St. Patrick's Cathedral

The Basics

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is one of Dublin’s most-visited historical attractions and an essential stop for any history buff. A stop at the 13th-century building is included on most Dublin sightseeing tours, along with nearby attractions such as Trinity College and Temple Bar. It’s also a stop on hop-on hop-off bus tours in Dublin. To fully appreciate the symbolic significance of the cathedral’s many features and avoid the lines that can form at busy times, opt for a guided tour with skip-the-line-access.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Travelers can explore independently or take part in guided tours, which take place several times daily from Monday to Saturday.

• The cathedral is wheelchair accessible.

• The Dublin Pass includes cathedral entry.

• Take time to stroll through the adjacent St. Patrick’s Park, a grassy square with perfectly framed views of the cathedral.

How to Get There

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is located in the heart of Dublin city center, within easy strolling distance of several other big-name attractions, including Christ Church Cathedral and Dublin Castle. Ride the Luas Green Line tram to the terminus, St. Stephen’s Green; St. Patrick’s is about a 10-minute walk from there. Dublin Bus run several routes (49, 54a, 56a, 77a, and 151) to the cathedral.

When to Get There

St. Patrick’s is open year-round. Summer mornings in July and August tend to draw the biggest crowds. Join a skip-the-line tour to avoid waiting around, or plan your visit for late afternoon instead when the cathedral empties out.

How to Hear the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Choir

The cathedral has its own choir, which belts out hymns during morning and evening services. The choir performs during school terms only, with varying service times. All are welcome to attend services and no tickets are required.

Ways to explore

With a prime position in downtown Dublin, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is an essential stop for many visitors to the city. Most Dublin walking tours and sightseeing excursions include the cathedral on their itineraries, along with nearby landmarks such as Temple Bar and Trinity College. You can also climb aboard a Dublin hop-on hop-off bus tour to learn some background information about it, while simultaneously being provided with convenient transportation that takes you directly to the door.

Accessibility

The cathedral is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Cash in euro coins to pay the entry fee, leave a donation, or light a candle

What to wear

Modest and respectful clothing that covers your shoulders and knees

Not allowed

Photography during mass

Amenities

Restrooms, small gift shop

Address

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is located in downtown Dublin, within walking distance of Christ Church Cathedral and Dublin Castle.

Driving

Drive into central Dublin, and park at Q-Park Christchurch, which is the nearest parking lot to St. Patrick’s Cathedral. From here, it’s less than a 10-minute stroll to the monument, which you’ll find on the junction of Upper Kevin Street and Patrick Street.

Public transportation

Many Dublin buses pass by the cathedral, including the #49, #54A, #56A, #77A, and #151 routes. If you’re arriving via a Dublin Bike (bikeshare), you can leave your bike at Francis Street or Christ Church Place.

Best times to visit

The cathedral is open from early morning until mid-evening. To enjoy one of the free guided tours, aim to arrive between mid-morning and lunchtime when they take place.

Best days to visit

If you want a guided tour, avoid Sundays, as they don’t take place on this day. The cathedral, in general, tends to be quieter on weekdays.

Best months to visit

Opt for spring or fall to avoid central Dublin during the busy summer months and cold winter months.

Special events

There are various events throughout the year, such as a Valentines piano music recital by candlelight and singalong events. However, the main event of the year is a special St. Patrick’s Day service, held in the evening on March 17.