Things To Do
in Kilkenny
Kilkenny is a picturesque medieval city located in the southeast of Ireland. It is renowned for its well-preserved historic buildings, including Kilkenny Castle and numerous churches and towers. The city is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, with many galleries, theaters, and festivals taking place throughout the year.
Kilkenny also offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling along the River Nore.
- "Dia dhuit" - Hello
- "Slán" - Goodbye
- "Le do thoil" - Please
- "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
- "Conas atá tú?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Kilkenny Castle, where you can explore its stunning gardens and historical exhibits. Don’t miss the opportunity to take great photos of this iconic structure.
Stroll through the medieval streets and visit St. Canice's Cathedral to climb the round tower for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy lunch at a local café with traditional Irish dishes.
Explore the vibrant nightlife by heading to one of Kilkenny's many pubs. Experience live music while enjoying a pint of locally brewed beer.
Visit the Kilkenny Design Centre to see unique Irish crafts and artworks. Spend some time enjoying a coffee at the café within the centre.
Take a guided walking tour of the city to learn about its rich history and architecture. You'll see fascinating landmarks and hear captivating stories.
Dine at a restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine, showcasing local ingredients. Afterwards, catch a performance at the Watergate Theatre if there's a show on.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage and well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Vibrant arts and cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including rivers and parks.
- Good access to local amenities, shops, and restaurants.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Weather can be unpredictable and often rainy.
- Smaller city may lack some of the amenities and attractions found in larger urban centers.
- Public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities.
- Higher reliance on tourism, which can fluctuate seasonally.
Best Activities in Kilkenny
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely walk through the picturesque park surrounding Kilkenny Castle.
Explore the scenic walking trails alongside the River Nore and enjoy views of the city and natural surroundings.
Take a guided cycling tour through the beautiful countryside and historic sites of Kilkenny.
Discover the natural beauty and stunning landscapes of County Kilkenny on a variety of hiking trails.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kilkenny with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kilkenny
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the castle and the surrounding gardens, great for photography.
Climbing the round tower provides panoramic views of Kilkenny city and the countryside.
Beautiful garden and historical house provide picturesque backgrounds for photographs.
Food in Kilkenny
Kilkenny Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting, slow-cooked stew made with tender lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, seasoned with flavorful herbs. It's a signature dish in Kilkenny and can be found in pubs and restaurants throughout the city.
Must-Try!
A local delicacy consisting of boiled and fried pig's feet, typically served with a side of mustard and soda bread. For an authentic taste of Kilkenny, head to traditional taverns or local eateries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kilkenny better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of the city, the Kilkenny Farmers' Market offers an array of fresh produce, artisan cheeses, baked goods, and street food stalls. Visitors can sample local specialties and interact with passionate food producers.
St. Kieran's Street hosts a vibrant scene of food trucks and stalls offering diverse street food options, ranging from gourmet burgers to falafel wraps. It's a hub of culinary creativity and a great place to experience Kilkenny's street food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kilkenny, it is customary to greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning' when entering a shop or other public place.
When visiting a pub in Kilkenny, it's important to respect the locals and the staff. Buying a round of drinks for your group is a common practice and a good way to show respect.
Politeness is highly valued in Kilkenny, so saying 'please' and 'thank you' is important in interactions with others. Holding doors open for others and offering assistance when needed are also appreciated.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kilkenny with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kilkenny
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kilkenny, Ireland, tipping is generally appreciated in restaurants, bars, and for taxi services. A typical practice is to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants if the service was satisfactory. However, tipping is not mandatory, and some establishments may include a service charge in the bill.
The most common forms of payment in Kilkenny, Ireland, include cash, credit/debit cards, and contactless payments. Many establishments accept major international credit cards, but it's always advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller vendors or in rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kilkenny.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Kilkenny, as the weather starts to warm up and the gardens and parks come to life with blooming flowers. The city is less crowded, making it easier to explore the historic sites and attractions. You can also experience the St. Patrick's Day celebrations in March.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Kilkenny, with longer days and warmer weather. This is the best time for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the countryside. There are also numerous festivals and events held during the summer months, including the Kilkenny Arts Festival.
Autumn brings beautiful foliage to Kilkenny, making it a picturesque time to visit. The weather is still mild, and the tourist crowds begin to thin out, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Visitors can also enjoy the traditional music and arts festivals that take place during this season.
Winter in Kilkenny is a quieter time, with shorter days and cooler temperatures. However, the city is beautifully decorated for the holiday season, and visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere. There are also Christmas markets and events to partake in, as well as the opportunity to cozy up in traditional pubs and enjoy the local hospitality.
Kilkenny at Night
Hiking in Kilkenny
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Brandon Hill is the highest peak in the southeast of Ireland, offering breathtaking views and various hiking trails suited for different skill levels.
This scenic trail takes you through some of Kilkenny's beautiful landscapes, perfect for a casual hike while enjoying the local flora and fauna.
A picturesque walking trail that combines historical sites with nature, leading to the ruins of the beautiful Kells Priory.
Located a bit further from Kilkenny, Mount Leinster offers more challenging hikes along with fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
A beautiful path that meanders through the grounds of the Ursuline Convent and provides a tranquil hiking experience in an urban setting.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kilkenny through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kilkenny by plane.
Cork Airport is located approximately 177 kilometers from Kilkenny and is the second largest airport in Ireland.
Shannon Airport is located about 170 kilometers from Kilkenny and serves as a major international airport in the west of Ireland.
Dublin Airport is situated approximately 185 kilometers from Kilkenny and is the largest and busiest airport in Ireland.
Waterford Airport is a smaller regional airport located about 61 kilometers from Kilkenny, offering limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Kilkenny, primarily of Irish ethnic origin.
Includes immigrant groups from other European countries and non-Irish white populations.
Includes individuals of Asian descent, particularly from countries like China, India, and the Philippines.
Comprises people of African descent, including those recently moved to Ireland.
People from mixed ethnic backgrounds, reflecting Ireland's increasing diversity.
A small percentage of the population belonging to various other ethnic groups not classified elsewhere.
The Soul of Kilkenny
Discover the essence of Kilkenny through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hurling is a traditional Irish sport and is extremely popular in Kilkenny. The county has a strong history of success in the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship, with numerous titles reflecting its prominence in the sport.
Gaelic football is another popular sport in Kilkenny, although it is not as dominant as hurling. The sport attracts local participation and supports community engagement.
Soccer is played widely throughout Kilkenny, with various clubs and leagues that encourage participation at all ages. The sport has been growing in popularity in recent years.
Rugby is enjoyed in Kilkenny, with local clubs promoting the sport for both adults and youth. It has a dedicated following and contributes to the region's sports culture.
Athletics is popular in Kilkenny, with various athletic clubs fostering talent in running, jumping, and throwing events. The county hosts several athletics meets throughout the year.
Camogie is the female counterpart to hurling and is widely played in Kilkenny. The sport enjoys strong community support and participation among women and girls.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kilkenny.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kilkenny's dining scene accommodates vegetarians and vegans with diverse menus featuring plant-based dishes. Many restaurants and cafes offer creative vegetarian and vegan alternatives, ensuring a memorable culinary experience for non-meat eaters.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find a range of gluten-free options at eateries across Kilkenny. From gluten-free pastries to carefully crafted main courses, the city's establishments strive to cater to individuals following a gluten-free diet.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kilkenny with these cultural adventures.
