Visiting the National Museum of Ireland During Ireland's EU Presidency 2026

Marking Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union 

In 2026, Ireland holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from 1 July to 31 December 2026. To mark the occasion the National Museum of Ireland welcomes visitors from home and abroad to explore Ireland’s rich cultural heritage during this time. 

Ireland has long been shaped by connections with Europe through trade, migration, artistic exchange, and shared values. As Ireland hosts the EU Presidency in 2026, the National Museum of Ireland offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Irish archaeology, history, art, and natural sciences within this broader European context. 

Events and Activities 

Visitors can enjoy the Museum’s regular programme of events,  Irish heritage experiences and activities, including: 

• Guided Tours 
  Discover highlights from the collections with expert guides. 

• Family Discovery Days 
  Interactive workshops designed for families and younger visitors. 

• Cultural Evenings in Dublin 
  Evening events and guided tours take place on the last Thursday of each month. 

Plan Your Visit 

The National Museum of Ireland has three locations: 

• The National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street, Dublin 2 
  Uncover gold treasure, ancient history and Vikings with our Archaeology Collection, in the heart of Dublin city.

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• The National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks, Dublin 7 
  Explore Ireland’s evolving culture with our Decorative Arts, Design and Military History Collection, beside Dublin’s River Liffey.

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• The National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo 
  Discover the rich traditions of Ireland in our Folklife Collection, set within 30 acres of lush parkland in Co. Mayo

Admission is free to all sites. We welcome all visitors to explore Ireland’s heritage during this special year.  

Sign up for our newsletter in 2026 for updates about inspiring exhibitions, engaging public programmes, and memorable visitor experiences. 

Venue Hire and Tour Bookings

For those visiting Ireland during this six-month period, the National Museum of Ireland can provide venue hire facilities and group tours at our three sites - Collins Barracks, Kildare Street and Turlough Park. For any venue hire or tour inquiries related to the EU Presidency, please contact info@museum.ie

To take a closer look at our venue hire facilities at each site, click below. 
Venue Hire Options at Collins Barracks
Venue Hire Options at Kildare Street
Venue Hire Options at Turlough Park
 

FAQs

What can EU Presidency delegates & their families visit or do?

The National Museum of Ireland offers free admission to its Kildare Street, Dublin 2, Collins Barracks, Dublin 7 and Turlough Park, Co. Mayo museums with guided tours, exhibitions and cultural evening events throughout the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
 

Are there cultural programmes for international visitors?

Yes. Visitors can attend guided tours, Family Discovery Days, exhibitions and evening cultural events at National Museum of Ireland locations in Dublin and Mayo.