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In this no-nonsense, local’s guide, discover the best things to do in Killarney Ireland and learn how to craft a truly memorable trip.
Killarney is one of those places where Ireland’s wild heart beats strongest. The national park stretches across 26,000 acres from the bustling town to the Kerry coastline, sweeping past the McGillycuddy’s Reeks and Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil.
I want to share a practical guide to this special corner of Ireland – one that cuts through the tourist noise and helps you explore everything from the glistening Lakes of Killarney to the former Muckross Estate – which was actually Ireland’s first national park when it was gifted to the state in 1932.
The town itself has all the warmth you’d expect in Kerry. Yes, it caters to visitors – that’s inevitable as a gateway to some of Ireland’s most spectacular landscapes. But beneath that, you’ll find a characterful, quintessentially Irish heart beating strong.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the must-sees around the Muckross Estate, share which spots are worth driving to (like the dramatic Gap of Dunloe), and give you honest tips about getting around. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, I’ll help you make the most of your time.
Here are my favourite things to do in Killarney.
Essential links for planning your trip to Killarney
→ Search for and compare car rentals via Rentalcars.com
Top-rated Ring of Kerry experiences:
⭑ Jaunting Car Tour to Ross Castle from Killarney
⭑ Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour
⭑ Self-Guided Bike Tour of Killarney National Park, Muckross Gardens & Waterfall
⭑ Combination Killarney Jaunting Car Tour and Lakes of Killarney Cruise
Cultured Voyages Top Killarney Accommodation Picks:
→ Cahernane House (manor house in Killarney)
→ Aghadoe Heights (modern luxury with amazing lake views)
→ Killarney Glamping at the Grove (connect with nature)
→ Arbutus Hotel (cosy, town-centre family-run hotel)
a wind & waterproof jacket // The Little Book of Irishisms: Know the Irish through our Words // Over Nine Waves: A Book of Irish Legends (reading with enrich your trip) // these amazing compression packing cubes // a universal travel adapter
Table of Contents Show
A Quick Overview of Killarney & Why You Should Visit
Killarney National Park comprises a vast area of 26,000 acres that sweeps out from the town towards the Kerry coastline to the town of Kenmare, as well as beyond the dramatic McGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range (which includes the highest mountain in Ireland, Caurrauntoohil).
Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981, the park boasts a beauty that is wild and rugged; shadowed mountain ranges of purple and mauve sweep down towards the glistening blue waters of the Lakes of Killarney.
The three lakes, fringed by forest and dotted with islands form the core of the most heavily visited part of Killarney National Park, the 10,378 acre Bourn Vincent Memorial Park (or ‘Muckross Estate’.
The land of the Bourn Vincent Memorial Park was formerly the privately owned Muckross Estate and was presented to the Irish State in 1932, thus creating Ireland’s first national park. The sum of its parts makes up the most popular destinations to visit.
Killarney town itself is a buzzing, vibrant town full of colourful streets, plenty of bars and restaurants and of course, the natural hospitality and warmth that I’ve come to expect when visiting Kerry.
Yes, it is somewhat geared towards tourists, but as the gateway to one of Ireland’s most popular destinations. You’ll still find a characterful, quintessentially Irish town at its core here.
The Best Things to do in Killarney
There are many sites to explore, so to help you narrow down your options and make sense of the town and the National Park, I have split this post into five main sections:
- Attractions in Killarney – what to do within the Muckross Estate area
- Places to visit in Killarney Ireland that you’ll need to drive to
- Activities to do in Killarney town
- Best day trips from Killarney
- Only have 1 day? Must-see places in the Killarney area
For most, the majority of your visit will centre around the areas that can be found within the former Muckross Estate, stemming from Muckross House and Gardens and the area that is closest to the town.
However, if time allows, I would highly recommend visiting some of those points a little further afield that you will need to drive to to reach, to really see the best of what Killarney has to offer.
