Should You Visit Kilkenny?

Is Kilkenny worth visiting?

Kilkenny is worth visiting for one to two days so that you can explore everything that the town has to offer. Kilkenny is home to the Kilkenny Castle. The town dates back 1,500 years and it has a medieval old town that is filled with churches, alleyways, and old city walls. There's also a number of outdoor adventures that make for a fun visit for kids and adults alike.

Kilkenny Castle, Ireland

Reasons to Visit Kilkenny

Museums
It's seeped in history and there are many historic landmarks in the area including Kilkenny Castle. Also make sure you check out the National Design & Craft Gallery, Saint Mary's Cathedral, and the Medieval Mile Museum.

Food
The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

Historical Sights
Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

Nightlife
You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.

Shopping
There's a mix of shopping malls, shopping streets, and local markets. Make sure you check out Market Cross Shopping Centre, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, Connolly's Red Mills, and Castleinch Sunday Market.

Authenticity
Kilkenny has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Kilkenny worth visiting in the Summer?

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during summer with average temperatures around 15°C (60°F).

The peak season for travel is summer in Kilkenny, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat popular with travelers, and in the high season it's busier than usual.

You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable town, especially in the nice weather. This is a great time of year to wander through the museums, admire the historic sights, and grab some drinks at a bar.

Is Kilkenny worth visiting in the Autumn?

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Kilkenny. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 11°C (51°F).

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. Soaking up that old town charm in the autumn is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to admire the wonderful scenery, browse around the old town, and browse through museums.

Is Kilkenny worth visiting in the Winter?

This is the low season for travel in Kilkenny. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.

The weather in Kilkenny can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 5°C (41°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums, the cuisine, and the historic old town. Also, you can enjoy the evening activities.

Is Kilkenny worth visiting in the Spring?

The weather in Kilkenny can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 8°C (47°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Kilkenny, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.

Soaking up that old town charm in the spring is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. This is a great time of year to browse the shops, browse the museums, and admire the wonderful scenery. Also, you can check out the historic old town and the nightlife.

Related

What is Kilkenny most famous for?

Kilkenny is most famous for its medieval castle and long running history. The town is very popular for its museums, food, and historical sights. It's also known for nightlife and shopping. It is often described as ancient, medieval, fascinating, and active.

What is the most famous sight in Kilkenny?

The most popular sight in Kilkenny is The Kilkenny Castle. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Kilkenny on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Kilkenny Castle and other attractions here.

How touristy is Kilkenny? Is it a popular town to visit?

Kilkenny is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Private walking Tour of Kilkenny. English, French or German: $109
• Historical tour of Kilkenny in French.: $13
• Kilkenny city tour in German.: $13
• Medieval Tour and Irish Coffee Tasting Experience: $55
• Kayak and SUP Tours Kilkenny: $27
• Whiskey Tasting Experience in Kilkenny: $33
• Shenanigans Walks - Guided Walking Tour in Kilkenny: $28
• Hurling Tours Ireland - O'Loughlin Gaels: $33

How long should I spend in Kilkenny?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Kilkenny is one to two days. Since Kilkenny has activities such as museums, dining, and historical sights, many visit for up to two days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Kilkenny? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Kilkenny?.