Trinity College - Image 1
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Trinity College Dublin

4.6
·472 reviews·, United Kingdom

A historic university campus in Dublin, famed for its stunning Old Library, the Book of Kells, and the iconic Long Room.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Trinity College - Image 1

Trinity College Dublin

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic university campus in Dublin, famed for its stunning Old Library, the Book of Kells, and the iconic Long Room.

4.6
(472 reviews)

"Stepping into Trinity College felt like stepping straight into a history book."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book tickets online

Secure your spot for the Book of Kells and Long Room in advance to avoid disappointment. :admission_tickets:

Arrive early

Beat the crowds and enjoy a more serene experience, especially in the Long Room. :clock:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Long Room

The Long Room

Trinity College Library

Step into a breathtaking 65-meter library with barrel-vaulted ceilings and ancient oak bookcases housing over 200,000 volumes.

Instagram
Book of Kells Exhibition

Book of Kells Exhibition

Old Library

Marvel at an 800 AD illuminated manuscript, a masterpiece of medieval art, alongside other historical exhibits.

Instagram
Great Court

Great Court

Main Campus

Wander through one of Europe's largest enclosed courtyards, surrounded by magnificent architecture steeped in history.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Accessing Trinity College

While Trinity College Dublin is a working university, visitors can explore its historic grounds. Access to certain areas, like the Long Room library, requires a ticket. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment and long queues. TikTok

Best Time to Visit

To experience the grandeur of Trinity College with fewer crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Weekdays outside of academic term can also offer a more serene visit. Be aware that student protests can occasionally impact access to certain areas. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, fewer tour groups
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Beautiful foliage, crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

help i’m still at the restaurant #normalpeople #trinitycollege #fyp
@heavnornewyork
426.4K likes • 1.9M views

Book tickets online

Secure your spot for the Book of Kells and Long Room in advance to avoid disappointment. TikTok :admission_tickets:

Arrive early

Beat the crowds and enjoy a more serene experience, especially in the Long Room. Instagram :clock:

thinking of marianne extra hard today #normalpeople #trinitycollege #marianne #connell #ireland #dublin #travel #wlw
@helenanneee
224.9K likes • 1.3M views
School’s back in session and the campus of Trinity College is a breath of fresh air 🍂🏛📚 We’re ready for the leaves to fall and to see the charm of Dublin in a new season 🧡 Send to a friend to let them know Autumn is coming 📲 📽️ @kirstyevamckevitt . . . @visit_trinity @trinitycollegedublin #KeepDiscovering #DiscoverIreland #VisitDublin #TrinityCollege #Autumn2024 #Autumn #LeaveNoTrace #TravelIre...
discoverireland.ie
1.9K likes • 45.1K views

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the historic campus. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Look for student insights

Follow student accounts for a glimpse into campus life and events. TikTokInstagram :iphone:

Do Trinity societies live up to their reputations? Let’s see… Seriously though, does anyone know where we can find the yoga soc 🌀 #Freshers24 #StudentLife #TrinityCollegeDublin #clubsandsocs
trinitycollegedublin
2.7K likes • 101.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book tickets online

Secure your spot for the Book of Kells and Long Room in advance to avoid disappointment. TikTok :admission_tickets:

Arrive early

Beat the crowds and enjoy a more serene experience, especially in the Long Room. Instagram :clock:

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the historic campus. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Look for student insights

Follow student accounts for a glimpse into campus life and events. TikTokInstagram :iphone:

Check for events

Trinity hosts various events, from fashion shows to performances. TikTokInstagram :calendar:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(472 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Trinity College Dublin for its breathtaking architecture and profound historical significance, particularly the awe-inspiring Long Room and the ancient Book of Kells. The campus offers a serene yet grand atmosphere, making it a memorable experience for many. Some note that access to certain areas requires tickets and can be crowded, and occasional student protests might affect entry.