What to do within the former Muckross Estate
How to access Killarney National Park
First things first – how do you access Killarney National Park? It’s extremely easy to visit the park from Killarney – step anywhere close to the lakeshore and you are technically in the park, but the “main-gate” access is from Muckross Road – which is accessible by foot from the town.
When approaching from the direction of Killarney, there is firstly an entrance for pedestrians and cyclists on the right hand side a couple of kilometres out of town, with a main entrance for cars that leads to the carpark a little further along the road.
A little further down the road again (around 500 metres), is a carpark from which you can easily access Torc Waterfall.
As part of the Muckross House complex, you will find a large car park, public toilets, a craft centre, a restaurant, the entrance to Muckross Traditional Farms and of course – Muckross House and Gardens.
Getting around Killarney National Park (the Muckross Estate part)
As you will already have gathered, the area that comprises Killarney National Park is absolutely vast. Even to get around the former Muckross Estate area and to cover it thoroughly is quite a task.
There is just so much to see and so much that you will want to see, so trying to cover it on foot is not the best way to get around (unless you love walking, and have lots of time!).
Cycling around Killarney National Park
I would instead suggest the option of cycling as your means of getting around the National Park. Not only will you cover more ground, it is extremely enjoyable and also one of the best things to do in Kerry, as you’ll never forget the beautiful vistas and dramatic landscape that you will encounter as you navigate around the park.
BOOKING | During peak season, the National Park can get very busy, as can the demand for bikes (as it’s really a great way for making your way around the park). With that in mind, I’d highly recommend reserving your bike in advance. You can book a Killarney National Park bike rental here.
Getting a traditional jaunting car around Killarney National Park
An alternative and arguably, more traditional way to cover ground within the park is to get a traditional jaunting car. Many of the jaunting cars in the park have been run for generations by the same family and are a matter of great pride to their operators.
Along with a mode of transport, you will also get a local guide in your driver, who has intimate knowledge of Killarney National Park and the surrounding area.
BOOKING | You’ll find drivers and their trusty steeds lined up in front of Muckross House. If you are a planner however, and want a driver for a particular time then you’re better off to book your jaunting car tour in advance.
Muckross Abbey
The first major Killarney National Park attraction that you will pass on entering the pedestrian gate are the serene and dignified ruins of Muckross Abbey.
Well sign-posted and just a slight diversion from the bustling main path, the stillness and quiet of the Abbey envelopes you in a soothing calm upon stepping inside.
The Abbey was originally founded in around 1448 as a Franciscan Friary and found itself in use until Cromwellian times. Within the beautiful cloisters of the Abbey grows an ancient yew tree, said to be as old as the Abbey itself.
Entrance is free, and once you experience the tranquil atmosphere as you circumnavigate its cloisters, you will understand why Muckross Abbey is exceptionally special.
Muckross House
Muckross House was completed in 1843 for its then owner, Henry Arthur Herbert (whose family had occupied Muckross for nearly 200 years) and his wife, Mary Balfour Herbert.
With splendid views out onto Muckross Lake, the house had the honour of hosting Queen Victoria in 1861, when she visited and fell in love with Killarney.
A visit to Muckross House is one of the most popular sites in Killarney, and for good reason and it is for good reason. The house is exceptionally well maintained in a period style and offers a wonderful “upstairs, downstairs” view of how a house like this was run in its heyday.
The house is open daily all year round, with the exception of Christmas. Check here for up to date opening times and ticket prices.
At the time of visiting, it was self-tour only and this was reflected in the price of adult tickets – we paid €9.25 each when visiting, but I think that this is usually a little more when guided tours are operating.
Muckross Traditional Farms
Muckross Traditional Farms offer a glimpse of what rural farm life was like back in 1930s and 1940s Ireland. There are three different farms, complete with farmers’ and labourers’ cottages, a carpenter’s workshop and an old forge. All of the cottages are furnished in traditional style and there is also an old schoolhouse.
Those looking for family-friendly activities will find the Traditional Farms a great option – there is a small animal petting farm onsite and lots to see to keep children entertained.
