KILLARNEY
Killarney is the jewel in Ireland’s tourist crown, a vibrant gateway to some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. Its charming town is perfectly nestled beside the breathtaking mountains, lakes, and forests of Killarney National Park.
This region is an essential stop on the Wild Atlantic Way, offering a blend of Irish history, lively traditional culture, and nature on a majestic scale. It is the heart of County Kerry’s natural beauty.
Most Popular Attractions
Killarney Area Core
- St. Mary’s Cathedral: An impressive Gothic Revival structure, one of the most important 19th-century churches in Ireland, located near the town center.
- Ross Castle: A magnificent, restored 15th-century tower house on the shores of Lough Leane, offering guided tours and historical insight.
- St. Mary’s Church of Ireland: A historic church in the town center, notable for its Victorian architecture and stained glass.
- Killarney House and Gardens: The beautifully restored former seat of the Earls of Kenmare, now an interpretive centre with stunning grounds.
- Franciscan Friary: The ruins of a medieval friary located in the heart of Killarney town, offering a peaceful glimpse into the past.
- Killarney Jaunting Cars: Traditional horse-drawn carriages offering guided tours of the town and National Park, a quintessential Killarney experience.
- High Street & New Street: The main commercial streets, full of traditional pubs, restaurants, and shops selling local crafts and goods.
- Peter Cox Photography Gallery: Showcasing stunning landscape photography of the local area, offering a modern artistic perspective on the park.
Killarney National Park – Lakes & Nature
- Lough Leane (Lower Lake): The largest of Killarney’s lakes, famous for its islands, including Ross Island.
- Muckross Lake (Middle Lake): Separated from Lough Leane by the Muckross Peninsula, known for its deep waters and surrounding woodland.
- Upper Lake: The smallest and most remote of the lakes, set dramatically in the mountains and accessible via the scenic Gap of Dunloe.
- The Lakes of Killarney Boat Tour: Various boat trips that traverse the lakes, often including the Old Weir Bridge and the meeting of the waters.
- Meeting of the Waters: The scenic spot where the three lakes converge, surrounded by lush woodland.
- Torc Mountain: A moderate climb offering spectacular panoramic views of the lakes and the National Park.
- Innisfallen Island: Home to the ruins of Innisfallen Abbey, a major center of learning and where the Annals of Innisfallen were compiled.
Killarney National Park – Historic Estates & Sites:
- Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms: A beautiful Victorian mansion, its formal gardens, and nearby working farms showcasing 1930s-era rural life.
- Torc Waterfall: A beautiful, easily accessible cascade, particularly impressive after heavy rain, located off the main Ring of Kerry road.
- Dinis Cottage: A charming 18th-century hunting lodge situated at the Meeting of the Waters, now a popular tea room.
- The Gap of Dunloe: A narrow mountain pass carved by a glacier, offering stunning, rugged scenery, often traversed by foot, bike, or traditional pony and trap.
- Ladies View: A famous vantage point on the Ring of Kerry route, offering one of the most iconic views of the National Park’s lakes and valleys.
- Moll’s Gap: Another scenic pass with superb views, especially of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range.
- Old Kenmare Road: A historic walking and cycling route that traverses the park, connecting Killarney with the town of Kenmare.
- Killarney Golf & Fishing Club: Offering three championship courses and opportunities for salmon and trout fishing on Lough Leane.
Activities & Experiences
Tour the Gap of Dunloe: Experience this stunning mountain pass by taking a traditional boat trip through the three Lakes of Killarney (Lough Leane, Muckross, and Upper Lake) followed by a hike, cycle, or horse-drawn “pony and trap” ride through the Gap itself.
Take a Jaunting Car Ride: Hire a traditional horse-drawn carriage from the town center or Muckross to be guided through Killarney National Park by a local “jarvey,” who provides history and folklore.
Hike to Torc Waterfall: Take the short, scenic walk to this magnificent 20-meter cascade at the base of Torc Mountain. For a challenge, continue up the steps to the Torc Mountain Loop for panoramic lake views.
Visit Muckross House, Gardens, and Traditional Farms: Tour the elegant 19th-century Victorian mansion, stroll through its exquisite gardens, and step back in time at the traditional farms to see rural Irish life in the 1930s/40s.
Explore Ross Castle: Discover this beautifully preserved 15th-century tower house on the shore of Lough Leane and take a guided tour to learn about its history and the O’Donoghue Mor clan.
Cycle the National Park: Rent a bicycle in Killarney town and follow the dedicated trails, such as the Muckross Lake Loop or the scenic route to Dinis Cottage and the Meeting of the Waters, where the three lakes converge.
