One of Europe’s Largest Urban Parks
Phoenix Park is a 707-hectare enclosed park on the western edge of Dublin city centre — roughly twice the size of New York’s Central Park and one of the largest enclosed urban parks in Europe. The park contains Dublin Zoo (Ireland’s most visited family attraction), the Áras an Uachtaráin (the Irish President’s residence, with free guided tours on Saturdays), the Wellington Monument (the tallest obelisk in Europe at 62 metres), a herd of wild fallow deer (approximately 400–500 deer roaming freely), the Papal Cross (from Pope John Paul II’s 1979 visit), and the Magazine Fort.
A Phoenix Park tour covers the park’s highlights by bike, on foot, or by vehicle — the scale makes a bike or vehicle tour more practical than walking if you want to cover the full extent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Phoenix Park free?
Yes. The park is free and open to the public year-round. Dublin Zoo and specific attractions within the park have separate admission charges.
How do I get to Phoenix Park?
The main entrance (Parkgate Street) is approximately 20 minutes’ walk west of the city centre, or accessible by bus and Luas (tram to Heuston, then a short walk).
Can I see the deer?
Yes. The wild fallow deer roam freely throughout the park. They are most commonly seen in the Fifteen Acres area (the large open grassland in the centre of the park). Approach quietly and do not feed them.