Unfortunately (I’m sure in part due to the nature of Irish weather!), the Traditional Farms do not run all year round, closing for the winter and opening only on weekends in the run up to this, so please do check opening times before visiting.
Torc Waterfall
No trip to Killarney is complete without visiting Torc Waterfall! While not the biggest waterfall in Ireland, this 110m long cascade waterfall is nestled within lush, green woodland within Killarney National Park.
Extremely easy to reach, it can be accessed via Muckross Road or alternatively, from one of the main paths that run through the park.
The waterfall’s name is derived from the Irish Easach Toirc, meaning “cascade of the wild boar”. The setting of the waterfall evokes an image of ancient Ireland and is the perfect scene against which you could frame many an Irish legend – indeed, there are some associated with the area.
Open at all hours of the day and night, easy to access and free to visit. Visiting Torc Waterfall is a highlight of Killarney National Park.
Cardiac Hill
If working up a sweat is on your must-do list of activities, then perhaps a hike up Cardiac Hill is right up your street!
Yes, the clue is in the name – this is a tough, up-hill walk but you will be rewarded with stupendous, panoramic views of the three Lakes of Killarney, the National Park and the McGillycuddy’s Reeks.
At around 8km in length, this looping trail starts off right at Torc Waterfall – simply head up the steps to your left and follow your nose.
It takes around 90 minutes to complete and takes you up the hill via hundreds of stone steps and a stone paved path, that weaves its way up through woodland until you finally emerge at the peak of the hill to your reward, with the glory of Killarney spread at your feet!
Take a boat across Muckross Lake from Muckross Boathouse
Close to Muckross House is Muckross Boathouse. From here you can take a boat across Muckross Lake to a place called Dinis Cottage (more about Dinis Cottage below).
This provides a wonderful option to take in Killarney National Park from a different perspective – from the water – and you will get a terrific view of the ever-looming Torc Mountain, as it casts its dappled shadows over the lake, together with some of the inlets and sandy beaches that fringe the waters.
Lifejackets are provided and tickets cost €10 for adults, €5 for children, both single and return. You can make your return from Dinis Cottage by boat or alternatively, on foot, which will take around an hour as you make your way along the pathway that follows the shoreline of Muckross Lake.
As an alternative, you can also get a boat from Ross Castle (closer to Killarney), which you can book here.
Walk or cycle the Muckross Loop
While you can cross Muckross Lake by boat, you can also make your way around its shoreline on foot, or on bike, via the Muckross Loop.
Starting at Muckross House, this is a 15km loop that takes you onto Muckross Peninsula, across Bricin Bridge and on to Dinis Cottage, before making your way along the southern shoreline of Muckross Lake and back towards Muckross House.
While the official route length is 15km, I’m pretty sure we took a slightly shorter version. I found the signposting in Killarney National Park to be very confusing around Muckross House, so once you hit the trail keep the lake as close as you can to your left and this way, you won’t go wrong.
You’ll be rewarded with private, sandy beaches, a meandering trail through woodlands and glorious views of the lake, so if you have time for one route only through the park, I would suggest this one to get the best value for your time!
Dinis Cottage
Dinis Cottage is an old hunting lodge, which now houses a coffee shop that runs during summer months. If getting a boat from Muckross House, you will be dropped off at this point, but it is also a perfectly positioned spot to stop off and get something to eat when exploring Killarney National Park.
We stopped off here for paninis and coffee when cycling the Muckross Loop during our visit to Killarney National Park. There is indoor seating along with plenty of picnic tables outside with gorgeous views onto the lakes.
If you are worried about where to leave your bike, worry not – there are a number of bike racks at Dinis Cottage for this purpose!
Meeting of the Waters
As the name suggests, the Meeting of the Waters is the place where the three lakes of Killarney (the upper lake, Muckross Lake and Lough Leane, the lower lake) merge together.
It is a tranquil, peaceful spot to submerge yourself in nature. To get here, simply take the path that runs behind Dinis Cottage. The path is sign-posted well, and you’ll reach this point in a few minutes!
