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Get InspiredEuropeIrelandLeinsterKilkenny

Kilkenny

Leinster, Ireland
City·Historic, Cultural, Lively
Kilkenny
Photo by Paul O'Dalaigh from Google Places
Kilkenny
Photo by Brian Ahern from Google Places
Kilkenny
Photo by Denis Phelan from Google Places
Kilkenny
Photo by Kaye English from Google Places
Kilkenny
Photo by piotr zegar from Google Places
Kilkenny
Photo by Paul O'Dalaigh from Google Places
Kilkenny
Photo by Brian Ahern from Google Places
Kilkenny
Photo by Denis Phelan from Google Places
Kilkenny
Photo by Kaye English from Google Places
Kilkenny
Photo by piotr zegar from Google Places

Kilkenny, a city in Leinster, Ireland, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval buildings and lively cultural atmosphere. Visitors can explore iconic sites such as Kilkenny Castle and St Canice's Cathedral, which offer a glimpse into the city's rich history. The city is also a hub for arts and crafts, with numerous workshops and galleries showcasing local talent. Kilkenny hosts several annual events, including the Kilkenny Arts Festival and the Cat Laughs comedy festival, attracting tourists from around the world. The city's vibrant music scene is highlighted by the Kilkenny Roots Festival, making it a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts.

Kilkenny, a city in Leinster, Ireland, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval buildings and lively cultural atmosphere. Visitors can explore iconic sites such as Kilkenny Castle and St Canice's Cathedral, which offer a glimpse into the city's rich history. The city is also a hub for arts and crafts, with numerous workshops and galleries showcasing local talent. Kilkenny hosts several annual events, including the Kilkenny Arts Festival and the Cat Laughs comedy festival, attracting tourists from around the world. The city's vibrant music scene is highlighted by the Kilkenny Roots Festival, making it a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Explore Kilkenny Castle and its gardens.

  • Visit St Canice's Cathedral and round tower.

  • Enjoy the Kilkenny Arts Festival.

  • Discover local crafts and design workshops.

  • Experience the vibrant music scene at Kilkenny Roots Festival.

Before you go: Kilkenny essentials

  • Rich cultural heritage with several museums and historical sites.

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with walking trails and picnic spots.

  • Close access to Dublin, ideal for day trips.

Getting Around

Kilkenny is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot.

Local Cuisine

Try the local breweries for a taste of Kilkenny's brewing heritage.

Best For

History enthusiasts and culture seekers.

Currency

EUR €

Average Cost

$80-$150 p/day

Languages Spoken

English, Irish

Cultural Events

Plan your visit around one of the city's many festivals for a lively experience.

Historical Sites

Don't miss the chance to climb the round tower at St Canice's Cathedral for panoramic views.

Occasion Tags

Tourists, History Buffs, Culture Seekers

Best time to visit Kilkenny

April-June, September-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring in Kilkenny is mild and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city's gardens and outdoor attractions.

Best Season

Summer

Summer is festival season in Kilkenny, with numerous events and a lively atmosphere.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, ideal for enjoying the city's historic sites.

Winter

Winters are quiet, providing a peaceful time to explore Kilkenny's cultural offerings.

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Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

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Location

Kilkenny, Leinster, Ireland

Where to stay in Kilkenny

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Celtic House

4.4(128)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Relaxed, Cozy, Welcoming
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

JB's Guest Accommodation

4.6(203)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Warm, Vibrant, Entertaining
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Kilkenny River Court Hotel

4.3(2,5 K)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Upscale, Elegant, Comfortable
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The Club House Hotel

4.0(835)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Classic, Comfortable, Historic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Hotel Kilkenny

4.3(2,1 K)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Chic, Upscale, Relaxing
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Kilford Arms Hotel

4.2(1,6 K)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Casual, Vibrant, Historic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel

4.3(1,1 K)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Traditional, Relaxed, Welcoming
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel

4.3(2 K)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Elegant, Relaxed, Multifaceted

Food & drink in Kilkenny

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Ember

4.4(194)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Warm, Stylish, Buzzy
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Zuni Restaurant & Tapas Bar

4.6(110)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Polished, Welcoming, Buzzy
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Rive Gauche Kilkenny

4.6(659)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Sophisticated, Parisian, Atmospheric
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Langton's Bar and Restaurant

4.5(531)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Lively, Versatile, Welcoming
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

TOSCANINI

4.9(186)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Warm, Homely, Welcoming
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Tower & Castle

4.6(234)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Cozy, Traditional, Warm, Relaxed
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Low Lane

4.8(148)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Chilled, Calm, Welcoming
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Cafe La Coco

4.7(759)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Cute, Small, Quaint

Things to do in Kilkenny

Hurling Tours Ireland - Hurling Experience in Kilkenny
From $35

Hurling Tours Ireland - Hurling Experience in Kilkenny

5.0(179)
Duration: 1h 30min
Kilkenny
Kilkenny Food and Drink Tasting Adventure Tour
From $94

Kilkenny Food and Drink Tasting Adventure Tour

5.0(4)
Duration: 2h 45min
Kilkenny
Walk the Medieval Mile with Pat
From $24

Walk the Medieval Mile with Pat

5.0(162)
Duration: 1h 45min
Kilkenny
Shenanigans Walks - Guided Walking Tour in Kilkenny
From $35

Shenanigans Walks - Guided Walking Tour in Kilkenny

5.0(517)
Duration: 1h 30min
Kilkenny
Kilkenny told by a Kilkenny-born Guide – in French
From $18

Kilkenny told by a Kilkenny-born Guide – in French

5.0(30)
Duration: 2h
Kilkenny
Medieval Mile Museum Self Guided Audio Tour
From $9

Medieval Mile Museum Self Guided Audio Tour

4.8(93)
Duration: 1h
Kilkenny
Kilkenny city game: The Shenanigans Medieval Adventure
From $35

Kilkenny city game: The Shenanigans Medieval Adventure

Duration: 1h 30min
Kilkenny
Private Kilkenny Tour: Medieval History & Local Insights
From $116

Private Kilkenny Tour: Medieval History & Local Insights

5.0(37)
Duration: 2h
Kilkenny
Explore on Viator

Attractions in Kilkenny

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Kilkenny Castle

4.7(14,3 K)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Historical, Majestic, Educational
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Smithwick's Experience

4.6(1,4 K)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Interactive, Educational, Historic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

St Canice's Cathedral

4.6(2,6 K)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Historic, Majestic, Peaceful
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum

4.6(930)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Historic, Educational, Enriching
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Rothe House & Garden

4.6(518)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Historic, Educational, Serene
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Kilkenny Castle Park

4.7(12,4 K)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Serene, Historical, Scenic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The Black Abbey

4.6(740)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Serene, Reflective, Historic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Butler Gallery

4.7(234)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Sophisticated, Artistic, Educational

Natural & historic sites near Kilkenny

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Wicklow Mountains National Park

4.8(8 K)
County Wicklow
National Park · Rugged, Peaceful, Vast, Natural