Kilkenny City is a captivating medieval destination in Ireland, offering a deep dive into history with its iconic Kilkenny Castle and the historical Medieval Mile. It combines ancient architecture and cultural experiences with a lively atmosphere, making it a desirable location for a diverse range of visitors.
For socializing, Kilkenny City provides a vibrant selection of traditional Irish pubs, restaurants, and cafes, especially around its city center. These establishments often feature live music and offer a welcoming environment for visitors to mingle with locals and other tourists, though the nightlife leans more towards authentic pub experiences rather than a strong 'party' scene for younger crowds.
Top 7 Things to do in Kilkenny City
Visitors can immerse themselves in historical landmarks, explore local crafts, and experience the city's rich cultural heritage through interactive tours and workshops.
1. Kilkenny Castle
Explore Kilkenny Castle, a magnificent 13th-century fortress, which stands proudly within expansive parklands. A visit allows for a journey through its grand interiors, including the impressive Great Hall, and peaceful strolls through the beautifully maintained gardens overlooking the River Nore. This iconic landmark offers a deep connection to Ireland's aristocratic past.
Cost: Self-guided tour: Adult €8.00, Senior (60+) €6.00, Child/Student (6-18) €4.00, Family (2 adults + 3 children) €20.00. Guided tour: Adult €12.00, Senior €10.00, Child/Student €6.00, Family €30.00. Entry to the parklands and gardens is free.
Transport: The castle is centrally located in Kilkenny City and is easily accessible on foot from most city accommodations. A public car park is available nearby for those arriving by car.
2. St. Canice's Cathedral & Round Tower
Discover St. Canice's Cathedral, Ireland's second-largest medieval cathedral, featuring impressive Gothic architecture and historic monuments. Visitors can climb the ancient 9th-century Round Tower, one of only two in Ireland accessible to the public, for unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views of Kilkenny City and the picturesque surrounding landscape.
Cost: Entry to the Cathedral and Round Tower is approximately €5-7 for adults, with family tickets also available (prices vary, please check the official website for the most current rates).
Transport: Situated within walking distance of Kilkenny city centre. While there is no direct parking at the cathedral, street parking and city centre car parks are available nearby.
3. Medieval Mile Museum
Step into history at the Medieval Mile Museum, housed within the meticulously restored 13th-century St. Mary's church and graveyard. This interactive museum provides a captivating journey through 800 years of Kilkenny's past, showcasing civic treasures, ancient high crosses, and elaborately carved tombs. Younger visitors can enjoy a fun hunt for hidden LEGO® minifigures.
Cost: Interactive Audio Tour: Adult €7.00, Student/OAP €6.00, Child €3.00, Family (2 Adults & up to 2 Children under 16) €15.00. Guided Tour: Adult €10.00, Student/OAP €9.00, Child €5.00, Family €25.00. Booking in advance online is recommended for potentially better prices.
Transport: The museum is located in the heart of Kilkenny City Centre and is easily reachable on foot.
4. Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny
Immerse yourself in the story of Ireland's oldest ale at the Smithwick's Experience. This interactive tour, located on the site of the original brewery, delves into over 300 years of brewing tradition, showcasing the history of the Smithwick family and the brewing process. The experience concludes with a complimentary pint of Smithwick's (for visitors over 18).
Cost: Standard Smithwick's Experience: Adult from €20.00, Senior (+65) from €18.00, Student (+18) from €18.00, Child (7-17) from €10.00, Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) from €48.00. Children under 6 are free. An upgrade for a tasting paddle of different ales is also available.
Transport: The Smithwick's Experience is located in Kilkenny City, approximately a 10-minute walk from Kilkenny Castle, making it easily accessible on foot.
5. Kilkenny Design Centre
Discover the best of Irish craftsmanship and design at the Kilkenny Design Centre. Housed in the beautifully restored former stables of Kilkenny Castle, this centre offers an impressive selection of handcrafted items, including pottery, jewellery, knitwear, and homeware. It is a perfect spot for unique gifts and also features an award-winning food hall and restaurant.
Cost: Entry to the Kilkenny Design Centre is free. Costs apply for purchases and dining.
Transport: Conveniently located directly opposite Kilkenny Castle in the city centre, the Design Centre is easily reached by walking.
6. Medieval Mile Walking Tour
Embark on a guided walking tour to uncover the rich history and hidden gems along Kilkenny's Medieval Mile. These tours typically cover significant landmarks such as Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral, the Black Abbey, and charming medieval passages like the Butter Slip, while guides share engaging local stories and historical facts.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the tour provider and duration. A representative cost for an adult is between €20.00 and €30.00. Some tours offer student/senior discounts and family rates (e.g., Adult €20, Student/Senior €18, Family €45 with Pat Tynan Walking Tours).
Transport: Walking tours generally commence from a central meeting point in Kilkenny City, such as the Tourist Office or near Kilkenny Castle, making them entirely walkable.
7. Pottery Painting Workshop
Unleash creativity at a pottery painting workshop, such as The Happy Pottery. This relaxing and hands-on activity allows participants of all ages to choose and paint their own ceramic pieces. Once completed, the items are glazed and fired, ready for collection as a unique souvenir or gift.
Cost: Starting from approximately €17.00 per ceramic piece. A deposit of around €20.00 may be required when booking, which is typically deducted from the final cost.
Transport: The Happy Pottery is located on Kickham Street, which is within comfortable walking distance from the city centre. For those outside walking range, local taxi services are available with an initial charge of €3.80-€4.20.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