Old Weir Bridge
Old Weir Bridge is an ancient two arch bridge that traverses the waters close to Dinis Cottage and the Meeting of the Waters.
Estimated to date from around the 16th century, it is one of those attractions that has been bringing visitors for many years, even before the visit of Queen Victoria in 1861, an event which firmly put Killarney on the map as a tourist destination.
The bridge can be found a few hundred metres from Dinis Cottage, via a meandering trail through woodland. This makes it easy to combine a trip to see Old Weir Bridge with one to the Meeting of the Waters and Dinis Cottage.
You will also cross under the bridge during a boat trip on the lake, either from Ross Castle or Lord Brandon’s Cottage.
Places to visit in Killarney that you’ll need to drive to
While with reasonable fitness levels and experience of handling a bike on busy roads shared with cars, you could cycle to a lot of these places featured, I would recommend that you have a car on hand to reach the next few destinations.
The Gap of Dunloe
The Gap of Dunloe is one of the most famous tourist attractions near Killarney. Located about 12km outside town, visiting the Gap requires some logistical planning but is an absolute must.
One of the best examples of a glaciated valley in Western Europe, the Gap of Dunloe is a narrow mountain pass that separates the McGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Purple Mountain Group ranges. For centuries, tourists have been visiting the Gap for its strikingly beautiful and unique landscape.
Littered with lakes, wild goats, colourfully marked sheep and a narrow road that weaves its way through the rocks, it’s easy to understand why the Gap of Dunloe is one of the most popular tourist attractions in County Kerry and indeed, the country of Ireland.
The full route through the Gap of Dunloe goes from Kate Kearney’s Cottage in the north, to the highest point at the Head of the Gap and down to Lord Brandon’s Cottage in the Black Valley in the south.
The total distance of this is 11 kilometres (7 miles) in length, with 200 metres (650 feet) in total elevation change – so you can except a fair bit of walking if you plan on seeing the whole thing!
Another option is to walk from Kate Kearney’s Cottage to the full Head of the Gap, which is 6km one way and takes around 2 hours in total for the return journey. Bear in mind that you’ll only see half of the Gap this way though.
The famous Gap ponies and jaunting cars are available to hire just after Kate Kearney’s Cottage, if you would prefer to see the landscape this way (this costs approximately €25 per person).
It’s also worth noting that if you drive yourself to Kate Kearney’s Cottage, you will have to walk back – which is 24km in total of walking!
If you want to walk the entire Gap (but not both ways!), there is a shuttle bus that leaves from Killarney and drops you to Kate Kearney’s Cottage. From here you walk to Lord Brandon’s Cottage, and then get a boat across the lakes back to Killarney, where you are dropped off at Ross Castle.
Do a quick Google search, and make sure to check times and availability in advance!
If all the above sounds like a bit too much to get your head around, then simply just book yourself this tour instead – it will take you from Killarney to Kate Kearney’s Cottage at the Gap of Dunloe, pick you up by boat at Lord Brandon’s Cottage and then take you back to Ross Castle in Killarney via the lakes – easy- peasy!
Ladies’ View
Ladies’ View is known as such as when Queen Victoria visited Killarney in 1861, her ladies-in-waiting were said to be very taken with the view from this point, so it was named after them.
As you witness the mist evaporating over the lakes and the light dancing across the face of the mountains for yourself, you’ll understand what makes this scene so special.
Just under 20km from Killarney on the N71, heading in the Kenmare direction, Ladies’ View provides panoramic views of the three lakes of Killarney and the mountain ranges that frame them.
The drive there is an experience in itself – the road is narrow and winding and weaves its way through the rock and vegetation of Killarney National Park.
There is no way you will miss this spot when driving – there is a car park on the right hand side of the road and a cafe and gift shop on the left.
Take care when pulling in and out, as the viewpoint is sandwiched in between two bends in the road. Make sure, too, to take the little track out onto the ridge to the left of the viewing point for the most unspoilt views of the Upper Lake.
