About Kilkenny
We're still writing a full guide to Kilkenny. In the meantime, explore its top-rated attractions below — ranked by real traveller ratings.
Top things to do in Kilkenny
The 76 highest-rated places in Kilkenny, ranked by travellers.
1
Historical places
Kilkenny Castle is a 12th-century Anglo-Norman fortress originally constructed by Strongbow to command a strategic cross...
2
Parks
Kilkenny Castle Park is a 50-acre Victorian-style pleasure ground situated directly adjacent to the historic 12th-centur...
3
Places of interest
Castlecomer Discovery Park is a 80-acre woodland recreational site built on the grounds of a former 19th-century coal mi...
4
Temples
St Canice's Cathedral is an 800-year-old Church of Ireland cathedral located in Kilkenny, Ireland. It serves as one of t...
5
Zoos
The National Reptile Zoo is Ireland's only dedicated reptile facility, focusing on education and conservation through cl...
6
Places of interest
The Smithwick's Experience is located at the original site of the St. Francis Abbey Brewery, where brewing dates back to...
7
Places of interest
Dunmore Cave is a series of limestone chambers formed over millions of years, renowned for its significant archaeologica...
8
Temples
St. Mary's Cathedral is the principal church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Ossory, designed by the renowned architect...
9
Museums
St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum is housed in a restored 13th-century church, serving as the starting point for exploring...
10
Temples
Founded in 1225 by William Marshal the Younger, The Black Abbey serves as a functioning Dominican friary in Kilkenny. Th...
11
Venues
UPMC Nowlan Park is the primary Gaelic Athletic Association stadium in County Kilkenny, Ireland, serving as the home gro...
12
Museums
Rothe House & Garden is a unique complex of three merchant townhouses built by John Rothe Fitzpiers between 1594 and 161...
13
Parks
Jenkinstown Wood and Walled Garden is a managed forest park located in County Kilkenny featuring a mix of mature conifer...
14
Venues
15
Museums
16
Parks
17
Parks
18
Historical places
19
Temples
20
Parks
21
Places of interest
22
Temples
23
Natural attractions
24
Places of interest
25
Historical places
26
Historical places
27
Historical places
28
Zoos
29
Places of interest
30
Historical places
Explore by category
Jump straight to what you're into.
Kilkenny on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Kilkenny
Spring and early autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather for sightseeing, with mild days and thinner crowds than mid-summer.
Two to three days is enough to cover the main highlights, with extra time for day trips to nearby attractions.
City centres are usually walkable, with public transport linking the main districts; check local apps for tickets and routes.
Staying near the old town or main station keeps the top attractions within easy reach on foot or a short ride.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 76 curated attractions in and around Kilkenny, ranked by traveller ratings.
Kilkenny Castle is the highest-rated place to visit in Kilkenny right now.
The largest category is historical places, with 23 places to explore.