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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
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Where to stay in Kilkenny

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The Hoban Hotel (Formerly Aspect Hotel)

4.3(1,3 K)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Modern, Informal, Comfortable
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Hotel Kilkenny

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

Pembroke Hotel Kilkenny

4.6(1,1 K)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Elegant, Relaxing, Versatile
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The Club House Hotel

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

Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel

4.3(2 K)
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Elegant, Relaxed, Multifaceted
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 River Court Hotel

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

Kilford Arms Hotel

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

Things to do in Kilkenny

Medieval Mile Street Tour
From $21

Medieval Mile Street Tour

4.9(31)
Duration: 1h 5min
Kilkenny
Shenanigans Walks - Guided Walking Tour in Kilkenny
From $35

Shenanigans Walks - Guided Walking Tour in Kilkenny

5.0(505)
Duration: 1h 30min
Kilkenny
Knight For Hire Tour
From $21

Knight For Hire Tour

4.9(65)
Duration: 1h
Kilkenny
Kilkenny city game: The Shenanigans Medieval Adventure
From $35

Kilkenny city game: The Shenanigans Medieval Adventure

Duration: 1h 30min
Kilkenny
Marble City Kilkenny Private Car Tour
From $621

Marble City Kilkenny Private Car Tour

Duration: 8h
Kilkenny
Medieval Mile Museum Self Guided Audio Tour
From $9

Medieval Mile Museum Self Guided Audio Tour

4.8(93)
Duration: 1h
Kilkenny
The Medieval Mile Museum Guided Tour
From $13

The Medieval Mile Museum Guided Tour

4.9(160)
Duration: 55 min
Kilkenny
Kayak Tour Kilkenny
From $65

Kayak Tour Kilkenny

5.0(22)
Duration: 1h 30min
Kilkenny
Explore on Viator

Attractions in Kilkenny

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Kilkenny Castle Park

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

Kilkenny Castle

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

Butler Gallery

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

The Black Abbey

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

Smithwick's Experience

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

Rothe House & Garden

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

St Canice's Cathedral

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

Natural & historic sites near Kilkenny

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Place
Place
Place
Place

Wicklow Mountains National Park

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