A warm welcome and an energetic atmosphere greets you in Killarney. The real lure of this lively town is not just its amazing hospitality, but the breathtaking beauty of Killarney National Park. Pack comfortable shoes and get ready for some epic adventures, Ireland’s oldest national park is calling your name.
Things to Do in Killarney
Check out Mor Active and book in for an amazing outdoor adventure. By kayak, bicycle or bus, take a guided tour and see the best of Killarney. Discover enchanting Innisfallen Island where you’ll see wild Sika deer, cycle around Killarney National Park, or travel a little further to explore the magical Ring of Kerry.Â
Discover the incredible Ring of Kerry.
A scenic yet challenging course, Killarney Golf Club is pure paradise for golf fanatics. Play their flagship green, Killeen, and perfect your golfing skills as water features test you at most holes. Experience an 18th hole that has been described as ‘one of the most memorable holes in golf’, just try not to get too distracted by the magnificent mountain views.
On the outskirts of Killarney, St. Mary’s Cathedral is an exquisite Gothic-style building. Gaze at the intricate stained-glass windows, complemented by exposed wooden rafters and striking marble arches. Whether you take some time out to sit in silence or study the unique art and statues, visiting Killarney Cathedral is a meaningful memory to treasure long after your trip.
Start your tour of Killarney National Park at Ross Castle. Visit stately Muckross House and wander through the beautiful gardens. Walk along the woodland paths, crossing the gently flowing Owengarriff River to arrive at Torc Waterfall.
Listen to the crash of the roaring water and climb the 100 steps to the top for a bird’s eye view of Muckross Lake. Or drive through Killarney National Park and stop off at Ladies View and Moll’s Gap for incredible views of the Killarney Valley.
Get incredible views of Killarney National Park from Ladies View.
Next up is a trip to the Lakes of Killarney. The first lake, to the west of the town, is Lower Lake or Lough Leane. Explore the lakeside on a 10km paved hiking trail passing by Ireland’s deepest lake, Muckross. Along your travels, look out for the Upper Lake, the smallest of the three.
If you visit between February and October, go fishing for brown trout in the lakes. You don’t need a permit and it’s one of the most scenic places in Ireland to while away an afternoon.
Visit the stunning Killarney Lakes.
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Book in with Killarney Riding Stables to see the park on horseback. Suitable for both beginners and advanced riders, you can take a leisurely walk or a lively canter. If time allows, go on one of the day tours and trek through the vast national park at your own pace. Or check out Pony Tales Stables, sure to be a hit with the little ones as they greet the adorable ponies.
Boat Cruises and Climbing Expeditions
Take a cruise along scenic Lough Leane with Killarney Lake Tours and marvel at the magnificent peaks of the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks. Spot eagles swooping high in the sky and enjoy the comfort of the cosy heated boat. Book in for the one-hour tour and see Killarney’s spectacular scenery from another view entirely.
If you’d rather stick to dry land, go for a guided hike. Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohill, is a major milestone for many hikers and expert mountaineers from Kerry Climbing are on hand to show you the way. Get to grips with rock climbing or take a mountain skills course, while enjoying the jaw dropping views.
Places to eat in Killarney
Start off with a vanilla latte or tasty pancakes in Noelle’s Café and make sure you get the perfect Instagram snap. Browse the local shops for some handmade gifts to bring home and stop for a lunchtime treat at Murphy’s Ice Cream. Try the homemade brown bread and Dingle sea salt flavours, you’ll be back for seconds before your holiday is over.
Hearty pub grub or five-star cuisine, discover Killarney’s bustling gastropubs and upmarket restaurants. Sample a fusion of Irish and French cuisine at the Foley’s Seafood and Steak Restaurant, or make a night of it and dress up for dinner in The Great Southern Garden Room Restaurant. Sit back and appreciate the luxurious setting with sparkling chandeliers and polished tableware, before feasting on fillet mignon and scallops.
Spend an evening exploring Killarney’s picturesque streets and stop into Quinlan’s Seafood Bar for some delicious fish and chips.
Don’t miss a visit to Quinlan’s Seafood Bar.
Best pubs in Killarney
Plan a night out in Killarney and start in J.M. Reidys. This eclectic pub oozes charm with its cosy snugs, cobblestone floors and fascinating memorabilia. Have a cocktail or order from the extensive gin menu.
Bring the GAA fan in your life to Tatler Jack, a shrine to great sporting moments. With a stage for live music and a big screen for sporting events, soak up the lively atmosphere and get to know the locals. Stop into Murphy’s of Killarney for a creamy pint of Guinness or try their delicious cheeseboard paired with a glass of red.
If you have some time to spare, make the journey to O’Connor’s Bar. Head across the scenic Conor Pass to Cloghane, lunch here is a great way to break up a drive while enjoying the spectacular scenery.
Accommodation in Killarney
Welcoming B&Bs, relaxed self-catering, scenic camping and luxury hotels, there’s lots of great accommodation in Killarney.
The Dunloe Hotel
Treat the whole family to a stay at the stunning Dunloe Hotel and Gardens. Play a game of tennis, discover 64 acres of beautiful parklands and enjoy gourmet meals in the hotel restaurant. Movie nights take place during the summer for the kids and you can even bring your pup along on your staycation. The five-star hotel is a special place to holiday, get the grandparents on board and make some special memories.
The Gleneagle
Whether you want to chill out in a cosy apartment or enjoy great hotel service, the Gleneagle is a popular choice for visitors seeking accommodation in Killarney. Catch an incredible live concert at the INEC or spend a few hours in the impressive leisure centre while the little ones hang out in the kids club. Soak up the views of Killarney National Park and have dinner in the Flesk Restaurant or Backstage Bar.
Muckross Park Hotel
Part of the original Muckross Estate, the Muckross Park Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Killarney. Savour the peace and tranquillity in its Vitality Suite, visit the spa garden and admire the scenery from the outdoor hot tub. In the evening, chat over fresh seafood in the Yew Tree Restaurant or have an informal meal in Monk’s Lounge, you’ll never want to leave.
Treat yourself to a five star stay in Muckross Park Hotel.
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The Europe HotelÂ
With its world-class ESPA spa facilities and amazing views, the Europe Hotel deserves to be experienced at least once. After a day of sightseeing, unwind in the indoor and outdoor vitality pools or indulge in a holistic spa treatment. If you have some extra time, book in for a horse riding lesson as it’s the best way to see the glorious grounds.
Killarney Camping
Get up close with nature on a camping weekend in Killarney. A short spin from town, book into Fossa Caravan and Camping Park. Admire the spectacular views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and let the kids explore the grounds. With a games room, tennis court, and playground, there’s plenty to do whatever the weather.
Or head 1km east of Killarney to Flemings White Bridge and explore this gorgeous riverside camping park. Stay in one of the cheerful caravans or if you’d rather sleep under the stars, pitch your tent and settle in for the night.
Flemings White Bridge Caravan and Camping
Flemings White Bridge Caravan and Camping
Killarney, Co. Kerry
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