Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Kilkenny City Centre invites you to step back in time along cobblestone streets where medieval architecture tells centuries-old stories. Wander the Medieval Mile to discover Kilkenny Castle overlooking the River Nore, climb the tower at St. Canice's Cathedral, or duck into craft workshops showcasing traditional Irish artistry. The historic district buzzes with authentic charm around every corner.
Traditional pubs serve hearty Irish meals alongside locally-brewed Smithwick's beer, often with the bonus of live fiddle music after dark. Most attractions sit within easy walking distance on pedestrian-friendly streets, though cobblestones can be uneven. Boutique hotels and B&Bs in converted historic buildings offer the perfect base for exploring this compact Irish gem.
Newpark lets nature-loving travelers escape the tourist crowds while still being close to Kilkenny's attractions. The neighborhood's crown jewel is Newpark Marsh nature reserve, where boardwalk trails wind through wetlands perfect for birdwatching. Sports fans can catch a match at nearby Nowlan Park, while families might enjoy the National Reptile Zoo just a short drive away.
The area offers authentic suburban Irish living with family-run B&Bs and guesthouses providing warm hospitality and home-cooked breakfasts. Though dining options are limited within the neighborhood, Kilkenny's city center is just 10-15 minutes away by car or occasional bus service.
Deansground
Deansground captures medieval Ireland in all its limestone-and-cobblestone glory. The towering Kilkenny Castle and Gothic spires of St. Canice's Cathedral transport you through centuries of Irish history. Wander through atmospheric narrow laneways where ancient stone buildings create a living museum of Ireland's past. Traditional pubs serve up authentic music alongside hearty stews and local beer.
Historic guesthouses and boutique hotels offer charming accommodations with exposed beams and period features. The River Nore provides scenic walking paths just steps away from the busy tourist center. Getting around is best done on foot through the pedestrianized medieval core, though cobblestones require careful stepping.
Lyrath
Lyrath's peaceful countryside charm offers an elegant escape just minutes from Kilkenny city. The prestigious Lyrath Estate Hotel features Georgian architecture, sprawling gardens with roaming peacocks, and a championship golf course. Nature lovers can explore paths winding through ancient oaks, while families enjoy the National Reptile Zoo and The Watershed's sports facilities.
The dining scene showcases upscale Irish cuisine with local ingredients. A car is recommended as public transit is limited, though taxis from Kilkenny take just ten minutes. Most visitors choose the estate's luxury accommodations, making Lyrath perfect for refined relaxation away from urban bustle.
Smithsland offers a quiet slice of real Irish life just outside Kilkenny's bustling center. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at Kilkenny Golf Club while history buffs explore nearby Talbots Tower. The neighborhood gives you that peaceful home-away-from-home feeling while keeping Kilkenny's medieval treasures like Butler House and the National Craft Gallery just a short trip away.
Finding a comfy bed and breakfast here means trading tourist crowds for authentic charm and better prices. You'll need a car or taxi to zip into the city center since public buses run on limited schedules. The trade-off? Coming home to peaceful streets where you can actually hear birds singing instead of pub crawlers.
You can spend time browsing the exhibits at St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum during your trip to Kilkenny. While in this walkable area, you can savor the lively bars.
You can browse the exhibits at Rothe House, a museum with a story of its own, during your travels to Kilkenny. While you're here, you can savor the lively bars.
Wander medieval streets to discover Kilkenny Castle's grand halls and lush gardens overlooking the River Nore. Sample local brews at Smithwick's Experience before catching a hurling match at UPMC Nowlan Park.
Kilkenny is one of Ireland's gems - a city small enough to walk everywhere but with all the wows of a larger city - castle, cathedral, shopping and great food. Easily reachable from Waterford and Wexford as well as points north, it's worth the trip.
Tammi
10.0/10
Excellent
There are several interesting sight-seeing attractions in Kilkenny, all within a short walk. I recommend taking a tour of Kilkenny Castle and the Medieval Mile Museum. The Left Bank is a great restaurant. There's lots of quality shopping.
Mary Ellen
10.0/10
Excellent
We planned on going to a few other cities but decided to spend more of our time in Kilkenny. There's so much to see and do. Great shopping and pubs. We really enjoyed our tour of the castle!
Alex
10.0/10
Excellent
Loved Kilkenny, road train is informative and fun, great selection of pubs and restaurants. Lots of live singers. Only stayed 1 night, happy to stay longer or go back.
robert
10.0/10
Excellent
A great town full of very friendly people. Lots to see and do during the day and a vibrant night life.
Gareth
10.0/10
Excellent
Lots to see and do here, lovely riverfront, shopping. The castle is a treasure!
Anonymous traveler
10.0/10
Excellent
Such a cute town! Loved the castle, the cathedrals and all the restaurant and pub options!
Marie
10.0/10
Excellent
First time here travelling from Australia. Absolutely loved the area and all it has to offer. People are extremely friendly and helpful.
Elizabeth
10.0/10
Excellent
Very cool city with loads of old city and castle influences. Looks to be a great spot to roam around in on foot.
Eliot
10.0/10
Excellent
Unique mix of old and new with lots of dinning options and things to do and see.
"We arrived to Kilkenny for a wedding on Thursday. We chose this location because it was slightly outside of the town center, had its own parking and was relatively close to all of our needed amenities. The staff were lovely and while the food wasn’t for my pallet, the rest of my family enjoyed it. We’d do it again!! "
"Host was friendly and helpful providing suggestions and directions to the area. Breakfast was great with lots of choices and tasty food. Area was quiet but only a 20minute walk to the town centre making it easy to explore the area. We enjoyed our stay. Thanks "
If you want the flexibility to change your travel plans to Kilkenny, most accommodations provide refundable* bookable rates. You can see these accommodations by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow the results down.
Where should I consider staying in Kilkenny if I'm looking for an affordable accommodation?
What will the weather in Kilkenny be like during my visit?
July and August are typically the warmest months in Kilkenny when the average temp is 57°F. January and February are the coldest months when the average temperature is 41°F. December and November are the months with the most rain.
Why should I book my Kilkenny hotel through Hotels.com?
There are lots of reasons to book your Kilkenny trip with us: our free cancellations on selected hotels gives you flexibility, and with One Key™, our rewards program, you will be able to earn and use OneKeyCash™* on all eligible bookings such as hotels, car rentals, flights, vacation rentals and more on Hotels.com, Expedia and Vrbo.
Find out more about Kilkenny
Find out more about Kilkenny
There's a lot visitors like about Kilkenny, especially its bars and historical sites. Simply book a local tour to enjoy your stay a little more. Learn about the local heritage of Kilkenny at landmarks like Butler House and St Mary's Cathedral. And while you're here, be sure to stop by St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum and Smithwick's Brewery Tour.
