Things To Do
in Clonmel

Clonmel is a historic market town in County Tipperary perched on the banks of the River Suir. Its streets thread a timeline from medieval walls to Victorian shopfronts, giving the town a distinctive Irish character. Visitors can enjoy riverside strolls, museums, and traditional pubs that pulse with local hospitality.

With convenient access to surrounding countryside and festivals, Clonmel blends heritage with a lively, friendly atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Clonmel
morning
:

Arrive in Clonmel and check into your charming accommodation nestled in the heart of the town. Take a leisurely stroll along the River Suir, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty. Grab a fresh pastry and coffee at a local café to kickstart your day.

afternoon
:

Explore the rich history of Clonmel by visiting the impressive 17th-century St. Mary's Church. Afterward, wander through the quaint streets lined with shops and boutiques, where you can pick up unique souvenirs. Enjoy a traditional Irish lunch at a local pub, sampling regional specialties.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a riverside walk and take in the picturesque views of the surrounding hills. For dinner, choose a cozy restaurant for a hearty meal featuring locally sourced ingredients. Cap off the evening with live music at a nearby pub, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Clonmel's nightlife.

day 2
Discovering the Comeragh Mountains
morning
:

Set out early for a day trip to the stunning Comeragh Mountains, a short drive from Clonmel. Enjoy a hearty breakfast before hitting the hiking trails, where breathtaking views and picturesque landscapes await. Take time to appreciate the natural beauty around you as you trek through lush greenery.

afternoon
:

Pause for a packed lunch amidst the mountains, soaking in the panoramic views of the valleys below. Continue your hike, perhaps visiting the beautiful Lake Coumshingaun, known for its tranquility. Capture the stunning scenery with photographs that will last a lifetime.

evening
:

Return to Clonmel for a well-deserved dinner at one of its many delightful eateries. Share stories of your adventures in the mountains with the friendly locals. Enjoy a quiet evening, perhaps with a stroll through the town center, reflecting on a day well spent.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$35-60
🏨Hotel (mid-range, per night)$90-150
Coffee/tea$2-5
🛒Groceries per week$60-100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Friendly locals and easy-to-navigate town
  • Beautiful river setting and access to nearby countryside
  • Good value for money and convenient day trips
  • Limited large-city amenities
  • Weather can be rainy and variable
  • Some attractions close in off-peak seasons
  • "Dia dhuit" - Hello
  • "Sláinte" - Cheers / To your health
  • "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
  • "Le do thoil" - Please
  • "Conas atá tú?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Clonmel

Visit one of these nice places.

River Suir Riverside Walks

Scenes along the River Suir at dawn or dusk, with bridges and reflections creating atmospheric photographs.

Market Street and Historic Town Centre

Photo opportunities of period shopfronts, arcades, and cobbled lanes in the town core.

Market Square at Sunset

Golden-hour shots of the square with the church spire and heritage façades.

St. Patrick's Church Spire (City Center)

A tall spire against the skyline, framing cityscape and river views.

Culinary Guide

Food in Clonmel

Clonmel’s cuisine reflects rural Ireland, pairing hearty fare with fresh local produce, seafood from nearby coasts, and comforting bakery staples.

Clonmel Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Irish Stew

A hearty stew of lamb or beef with potatoes, carrots, and onions, slow-cooked to comforting perfection. Best found in traditional pubs.

Must-Try!

Boxty

A skillet-fried potato pancake with a crisp edge, often served with savory fillings or as part of a fry-up.

Seafood Chowder

Creamy chowder featuring local fish and shellfish, frequently served with crusty soda bread.

Soda Bread

Crusty, lightly sweet loaf baked with buttermilk; a staple in Irish bakery and cafés.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Clonmel Saturday Market

A lively market offering fresh produce, baked goods, cheeses, and crafts, with informal street food stalls.

Market Street Street Food

Casual stalls and pop-up vendors serving quick bites, from sandwiches to warm bowls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Clonmel experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and cool summers. Rain is common throughout the year, so bring a lightweight waterproof layer. Summer highs typically hover around 17–20°C (63–68°F), while winter temperatures often range from 5–8°C (41–46°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Polite greetings

Greet with a friendly hello or Dia dhuit in Gaelic; a handshake is common in formal settings.

Queuing

Irish people tend to queue patiently and respect personal space.

Tipping and giving credit

Tipping is optional but appreciated in hospitality; say please and thank you.

Respect for culture and religion

Ask before taking photos of people and respect church or shrine spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Clonmel is generally safe for visitors with typical small-town precautions. Keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas and at night, and use licensed taxis or your accommodation's recommendations for safe transport. In case of emergencies, dial 112 or 999 in Ireland.

Tipping in Clonmel

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and pubs if service is good, typically 5-10% or rounding up; many places include a service charge for large groups.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is available; contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cool to mild days with showers; blossom and park greens emerge; best for outdoor walks without crowds.

Summer

Milder, long days; sun breaks possible; take advantage of riverside seating and outdoor markets; expect occasional showers.

Autumn

Colorful foliage along riverbanks; cooler air; great for countryside photography and harvest markets.

Winter

Typically cool and wet with shorter daylight hours; cozy pubs and indoor attractions are ideal.

Nightlife Guide

Clonmel at Night

Clonmel’s nightlife centers on traditional Irish pubs in the town core, where you’ll find live music, storytelling, and locally brewed ales. Pubs tend to fill up on weekend evenings with locals and visitors sharing songs and conversation. For a more modern scene, a few cafés and bars offer late-night playlists and contemporary meals.

Hiking in Clonmel

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Comeragh Mountains

A dramatic limestone mountain range with scenic loops and viewpoints, ideal for day hikes.

Nire Valley Trails

Forest and valley trails near the Nire River offering rewarding views.

Airports

How to reach Clonmel by plane.

Waterford Airport (WAT)

Closest regional airport serving domestic and limited international flights; pick up a rental car or taxi to reach Clonmel.

Dublin Airport (DUB)

Major international gateway about 2-3 hours by road or rail; good for long-haul connections.

Shannon Airport (SNN)

Another international option about a few hours by road; services to Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Clonmel is highly walkable in the town center with compact streets, riverside paths, and pedestrian-friendly zones; outside the core, you’ll rely more on a car or local transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A mix of local families and commuters; a sizable aging population and students from nearby towns.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Gaelic football

A popular local sport with organized clubs and matches across County Tipperary.

Hurling

Ireland’s national game with strong local participation and matches in nearby venues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate in Clonmel, with reliable bus services and a rail connection to Dublin and Cork; expect slower traffic during peak market days and summer holidays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Clonmel.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most pubs and cafés offer vegetarian options; look for veggie specials or request dishes with local produce; many places can accommodate dairy-free or gluten-free needs if you ask in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is provided through the HSE with local GP clinics and the South Tipperary General Hospital in Clonmel; emergency services via 112/999; pharmacies are widely available in town.

Discover Ireland

Read more in our Ireland 2025 Travel Guide.

Ireland Travel Guide