"🏫This is my first time to visit Trinity College ,and the architecture is extremely classic & beautiful.
I never thought I would come to Trinity College one day,although we need to take a long walk to appreciate such beautiful building. It’s worth visiting Trinity college once in our lifetime.✨
Please enjoy the architecture ,and you will find how pretty Trinity College is.🏛️"

のぐちえいすけ

"Trinity College in Cambridge is an absolute masterpiece, both historically and architecturally. The grandeur of the Great Court alone is enough to take your breath away; it's one of the largest enclosed courts in Europe, and its sheer scale makes you feel part of something monumental. Founded by Henry VIII in 1546, the college is steeped in history, and you can feel it in every stone.
The chapel, library, and gardens all add to Trinity's charm, offering a serene escape from the bustling city just outside. The college’s list of alumni speaks for itself: from Newton to Byron to Turing, you’re surrounded by a legacy of minds that changed the world. Definitely recommend 👌."

Walter Basile

"If you want to visit, try to go along a student from the city, it is mostly mandatory in order to gain access to this gem. This time in the Trinity College, the top college for quantitative methods in all Cambridge network (from what you hear, don’t take my word as the pure truth), has a small tree outside that people say it was were Newton was hit by the famous apple 🍎.

One interesting thing is that a few months ago, they had an exposition of the unpublished letters of Oppenheimer with the Dean, professors and some personal items. The library is open from reduced hours and they have a ghost in their Antechapel."

Vanessa Mardueño

What People Like

Magnificent architecture
Historic Long Room
Book of Kells exhibition

What People Dislike

Crowded at peak times
Ticketed access to library
Occasional protests

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Trinity College Dublin is centrally located in Dublin city center. You can easily reach it by public transport, including buses and the Luas tram. Many visitors also walk or cycle to the campus. TikTokInstagram

On-site parking is very limited for visitors. It's best to use public transport or a taxi. Several public car parks are available within walking distance of the college. Reddit

Yes, you can walk around the main courtyards and public areas of Trinity College. Access to specific buildings like the Old Library and Long Room requires a ticket. Reddit

Absolutely! Trinity College is well-served by Dublin Bus routes and the Luas tram system, making it easily accessible for visitors. TikTok

Many visitors enjoy a self-guided tour of the grounds, taking in the architecture and atmosphere. Guided tours are also available and offer historical insights. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can walk around the exterior grounds and courtyards for free. However, to visit the Old Library, which houses the Book of Kells and the Long Room, you need to purchase a ticket. TikTokInstagram

Tickets for the Old Library and Book of Kells exhibition can be purchased online through the official Trinity College Dublin website or at the visitor center on campus. Booking in advance is highly recommended. TikTok

The campus grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours. The Old Library and Book of Kells exhibition have specific opening hours, which vary seasonally. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

Walking around the campus is free. Ticket prices for the Old Library and Book of Kells exhibition vary, but typically range from €18-€25 for adults. Concessions are usually available. Instagram

The standard ticket for the Old Library includes access to both the Book of Kells exhibition and the Long Room. It's a combined experience. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Long Room is the magnificent main chamber of Trinity College's Old Library, a stunning 65-meter-long hall filled with ancient books, busts, and a barrel-vaulted ceiling. It's often compared to libraries from fantasy films. Instagram+1

The Book of Kells is an exquisitely illuminated manuscript created by Celtic monks around 800 AD. It contains the four Gospels of the New Testament and is a world-renowned treasure of medieval art. Instagram

Yes, guided tours are available and offer a deeper understanding of the college's history, architecture, and notable alumni. Student-led tours are also an option. Reddit

Photography is generally not permitted inside the Long Room to preserve the delicate manuscripts and the atmosphere. However, you can take photos in the courtyards and other public areas of the campus. Reddit

Trinity College has a rich history with many famous alumni, including Isaac Newton, Jonathan Swift, Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett, and Mary Robinson. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Great Court, the cobblestone pathways, and the exterior of the Old Library offer fantastic photo opportunities. The Backs, overlooking the River Cam, provide a picturesque view. Reddit

No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the exhibition space for the Book of Kells to protect the ancient manuscript. Reddit

Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help you capture photos with fewer people. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Instagram

Many visitors capture the stunning architecture, the academic atmosphere, and the iconic Long Room (from the exterior or permitted areas). Dark academia and historical aesthetics are popular themes. Instagram+1

