Killarney is known as the gateway to the County or “Kingdom” of Kerry. The small town’s natural surroundings, including woodland, lakes and high peaks, are its biggest draws. The town itself is a popular destination for visitors year-round, thanks to its 19th-century architecture, narrow cobbled streets and lively pub culture.Killarney is located in the southwest of Ireland and surrounded by Killarney National Park. The town is the starting point for the famous Ring of Kerry tourist route. This 110-mile (177-kilometer) drive takes in forests, waterfalls and rugged coastline.Explore Killarney’s narrow lanes and stumble across cafés and craft shops. Visit 19th-century landmarks, such as St. Mary's Cathedral and Muckross House. The small town center is easy to navigate on foot. Killarney has a long tradition of hospitality and offers plenty of hotels and bed and breakfast accommodations. Fierce competition among pubs and restaurants keeps quality high. Visit one of the many venues offering live music and entertainment and join locals in having a rowdy good time, especially on weekends. If you’re looking for something quieter, visit midweek, or ask locals for current recommendations.From raucous St. Patrick’s Day celebrations to Christmas festivities, Killarney hosts a variety of festivals year-round. The town is especially busy in the summer months of July and August. Visit during these peak seasons to participate in the special celebrations or come in spring or autumn to avoid the crowds.Venture outside the town on scenic hiking trails or tourist drives to reach the three Lakes of Killarney and the peaks of the national park. Killarney sits on the shores of Lough Leane. Take a boat tour or simply walk around this lake and enjoy mountain views. Torc Waterfall and many other nature spots are also easy to reach on foot or by car from Killarney town.
Killarney Travel Guide
Reviewed on 16 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 22 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 21 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 17 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 21 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 21 Apr. 2024
Popular places to visit
Killarney National Park
See the rare fauna and visit the quaint cottages adorning the picturesque lakes and forests of this mountainous national park.
Ross Castle
Standing guard over the lake, this silent ruin provides a glimpse of life in an Ireland that was often a land of warring clans.
Muckross House
Enjoy varied delights on this splendid estate, which offers a look into daily life in the past, both inside a luxurious home and on a busy farm.
St. Mary's Cathedral
In a green field stands an impressive cathedral especially beloved by its townsfolk. Inside, find a welcoming community church decorated with beautiful stained glass.
Torc Waterfall
Hidden in the mossy forest is a sight that can refresh any weary hiker, where fresh waters hurtle over stones, sheltered by a leafy canopy.
Muckross Abbey
Mysterious ruins tell stories from a shadowy past and invite you to find peace in what is left of their mossy walls.
Activities
1-Day Ring of Kerry Rail Tour
Private Tour:Ring of Kerry,Kerry Cliffs, starting in (from) Killarney
Private Tour of Kerry and Killarney from Cork and Cobh
Private Tour: Dingle Peninsula from Kerry. Waterville, Tralee etc
Ring of Kerry Full-Day Tour from Limerick
Private Tour Dingle Ring & Slea Head Drive
Reviews of Killarney
4/5 - Good
Lots to see, beautiful countryside, great small villages, but at certain can be very busy making parking an issue.
4/5 - Good
A great jumping off point for driving the ring of Kerry. People were very friendly.
4/5 - Good
Good nights sleep
5/5 - Excellent
My husband and I really liked Killarney, the restaurants and bars were great, we could have stayed longer.
5/5 - Excellent
Wonderful national park. Boat trip across lakes and up rivers to Lord Brandon Cottage superb.
4/5 - Good
Very close to Muckross house, the town isn't too far & convenient location to do the Ring Of Kerry.