Stay Aware at Night
While central, some find the area iffy after dark. Stick to main streets and be mindful of your surroundings.
🖼️ Art Lover's Paradise
Don't miss the Hugh Lane Gallery for impressive art collections, including a unique studio reconstruction.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hugh Lane Gallery
Parnell Square North
Discover modern and contemporary art, including Francis Bacon's reconstructed studio. A must-see for art lovers!

Garden of Remembrance
Parnell Square North
A serene memorial dedicated to Irish rebels. A peaceful escape from the city bustle.

Parnell Square's Architecture
Surrounding the square
Admire the Georgian architecture and historical buildings that frame this significant Dublin square.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Parnell Square
Hotel Location Wisdom
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stay Aware at Night
While central, some find the area iffy after dark. Stick to main streets and be mindful of your surroundings.
🖼️ Art Lover's Paradise
Don't miss the Hugh Lane Gallery for impressive art collections, including a unique studio reconstruction.
🌳 Peaceful Memorial
Find tranquility at the Garden of Remembrance, a beautiful tribute to Irish heroes.
🅿️ Parking Solutions
Parking can be pricey. Consider Mater Hospital Europarks for a more affordable option.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stay Aware at Night
While central, some find the area iffy after dark. Stick to main streets and be mindful of your surroundings.
🖼️ Art Lover's Paradise
Don't miss the Hugh Lane Gallery for impressive art collections, including a unique studio reconstruction.
🌳 Peaceful Memorial
Find tranquility at the Garden of Remembrance, a beautiful tribute to Irish heroes.
🅿️ Parking Solutions
Parking can be pricey. Consider Mater Hospital Europarks for a more affordable option.
📱 Keep Phone Tucked
To avoid unwanted attention, keep your phone out of sight when walking through the area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Parnell Square is a historically significant and centrally located area in Dublin, offering access to key cultural sites like the Hugh Lane Gallery and the Garden of Remembrance. While many visitors find it convenient and manageable, some note that it can feel a bit gritty, particularly after dark, advising caution and awareness.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parnell Square is very centrally located in Dublin. You can easily reach it by bus, with numerous routes stopping nearby. It's also a walkable distance from many other city center attractions. If driving, be aware that parking can be expensive, with options like Mater Hospital Europarks being more budget-friendly.
Yes, Parnell Square is extremely well-served by public transport. Many Dublin Bus routes terminate or pass through the square, making it a convenient hub for exploring the city.
Absolutely! Parnell Square is just a short walk north of O'Connell Street, making it easily accessible on foot from the heart of Dublin's city center.
From Dublin Airport, you can take a taxi or an airport bus service (like Aircoach or Dublin Express) to the city center, and then it's a short walk or bus ride to Parnell Square.
For park and ride, you could consider the Red Cow Luas Park & Ride and then take the Luas tram into the city center, followed by a walk or short bus journey to Parnell Square.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Parnell Square is a public square, so there are no tickets or entry fees required to access it. You can wander freely.
The Hugh Lane Gallery is typically open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sundays from 11 am to 4 pm. It's usually closed on Mondays. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date hours.
No, the Garden of Remembrance is a public memorial and is free to enter. It's a place for quiet reflection.
Parnell Square occasionally hosts events, especially during festivals or national holidays. It's worth checking local event listings closer to your visit.
Yes, the Tenement Museum on Henrietta Street is a highly recommended nearby attraction. Booking tickets in advance is strongly advised as tours are popular.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
During the day, Parnell Square is generally safe and busy, making it suitable for families. However, as with any city center, it's advisable to be more cautious at night and stick to well-lit areas.
Parnell Square is home to the Hugh Lane Gallery and the Garden of Remembrance. It's also a short walk to attractions like the Gate Theatre and the Writers Museum. The surrounding streets offer shops and cafes.
Capture the Georgian architecture, the sculptures in the Garden of Remembrance, and the entrance to the Hugh Lane Gallery. The square itself offers a good vantage point for street photography.
Yes, there are numerous cafes and restaurants in the vicinity of Parnell Square, ranging from casual eateries to more formal dining options. Many hotels in the area also offer dining.
