Ireland Travel Guide: The Best Things to Do in Killarney

Last updated on January 7th, 2025 at 07:09 am

Killarney is a beautiful town located in the stunning County Kerry in southwestern Ireland. Killarney is home to the famous Killarney National Park which is where you’ll find beautiful places like Ross Castle and Muckross Abbey. It’s also one of the most popular stops on the famous Ring of Kerry drive. Killarney town itself is incredibly charming and filled with lively pubs and great restaurants. If Killarney is part of your Ireland itinerary, as it should be, then read on to discover the best things to do in Killarney, Ireland.

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How to Get to Killarney, Ireland

Killarney is located in the southwest of Ireland in County Kerry. It’s about 87 km from Cork, 115 km from Limerick, 215 km from Galway, and 310 km from Dublin. Killarney is well connected via public transport.

Getting to Killarney by Air

The nearest airport to Killarney is the Kerry airport (KIR) which serves both international and domestic routes. The Kerry airport is located about 20 km outside of Killarney. Upon arrival you can take a bus, train, or rent a car to get into Killarney or further afield to beautiful places like the Dingle Peninsula. Alternatively, you could fly into the Cork or Shannon airports each which are about a two-hour drive to Killarney.

Getting to Killarney by Train

Ireland’s train network, the Irish Rail, connects Killarney to Dublin Heuston train station via route 05. This route stops at Kent Station in Cork if you’d like to add Cork to your itinerary. You could travel from Dublin to Cork, explore the fun things in Cork, and then hop back on the train to Killarney!

I recommend booking your train ticke in advance as the prices get more expensive, and possibly sell out, the closer you get to your trip. Especially if you’re visiting during high tourist season.

For more information and to book your Irish Rail ticket visit this website.

Pro Tip: Spend a little extra to book the refundable ticket just in case plans change. This makes it super easy to change travel dates or cancel and get a refund (speaking from experience).

Getting to Killarney by Bus

I took the bus from Galway to Killarney which included a change in Limerick. The bus is one of my favorite ways to get around Ireland without a car. The journey is usually scenic, the buses usually have decent WiFi and it’s a great time to catch up on some sleep!

Bus Éireann, Expressway, and Dublin Coach offer regular service from various destinations in Ireland. However, most routes go through Limerick. So if you can get to Limerick, then you can catch a bus to Killarney.

Here are the most popular routes to Killarney:

• Bus Éireann Route 14: Limerick to Killanrey
• Dublin Coach Route 300: Dublin to Killarney 
• Expressway Route 40: Rosslare to Tralee (the best way to get to Killarney from Cork)

Pro Tip: To keep it simple see all bus routes and prices in one place I like to use busbud!

Getting to Killarney by Car

If you’re doing a greater Irish road trip, then it’s quite simple to get to Killarney by car! The drive from Dublin takes about 4 hours, while Cork and Limerick are roughly 1.5 and 2 hours away, respectively. Having a car also allows you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

Get your Ireland rental car here!

How to Get Around Killarney

Once you make it to Killarney it’s super easy to get around as many of the main attractions are within walking distance. 

On Foot: The town of Killarney is a walkable town with many attractions, shops, and restaurants located within close proximity. You can walk to St. Mary’s Cathedral and even to Ross Castle from town.

By Bike: Renting a bike is a popular way to explore Killarney National Park and the surrounding countryside. This is how I saw Killarney National Park and it was one o the best days out! There are a number of bike rental shops in town and some accommodations also offer rentals.

By Car: I’ve been told one of the best ways to see County Kerry is via car. So if you’ve rented a car, you’ll have the flexibility to drive the Ring of Kerry at your own pace and can even take a day trip to the Dingle Peninsula. However, parking in the town center can be limited during peak seasons so make sure your accommodation comes with parking!

By Jaunting Car: For a uniquely Irish experience, take a traditional jaunting car ride (a traditional horse-drawn carriage) through Killarney National Park. It’s a delightful way to see the sights and learn about the area from local guides. 

Book your Jaunting Car Tour here!

By Tour: There are multiple guided tours are available for those who prefer not to drive and want to see a lot in a little time. There are many full day tours for the Ring of Kerry, to the Dingle Peninsula, or a boat ride on the Lakes of Killarney.  These options are especially convenient for visiting out-of-town landmarks.

