A tourist destination for over 250 years, Killarney is a welcoming and peaceful town, set on the shores of a lake and as colourful as all towns in the West. It's the Irish capital of adventure: carriage rides, boat excursions, hiking in the Killarney National Park, and more, await you whether you're travelling with family, as a couple, or solo.

History

Human presence in the region dates back to the Neolithic period. During the Bronze Age, inhabitants developed significant activity around copper extracted on Ross Island. Killarney gradually evolved under the control of warring tribes. The Fir Bolg, who excelled at stonework, erected forts, including Staigue. In the 7th century, Finnian of Clonard, an Irish monk canonised as a saint, founded a monastic school on Inisfallen Island in Lough Leane. Killarney subsequently became a hub of Christianity. Ross Castle was built in the 15th century, after the O'Donoghue clan defeated the Gaels. Tourism in Killarney began in the 17th century, driven by Viscount Kenmare who drew inspiration from the Lake District in England. The town received visits from many notable figures in the 19th century, including poet Percy Bysshe Shelley and Queen Victoria.

Discovering Killarney

Killarney opens wide spaces to explorers. While the High Street concentrates shops, restaurants and entertainment venues, it's especially on its periphery, in nature, where the finest things are found. Urban enthusiasts can still enjoy street performances and evening lights, a creamy pint of Guinness or homemade ice cream in summer. Killarney, one of Ireland's cleanest towns, is a perfect base to recharge.

A relaxed city break in Killarney

The three main streets of Killarney—High Street, Main Street and New Street—each offer wide passages perfect for strolling and soaking in the town's atmosphere. Behind the roundabout stand the old town hall, now occupied by a small business, alongside picturesque old buildings and weathered laneways. High Street is the shopping district, brimming with clothing boutiques, antique shops, bookstores and souvenir shops. Restaurants abound and cater to all tastes, as do bars that come alive with traditional and modern music in the evening. At the end of the street, the St Mary's Cathedral of Killarney, a beautiful 19th-century English Gothic structure, continues to welcome worshippers. Nearby, you'll find the bishop's house and the old Killarney monastery.

An unmissable activity, the Jaunting Car at Killarney is a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride through the town and its surroundings. Departing from Kenmare Place, the Jarveys, your drivers, will take you to see the finest sights in their horse-drawn cabs. You'll pass by Ross Castle, the Torc Waterfall, Muckross House and Killarney's three lakes.

Embrace the great outdoors

Killarney is certainly charming, but the surrounding countryside is an irresistible call to adventure. The landscape is made up of mountains, lakes and refreshing forests. It's a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking trails leading to Killarney National Park. Boat excursions are available on the lakes, and just 10 km west of town, you'll discover the Gap of Dunloe.

When to Visit Killarney

Killarney enjoys a warm, temperate climate, with heavy and recurring showers throughout the year, even during the dry season. The average annual rainfall is 1,305 mm. Average temperature stands at 10.2 °C. The town experiences peak tourist season in summer, but autumn and spring remain excellent alternatives for enjoying outdoor activities.

Plane

If you're coming from abroad, the nearest airport is Cork, approximately 90 km from Killarney. For domestic flights from Cork or Dublin, you can land at Kerry Airport, located just 11 km from town.

Train

Situated on the outskirts of town, Killarney Railway Station has a direct link to Dublin Heuston station and Cork.

Bus

You can reach Killarney by bus from several locations, including Dublin, Cork, Tralee and Kenmare.

Car

In Ireland, driving is on the left. Killarney is connected to the N72 national road which links it to Mallow and the N22 national road towards Cork and Tralee.

Bike

Bicycling is an excellent way to explore Killarney's scattered attractions—some are only accessible on foot or by bicycle. In addition to specialist providers, you can ask at hostels and hotels, most of which offer bicycle rentals.

Bus

Departing from the tourist office, a shuttle runs daily to major points of interest, including Muckross Castle, the Gap of Dunloe, Torc Waterfall, and more. Purchase a pass for unlimited travel. Tickets are available directly from the driver.

Taxi

Taxis rank on College St.

Car

Outside the town centre, where traffic can occasionally be heavy, driving through the Killarney countryside is pleasant.

What to Do in Killarney?

• Shop on High Street
• Enjoy street concerts in summer
• Visit St Mary's Cathedral of Killarney
• Experience the Jaunting Car
• Hike to Killarney National Park, and more