Parnell Square is a historically significant and architecturally interesting area. It's a busy urban space that connects various parts of the city, with a mix of cultural institutions and everyday city life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Parnell Square offers a variety of dining options. You can find everything from quick bites and cafes to pubs and restaurants serving traditional Irish and international cuisine.
Expect a range of choices, including cafes for breakfast pastries and coffee, traditional Irish pubs for hearty meals, and international cuisine. Many hotels also have their own restaurants.
Certainly. You'll find numerous cafes and casual eateries offering more affordable meals. Look for places slightly off the main square for potentially better deals.
Dublin city center generally has good options for vegetarian and vegan diets. Many restaurants will have dedicated vegetarian/vegan dishes or be able to adapt their menu.
While specific cafes can change, look for local bakeries or coffee shops around Parnell Street for breakfast pastries and coffee. Some hotels also offer breakfast services.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for capturing the Georgian architecture. Midday can be good for capturing the bustling city life.
The elegant Georgian facades, the central fountain in the Garden of Remembrance, and the entrance to the Hugh Lane Gallery are all highly photogenic.
Photography is generally permitted in the public areas of the Hugh Lane Gallery for personal use, but flash photography is usually prohibited. Always check for specific signage.
The Garden of Remembrance is a place of memorial, so while photography is allowed, it's important to be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially of individuals.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both the grand architecture and street scenes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the square itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When staying in hotels around Parnell Square, families are advised to be more cautious at night and stick to main, well-lit streets. It's recommended to keep children close and be aware of your surroundings. The central location means many family-friendly attractions are easily accessible via public transport or a walk.
💰 Budget Travelers
For accommodation, hotels like the Maldron Hotel Dublin Parnell Square can sometimes offer competitive rates, especially if booked in advance. Parking can be a significant expense, so utilizing Dublin's extensive public transport system or walking whenever possible is key to saving money.
🏛️ History & Culture Enthusiasts
Consider a visit to the nearby Tenement Museum on Henrietta Street for an immersive look at Dublin's social history. The Gate Theatre offers a chance to experience Irish drama. The Georgian architecture of the square itself is a testament to Dublin's historical urban planning.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Parnell Square Area
While it's a central and convenient location, some travelers have noted that the immediate vicinity can feel a bit rough or less polished compared to other parts of Dublin, particularly at night. This is a common sentiment for many city center areas. However, many residents and visitors find it perfectly manageable with basic precautions. The presence of the Mater Hospital nearby also means it's a well-trafficked area.
Key attractions directly on or adjacent to the square include the Hugh Lane Gallery, a renowned public art gallery, and the Garden of Remembrance, a poignant memorial. The Gate Theatre is also located here. Its proximity to O'Connell Street and other major thoroughfares makes it a strategic point for exploring the city on foot or by public transport.
Navigating Safety and Perception
Several Redditors who have stayed in hotels like the Maldron Hotel Dublin Parnell Square or lived in the area for years report no significant issues. They highlight that it's a 'heavily trafficked area' during the day, which contributes to a sense of security. The key takeaway is that while it might not be the most picturesque or affluent part of Dublin, it's not inherently dangerous if you exercise normal urban vigilance.
For those concerned, sticking to main, well-lit streets, especially after dark, is recommended. Keeping valuables out of sight and being aware of your surroundings are universally good practices. The proximity to the Mater Hospital means it's a functional part of the city, and many find its central location a significant advantage for accessing attractions.
Cultural Gems of Parnell Square
Adjacent to the gallery is the Garden of Remembrance, a beautifully designed and deeply moving memorial. It honors the men and women who fought and died in the cause of Irish freedom. The central sculpture and surrounding inscriptions create a solemn and reflective atmosphere, making it a significant site for understanding Irish history.
Also located on the square is the Gate Theatre, one of Ireland's most important and historic producing theatres, known for its significant contribution to Irish drama. For those interested in Dublin's social history, the Tenement Museum on Henrietta Street (a short walk away) offers a fascinating and immersive experience into the lives of ordinary Dubliners in the past.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit