Things to do in Kilkenny

Activities, attractions and tours

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Kilkenny
Kilkenny
Kilkenny
Kilkenny

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What to do in Kilkenny

Popular places to visit

Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny Castle

After visiting Kilkenny Castle, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Kilkenny. While you're here, you can savour the lively bars.

Kilkenny Castle
St. Canice's Cathedral

St. Canice's Cathedral

You can find out about the history of Kilkenny when you stop by St. Canice's Cathedral. While you're here, you can savour the lively bars.

St. Canice's Cathedral
Black Abbey

Black Abbey

You can find out about the history of Kilkenny when you stop by Black Abbey. While you're here, you can savour the lively bars.

Black Abbey
St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum

St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum during your trip to Kilkenny. While in this walkable area, you can savour the lively bars.

St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum
Rothe House

Rothe House

You can browse the exhibits at Rothe House, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Kilkenny. While you're here, you can savour the lively bars.

Rothe House
St. John the Evangelist Church

St. John the Evangelist Church

Learn about the local history of Kilkenny with a stop at St. John the Evangelist Church. While you're here, you can savour the lively bars.

St. John the Evangelist Church

The Hub

There are two distinct sides to Kilkenny that combine to make it one of the best cities to visit in the Republic of Ireland. Recently voted Top Tourism Town by Failte Ireland, the medieval capital of Ireland boasts a rich historical heritage immediately apparent in the very architecture of the Marble City, while it is also a thriving cosmopolitan centre for the arts, for music and design, and host of the popular Cat Laughs Festival every May.

The Hub

St. Lukes General Hospital

If St. Lukes General Hospital is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Kilkenny.

St. Lukes General Hospital

Butler House

Learn about the local history of Kilkenny with a stop at Butler House. While in this walkable area, you can savour the lively bars.

Butler House

Areas of Kilkenny

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Kilkenny City Centre

4.5/5(18 area reviews)

Kilkenny City Centre is known for its lively bars, and you can plan a trip to Smithwick's Brewery Tour and St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum while you're in town.

Kilkenny City Centre
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Newpark

Though Newpark may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Nowlan Park and The National Reptile Zoo.

Newpark
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Lyrath

While there might not be top attractions in Lyrath, you can explore the larger area and discover places like The Hub and The National Reptile Zoo.

Lyrath
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Smithsland

Though Smithsland may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Butler House and St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum.

Smithsland
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Walkinslough

While there might not be top attractions in Walkinslough, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Butler House and St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum.

Walkinslough
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Talbotsinch

Talbotsinch might not have many top sights, but St. Canice's Cathedral and Black Abbey are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Talbotsinch

Frequently asked questions

Is Kilkenny worth visiting?
Kilkenny offers a unique blend of local charm, culture and attractions. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or traditional food, there's a lot you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Kilkenny?
After you've checked off major attractions like The National Reptile Zoo and Dunmore Cave, spend the rest of your day exploring Kilkenny's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kilkenny?
Don't leave without checking out Smithwick's Brewery Tour, ranked the top tourist attraction in Kilkenny.
Is three days enough to stay in Kilkenny?
Three days in Kilkenny is more than enough to visit the city's main attractions. Many travellers stay for two days on average. Smithwick's Brewery Tour, The National Reptile Zoo and Dunmore Cave are top-rated sights. Want to see more? Hang around a little longer to visit nearby hotspots like Waterford.
Is Kilkenny a walkable city?
With popular neighbourhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Kilkenny is a good destination to tour on foot. Enjoy wandering between Smithwick's Brewery Tour and The National Reptile Zoo. Then take a stroll through Kilkenny City Centre, located 0.32 kilometres from the centre, and Lyrath, which is roughly 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Kilkenny with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes a big difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Kilkenny with kids.

What to do in Kilkenny for adults?
Smithwick's Brewery Tour and St. Mary's Medieval Mile Museum are just a couple of the things to do in Kilkenny. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Kilkenny?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Kilkenny. If you're looking for inspiration, ask a local tour guide for some tips. St. John the Evangelist Church is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their travelling adventures.