Killarney is known as the gateway to the County or “Kingdom” of Kerry. The small town’s natural surroundings, including woodland, lakes and high peaks, are its biggest draws. The town itself is a popular destination for visitors year-round, thanks to its 19th-century architecture, narrow cobbled streets and lively pub culture.
Killarney is located in the southwest of Ireland and surrounded by Killarney National Park. The town is the starting point for the famous Ring of Kerry tourist route. This 110-mile (177-kilometre) drive takes in forests, waterfalls and rugged coastline.
Explore Killarney’s narrow lanes and stumble across cafés and craft shops. Visit 19th-century landmarks, such as St. Mary's Cathedral and Muckross House. The small town centre is easy to navigate on foot.
Killarney has a long tradition of hospitality and offers plenty of hotels and bed and breakfast accommodation. Fierce competition among pubs and restaurants keeps quality high. Visit one of the many venues offering live music and entertainment and join locals in having a rowdy good time, especially on weekends. If you’re looking for something quieter, visit midweek, or ask locals for current recommendations.
From raucous St. Patrick’s Day celebrations to Christmas festivities, Killarney hosts a variety of festivals year-round. The town is especially busy in the summer months of July and August. Visit during these peak seasons to participate in the special celebrations or come in spring or autumn to avoid the crowds.
Venture outside the town on scenic hiking trails or tourist drives to reach the three Lakes of Killarney and the peaks of the national park. Killarney sits on the shores of Lough Leane. Take a boat tour or simply walk around this lake and enjoy mountain views. Torc Waterfall and many other nature spots are also easy to reach on foot or by car from Killarney town.
Killarney Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Killarney
Killarney Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Killarney
Killarney City Centre
If you're spending some time in Killarney City Centre, Killarney National Park and Cinema Killarney are top sights worth seeing.
Dromhale
While there might not be top attractions in Dromhale, you can explore the larger area and discover places like The Kerry Way and INEC Killarney.
Avenue
While visiting Avenue, you might make a stop by sights like Killarney National Park and Killarney House Gardens.
Ballycasheen
While Ballycasheen isn't home to many top sights, Killarney House Gardens and Cinema Killarney are some notable places to visit nearby.
Moyeightragh
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Moyeightragh and surrounding area, you can visit Fitzgerald Stadium and The Kerry Way.
Scrahane
If you're spending some time in Scrahane, Killarney National Park and Killarney Race Course are top sights worth seeing.
Reviewed on 7 Feb 2025
Reviewed on 6 Feb 2025
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Reviewed on 22 Jul 2024
Popular places to visit
Killarney National Park
Establishedin 1932 to protect one of Ireland’s most precious natural habitats, KillarneyNational Park is home to the country’s highest peaks, ancient woodlands,shimmering lakes and a rich variety of wildlife.
Ross Castle
Standing guard over the lake, this silent ruin provides a glimpse of life in an Ireland that was often a land of warring clans.
Muckross House
Enjoy varied delights on this splendid estate, which offers a look into daily life in the past, both inside a luxurious home and on a busy farm.
St. Mary's Cathedral
In a green field stands an impressive cathedral especially beloved by its townsfolk. Inside, find a welcoming community church decorated with beautiful stained glass.
Muckross Abbey
Mysterious ruins tell stories from a shadowy past and invite you to find peace in what is left of their mossy walls.
Torc Waterfall
Hidden in the mossy forest is a sight that can refresh any weary hiker, where fresh waters hurtle over stones, sheltered by a leafy canopy.
Things to do
Ring of Kerry Full-Day Tour from Limerick
Dingle Peninsula Private Minibus Day Tour of the Fields of Gold
Dingle Day Tour from Limerick
NO 1 Ring of Kerry Tour inc Killarney Lakes & National Park
From Killarney: Ring of Kerry Full-Day Tour
Private Tour:Ring of Kerry,Kerry Cliffs from Kenmare.
Reviews of Killarney
5/5 - Excellent
Love Killarney
5/5 - Excellent
Great choices of places to eat. Lovely shops. Great effort made with the Christmas decorations. Overall a very enjoyable experience.
4/5 - Good
Very friendly people
5/5 - Excellent
Killarney is a must see. The lakes, the mountains, the drives, the friendly people are all unbeatable!
5/5 - Excellent
a beautiful area where you can spend weeks seeing everything.
4/5 - Good
Beware on check-in we were told we had the breakfast & evening meal package so had a great meal at the restaurant with a great bill we were not expecting. I had no access to email booking on the trip so could not verify the expedia package we bought.