Yes, drone usage is generally not permitted on university grounds without prior authorization due to safety and privacy regulations. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Trinity College Dublin offers a captivating experience for families. The vast courtyards provide space for children to explore, and the grandeur of the architecture can spark their imagination. While the Book of Kells exhibition might be more engaging for older children, the sheer scale of the Long Room can impress even younger visitors. Reddit

Consider booking a guided tour that is family-friendly, as guides often tailor their stories to be more engaging for younger audiences. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options within the immediate campus can be limited. The nearby St. Stephen's Green park is a great spot for a break or a picnic after your visit. Reddit

📚 Book Lovers & History Buffs

For bibliophiles and history enthusiasts, Trinity College Dublin is a dream destination. The Long Room is an absolute must-see, offering a sensory immersion into centuries of literature and scholarship. The Book of Kells exhibition provides a direct connection to early medieval art and history. Instagram+1

Beyond these highlights, the college's rich history is palpable throughout the campus. Exploring the Great Court, learning about famous alumni like Isaac Newton and Oscar Wilde, and simply soaking in the academic atmosphere will satisfy any history lover. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Trinity College Dublin is a photographer's paradise, offering a wealth of architectural beauty and historical charm. The Great Court provides stunning symmetrical shots, while the cobblestone pathways and ancient buildings create a timeless aesthetic. The Backs, overlooking the River Cam, offer picturesque views of the college grounds. Reddit

While photography is restricted inside the Old Library and the Book of Kells exhibition, the exterior of these buildings, along with the various quadrangles and chapels, offer ample opportunities for capturing breathtaking images. Early morning visits can yield fewer crowds and softer light for your shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of The Long Room

The Long Room is more than just a library; it's an experience. This iconic 65-meter chamber, built between 1712 and 1732, houses over 200,000 of the library's oldest volumes. Its grandeur is amplified by the barrel-vaulted ceiling and the marble busts of great thinkers that line the walls. Visitors often describe it as stepping into a scene from a fantasy novel, with the scent of old books and the quiet reverence of the space creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Instagram+1

While photography is not allowed inside to preserve the delicate environment, the memory of the Long Room is etched into the minds of those who visit. The sheer scale and historical weight of the collection, which includes priceless manuscripts and early printed books, make it a pilgrimage site for bibliophiles and history enthusiasts alike. It's a place that encourages quiet contemplation and a deep appreciation for knowledge. Reddit

Many visitors express a desire to return, especially if their initial visit was impacted by restoration work or crowds. The experience of being surrounded by such a vast repository of human thought is profound, making the Long Room a true highlight of any visit to Trinity College Dublin. TikTok

The Book of Kells: A Medieval Masterpiece

The Book of Kells is one of Ireland's greatest cultural treasures, an illuminated manuscript of the four Gospels created by monks around 800 AD. Housed within Trinity College's Old Library, the exhibition provides a fascinating glimpse into medieval artistry and religious devotion. The intricate details, vibrant colors, and elaborate designs are a testament to the skill and dedication of its creators. Instagram

Seeing the Book of Kells up close is a profound experience. The exhibition also showcases other historical artifacts and texts, offering a broader context of the manuscript's significance. While photography is prohibited within the exhibition itself, the visual impact of the Book of Kells is something that stays with you long after you leave. Reddit

Many visitors find the Book of Kells exhibition to be a deeply moving and educational part of their Trinity College visit. It's a tangible link to Ireland's rich past and a stunning example of early medieval art. Instagram

Campus Life and Student Culture

Trinity College Dublin is not just a historical site; it's a vibrant, living university. The campus buzzes with student activity, from academic pursuits to a wide array of clubs and societies. Social media often highlights the energetic student life, with fashion societies, sports clubs, and cultural groups showcasing their presence. TikTokInstagram

For prospective students or those interested in the academic atmosphere, following student accounts can offer authentic insights into daily life, accommodation, and campus events. The university's commitment to fostering a well-rounded student experience is evident in the diverse range of extracurricular activities available. TikTokInstagram

While the primary draw for many tourists is the historical architecture and the Book of Kells, understanding the ongoing academic life adds another layer to the Trinity College experience. It's a place where history meets the present, creating a dynamic and engaging environment. TikTok

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