Things to do in Kilkenny

Activities, attractions and tours

A rural landscape with rolling hills, a river, and several houses surrounded by trees.
A river flowing through a valley with a stone bridge.
A river with a bridge, a castle, and colorful buildings.
A stone bridge over a calm river, surrounded by lush greenery and historic buildings.
A stone archway leading to a historic building with a tower, a parked car, and a sign for a catering unit.

Things to do

Kilkenny: St Canice's Cathedral and Round Tower Climb

Kilkenny: St Canice's Cathedral and Round Tower Climb

€10
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Kilkenny: St Canice's Cathedral and Round Tower Climb
Picture 3 for Activity Kilkenny: Smithwick's Beer Experience

Kilkenny: Smithwick's Beer Experience

€22
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Kilkenny: Smithwick's Beer Experience
Kilkenny city tour in German.

Kilkenny Walking Tour with Local Guide – History & Stories

€15
per adult
Kilkenny Walking Tour with Local Guide – History & Stories
Kilkenny Tour in French with a Local Irish Guide

Kilkenny Tour in French with a Local Irish Guide

€15
per adult
Kilkenny Tour in French with a Local Irish Guide
Medieval Mile Walking Trail

Medieval Mile Street Tour

€18
per adult
Medieval Mile Street Tour
Kilkenny Dark Tours

Kilkenny Dark Tours

€19
per adult
Kilkenny Dark Tours
Shenanigans Walks - Guided Walking Tour in Kilkenny

Shenanigans Walks - Guided Walking Tour in Kilkenny

€30
per adult
Shenanigans Walks - Guided Walking Tour in Kilkenny
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Most popular experiences in Kilkenny

Tours & day trips

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Full Day Tour to Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough and Kilkenny

Full Day Tour to Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough and Kilkenny

Activity duration is 9 hours and 15 minutes
9.8 out of 10 with 93 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €45 per adult
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Private & custom tours

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5 Day South of Ireland Tour

5 Day South of Ireland Tour

Activity duration is 5 days
10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is €5,800 per traveller*
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Food, drink & nightlife

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Kilkenny: Smithwick's Beer Experience

Kilkenny: Smithwick's Beer Experience

Activity duration is 1 hour
9.2 out of 10 with 53 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €22 per adult
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Water activities

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Kilkenny: Guided City Boat Tour with Kilkenny Castle Views

Kilkenny: Guided City Boat Tour with Kilkenny Castle Views

Activity duration is 45 minutes
9.8 out of 10 with 58 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €15 per adult
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Holiday & seasonal tours

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Kilkenny Dark Tours

Kilkenny Dark Tours

Activity duration is 1 hour and 15 minutes
9.6 out of 10 with 19 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €19 per adult
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What to do in Kilkenny

Stay near popular Kilkenny attractions

A river with a bridge, a castle, and colorful buildings.

Kilkenny Castle

9.4/10 (525 reviews)
This majestic 800-year-old fortress showcases the Butler family's legacy through centuries of evolution. Wander through opulent interiors with the magnificent Picture Gallery and relax in the formal rose gardens.
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Where to stay in Kilkenny

Find the best Kilkenny areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Kilkenny
Learn more about Kilkenny
A river with a bridge, a castle, and colorful buildings.

Kilkenny City Centre

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.

A stone building with a statue of a man, a staircase, and a well-maintained lawn.

Newpark

Though Newpark may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like The National Reptile Zoo and Smithwick's Brewery Tour.

A large, historic stone castle with multiple towers and arched windows.

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.

Deansground

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

A historic castle with a large courtyard, a central tower, and a well-maintained lawn.

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.

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.

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