Hotels in Kilkenny

Kilkenny Hotels

Kilkenny may be Ireland’s smallest city, but it is also its finest medieval treasure. It certainly packs in a wealth of historical culture, as well as a charming independent shopping scene and beautiful green spaces for summer frolics and winter walks. Presided over by the spectacular castle, which draws visitors from far and wide, there are dozens of Medieval, Tudor and Victorian buildings to explore across the city, each one offering a different glimpse into Kilkenny’s colourful and complex past.

Things to see

From the moment you arrive in Kilkenny, you’ll be swept back through 900 years of history, thanks to the imposing stone fortress which dominates the cityscape. This is Kilkenny Castle, the city’s star attraction. Take a guided tour through the opulent wings inside, which range from Medieval to Victorian. Then you can relax on the manicured lawn outside, or take a stroll through the perfumed garden, which has a definite air of romance about it. Just make sure you leave time for Kilkenny’s other delights, including the Black Abbey, which exudes gothic gloom, and the Shee Alms House, a pretty old stone building squeezed into a street full of characterful townhouses. This area of the city centre is great for browsing antiques and curios before stopping for a well-earned coffee or locally-brewed Kilkenny ale.

Hotels in Kilkenny

There is a wide range of hotels in Kilkenny, from 5-star luxury spa hotels to budget B&Bs. In Kilkenny’s luxury hotels, you’ll stay in a beautiful room featuring contemporary design. If you tire of the mini-bar, room service is on hand, or you can make use of the full-service spa and fitness centre. In the mid-range hotels, you’ll find comfortable, modern rooms complete with WiFi access and complimentary breakfasts. Some hotels also have onsite restaurants and bars.

Where to stay

Kilkenny’s city centre has the greatest concentration of hotels and offers a good variety, including luxury and discount hotels. Many hotels here are family-friendly, with multi-bed rooms available. If you choose to stay here, all the main attractions will be within easy walking distance, and there are plenty of restaurants and bars close at hand. Alternatively, for a more tranquil leisure getaway or a romantic retreat, try one of the country house hotels either north or south of the centre. You’ll have access to golf courses, leisure facilities, and views of the emerald countryside. Central Kilkenny is within easy reach.

How to get to Kilkenny

Kilkenny is well-connected by road and public transport to most other Irish cities, so getting there is straightforward. For overseas visitors, flying into Dublin Airport is the most convenient option. From there, you can hire a car or take an airport transfer; the journey takes about 90 minutes. There is also a public bus service with a regular service from the terminal to Kilkenny, a journey of about 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi to Dublin’s train station and take a direct train to Kilkenny. Once in the city, you can get around easily on foot.