Book your Killarney day tour here.

The Best Time of Year to Visit Killarney

There really is no bad time of year to visit Ireland, and Killarney. It really just depends on what level of crowds and type of weather you’re willing to handle. That being said – the weather in Ireland is predictably unpredictable so maybe it’s best to just focus on when you can get time off to go! 

• Spring (March to May): This is a beautiful time to visit, with blooming flowers and mild temperatures. It’s perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. The high tourist crowds of summer are not yet a factor so crowds should be manageable and accommodation prices reasonable.
• Summer (June to August): Summer offers warm weather and long days, making it ideal for exploring the windy roads of Kerry. However, it’s also the busiest season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation. 
• Autumn (September to November): I visited in the fall and it was absolutely magical. The foliage in the park was stunning and seeing the red deer in the misty morning on my sunset walk through the park is something I’ll never forget. The weather is typically pretty pleasant for outdoor adventures and the summer crowds have all gone home so it should be peaceful! 
• Winter (December to February): While colder and quieter, winter in Killarney has its own charm. Cozy pubs, festive decorations, and a peaceful vibe make it a great time for a relaxed visit.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Killarney

You’ll need at least two days in Killarney! Of course, this depends on how long your overall visit to Ireland is, but if you’ve got 7 days in Ireland, I’d recommend allocating at least two of them to Killarney and the surrounding area. 

Here’s a sample itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive in Killarney early in the morning and visit Killarney National Park. Spend the late afternoon and evening exploring Killarney town.
• Day 2: Take the day trip of your choice and spend a relaxing evening in Killarney.

The Best Things to Do in Killarney

Ride a Bike Through Killarney National Park

One of the most popular things to do in Killarney, Ireland is visit Killarney National Park. Killarney National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Ireland. Killarney National Park is Ireland’s oldest national park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve as it is home to rare fauna that has been mostly undisturbed for hundreds of years! The red deer you may see grazing in the grass are the last remaining indigenous red deer herd in Ireland! 

I rode a bike through the park and think it’s one of the best ways to see all of the sites and get away from the crowds! 

I’d planned to rent a bike from a shop in town as I’ve found biking in Ireland is such a fun way to not just see the sites, but also get some great exercise. However, a friend I made in the hostel where I was staying lent me his bike for the day! 

It’s simple enough to rent a bike in Killarney if you can’t find someone generous enough to lend you one. Once you’ve got your wheels you’ll be set up to an awesome day riding past hidden beaches, to a waterfall, and along the lakes of Killarney National park.

The Muckross-Dinis Loop is a great option for this ride because it is mostly flat – there are a few rolling hills, but nothing crazy. The loop is paved and it allows you to see all that Killarney National Park has to offer!

The Muckross-Dinis Loop

The Muckross-Dinis loop will take you to Muckross Abby, Muckross House, Dinis Cottage & Old Weir Bridge, and Torc waterfall. Along this route, you’ll pass hidden beaches along the Killarney lakes where you can pull over for a rest and a snack. This bike ride is about 11 miles and it took me approximately 6 hours to finish it, stopping frequently for photos.

To start the Muckross-Dinis loop, cycle out of Killarney on N71. There is a bike path on both sides of the road. However, I advise staying on the right side as the bike path eventually turns into a wide sidewalk that is shared with walkers and jaunting cars. Cycle down this path until you see the entrance to Killarney National Park, you can’t miss it.

Muckross Abbey

First, follow the signs toward Muckross Abbey, an old Franciscan Friary that is free to explore. The ruins of Muckross Abbey are breathtaking. You’ll find a cemetery and various rooms that were used for worship and living. The most spectacular find was the square courtyard with archways and an ancient Yew Tree standing tall in the center.

Muckross House

After exploring the Abbey, head toward Muckross House. Personally, I think this house should really be called a mansion, it’s huge! I opted not to pay €9 to go inside. Instead, I spent about an hour and a half exploring the grounds and gardens of the house, on foot. Don’t worry about your bike, there is a place to lock it up. Once finished, I sat on a bench in front of the mansion, with a view of the expansive lawn and Muckross lake, snacked on a banana and sipped some water to get energy for the next 5km of the bike ride.

If you need a bite to eat, there is a cafe at Muckross House.

