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Kilkenny

Kilkenny, Kilkenny, Ireland

Kilkenny, located in the heart of Ireland, is a picturesque city that effortlessly blends rich history with vibrant modernity. Known as the "Marble City" due to its stunning medieval architecture, Kilkenny offers a charm…

#Historic city#Medieval architecture#Cultural hub#Tourist destination#Ireland

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kilkenny.

Top Hotels in Kilkenny

Top Flights to Kilkenny

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kilkenny.

Tours

Explore the Medieval Mile

Walk through Kilkenny's historic Medieval Mile, featuring ancient buildings, the Kilkenny Castle, and St. Canice's Cathedral.

Black Abbey

A 13th-century Dominican abbey featuring stunning stained glass windows.

Shopping

The Kilkenny Design Centre

Shop for unique local crafts and designs at this leading retail outlet located opposite Kilkenny Castle.

Outdoor

Kilkenny Walking Trails

Discover the natural beauty of Kilkenny through its various walking trails.

Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum

Enjoy a relaxing day in these beautiful ornamental gardens.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kilkenny.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

26,500

Average weather

Kilkenny

Jan

7°2°

Feb

8°2°

Mar

10°3°

Apr

12°4°

May

15°6°

Jun

18°9°

Jul

20°11°

Aug

20°11°

Sep

17°9°

Oct

14°7°

Nov

10°4°

Dec

8°3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kilkenny.

What people love

Kilkenny, located in the county of Kilkenny, Ireland, is a charming and historic city that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. Some of the pros of traveling to Kilkenny include:

Rich history and heritage: Kilkenny is known for its well-preserved medieval buildings, including Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice's Cathedral. Visitors can explore these historic sites and learn about the city's fascinating past.
Vibrant arts and culture scene: Kilkenny is home to numerous art galleries, craft shops, and cultural festivals, such as the Kilkenny Arts Festival. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local arts scene and enjoy performances, exhibitions, and workshops.
Beautiful landscapes: The surrounding countryside of Kilkenny is characterized by lush greenery, rolling hills, and picturesque rivers. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling, fishing, and boating in the scenic natural surroundings.
Quaint streets and charming atmosphere: Kilkenny's compact city center is perfect for leisurely strolls along its cobbled streets, lined with traditional pubs, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. The city has a welcoming and friendly atmosphere that makes visitors feel at home.
Culinary delights: Kilkenny is known for its delicious local cuisine, including traditional Irish dishes and artisanal products. Visitors can sample local specialties at restaurants, farmers' markets, and food festivals throughout the city.

Overall, traveling to Kilkenny offers a unique blend of history, culture, nature, and hospitality, making it a wonderful destination for visitors looking to experience the best of Ireland.

What to know

There are a few potential cons to traveling to Kilkenny, Ireland, that you may want to consider:

Weather: Kilkenny, like the rest of Ireland, can have unpredictable weather with frequent rain and chilly temperatures, especially in the winter months. This may affect your outdoor activities and sightseeing plans.
Crowds: Kilkenny is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons. This could lead to crowded attractions, restaurants, and accommodations, potentially impacting your overall experience.
Cost: As a tourist hotspot, prices in Kilkenny may be higher compared to other parts of Ireland. Accommodation, dining, and activities could be more costly, so it's essential to budget accordingly.
Limited Public Transportation: While Kilkenny is a relatively small city, public transportation options may be limited compared to larger urban areas. Depending on your itinerary, you may need to rely on taxis or rental cars for transportation.
Tourist Traps: Like any tourist destination, there may be some tourist traps in Kilkenny where prices are inflated, and the experience may not be as authentic. It's essential to research and choose your activities and dining spots carefully.

Overall, Kilkenny is a beautiful city with a rich history and vibrant culture, but it's essential to be aware of these potential cons when planning your trip.

Kilkenny, located in the southeast of Ireland, is a city with a rich and varied history. Known for its medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene, Kilkenny has been a significant location in Irish history for centuries.

Early History: Kilkenny's origins date back to the 6th century when a monastery was established by St. Canice on the site where St. Canice's Cathedral now stands. The city takes its name from this saint, with "Kilkenny" meaning "Church of Canice" in Irish.

Medieval Period: Kilkenny flourished as a medieval town, especially during the Norman period. In the late 12th century, the Normans, led by Richard de Clare (Strongbow), invaded Ireland. The city was later developed by the powerful Butler family, who became the Earls of Ormond.

Kilkenny Castle, one of the most iconic landmarks, was originally built in the 13th century by William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke. The castle served as a symbol of Norman strength and was the seat of the Butler family for nearly 600 years.

During the 14th century, Kilkenny became a significant ecclesiastical center, and its status was elevated when it was granted a charter by King Edward III in 1609, giving it city rights.

17th Century and the Confederation of Kilkenny: One of the most notable events in Kilkenny's history occurred in the 17th century. In 1642, during the Irish Confederate Wars, the Irish Catholic Confederation was formed in Kilkenny, making the city temporarily the capital of Confederate Ireland. This was an attempt to govern Ireland independently from English rule, but the Confederation was dissolved in 1649 following Oliver Cromwell's invasion.

18th and 19th Centuries: The 18th century saw economic growth in Kilkenny, though it faced challenges like the rest of Ireland during the Great Famine in the mid-19th century. Industrial developments, including brewing and wool production, were significant during this period.

20th Century to Present: Kilkenny has continued to thrive as a cultural and historical hub. It is renowned for its well-preserved medieval buildings, such as St. Canice's Cathedral and the Black Abbey, as well as its vibrant arts scene, exemplified by the annual Kilkenny Arts Festival.

Landmarks:

Kilkenny Castle: A symbol of the city's medieval heritage, offering insight into its history and architecture.
St. Canice's Cathedral: A beautiful example of Gothic architecture with its round tower that offers panoramic views of the city.
The Black Abbey: Founded in 1225 and still an active place of worship, it houses stunning stained glass windows.
Rothe House: A fine example of a merchant's townhouse from the late 16th century, now a museum.
Smithwick's Brewery: Known for its brewing tradition, although the original brewery is now a visitor center.

Kilkenny remains a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a blend of historical exploration and modern Irish culture.