Take a Kayaking Tour on the Lakes: Enjoy a unique perspective of the lakes and Ross Castle by joining a guided kayaking tour, often including a trip to the ruins of Innisfallen Abbey on Innisfallen Island.
Go Horse Riding or Pony Trekking: Experience the National Park’s trails and ancient woodlands from horseback, a traditional way to explore the Killarney demesne.
Enjoy Live Traditional Irish Music: Spend an evening in a traditional pub in Killarney town center, such as Murphy’s or J.M. Reidy’s, for an authentic session of “Trad” music, often held nightly.
Walk the Knockreer Circular Walk: An easy, multi-access trail starting close to the town center, perfect for a short stroll with views of the Lower Lake and the chance to spot the native Red Deer.
Take a Day Trip on the Ring of Kerry: Use Killarney as the starting point for a full-day drive or guided coach tour of this famous coastal route, stopping at scenic viewpoints like Ladies View and coastal towns.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Optional: While a car is essential for exploring the wider County Kerry (like the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula), the town and much of Killarney National Park are very accessible without one.
Walking is Essential: Killarney town is compact and easily walkable. Most shops, pubs, and accommodation are centrally located, and the entrance to the National Park is just a short stroll away.
Cycling: Killarney is very bike-friendly with many rental shops and flat, well-maintained cycling trails throughout the National Park, making it one of the best ways to reach Muckross House and Torc Waterfall.
The “Big Red Bus” and Tours: A hop-on/hop-off bus service (often called the “Big Red Bus”) connects the town center with all the major sights in the National Park (Ross Castle, Muckross House, Torc Waterfall) during peak season. Coach tours for the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula also depart daily from the town.
Jaunting Cars & Boats: These traditional, localized modes of transport are a popular way to see the sights within the National Park, such as travelling to Ross Castle or as part of the combined Gap of Dunloe tour.
From the Airport/Train: Kerry Airport (KIR) is 15 minutes away, with bus and taxi connections to Killarney. Killarney also has a central train and bus station (Bus Éireann) for national connections, including to Dublin and Cork.
Weather Preparedness: As Killarney is on the Atlantic coast, the weather is famously changeable. Always pack layers and a good waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes, even in summer. The area is at its most beautiful when the rain has fallen, making the waterfalls and mossy woods vibrant.
The Local Dialect: The “Kerry accent” is distinct and can be strong. Don’t hesitate to politely ask someone to repeat themselves—locals are very friendly and understanding.
Pub Culture and Music: Pubs are the heart of Killarney’s social life. Most traditional pubs will have live Irish traditional music (a “session”) most nights of the week, especially during the tourist season. Order a pint of Guinness, a local craft beer from Killarney Brewing, or try a shot of Irish whiskey.
“The Jarvey’s Stories”: The drivers of the horse-drawn jaunting cars are known as “jarveys.” They are often a rich source of local history, folklore, and humorous stories, providing a unique cultural experience that is worth the cost.
Dining: Killarney has a wide range of dining options, from traditional pub grub (like fish and chips or stew) to high-end restaurants. Dinner is typically eaten earlier than in southern Europe, generally between 6 PM and 8 PM, though many places serve later.
Hidden Gems & Local Spots:
Aghadoe Viewpoint: A fantastic spot just outside the town with stunning panoramic views over Lough Leane, the National Park, and the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks.
Innisfallen Abbey: The ruins of this 7th-century monastery are on an island in Lough Leane. Access is via boat from Ross Castle and is a peaceful, historic escape.
The Meeting of the Waters: Located near Dinis Cottage, this tranquil spot is where the three Lakes of Killarney converge before flowing out to the Atlantic. It’s beautiful and often less crowded than the main sights.
Killarney House & Gardens: A beautiful historic house and park right on the edge of the town center, recently restored and offering a free, interactive exhibition on the National Park.
Top Restaurants
The Laurels Pub & Restaurant [$25-$45] – A classic, traditional Killarney pub run by the O’Leary family for over a century, offering a cozy atmosphere and hearty, generously portioned Irish dishes like Irish Stew and Potato Cakes.
Bricín Restaurant and Boxty House [$30-$50] – Famous for its traditional Irish cuisine, particularly the signature Boxty (a traditional Irish potato pancake), served in a charming, rustic setting on High Street.
The Porterhouse Restaurant [$25-$45] – A family-run gastropub known for its warm, old-world charm, extensive menu of hearty Irish favorites, and commitment to local ingredients like Certified Irish Hereford Prime beef.
Cronins Restaurant [$30-$50] – An authentic, family-owned Killarney institution established in 1957, loved by locals for its time-tested Irish fare, including chowder, lamb cutlets, and locally sourced fish.
