Things To Do
in Naas
Naas is a vibrant market town in County Kildare, just a short drive from Dublin, where old-world charm meets modern amenities. Its tree-lined streets, Georgian architecture, and welcoming pubs create a friendly, village-like atmosphere with easy access to countryside scenery. The town serves as a gateway to racing culture and outdoor adventures, from Punchestown racing to nearby parks and trails.
With a thriving dining scene and frequent local markets, Naas feels both relaxed and lively throughout the year.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure by strolling through the charming streets of Naas, soaking in the local culture and history. Stop by the market square to grab a fresh pastry and coffee from one of the local bakeries. Don’t miss the Naas Heritage Centre to learn more about the town’s fascinating past.
Visit the picturesque Naas Racecourse, where you can take part in a guided tour or enjoy a thrilling horse racing event, depending on the season. Afterward, indulge in lunch at a traditional Irish pub, where you can savor local dishes such as Irish stew or fish and chips. As the afternoon sun shines, explore the nearby waterways on a leisurely walk along the water's edge.
As evening falls, enjoy a delightful dinner at one of Naas’s renowned restaurants, offering a mix of modern and traditional Irish cuisine. After your meal, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of a local pub, where you might catch live music or traditional Irish dancing. End the night with a quiet walk through the town, appreciating the warm glow of the street lights and the friendly vibe of the community.
Head over to Punchestown, the famous racecourse located just outside Naas, for a morning filled with excitement. Join a behind-the-scenes tour to learn about the history of horse racing in Ireland and see the training and stabling areas. If you’re lucky, you might even catch some horses on the gallops.
After soaking in the equestrian atmosphere, have lunch at one of the nearby cafes with views of the racetrack. If your visit coincides with race days, engage in some friendly betting and enjoy the lively crowd. Otherwise, head to the scenic Punchestown National Park for a refreshing walk amidst nature.
Conclude your day at Punchestown with a special dining experience at one of the elegant restaurants in the area, where you can relish gourmet Irish cuisine. After dinner, consider attending a local event or gathering if available, adding a social element to your evening. Wrap up this lovely day with a pleasant drive back to Naas, via the scenic countryside.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch for one | $12-20 |
| 🚗Taxi (short ride) | $12-20 |
| 🛍️Groceries (basic items) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact town with easy access to Dublin and countryside
- Friendly locals and high-quality pubs and eateries
- Strong heritage sites and green spaces
- Good driving access and close to Punchestown Racecourse
- More limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable
- Limited direct rail options within town (requires connection to Dublin)
- Some attractions are seasonal (e.g., Punchestown events)
- "Dia dhuit" - Hello
- "Slán" - Goodbye
- "Le do thoil" - Please
- "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
- "An bhfuil Gaeilge agat?" - Do you speak Irish/Gaelic?
Places to Visit in Naas
Visit one of these nice places.
Georgian shopfronts, market activity, and lively street scenes provide vibrant urban photography opportunities.
Lush woodlands, tranquil lakes, and seasonal colors—perfect for nature and landscape photography.
Waterways, locks, and reflections offer serene photography settings, especially at dawn or dusk.
Expansive grounds and grand stands offer dramatic racing photography when events are on.
Food in Naas
Naas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty stew made with mutton or lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions; widely available in pubs and traditional eateries.
Must-Try!
Creamy mashed potatoes blended with kale or cabbage and butter; commonly served as a side dish across many Irish cafes.
Crusty quick bread often enjoyed fresh at bakeries and cafés, perfect with a pat of butter.
A slow-cooked, rich pie featuring tender beef and dark stout, encased in a flaky pastry.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts—great for sampling rural Irish flavors.
Seasonal street-food and snack stalls along canal-side areas, ideal for a light lunch or snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly greetings are common; handshakes are typical in formal settings, while casual chats are common in pubs and shops.
Pubs are social hubs—respect residential areas late at night; modest conversation volume is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Naas
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge may be included in larger venues; otherwise, 10-15% is customary for good service in restaurants and pubs.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small venues may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours with warm, mild days and regular showers; ideal for outdoor markets, canal walks, and al fresco dining.
Crimson and gold foliage around Donadea and local parks; harvest events and cooler evenings—bring a light jacket.
Cool, damp conditions with occasional frost; cozy pubs and fireplaces provide warmth; daylight is shorter.
Fresh greens and blossoming landscapes; pleasant walking weather and budding markets.
Naas at Night
Hiking in Naas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Lakeside and woodland trails ranging from short strolls to longer hikes through a historic estate.
Expansive grasslands offering wide-open hiking paths and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Airports
How to reach Naas by plane.
Main international gateway; about an hour by car from Naas, with frequent flights and good public transport connections.
Smaller but accessible option; longer transfer from Naas compared to Dublin; serves domestic and some European routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Naas, attracted by schools, parks, and community events.
A growing number of residents commute to Dublin or work in local businesses and startups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hurling and Gaelic football are popular across Ireland, with local clubs and community events.
Punchestown Racecourse hosts major flat and jump racing events nearby.
Several nearby courses offer scenic rounds through rural Irish countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Naas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer veggie-friendly options such as salads, veggie burgers, and seasonal vegetable dishes; ask for recommendations or chef specials.