The 10 things to do in Kilkenny

Are you planning a trip to Ireland? Discover our list of the 10 essential things to do in Kilkenny, the medieval city par excellence!

The nearest coast is about 60 kilometers away, but it does not remove anything from the multiple characters of Kilkenny. Indeed, this town in south-eastern Ireland has an important historical heritage, incredible urbanism and a clean identity. Like many Irish cities, its nightlife is very lively, with local residents enjoying being at the pub. This is what composes the charm of Kilkenny, such as the thumbnail of a fascinating and attractive country.

1. The Dunmore Caves

It is 350 million years of geological evolution that you see at Dunmore Caves. They are just 10 kilometres away, but very easily accessible by transport. The caves were discovered in the 8th century by Man, and have since been the place of some historical facts. The visit of Dunmore Caves includes the ascent of nearly 700 steps, so be equipped! Attention, the entrance fee (4 €) to finance the regular maintenance of the premises.

2. Black Abbey

Abbeys are, in general, very important buildings in Ireland. From the historical point of view as well as the archtectural. The Black Abbey does not deviate from the rule. Dating from the 13th century, it is still active today. It is possible to visit it and discover its very rich history. Abbey, a courthouse or a place of reception of Confederation, the Black Abbey has played several roles throughout its history. In spite of all, she was able to keep her character very marked. It would be a shame to visit Kilkenny without stopping at the Black Abbey. The entrance is free and free.

3. A 400-year-old pub

What would Irish cities be like without their famous pubs? If Kilkenny is not the largest city in the country, it is not the rest. It is more than 60 pubs that populate its streets, for the greatest pleasure of its 26,000 inhabitants. Yet he is one who comes out of the ordinary: The Hole in the Wall . What is so special? It takes place in an old building over 400 years old, the oldest in Kilkenny. It will be an opportunity for you to spend a moment out of time, enjoying good local beers or ciders.

4. The Nore

The Nore is the river that passes through Kilkenny from somewhere. You will enjoy a lovely digestive or entertaining walk on the banks of the river. We advise you to follow Jone’s Quay, to discover an aspect of the absolutely charming city. The old or colourful houses border the river in a green atmosphere. A little further south, you can borrow the River Nore Wooden Walkway a trail of the Kilkenny Castle Park. A real natural gateway to reoxygenate.

5. Mile Museum

If you want to enter a temporal fault, understand the past and visit Kilkenny: go to the Medieval Mile Museum . It was inaugurated in 2017, and despite its small size, it houses a very rich collection. It retraces, focusing on medieval times, the history of Kilkenny, justifying its current identity. And because it was built on the site of the church of Sainte-Mary, you will find vestiges of it: chapel, cemetery, sculptures... The entrance fee is €6.80 for an adult, but the structure, organization and collection are worth the cost.

6. Local sport: screaming

The screaming is a sport – very – especially, halfway between the Basque ball game, rugby and hockey. Then why not try? Animation The Kilkenny Way offers it, via an ultra complete introduction to the screaming as well as a practice session. You will start your trip by visiting the Hurling Museum, where you will learn more about the practice of this sport. Then, you will be taken to the Nowlan Park, the Kilkenny Cats team stage, for a practical introduction of your learning. A playful output you can make with your family!

7. Kilkenny in Castle Express

The Castle Express is the small train that allows you to visit Kilkenny in complete tranquility, without failing to miss the city's must-sees. He started his 30-minute circuit at the Château de Kilkenny. Discover, through this guided and fun tour, all the buildings in the city: John’s Bridge, Shee Alms House, Bishop’s Palade, Tholsel, Saint-Patrick’s Graveyard... The price is 7 € for an adult and 5 € for a child.

8. The Smithwick’s Brewery

Beer lovers are for you. The oldest brewery in Ireland opens its doors to you, discovering its history, its brewing techniques and bonus, a small final tasting. The Smithwick’s Experience is a real jewel for those who enjoy hopsed drinks, and who would like to know their secrets. You will not have the time to get bored, the visit is very well thought, with screens, exhibitions and interactive elements. The entrance fee is 12 € for a visit of about 45 minutes. Children are allowed (4€) but no beer tasting for them, obviously...

9. Kilkenny Castle and Butler House

The castle of Kilkenny is probably the building able to tell the city: built in the 12th century, it experienced the medieval tedious life of the time. Then, between 1391 and 1967, a single family, the Butler of Ormond, maintained and expanded it. Today you can visit it and reveal its secrets. From the basements, discover the immense building, with its decorations, family portraits and Victorian design. Coffee takes place in the old kitchens. So you can feel Bulter and relive their history, the time of a hot tea.

10. Living like an Irishman in Kilkenny

Kilknenny knows very lively day and night lives. Then why not feel a little less visitor and discover their way of living? Get ready to live like a real Irish Kilkenny! For starters, walk around town, through the Medieval Mile, the historic centre of Kilkenny. In this area, you can observe very well-kept medieval houses, shops and colourful facades. Then, stay in one of the many pubs, which often serve local traditional dishes. In the afternoon, rest quietly in the large green park: the Kilkenny Castle Park and perhaps watch screaming training. To finish, go back to a pub where nightlife will immerse you in a festive atmosphere and good child. Live concerts, performances, beer tastings from all over Ireland, enjoy life!

How to get to Kilkenny?

To go to Ireland, there are no sixty solutions. Isolated in the middle of several waters, this giant island only allows access by sea or air. Specifically, you have two choices.

By plane

The nearest airport to Kilkenny is the airport Dublin . There are many links between France and Ireland, from the province or Paris. To find the best prices on the best dates, we advise you to find out Ulysses , our online ticket comparison partner.

To get to Kilkenny from Dublin Airport:

• Train : trains connect Dublin to Kilkenny daily in about 2 hours.
• Bus : for less than 20 € per person you can also reach Kilkenny in coach, but be careful, there is no departure every day, and schedules may sometimes not match.
• Car : you can choose to rent a car on site (the renters are often close to the airport) or take a ride to Kilkenny, very frequent.

By boat

You can opt for the maritime solution, which allows you to go to Ireland with (or without) your personal car. There are two cities in France that connect Ireland: Cherbourg, which goes to Dublin or Rosslare, and Roscoff that goes to Cork . The nearest port to Kilkenny is Rosslare, located 90 km away while Dublin is 130 km away and Cork 150 km away. Choose to drive your personal car offers more ease (to go or visit Kilkenny) and it’s economically more interesting. But note that traffic in Ireland is on the reverse side!

Where to stay in Kilkenny?

The accommodation in Kilkenny is a budget case. Indeed, the small town has everything to offer: hotel, accommodation Airbnb , youth hostel and even campsite. There are not as many hotels as there are pubs, of course. However, there are institutions that range from the chic service to the standard service, to find out more about this Compare hotels . From March to mid November, many campsites open their doors and offer activities in the city or its green spaces. Youth hostels have also been widely democratized and are now very busy. They are a budget alternative between the hotel and the campsite.

For an authentic experience, we advise you to find accommodation in the historic centre or near Kilkenny Castle. That said, hotels and hostels a little bit excited or outside of Kilkenny offer equally enjoyable comfort, at less cost, after a day of discoveries.

You now know how to visit Kilkenny! And you, what are your must-sees?