Celtic Whiskey Bar & Larder [$30-$50] – More than just a bar, this spot offers excellent gourmet pub food and traditional dishes with a twist, all served alongside a vast, impressive selection of Irish whiskeys.
Danny Mann Pub [$20-$40] – A beloved establishment on New Street with a traditional Irish ambiance, flagstone floors, and live music, serving classic pub grub in a lively setting.
Murphy Brownes [$30-$50] – Located on High Street, this restaurant provides a truly local experience with passionate foodies at the helm, offering a menu focused on quality, fresh ingredients.
Stonechat Restaurant [$30-$50] – Housed in a beautifully converted traditional pub just off the main street, offering a cozy and calm environment for enjoying well-executed, contemporary dishes.
Kayne’s Bar & Brasserie [$30-$50] – A relaxed, small bar and brasserie with the option for dining on a lovely terrace, serving a varied menu of comfort food and classics.
Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Terrace [$25-$45] – Nestled in the heart of the old town, this long-standing spot offers a warm Irish welcome and a menu of traditional Irish and international cuisine.
The Mad Monk by Quinlans [$35-$55] – A modern spot with a vibrant ambiance and a focus on incredibly fresh, high-quality Irish seafood, sourced daily from the company’s own boats off the Kerry coast.
Vendricks Restaurant [$35-$55] – A contemporary dining spot known for its tapas-style small plates inspired by global flavors but utilizing locally sourced ingredients in a friendly, modern setting.
The Tan Yard [$40-$60] – A modern, stylish restaurant focused on local produce, offering special menus for vegetarians and vegans in a setting known for its brilliant welcome and contemporary flair.
Treyvaud’s [$40-$65] – A smart, family-run restaurant on the High Street specializing in Modern Irish and international cuisine, renowned for its consistently high quality and attentive service.
Killarney Brewing & Distilling Co. Bar & Restaurant [$30-$50] – Located with panoramic views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, this spot offers a menu of modern Irish cuisine designed to complement their craft beers and spirits.
The Peregrine [$60-$100] – Located in the stunning Killarney Park Hotel, this award-winning restaurant offers modern, sophisticated cuisine with a focus on seasonal Irish produce in an elegant setting.
Yew Tree Restaurant [$60-$90] – An award-winning fine dining experience set in the luxurious, original Victorian lounge of the Muckross Park Hotel, offering elevated cuisine within Killarney National Park.
The Panorama Restaurant [$70-$110] – Situated in The Europe Hotel & Resort, this restaurant offers elevated dining with Irish and International cuisine, boasting one of the most enviable views over the Lakes of Killarney.
The Castlelough Restaurant [$60-$90] – Located in the Lake Hotel with spectacular lakeside views, this award-winning fine dining restaurant focuses on the very best seasonal produce from local Kerry suppliers.
The Herbert Restaurant [$60-$90] – Found in the grand Cahernane House Hotel, this award-winning dining room offers exquisite menus showcasing the best of local Kerry ingredients in a luxurious setting with beautiful views.
Quinlan’s Seafood Bar [$20-$40] – A quintessential stop for fresh fish, this no-frills seafood bar serves daily catches from its own boats, with generous portions of classics like fish and chips.
Khao Asian Street Food [$15-$30] – A small, bustling spot offering fresh, vibrant Thai food and other Asian street dishes, popular for its stand-out curries and great-value lunch deals.
Piccolo Pizza [$15-$25] – A small but popular spot in Killarney for authentic Italian flavors, specializing in flavorful, thin-based pizzas.
Casita Mexicana [$15-$30] – A hidden gem offering delicious, warm, and friendly Mexican food, a great option for something a bit different from traditional Irish fare.
Luna Deli & Wine [$15-$30] – A cool deli by day specializing in simple, flavorful food, barista coffee, and breakfast, which transforms into a wine bar in the evenings with an eclectic selection of wines and local Irish cheeses.
The Jarvey’s Rest [$20-$40] – A unique, traditional pub dining experience located at the Muckross Park Hotel, known for its lively atmosphere and traditional pub food within the National Park.
Ross Castle Garden Café [$15-$25] – A simple, popular cafe near Ross Castle, perfect for a casual lunch or light snack while exploring Killarney National Park.
Dinis Cottage [$15-$25] – A charming, rustic cottage café located deep within Killarney National Park near the meeting of the waters, offering simple food and refreshments in a picturesque setting.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
J.M. Reidy’s: Found on Main Street, this pub and venue complex with a unique history (once a hardware store and sweet shop) offers an expansive interior with multiple bars and a fairy-lit courtyard. Their cocktail menu features ‘Sweet Shop Specials’ alongside classics.