Moll’s Gap
Who on earth is Moll, you may ask, and why does she have a gap named after her?! Well, turns out Moll was a lady who in the 1820’s ran an illegal pub (or a “shebeen”) during the construction of the main road from Killarney to Kenmare.
If you drive Moll’s Gap, you’ll wonder how in hell this was ever a main road, with winding corners and sheer drops (and stunning views thrown into the mix), making it one of the more exciting places to visit in County Kerry!
Funnily enough, it’s actually a very popular route amongst rally car drivers and is part of the route in the Rally of the Lakes – so that’ll tell you something about what kind of a road it is!
If you continue on from Ladies’ View coming from the direction of Killarney, this will bring you onto Moll’s Gap. Just as you enter Moll’s Gap, you will find an Avoca – which is a good pitstop if you need to use the loo or grab some coffee and food.
Make sure to stop off at Lough Barfinnihy, which offers, probably, one of the most dramatic aspects of scenery along the drive. It’s stocked with brown and rainbow trout, making it a popular location for fishing.
There’s a little car park along the roadside that runs by the lake, making it easy to stop off and snap away to your heart’s content!
From Moll’s Gap, you can access the Black Valley, which is a southerly access point for Lord Brandon’s Cottage and the Head of the Gap, so something to keep in mind if you plan on visiting the Gap of Dunloe.
Carrauntoohil
Those who are keen to experience the raw, barren beauty and the outstanding views offered by climbing Ireland’s tallest mountain should consider hiking Carrauntoohil.
If you’re up for the challenge, this hike offers an exceptionally memorable experience. It offers you a more off-the-beaten track perspective of Ireland’s rugged landscape.
If you do choose to undertake the climb, understand that it is not for the faint-hearted; this is not a scenic stroll (although it does incredible vistas) but a proper mountain hike that takes approximately 6 hours and should be underpinned by a solid base level of fitness.
It should also not be undertaken without the expertise and knowledge of a local guide, unless you yourself are an experienced hiker.
Killarney Town
This next section focuses on attractions both in and close to, Killarney. Technically, many Killarney National Park points of interest like Muckross House, Muckross Abbey etc could fall into this category too, but I’ll spare you and won’t go through these twice!
Ross Castle
Ross Castle is situated just outside the town centre, occupying its prime position by the waters of Lough Leane since the 15th century.
Built by Irish chieftain O’Donoghue Mór, local legend has it that every 7 years on the first morning of May, the ghost of O’Donoghue rises from beneath the waters, offering a lifetime of good luck to any fortunate enough to see him.
The castle is open daily from March through November, and offers an interesting glimpse into what life in a castle was like.
Innisfallen Island
Innisfallen Island is a small island in the middle of Lough Leane, visible from the nearby Ross Castle and also from elevated points in the surrounding areas of Killarney.
Today home to the ruins of a monastery, the original monastery was founded in the 7th century. It is said that the famous High King of Ireland, Brian Boru, was educated here.
The monastery at Innisfallen is also noteworthy as it was from here that the Annals of Innisfallen were written; which are a major source of early Irish history.
Those searching for active and fun pursuits in Killarney can kayak out to the island, but you can also get a boat ride and tour out from Ross Castle too, if kayaking seems like a bit too much!
If you’d like to try the kayaking option, check out this tour. And if you’re worried about the water being cold don’t be – wetsuits are provided!
Killarney House and Gardens
Former home to the Earl of Kenmare, Killarney House and Gardens have recently been restored to their former glory. They offer a wonderful retreat from the bustling streets and are located just a few hundred metres from the town centre.
Gates are open from 9am-6pm, although the closing time is extended sometimes in the longer evenings of the summer months.
Panorama of the lakes from Aghadoe Viewpoint
Having stayed in the neighbouring Aghadoe Heights Hotel, I can confirm that gazing upon the views of the Lakes of Killarney as the sun sets, from way up at Aghadoe, is one of the most romantic experiences in the area.
