Jump directly to top attractions, getting there, or budget tips.
Key Takeaways
- Top-rated spot: Kilkenny Castle at 4.5/5 with 6,765 reviews for its Victorian interiors and 50-acre parklands.
- Best activity: Smithwick’s Experience brewery tour, 4.7/5 rating, perfect for craft beer lovers.
- Ideal stay: 2-3 nights to cover Medieval Mile and day trips; summer for festivals.
- Safety first: Dial 999 for emergencies; Kilkenny ranks among Ireland’s safest small cities.
- Save money: Book castle tickets online (€8 adult) and use local buses (€2-3 fares).
Leading 10 Attractions and Activities in Kilkenny with Ratings
I’ve wandered Kilkenny’s cobblestone streets countless times, and these stand out as must-visits. Each offers unique history blended with modern appeal, backed by thousands of visitor reviews.
Here’s my ranked list based on ratings, accessibility, and personal favorites.
1. Kilkenny Castle (4.5/5, 6,765 Reviews)
Perched on the River Nore, this 800-year-old fortress stole my heart during a misty morning visit. Explore opulent state rooms, climb to butler galleries, and picnic in expansive parklands. Open daily 9:30 AM-5:30 PM April-September (last entry 5 PM), €8 for adults online via the official site. “The audio guide brings the Butler family’s drama alive,” I noted in my journal.
2. Smithwick’s Experience (4.7/5, 3,027 Reviews)
This 14th-century brewery tour immersed me in Ireland’s oldest ale secrets, ending with tastings in lantern-lit cellars. Sessions run 10 AM-5 PM daily; €22 for adults, including three pints; book at smithwicks.com. Locals swear by the red ale; I paired mine with soda bread from nearby markets.
3. St. Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower (4.4/5)
Climbing the 100 steps of this 9th-century tower rewarded me with panoramic views over Kilkenny’s skyline. Cathedral entry is €6, the tower is an extra €3, and it is open 9 AM-6 PM in the summer. The 30.5m structure’s thick limestone walls whisper Viking-era tales, per archaeological digs.
4. St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum (4.8/5, 826 Reviews)
Mummified cats and plague victim skeletons gripped me here; it’s a gritty dive into 14th-century life. Free entry suggested donation, open 10 AM-6 PM. “Better than textbooks for medieval horror,” a fellow visitor shared.
5. Rothe House & Garden (4.6/5)
This 1594 merchant’s home with an Irish garden felt like stepping into my ancestor’s diary. €7 entry, open 10:30 AM-5 PM Mon-Sat. Genealogy center helped trace my roots on-site.
6. Black Abbey (4.5/5)
Dominican friary’s rose window and tombs mesmerized during evensong. Free, open daily 9 AM-6 PM. Attended a quiet mass; the acoustics amplify chants beautifully.
7. Dunmore Cave (4.6/5)
The Viking massacre site’s limestone chambers and crystal formations thrilled my spelunking side. €11 for adults, tours 10 AM-6 PM. Echoes inside amplify the eerie history.
8. Butler Gallery (4.7/5)
Contemporary Irish art in a Georgian mansion; free entry, open 10 AM-5 PM Tue-Sat. Saw a local painter’s exhibit that sparked dinner conversations.
9. Kyteler’s Inn (4.5/5)
Pub in a 1324 witch’s house serves hearty stews and live trad music nightly. Meals are €15-25, kytelersinn.com. “Best pint and story combo,” I texted friends.
10. Castlecomer Discovery Park
Zip lines and woodland trails for adventure; €20 entry, activities extra. 30-min drive, perfect family day out per TripAdvisor families.
My Personal Stories and Pro Tips from Kilkenny Visits
During my last trip, I based myself near the castle and walked everywhere, discovering hidden alleys at dusk. Pro tip: Rent a bike from Kilkenny County Council for €15/day to reach the outskirts easily. “Sunset from the Round Tower beats any postcard,” I posted on Instagram.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Kilkenny
Pros:
- Compact size: See top sites on foot in one day.
- Rich festivals like Kilkenny Arts (August).
- Affordable eats: Pub grub under €20.
Cons:
- Rainy weather: Pack layers year-round.
- Peak summer crowds at castle.
- Limited nightlife beyond pubs.
Arriving in Kilkenny: Transport Options
From Dublin Airport, catch a direct bus (2h10m, €12-20) to Kilkenny MacDonagh Station via Rome2Rio schedules. Trains from Dublin Heuston take 1h40m (€25). Drive A5 (1h45m). Local buses €2-3, taxis €10-15. Pro tip: Buy Leap Card for unlimited city rides.
Navigating Kilkenny Easily
Everything clusters along the Medieval Mile; walking suffices. Bikes or e-scooters via apps. TFI buses for outskirts. “Ditch the car downtown; parking scarce,” I learned first visit.
Optimal Visiting Seasons for Kilkenny
June-August offers mild 15-20°C days for outdoors, though pack rain gear. Avoid November’s chill. Spring blooms enhance gardens; autumn fewer crowds. Festivals peak summer per ClimateToTravel data.
Recommended Places to Stay in Kilkenny
Budget: B&Bs €80/night like Period House. Mid-range: Hibernian Hotel €150, central. Luxury: Lyrath Estate €250+. Book via hotels.com. I love Zuni for rooftop views.
Typical Daily Costs
Smart Money-Saving Strategies
- Heritage Card (€40/year) covers castle, tower unlimited.
- Farmers market Saturdays for picnic supplies €10 feeds two.
- Free walking tours via GuruWalk; tip guide.
- Advance attraction bookings save 10-20%.
Essential Tours to Book in Kilkenny
Ghost Walk €20 evenings via TripAdvisor. Food tours €50 tasting local cheeses. Kayak River Nore €50. Private falconry €100. Book GetYourGuide. My ghost tour uncovered witch trial spots locals skip.
Excursions Around Kilkenny Region
Day trip to Waterford Crystal (45min drive), Rock of Cashel (1h), Wicklow Mountains. BusEireann tours €30. “Mahon Falls detour worth the hike,” per my notes.
Staying Safe with Emergency Essentials
Kilkenny’s low crime; watch bags in pubs. Emergency: 999/112 ambulance/police/fire. Hospital: St. Luke’s +353 56 772 4200. GP out-of-hours CareDoc. “Stick to lit paths post-dark,” local advice.
Recommended Length of Your Kilkenny Stay
Two full days for core sites; add one for hikes/caves. Three nights max immersion without fatigue. I extended to four for a market day and relaxed pub evenings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kilkenny Travel
What are the top three things to do in Kilkenny?
Kilkenny Castle, Smithwick’s tour, and the Round Tower climb top visitor lists for history and views.
Is Kilkenny worth visiting for a day trip?
Yes, but overnight allows evening music and relaxed pacing.
How much does a Kilkenny trip cost per person?
€200-400 for 3 days including all, per budget level.
Best time for Kilkenny festivals?
August Arts Festival and Cat Laughs Comedy in June.