Dinis Cottage

After a snack, cycle the one-way route toward Dinis Cottage. Along the way, there are plenty of photo ops! There are lots of small beaches with beautiful views of the lake, mountains, and fall colors on the trees. It’s only 5km to Dinis Cottage but it took me about an hour to get there stopping frequently to snap some photos! 

Dinis Cottage & The Meeting of the Waters

Dinis Cottage sits just beyond Brickeen Bridge overlooking the opposite side of Muckross Lake. The cottage is actually a small shop that serves tea and cakes. Besides stopping here for a breather and a treat, there’s another reason to park your bike. Just behind the cottage is a short path that leads to the Meeting of the Waters. This is where the Upper Lake, Muckross (Middle) Lake, and Lower Lake of Killarney National Park meet. It’s a beautifully tranquil spot to gaze upon Old Weir Bridge.

A bit further down the road, you’ll see a sign to the right for Old Weir Bridge. If you’d like you can lock your bike up to a tree and walk to the actual bridge. It takes about 10 minutes and is clearly marked.

Torc Waterfall

Up next, bike toward Torc Waterfall. As you head toward the waterfall, the cycle path within the park ends and re-connects with N71. There isn’t a bike lane on this section of N71 and not much of a shoulder, but the cars pass slowly.

You won’t be on the main road too long, only about 10 minutes until another path to the left appears to bring you back into the woods – safe from the cars. About 5-minutes later, you’ll reach the parking lot for Torc Waterfall. Lock your bike up on one of the railings and walk 5 minutes to Torc Waterfall.

This area is fairly busy with foot traffic as it is so close to the road and a popular stop along the Ring of Kerry. Behind Torc Waterfall, there are steps that I thought might bring me to a view of the top of the falls. I was wrong – they connect to a longer hiking trail, which once I realized I returned back to the waterfall and the bike. FYI those steps are called the cardiac steps…give them a climb and you’ll find out why!

The “Alternate” Loop

While there is only one direction allowed to cycle from Muckross house to Dinis Cottage and Torc Waterfall, there is an alternate way to organize some of the sites. Torc Waterfall is very close to Muckross House. In fact, within 5 minutes of leaving Torc Waterfall I was back to Muckross House.

So what you could do is skip Muckross House in the beginning part of the cycle and instead finish there. Or, you could see Muckross House and Torc Waterfall first and then return to the path for the rest of the loop, knowing you’ll pass by them on your way back into town.

Ross Castle

Ross Castle is not on this loop, but it’s a beautiful walk to from town. Ross Castle is a 15th century castle built by an Irish Chieftan named O’Donoghue Mór. The castle sits on the edge of Lough Leane and legend has it that O’Donoghue sleeps under the waters of the lake. Every 7 years he rises in the morning on a white horse and if you see it, you’ll have good fortune for the rest of your life!

It is free to wander the grounds of the castle, but you can also take a guided tour which are given on a first come first serve basis.

Visit St. Mary’s Cathedral

St Mary’s Cathedral is a beautiful gothic cathedral in the heart of Killarney. If you’re walking to Ross Castle, you’ll pass it on the way so why not stop in to check out the beautiful stained glass windows.

Just don’t be like me and open the doors to a wedding in progress!

Hike the Gap of Dunloe

There are a number of hikes to do in the Killarney area and beyond, but one of the most popular is the Gap of Dunlow hike. I wish I did this while I was there but it’s firmly on my itinerary for the next time I’m in Killarney. 

The Gap of Dunloe is a narrow mountain pass between the rugged mountains of MacGillicudy Reeks and the Purple Mountains that was created by glaciers thousands of years ago. There are 5 glacial lakes and plenty of stunning scenery for a nice day out.

The starting point of the hike is at Kate Kearny’s cottage and there are two options, a short and a long hike, both are out and back hikes. The short goes from Kate’s cottage to the Wishing Bridge and back (about 2km or 40 minutes). The long walk goes from Kate’s cottage to Lord Brandon’s Cottage (11km or 2.5 hours). At Lord Brandon’s cottage you can take a boat back to Ross Castle if you don’t want to walk back.

You could also bike the Gap of Dunloe or do the jaunting car!

Book your Gap of Dunloe boat or jaunting car here. 