We stayed in Aghadoe Heights Hotel and on one of our mornings at the hotel, spent hours staring out of our bedroom window onto the lake as the light and the clouds changed over and over again – each offering a different, unique window onto the lake that was completely transfixing.
There is a large, public viewing point complete with a massive, panoramic map so you know exactly what you’re looking at. When up at Aghadoe, why not pop into the hotel for lunch, or for a romantic sunset dinner – the Lake Room restaurant is fantastic and you also won’t forget those views in a hurry!
Eat, drink and be merry in Killarney!
There is plenty to keep you occupied in downtown Killarney, with most activities centred loosely around the activities of eating, drinking and being merry!
Those in search of a pint should head to Killarney institution John M. Reidy. Those looking for some nighttime entertainment in Killarney should also keep their ears open and follow the sound of the music – you won’t forget attending a lively traditional music session!
Try Murphy’s or The Laurel (amongst many others) for this.
The Killarney Grand also is also very well known as a night-time venue, with live music (trad and non-trad) and a nightclub with a DJ.
If you’re feeling peckish and wondering where to eat in Killarney, head to The Mad Monk by Quinlan’s, a restaurant serving Irish seafood.
As I mentioned in the section above, The Lake Room restaurant at the Aghadoe Heights Hotel has some really special views and an absolutely fantastic food menu, if you’re looking for somewhere to have a special dinner.
Explore Killarney town
Killarney itself is great to stroll through to soak up the atmosphere and you’ll cover it quickly. Take in St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral (check out the stained glass windows) and simply walk the streets and wander into any of the plentiful shops that catch your eye.
Day Trips from Killarney
Killarney is a great gateway to explore the rest of County Kerry from. You can choose to base yourself in the town and explore from here, or simply move on to the next destination once you’ve had your fill of all points of interest. These are the two most popular day trip locations from Killarney.
Ring of Kerry
A Ring of Kerry day trip is an extremely popular option when visiting the region.
Ring of Kerry boasts some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery: rugged cliffs, breathtaking mountain ridges, colourful towns and villages, and ancient monuments – all bordered by the deep blues of the Atlantic Ocean along the Iveragh Peninsula.
Put this into your GPS and it will tell you that the drive takes around 3 hours – well, let me tell you; it’s lying to you! In reality, you will 100% need to allocate a full day to undertake the Ring of Kerry drive.
The roads are narrow and winding in a lot of parts and you will also feel the need to stop off a few dozen times as you see yet another sight that lures you in!
You will also need to build in stopping time to discover some of the more popular Ring of Kerry points of interest. Find out more about these in my post about driving the Ring of Kerry (coming soon!).
BOOKING A DAY TRIP | If all of your group would prefer to just sit back and enjoy the scenery, then a guided tour is the way to go. If you’d like the flexibility and privacy of a private tour, then this exclusive tour allows you to customise your own itinerary and has flawless reviews.
If a private tour is a little outside your budget, then this group tour is a great alternative, and hits a lot of highlights on the Ring of Kerry.
Dingle Peninsula & Slea Head Drive
Dingle is a colourful coastal town that is bursting at the seams with character, energy and jaw dropping seaside scenes. There are many activities to enjoy in Dingle, but my favourite is taking the Slea Head Drive.
The Slea Head Drive is a world-famous coastal route that begins and ends in Dingle. Along the way, discover seas so blue they would rival the Greek Islands and ancient monuments to spark your imagination into overdrive.
The drive from Killarney to Dingle takes around 1.5 hours (stop off at Inch Beach along the way) and you should allow for at least half a day to explore the area and several hours more if you plan on going to the Blasket Islands.
BOOKING A DAY TRIP | If you’d prefer to let someone else do the driving on the narrow, winding roads and plan the logistics (so you can hop out and snap pictures to your heart’s content), consider this well priced private tour. If group trips are more up your street, then this is a very popular group tour.
Only Have One Day? Must-See Spots in Killarney
Is it possible to see much of Killarney in one day? You probably won’t see everything that you’d like to, but you can certainly get a flavour of this beautiful part of the world in 24 hours.
