About Kilkenny
Nestled in Ireland's Ancient East, Kilkenny County is a captivating medieval gem where history breathes through every cobblestone street. Known as the 'Marble City' for its distinctive black limestone, Kilkenny offers travelers an authentic Irish experience steeped in heritage, craft, and vibrant culture. The crown jewel is Kilkenny City itself, dominated by the magnificent 12th-century Kilkenny Castle overlooking the River Nore. Wander the Medieval Mile, a trail connecting historic sites like St. Canice's Cathedral with its round tower offering panoramic views, and Rothe House, a beautifully preserved merchant's home. Beyond the city, explore the picturesque villages of Inistioge and Thomastown, the mystical ruins of Jerpoint Abbey, and the craft trails celebrating local artisans in pottery, brewing, and design. Kilkenny pulses with creative energy, hosting internationally renowned events like the Kilkenny Arts Festival and the Cat Laughs Comedy Festival. With its friendly pubs echoing with traditional music, exceptional food scene showcasing local produce, and lush green countryside perfect for cycling and walking along the River Nore, Kilkenny seamlessly blends ancient charm with contemporary Irish life.
Things to do in Kilkenny
Walking Tours of Kilkenny with John Comerford
Private Kilkenny Tour: Medieval History & Local Insights
From €100
5.0 (36)
Kilkenny in French: the medieval city of Ireland
From €15
5.0 (28)
Kayak Tour Kilkenny
From €55
5.0 (22)
Cliffs of Moher including Cliffs of Moher Boat Experience Luxury Car Tour
From €1,600
5.0 (21)
Kilkenny Walking Tour with Local Guide – History & Stories
From €15
5.0 (15)
Kilkenny Private: Artistic Charm & Hid Stories Local Guide
From €370
5.0 (2)
Private Airport Transfer from Kilkenny City to Dublin Airport
From €340
5.0 (2)
Kilkenny Food and Drink Tasting Adventure Tour
From €80
5.0 (2)
Hurling Tours Ireland - Hurling Experience in Kilkenny
From €30
5.0 (167)
Shenanigans Walks - Guided Walking Tour in Kilkenny
From €30
5.0 (504)
Walk the Medieval Mile with Pat
From €20
5.0 (151)
Kilkenny Walking Tour: Stories Behind the Medieval Mile
From €15
5.0 (293)
The Medieval Mile Museum Guided Tour
From €11
4.9 (160)
Medieval Mile Street Tour
Places to visit in Kilkenny
Ard Alainn B&B
Ard Alainn B&B, L6600, County Kilkenny, Ireland
Rock Bar B&B
Rock Bar B&B, R693, County Kilkenny, Ireland
Title, X and O (Arch and Sundial)
Title, X and O (Arch and Sundial), Mayor's Walk, County Kilkenny, Ireland
Glendine Inn
Glendine Inn, Castlecomer Road, Kilkenny, Ireland
Abbey Lodge
Abbey Lodge, Water Barrack, Kilkenny, Ireland
Saint Patrick
Saint Patrick, James's Street, Kilkenny, Ireland
Saint Dominic
Saint Dominic, Friars Bridge, Kilkenny, Ireland
Castle Inn
Castle Inn, 34 Rose Inn Street, County Kilkenny, Ireland
Voodoo
Voodoo, Ormonde Street, Kilkenny, Ireland
Berkeley House
Berkeley House, 5 Patrick Street, County Kilkenny, Ireland
Urban Animation II
Urban Animation II, 26 Parliament Street, Kilkenny, Ireland
The Laurels B&B
The Laurels B&B, Circular Road, Kilkenny, Ireland
The Hoban Hotel
The Hoban Hotel, Kilkenny Ring Road, Kilkenny, Ireland
Breagagh View B&B
Breagagh View B&B, Maiden Hill, Kilkenny, Ireland
Daly's B&B
Daly's B&B, John Street Lower, Kilkenny, Ireland
Travel Tips for Kilkenny
Getting Around
Kilkenny City is compact and highly walkable, with most major attractions within a 15-20 minute walk. Local Link provides bus services connecting the city to towns and villages within the county. Taxis are available at ranks in the city centre; apps like Free Now are popular. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the wider county, rural attractions, and nearby destinations like the Rock of Cashel. Bicycle hire is an excellent way to explore the city and the Nore Valley trails. Train services connect Kilkenny to Dublin and other major cities via Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann).
Best Time To Visit
May to September offers the warmest and driest weather, ideal for exploring the city and countryside. July and August are peak tourist months with longer days and numerous festivals, but also more crowds. Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September) provide a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer visitors. The Kilkenny Arts Festival (August) and the Cat Laughs Comedy Festival (early June) are major highlights. Winter (November-January) can be cold and wet but is atmospheric, especially with Christmas markets.
Local Customs
Irish pub culture is central; pubs are social hubs for conversation, music, and storytelling. It's customary to greet staff when entering a small shop or pub. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; 10-12% in restaurants for good service is standard, while rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common in pubs and taxis. Dress is generally casual but smart-casual for nicer restaurants. Respect is shown at historical and religious sites. Sunday is still somewhat observed as a quieter day, with some smaller shops having shorter hours.
Safety Information
Kilkenny is generally very safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions as you would in any city: be aware of your belongings in crowded areas and pubs. Violent crime is rare. The city centre and tourist areas are well-lit and patrolled. No specific areas need to be avoided, though it's wise to be cautious in quieter, unlit areas late at night. Common scams are infrequent but be wary of unofficial taxi operators; always use licensed taxis. Road safety is important, especially when driving on narrow rural lanes and adjusting to left-side driving.
Health Information
Healthcare standards are high. The primary public hospital is St. Luke's General Hospital in Kilkenny City. For emergencies, go to the Accident & Emergency (A&E) department. EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or its replacement, the GHIC. Non-EU travelers are strongly advised to have comprehensive travel health insurance. No specific vaccinations are required for Ireland. Tap water is safe to drink. Common health concerns for travelers are typical of Western Europe; be prepared for changeable weather to avoid colds. Pharmacies (chemists) are widely available for minor ailments.
Languages Spoken
EnglishIrish (Gaelic)
Quick Facts
Currency
Euro (EUR)
€
€
Timezone
Europe/Dublin +00:00 (GMT) / +01:00 (IST)
Calling Code
+353
Electricity
Driving Side
Left
Population
approx. 104,000
Area
2073 km²
Government
County Council (local authority within the Republic of Ireland)
ISO Code
KK