Kilkenny Day Trip: Quick Facts for 2025
Thinking of escaping Dublin for a day? Here’s a quick look at why Kilkenny should be at the top of your list. This table gives you all the essential details at a glance to start planning your medieval adventure.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance from Dublin | Approx. 130 km (80 miles) |
| Travel Time | 1.5 – 2 hours each way |
| Best Time to Visit | April – September for better weather |
| Average Transport Cost (Return) | €20 – €40 per person |
| Known For | The Medieval Mile, Kilkenny Castle, Arts & Crafts, Hurling |
How to Get to Kilkenny from Dublin
Planning your journey is the first step to a perfect day trip. Luckily, you have several great options for getting from Dublin to Kilkenny, catering to every budget and travel style. Whether you prefer the freedom of driving, the comfort of the train, or the value of the bus, reaching Ireland’s medieval heart is simple and straightforward.
By Car
Driving offers the most flexibility for your adventure. The distance from Dublin to Kilkenny by car is roughly 130 km. To get there, you’ll take the M7 motorway, then merge onto the M9, which leads you directly to Kilkenny. The big question is, how long does it take to drive from Dublin to Kilkenny? Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours, but be sure to account for potential traffic on the M50 when leaving Dublin, especially during peak hours. Once you arrive, several multi-story car parks (like Market Cross or MacDonagh Junction) are available, as on-street parking is often time-limited.
By Train
So, can you get a train from Dublin to Kilkenny? Yes, you absolutely can! Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann) operates a direct and comfortable service from Dublin’s Heuston Station to Kilkenny’s MacDonagh Station. The journey is scenic and relaxing, taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The station in Kilkenny is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the city centre, making it a fantastic option. Booking in advance can get you a return ticket for as low as €20-€35.
By Bus
For the budget-conscious traveler, the bus is an unbeatable choice. Both Dublin Coach (known as the “green bus”) and Bus Éireann run frequent services from Dublin city centre directly to Kilkenny. The journey takes between 1 hour 45 minutes and 2 hours, and with return fares often in the €10-€20 range, it’s the most economical way to travel.
By Guided Tour
If you’re looking for a completely hassle-free experience, consider one of the many day tours from Dublin to Kilkenny. Companies like Wild Rover Tours and Paddywagon Tours offer fantastic packages that handle all the transportation logistics for you. A major benefit of a guided tour is that they often combine your visit to Kilkenny with another stunning location, such as the Wicklow Mountains or the monastic site of Glendalough, allowing you to see even more of Ireland in a single day.
| Method | Average Time | Average Cost (Return) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car | 1.5 – 2 hours | €20-€30 (fuel/tolls) | Flexible schedule, can visit nearby sites | Dublin traffic, parking costs/hassle |
| Train | 1.5 hours | €20 – €35 | Fast, comfortable, scenic, relaxing | Less frequent than buses |
| Bus | 1.75 – 2 hours | €10 – €20 | Most budget-friendly, frequent services | Can be slower due to traffic/stops |
| Guided Tour | Full Day (8-9 hours) | €50 – €80+ | Hassle-free, includes guide, often multi-stop | Fixed itinerary, less independence |
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Kilkenny
Kilkenny is a city packed with history, and its compact size means you can experience its best attractions easily in a day. Here are the five absolute must-see spots that make this one of the most rewarding day trips around Dublin.
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Explore the magnificent Kilkenny Castle
Dominating the city skyline, Kilkenny Castle is an icon of Norman power. For 600 years, it was the principal seat of the powerful Butler family. Today, you can explore its opulent, restored rooms and the incredible Long Gallery. After touring the interior (Adult admission: €8), be sure to wander the extensive parklands, which are completely free to enter. Insider Tip: For the best photo, walk across the John’s Bridge over the River Nore for a stunning view of the castle.
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Climb St. Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower
At the opposite end of the Medieval Mile stands the breathtaking St. Canice’s Cathedral. But the real highlight here is its 9th-century Round Tower. It is one of only two such towers in all of Ireland that you can still climb! The journey up the narrow, ancient steps is an experience in itself, and the panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside from the top are simply unbeatable. (Cathedral entry ~€5, Tower climb ~€4).
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Walk the Historic Medieval Mile
The Medieval Mile isn’t just a path; it’s a journey through time. This discovery trail links Kilkenny Castle to St. Canice’s Cathedral, and its route is lined with centuries of history. Don’t just stick to the main street! The real magic lies in exploring the “slips”—the narrow, cobbled laneways that branch off, each with its own story. Along the way, you’ll find the Medieval Mile Museum, housed in a beautifully converted 13th-century church, which is a key stop to truly understand the city’s past.
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Taste History at the Smithwick’s Experience
Discover the story of Ireland’s oldest brewery on the Smithwick’s Experience tour. This isn’t a dusty museum; it’s an interactive, multi-sensory journey that tells the tale of the Smithwick family and their iconic red ale, brewed here for over 300 years. The tour concludes, of course, with a perfectly poured pint of their famous brew. (Adult ticket ~€18-€20). Booking online in advance is highly recommended and often cheaper!
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Discover Rothe House & Garden
Step off the bustling street and into a hidden world at Rothe House. This unique complex is the only example of an early 17th-century merchant’s townhouse in Ireland open to the public. It consists of three houses, three enclosed courtyards, and a large garden that has been reconstructed to reflect a typical garden of the era. It’s a fascinating glimpse into urban life 400 years ago. (Adult ticket ~€7.50).