How would I structure my 24 hours in Killarney? It would probably go something like this:
- Begin with a visit to the Gap of Dunloe. Get this tour in the morning. You will see the Gap of Dunloe and get a lake tour, with no faffing around with logistics, which the tour operator will sort for you.
- The boat will let you off at Ross Castle. If interested, do a quick tour to see what life in a medieval Irish castle was like.
- By now, it will be early afternoon. Make your way into Killarney, grab something super quick for lunch and then hire a bike.
- Make your way down Muckross Road and enter Killarney National Park.
- Stop off at Muckross Abbey to have a look and take some pictures.
- Next up is Muckross House & Gardens and/or Muckross Traditional Farms, depending on opening hours (check these before going!!), time of day and your own personal interests.
- From here, you’re then going to cycle the Muckross Loop. This will take you around an hour, maybe a bit longer depending on how much you stop. Take in some of the sandy beaches, Bricin Bridge, Dinis Cottage, Old Weir Bridge and the Meeting of the Waters. If you need refreshments, Dinis Cottage is a good option.
- Finally, after completing the Muckross Loop, you’ll find the entrance to Torc Waterfall – take this opportunity to visit it!
And there you have it – a rather manic day that will leave you very tired, but also very satisfied! Obviously, the longer days of May through September work better for this, as you’ll have more daylight hours to make good use of.
Tips for Visiting Killarney
Book accommodation in advance
I would strongly advise booking as many things as possible well in advance.
This goes for your accommodation, whether it be a hotel (read my review of Cahernane House Hotel here) or an Airbnb – Killarney is extremely popular and you don’t want to be left disappointed if everywhere nice has already been snapped up when you go to book!
Where to stay in Killarney
BOUTIQUE BOLTHOLE
Cahernane House Hotel
****
If you’re looking for a boutique, manor house hotel option in Killarney, then I would highly recommend Cahernane House Hotel.
I had an amazing stay at this refined, classy hotel, located just on the edge of the National Park close to the Killarney lakes. You can read my Cahernane House Hotel review here.
MODERN LUXURY
Aghadoe Heights Hotel
*****
If it’s modern luxury, outstanding views and extremely attentive, friendly service in a 5 star property that you’re after, then Aghadoe Heights Hotel is the one for you!
I also had a fantastic, relaxing stay at this hotel (review coming soon!). For unparalleled views of the lakes of Killarney from the comfort of your own bedroom, I would highly recommend booking a lake view room.
OLD WORLD LUXURY
Killarney Royal Hotel
****
This is a luxury 4 star hotel located in an old townhouse, right in the centre of Killarney. Staying here is an elegant affair, with antique furnishings and candlelit dinners.
The Killarney Royal Hotel also places the bars and restaurants right at your feet.
GLAMPING
Killarney Glamping at the Grove
Those looking for somewhere a little more rustic, but still a little bit luxe to stay should consider Killarney Glamping at the Grove.
Aimed towards couples, it’s a romantic spot to soak up the beautiful natural surroundings of Killarney National Park.
How many days do you need in Killarney?
You could easily spend a week here. However, two nights and three full days would be great to aim for and allow you to explore the area without too much pressure.
You can manage to fit in lots during two days in Killarney if you can’t allocate three full days to your trip, although it will be a little bit hectic and will leave little to no time to relax.
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Book a car rental
If you don’t have a car at your disposal, I would recommend renting one for this purpose. I use the rentalcars.com website whenever renting cars abroad, as I find it has the best selection of car rental companies and an easy to use interface and an extremely comprehensive set of search filters.
Getting around Killarney without a car
Difficult, but not impossible! You can get around to certain main sights via a Killarney shuttle bus service. With this though, you are then limited by their schedule, the locations they cover and also whether or not there is actually space on the bus!
Personally, I’d find all that to be a bit stressful, so if that was me I would choose to either book a private tour or a driver as you’ll have flexibility and control over your itinerary, as well as an expert local guide to make the experience all the more memorable!
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