Pig’s Lane: Located on College Street, this stylish, award-winning underground bar has a speakeasy vibe, a curated drinks list crafted by a world-champion mixologist, and a hidden Whiskey Parlour for enthusiasts.
The Lane at The Ross Hotel: Tucked away on Brewery Lane, this bar is known for its cool, quirky ambiance and creative cocktail compilation. Its glass-fronted exterior overlooks a lively laneway, perfect for people-watching in the town center.
The Garden Bar (Killarney Park Hotel): A sophisticated yet informal setting within the Killarney Park Hotel, near the edge of the town center, offering classic cocktails and a refined atmosphere. It also features a dedicated Whiskey Room.
Celtic Whiskey Bar & Larder: Situated on New Street, this establishment focuses on its vast whiskey collection but also offers bespoke cocktails and Irish craft gins, with knowledgeable staff in a modern bar setting.
The Shire Café & Bar: A modern, stylish spot in the town center offering a range of cocktails, spirits, and craft beers. It has a relaxed atmosphere and often features live music.
Liquid Lounge: An elegant and comfortable bar found on Main Street Killarney, offering a relaxed atmosphere often enhanced by smooth piano melodies in the town center.
Hilliards: Found on Main Street, this spot exudes old-school glamour with exposed brick and a sumptuous interior. It’s known for its decadent style, which extends to its food and cocktail menu.
Killarney Brewing and Distilling Company: A little outside the main town center (about a ten-minute drive), this spot boasts an upstairs bar and restaurant with large windows overlooking the beautiful Killarney National Park and mountains, serving house-brewed beers and inventive, locally inspired cocktails.
Scotts Bar & Courtyard (Scott’s Hotel): Located in the heart of the town center, this popular venue offers a fantastic outdoor courtyard and a lively indoor bar, perfect for enjoying drinks with a buzzing atmosphere.
The Brehon Bar (The Brehon Hotel): A cozy, stylish bar within The Brehon Hotel, situated slightly outside the town center but close to Killarney National Park, providing a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying high-quality drinks.
Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Terrace (The International Hotel): Located centrally on Kenmare Place, this bar offers a blend of Irish charm and a great selection of drinks, with a terrace perfect for a more relaxed setting.
Courtney’s Bar: A traditional Irish pub on Plunkett Street, known for its history since the late 1800s, offering a warm welcome and a genuine pub experience, which often includes a strong spirit and mixer selection.
The Laurels Pub & Restaurant: Situated right in the middle of town on Main Street, this classic bar is famous for its lively atmosphere, live music, and a strong selection of drinks, including local and international offerings.
Murphys Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse: A rustic pub on College Street with historical décor and stone walls, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy traditional Irish drinks and often live music.
The Killarney Grand: A centrally located venue on Main Street famous for its vibrant nightlife, featuring a dedicated nightclub space, a live music bar, and a piano bar, ensuring a diverse range of entertainment under one roof. (Club)
McSorleys: Located on College Street, this venue functions as a nightclub above a pub, known for its DJs and live Irish music, making it a perfect place to “dance the night away.” (Club)
Sala 21 (at J.M. Reidy’s): Part of the sprawling Reidy’s complex on Main Street, this area hosts party nights with a DJ, offering a more dedicated space for dancing and high-energy music. (Club/Late Bar)
Social 15: Often mentioned as a good spot for dancing and good music, this venue in the town center contributes to the high-energy late-night options in Killarney. (Club)
Danny Mann Pub: A well-known traditional Irish pub that, like many Killarney pubs, features live music and a lively, high-spirited atmosphere that often extends into the late hours in the town center. (Late Bar/Pub)
The Laurels Pub & Restaurant (Late Night): In addition to its pub offerings, this central Main Street venue becomes a very lively spot in the evenings, with traditional Irish music and dancing, drawing a large, energetic crowd. (Late Bar/Pub)
O’Donoghue Public House: Known for its traditional Irish food and vibrant live music, this pub in the town center creates a memorable, lively, and often late-night experience. (Late Bar/Pub)
The Speakeasy Bar: A lively Irish pub in the town center that, while not a dedicated nightclub, is known for its live music and high-energy atmosphere that lasts into the later hours. (Late Bar/Pub)
Dan Linehans Bar: A traditional pub located centrally, which is known for a great pint and a lively atmosphere, often featuring music and a good local crowd into the evening. (Late Bar/Pub)
O’Connors Traditional Pub: A pub with a focus on traditional Irish culture and cuisine, which maintains a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that is a popular spot for socialising late into the evening. (Late Bar/Pub)
The INEC (Ireland’s National Events Centre): While not a club, this major venue located near the edge of Killarney National Park and outside the main town center frequently hosts large concerts, comedy shows, and events that offer a significant late-night entertainment option. (Entertainment Venue)