The Final Draft > How to Spend a Perfect Day in Kilkenny: A Visitor’s Guide
How to Spend a Perfect Day in Kilkenny: A Visitor’s Guide
Whether it's your first or your fifteenth visit, Kilkenny can always offer something new to discover. So, what does the ideal day in the marble city look like? We've crafted an itinerary to help you navigate and enjoy a perfect day out in Kilkenny. With this guide, all the hard work is already taken care of, leaving you free to fully immerse yourself in the experience. So, what are you waiting for?
Take the Scenic Route
While you can easily take the car from Dublin to Kilkenny, why not opt for a more relaxing and hassle-free experience by taking the train? This choice not only benefits the environment but also frees you from worrying about parking, fuel costs, and which route to take. Simply sit back, unwind, and relish the picturesque journey taking you across rolling fields. The journey takes just a little over an hour and a half—ample time to dive into an audiobook or check out our other Kilkenny guides to ensure you make the most of your adventure.
Get Inspired
Kilkenny proudly boasts the title of the medieval capital of Ireland and during your visit, you’ll soon discover why. Start your exploration with a visit to the stunning Kilkenny Castle, standing proudly in the heart of the city. As you approach this age-old fortress, you’ll get a taste of times gone by in the Marble city. The castle’s beautiful gardens are free to explore, while an in-depth tour of the castle offers a fascinating glimpse into the storied past of the city.
However, don’t make the mistake of limiting your experience of Kilkenny to the castle itself. The city is bursting with artistic and historic gems just waiting to be explored. Take your time afterwards to peruse the Butler Gallery, where contemporary art is matched with historic charm. Or spend the remainder of your morning exploring Rothe House, a restored 17th-century merchant’s townhouse and garden. Each sight offers a unique lens into Kilkenny’s cultural tapestry.
Treat yourself to an Experience
Once you’ve learned a little bit about the city’s medieval past, discover another side to the city’s iconic charm during the afternoon: its local brewing tradition. At the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny you’ll dive deep into the ins and outs of the brewing process, how the Smithwick’s family influenced the Irish brewing industry, and its lasting legacy through the years. Take a tour through the brewery discovering interactive exhibits as led by a local guide or go on the in-depth Masters of Ale experience where you’ll take part in a sensorial masterclass and a tutorial in pouring the perfect pint of Smithwick’s.
How many days do I need in Kilkenny?
Kilkenny is a fairly compact city and easy to explore all the main sights and attractions in one day. Kilkenny has a lot to offer and it is recommended that you stay overnight but it can be done in a day if driven from Dublin.
What’s even better than spending one perfect day in Kilkenny? Staying longer and soaking up all the city has to offer. While you can get a taste of the city’s culture in one day, the best way to experience the Marble City is over a few days, fully exploring its historic sights, arts and crafts, shopping, gastronomy, and much more. A range of Love Kilkenny Longer offers are available on accommodation and attractions, making it perfect for spending two or three nights to discover the county's beautiful sights and outdoor activities. Take the opportunity to get lost in nature and explore the beautiful Woodstock Gardens, Castlecomer Discovery Park, and Kilkenny’s stunning local caves. With so much to do and see, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Enjoy a Local Brew
What’s the perfect way to end a day in Kilkenny? Relaxing with a well-deserved, refreshing drink. After your exploration of the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny, you can opt to stay on in the lively Barrel Yard. During summer 2024 from May to September you can enjoy free live music, DJ sets, and delicious street food, all served up fresh in our cosy, heated venue. It's the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration - or a great way to start a night out in the city!