@WhereinDublinDublin isn’t just about literary legends and lively pubs, it’s a city that quietly holds some of the most remarkable paintings in the world. If you’re a fan of art or just curious about the masterpieces hanging in galleries and museums, Dublin has plenty to offer. From classic oil paintings to modern and contemporary works, the city is packed with opportunities to get lost in brushstrokes, colors, and stories. Here’s a detailed guide on where in Dublin to see famous paintings, with insider tips and insights from my own personal experience.
National Gallery of Ireland: A Must-Visit for Art Lovers
When thinking about famous paintings in Dublin, the National Gallery of Ireland instantly comes to mind. Located in the heart of the city at Merrion Square, this gallery is home to over 2,000 paintings, including internationally acclaimed masterpieces.
Why Visit the National Gallery?
From my own personal experience, the National Gallery offers a perfect blend of classic and contemporary works. It’s not overwhelming, and the layout makes it easy to explore without feeling rushed. One of the most exciting things is spotting paintings by European masters alongside renowned Irish artists.
Famous Paintings You Can See
Some highlights that you absolutely should not miss include:
Caravaggio’s “The Taking of Christ” – This is a breathtaking painting that captures emotion and drama in a way only Caravaggio could. Seeing it in person, you notice the incredible use of light and shadow that photos just can’t capture.
Jack B. Yeats’ masterpieces – The gallery has an impressive collection of Jack B. Yeats’ works. His paintings of Irish life and landscapes are vibrant and full of energy, showcasing Ireland through his eyes.
Sir John Lavery’s portraits – Known for his impressionist style, Lavery’s portraits are intimate, almost as if the people are staring right back at you.
Tips for Visiting
The gallery is free to enter, which makes it perfect for both spontaneous visits and planned trips.
Audio guides are available and incredibly helpful, especially for understanding the context behind the paintings.
If visiting in the afternoon, try to catch the natural light streaming in—it makes the paintings pop in a way that photos simply can’t replicate.
The Hugh Lane Gallery: Modern Art in the Heart of Dublin
For those more interested in modern and contemporary art, The Hugh Lane Gallery is the spot to visit. Located on Parnell Square, the gallery is famous for its collection of modern art, including works by some of the 20th century’s greatest painters.
Why the Hugh Lane Gallery Stands Out
From my own personal experience, the Hugh Lane Gallery feels more personal and relaxed compared to the National Gallery. It’s the kind of place where you can take your time, wander through rooms filled with bold, striking colors, and really connect with the art.
Notable Paintings
Francis Bacon’s works – The gallery has an impressive collection of Bacon’s paintings. His works are raw, intense, and sometimes unsettling, but always mesmerizing.
Edward McGuire’s portraits – McGuire’s portraits are incredibly detailed, especially his depictions of Irish artists and writers. Each piece tells a story beyond just the subject’s face.
Modern Irish abstract works – The gallery also features a range of abstract pieces from Irish artists, perfect for anyone wanting to see how contemporary Irish art is evolving.
Insider Tips
Take your time on the top floor; the natural light there is ideal for viewing the paintings.
Check their temporary exhibitions—they often have rare collections from international artists on loan.
Don’t miss the recreated Francis Bacon studio—it’s an intimate insight into the artist’s world.
The Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA): Contemporary Art in a Historic Setting
For a mix of contemporary art and history, the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) is a must-see. Housed in the elegant 17th-century Royal Hospital Kilmainham, IMMA combines stunning architecture with a modern art collection.
Highlights of IMMA
From my own personal experience, IMMA is the kind of place that makes you want to linger for hours. The contrast between the historic building and the contemporary pieces inside creates a unique atmosphere that feels both grand and approachable.
Famous Paintings and Installations
Sean Scully’s abstract works – Bold, geometric, and layered, Scully’s paintings are visually striking and thought-provoking.
Dorothy Cross’ multimedia art – While not traditional paintings, Cross’ work combines painting with installations and photography, making it a must-see for contemporary art lovers.
Irish contemporary artists – IMMA regularly showcases works from emerging and established Irish painters, providing a perfect snapshot of the country’s current art scene.
Visiting Tips
Take a walk around the gardens—they’re beautiful, and some sculptures complement the paintings inside.
Check for artist talks and workshops. IMMA often hosts events that give deeper insights into the works.
Plan for at least two hours to fully appreciate the collection; there’s a lot to see, and it’s easy to miss details if rushing.
Chester Beatty Library: Paintings Beyond the Western World
While not strictly a painting gallery, the Chester Beatty Library deserves a mention. It houses an incredible collection of illuminated manuscripts, prints, and miniature paintings from across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
Why Visit Chester Beatty
From my own personal experience, this place feels like a hidden gem. It’s quieter than the bigger galleries, which makes it perfect for focusing on delicate and intricate paintings without distractions.
Highlights
Persian and Mughal miniatures – These tiny, detailed paintings are stunning, showing incredible skill and storytelling in miniature form.
Japanese and Chinese scrolls – Beautifully preserved, the colors and techniques feel alive even after centuries.
European prints and drawings – Complementing the international collection, these works provide context and depth for anyone interested in art history.
Tips for Visiting
Take a guided tour—it makes understanding the cultural context of the works much easier.
Don’t rush. The detail in the miniatures is astonishing, and missing a small part means missing a story.
Photography is allowed in certain areas but without flash—perfect for capturing memories.
Dublin Castle and the City’s Private Collections
While museums are the main attractions, Dublin also has some private collections and spaces that occasionally open to the public. Dublin Castle, for example, hosts exhibitions that include paintings by Irish and international artists.
Why Dublin Castle is Interesting
From my own personal experience, these temporary exhibitions are often less crowded and allow for a more personal experience with the artworks. Sometimes, it’s the lesser-known works that leave the strongest impression.
Insider Tips
Check the castle’s website before visiting for exhibition schedules.
Some private collections are only viewable during special events—plan ahead to catch them.
Combine your visit with a walk around the castle grounds; the history adds context to the art.
Tips for Art Lovers Exploring Dublin
Plan your route – Dublin is compact, but spacing out gallery visits will make the experience more enjoyable.
Take guided tours – Many galleries offer them, and it’s a great way to gain deeper insight into famous paintings.
Go early or late – Popular galleries like the National Gallery can get crowded, so visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon is ideal.
Engage with the art – Don’t just look—take time to think about the story, the technique, and the history behind each painting.
Check temporary exhibitions – Many galleries rotate their collections and host special exhibitions featuring rare works.
Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Art Spots
While the big names are amazing, Dublin also has small galleries and art spaces that host incredible paintings:
The LAB Gallery – Focused on contemporary Irish artists, it’s small but packed with creativity.
Kerlin Gallery – Specializes in modern art and occasionally hosts works by internationally renowned painters.
Royal Hibernian Academy – Offers exhibitions from emerging and established Irish artists, often showcasing paintings not found elsewhere.
From my own personal experience, wandering into these smaller spaces can be surprisingly rewarding. There’s a certain thrill in discovering a masterpiece before it becomes world-famous.
Final Thoughts
Dublin is a city that wears its art lightly but beautifully. Whether it’s the grandeur of the National Gallery, the contemporary edge of IMMA, or the hidden treasures in smaller galleries, there’s a painting for every taste. From my own personal experience, spending a day—or even a weekend—exploring Dublin’s art scene can be transformative. Each painting has a story, each gallery has a vibe, and together, they create a city where art feels alive at every corner.
So next time in Dublin, skip the typical tourist paths for a few hours, and let the paintings speak. You won’t regret it.
