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Top things to do in Killarney

Attractions, tours, and activities in Killarney

Killarney: the city's best neighborhoods

Find a great area to stay in Killarney

About Killarney

Including tips for the best time to visit Killarney

Located on the shores of Lough Leane in County Kerry, Killarney is a perfect town to soak up Ireland’s history, architecture and landscapes. A popular tourist destination all year round, Killarney welcomes visitors with a warm hospitality and an iconic Irish charm.

Killarney is packed with plenty of historic Irish monuments. There’s St Mary’s Cathedral, a superb example of Gothic revival architecture that has sat just outside the town since 1855. Be sure to check out Killarney House too, a stunning country estate once home to the Earls of Kenmare. Then there’s Ross Castle, a 15th-century tower-house built by the legendary O’Donoghue clan, which today stands as an homage to medieval Ireland.

County Kerry’s lush landscapes are right on Killarney’s doorstep, and few are more majestic than the UNESCO-listed Killarney National Park. Ireland’s first national park is renowned for its sprawling woodlands, towering mountains and native wildlife including red deer. Here, you’ll also find the Lakes of Killarney – three separate bodies of water famous for their natural scenery. With breathtaking views of lakes and forests, the park is understandably one of Ireland’s most visited natural attractions.

Tonight

From $82 per night

Next weekend

From $417 per night

Most popular time to visit October-December
Cheapest time to visit January-March
Local currency € 1 = $1.08
Language English
Average weekend price $185 per night
Average weekday price $175 per night
Average stay 1 night

Points of interest in Killarney

Stay near the top sightseeing spots in Killarney

Killarney reviews

What other travelers say about Killarney

10

Killarney is a beautiful town, and it's best to visit...

November 21, 2023

Killarney is a beautiful town, and it's best to visit outside of tourist season. We enjoyed the parks and the shopping area, and the whole town is easy to walk about. We rented a car to drive around the Ring of Kerry, and I would have taken more than one day to drive it, or would have taken a bus just to hit the highlights.

Elizabeth
Elizabeth United States of America
10

Killarney and the surrounding areas are picturesque.

November 4, 2023

Killarney and the surrounding areas are picturesque. We have been travelling to Killarney for many years and can honestly say that County Kerry is one of the most beautiful areas in Ireland. There are many places to visit as well as many restaurants for all ages.

Angela
Angela United Kingdom
10

The town itself is quite touristy which was positive in that...

October 30, 2023

The town itself is quite touristy which was positive in that it was still lively in late October, but perhaps doesn't offer an authentic Irish experience! However, it’s great fun, with lots of shops and pubs and bars to visit. The best bit of Killarney though is the wonderful National Park which is right next to the town centre. It is home to red and Japanese Sika deer, it has lakes and castles and walking trails for all abilities. Definitely worth a look! The town is also a great base for exploring the Ring of Kerry, and the Beara and the Dingle Peninsulas.

Suzy
Suzy United Kingdom
10

Plenty to do and see.

October 25, 2023

Plenty to do and see. From Hill walking/hiking, horse riding, kayaking, boat trips, golf, of course, deer rutting, national park, sight seeing, fantastic restaurants, quaint to fancy pubs, shopping or just lazing around and sipping coffee/tea and people watching etc, You name it they have it! NOT TO MENTION THE "JARVIS" and their stories.

anne
anne Ireland
10

Killarney is such a special place.

October 17, 2023

Killarney is such a special place. The views are amazing and it's a short walk to the National Park. Situated in a beautiful location, the town has many restaurants, bars and traditional Irish pubs. We had lunch in J.M Reidy, a charming traditional pub, with historical items all over the walls. At the back there is a labyrinth of other bars and eating spaces. There are plenty of high street shops including Pennies (Primark), Poundland, Pharmacy etc. quite a few souvenir shops too which are perfect to pick up gifts for the family. The people are so welcoming and friendly. Highly recommend for a short getaway. Easy to navigate the streets and there are affordable taxi companies if you need to go a little further out.

Victoria
Victoria United Kingdom
10

I spent 3 nights in Killarney.

October 6, 2023

I spent 3 nights in Killarney. Had some free time the day I arrived so visited the grounds at Muckross House which are stunning. The next 2 days were tours, Gap of Dunloe and the Ring of Kerry, both with Dero's and both brilliant. Gorgeous Celtic Jewellery at McCormacks on Main Street, Lucy was so helpful and the prices very reasonable. There is so much more I would have liked to have seen but sadly had to move on.

Karen McCormack
Karen McCormack Australia

Popular places to stay in Killarney

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