Listen to Live Music

There is no better way to end a day in Ireland than with live traditional music in a pub! A few spots to check out for a post adventure pint are Murphy’s, O’Connor’s, Courtney’s, or Reidy’s.

You’re guaranteed some good craic at any of these pubs!

What to Wear in Killarney

Check out my complete Ireland packing list for any time of year for more details on what to wear in Killarney. Here are few essentials to pack for Killarney:

1. Weather & Activity Appropriate Clothing: Killarney is a reasonably casual town. You’ll see a mix of people in hiking attire, while others are more fashion-forward. In the evenings, people tend to dress a bit nicer for dinner, and the pub; however, a nice pair of jeans is acceptable. Pack your favorite activewear if you plan to go hiking or to ride a bike around the park. Of course, remember things like undies, good pairs of socks, and bras. When you’re packing your clothing, think in terms of layering. Irish weather is notoriously fickle, so you may need to adjust as the day progresses. 

2. Rain Gear: Pack a lightweight rain jacket and a travel umbrella that easily packs into a small backpack. Consider rain pants if you’re planning lots of outdoor activities!

3. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Killarney is an outdoor enthusiast paradise so ensure you have comfortable and sturdy walking shoes. A pair of white sneakers (I loved these Keen sneakers for a recent trip) and Blundstones would be the ideal pair of shoes to bring. 

4. Lightweight Day Bag: You’ll likely be gone from your room all day, so whichever bag you choose, whether it’s a backpack or crossbody bag, make sure it is big enough to fit your camera, water bottle, rain jacket, and portable charger. Side note I recently got the Nordace backpack and love it!

5. Camera: Killarney is filled with historical sites and spectacular scenery you’ll want to capture. Whether you use your smartphone or a fancier camera, ensure you have everything you need to document your Killarney adventure.

6. Adapters & Chargers: Ensure you have the necessary adapters for Irish electrical outlets and chargers for your devices. I love this universal travel adapter. Remember, a portable charger to take while you’re out exploring. I’ve been using this portable charger for years, and it still powers my devices at least three times from one charge!

7. Reusable Water Bottle: You can drink the tap water everywhere in Ireland. It tastes pretty good too! Carry a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day as needed. I love my Hydro Flask.

8. Travel-Sized Toiletries: The key to packing in carry-on only is using travel-sized toiletries. Remember essentials like sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and any personal care items you may need during your trip.

9. Travel Insurance & Important Documents: Keep your travel insurance details, passport, and any necessary documents in a secure, waterproof pouch. I get my travel insurance through World Nomads or SafetyWing.

Remember to tailor this list based on your specific needs, preferences, and the season of your visit.

Where to Stay in Killarney, Ireland

Budget-Friendly Accommodation

• Neptune’s Hostel: Simple, clean hostel with a common space & kitchen. Book your stay here.
• Slieve Bloom Manor Hostel: Beautiful hostel that plants a tree for every guest! Book your stay here.
• Black Sheep Hostel: I stayed here and loved it. Great people and great location! Book your stay here.
• Castle Lodge: Family run hotel right next to Killarney National Park. Book your stay here.

Mid-Range Accommodation

• The Lake Hotel: Lake front hotel with old world charm and Irish hospitality. Book your stay here.
• Randles Hotel: Stunning hotel with exceptional service just 10 minutes to town. Book your stay here.
• Murphy’s of Killarney: Townhouse in the heart of Killarney above the best pub in town. Book your stay here.
• Dromhall Hotel: Beautiful spot in between town and the park! Book your stay here.

Luxury Accommodation

• Muckross Park Hotel & Spa: 18th century hotel in Killarney National Park. Book your stay here.
• Cahernane House Hotel: A Hilton property in the park with a secluded feel and gorgeous rooms. Book your stay here.
• Great Southern Killarney: Historical hotel filled with character near the train station! Book your stay here.
• Killarney Royal Hotel: Spacious rooms with great staff and perfect location near the park. Book your stay here.

There are so many things to do in Killarney and beyond – it’s hard to see it all! But this Killarney itinerary will give you a solid foundation for planning your trip to this beautiful corner of Ireland. I hope that you’re able to add at least a few of these to your Ireland itinerary and even find some hidden gems of your own! Enjoy your trip!

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