A Perfect One-Day Kilkenny Itinerary from Dublin
Want to make the most of your time? Follow this simple itinerary to hit all the highlights without feeling rushed. This schedule ensures you see the best of Kilkenny in a single, unforgettable day.
- Morning (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Aim to depart Dublin by 9:00 AM, whether by car, train, or bus. You’ll arrive in Kilkenny around 10:30 AM. Head straight to Kilkenny Castle to explore the interior before the main crowds arrive. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful castle parklands along the River Nore.
- Lunch (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM): You’ll be ready for a bite to eat. For a historic and lively experience, grab a delicious pub lunch at the famous Kyteler’s Inn. Alternatively, the Kilkenny Design Centre, opposite the castle, has a wonderful cafe with great food.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM): Begin your walk along the Medieval Mile towards the cathedral. Take your time, pop into the craft shops, and consider a stop at the Medieval Mile Museum. Your goal is St. Canice’s Cathedral, where you should absolutely climb the Round Tower for spectacular afternoon views of the city you’ve just explored.
- Late Afternoon (5:00 PM onwards): Your day is winding down. Depending on your energy levels, you could take the Smithwick’s Experience tour (last tours are usually around 5 PM) or simply find a cozy pub for a final pint. Enjoy an early dinner before catching your train or bus back to Dublin around 6:00-7:00 PM.
Where to Eat in Kilkenny: From Pubs to Fine Dining
Kilkenny has a fantastic food scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re after a hearty stew in a centuries-old pub or a Michelin-star meal, you’ll find it here.
- Pub Grub & Casual Bites (€): For an authentic experience, head to Kyteler’s Inn, a pub established in 1324 with a famous story of witchcraft! For great food with river views and live music, Matt the Millers Bar & Restaurant is a superb choice.
- Mid-Range Restaurants (€€): Petronella Restaurant offers delicious modern Irish cuisine in a cozy setting on the historic Butterslip lane. Left Bank is a vibrant and stylish gastropub set in a former bank, perfect for a modern meal.
- Fine Dining & Special Occasions (€€€): For a truly memorable meal, book a table at Ristorante Rinuccini, an award-winning Italian restaurant directly opposite Kilkenny Castle. For the ultimate foodies, Campagne holds a Michelin star and offers exquisite, locally-sourced French-inspired dishes.
Planning Your Visit: Practical Details
Insider Tips for Your Kilkenny Day Trip
- Wear comfortable shoes! You’ll be doing a lot of walking, and the charming “slips” have uneven cobblestones that are not friendly to flimsy footwear.
- Book in advance. Secure your train tickets and entry to popular attractions like Kilkenny Castle and the Smithwick’s Experience online to save both time and money.
- Enjoy the free stuff. The expansive grounds of Kilkenny Castle are free and open to the public. They’re perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.
- Explore the laneways. Don’t just stick to the main street. The “slips” or laneways like the Butterslip are where you’ll find the city’s real medieval character.
- Check for festivals. Kilkenny hosts major events like the Kilkenny Arts Festival (August) and Savour Kilkenny (October). The city is incredibly vibrant then but also much busier, so plan accordingly.
What to Pack for a Day in Kilkenny
- A lightweight rain jacket (this is Ireland, after all!)
- Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable
- A camera or smartphone to capture the medieval beauty
- A portable power bank to keep your devices charged
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- A credit card and a small amount of cash for smaller shops or cafes
Sample Day Trip Budget
Wondering what to budget? Here’s a quick breakdown of potential costs per person, showing both a budget-friendly approach and a more mid-range experience for your day trip from Dublin to Kilkenny in 2025.
| Item | Budget (€) | Mid-Range (€€) |
|---|---|---|
| Return Transport (Bus/Train) | €20 | €35 |
| Main Attractions (Castle + Tower) | €12 | €28 (incl. Smithwick’s) |
| Lunch | €15 | €25 |
| Coffee/Snack | €5 | €8 |
| Total Per Person (Approx.) | ~€52 | ~€96 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you do a day trip to Kilkenny from Dublin?
Yes, absolutely! Its close proximity (under 2 hours away), excellent direct transport links by train and bus, and incredibly compact, walkable city centre make Kilkenny one of the best and most popular day trips from Dublin.
Is the train ride from Dublin to Kilkenny Scenic?
The train journey is very pleasant. It passes through the classic Irish countryside of the midlands, offering views of green fields, rolling hills, and quaint rural towns. While it’s not the dramatic coastal scenery you might find in the west, it’s a wonderfully relaxing and enjoyable way to see the heart of the country.
Is Kilkenny worth visiting for a day?
Yes, 100%. A full day gives you the perfect amount of time to explore the main highlights—the Castle, the Cathedral, the Medieval Mile, and a brewery tour or museum—without ever feeling rushed. The high concentration of world-class historical sites in such a small area makes it ideal for a day-long immersion in Irish history and culture.
Does a train go from Dublin to Kilkenny?
Yes, there is a direct train service operated by Irish Rail. Trains depart regularly from Dublin’s Heuston Station and arrive at Kilkenny’s MacDonagh Station. The journey is comfortable and efficient, taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
TL;DR: Your Kilkenny Day Trip Cheat Sheet
In a hurry? Here are the key takeaways for planning the perfect day trip to Kilkenny:
- Getting There: The train from Heuston Station is the fastest and most comfortable option (~1.5 hours). The bus is the cheapest.
- Top 3 Must-Dos: 1) Kilkenny Castle, 2) St. Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower, 3) Walk the Medieval Mile.
- Best Itinerary: Arrive by 10:30 AM, see the Castle first, have lunch, then walk the Medieval Mile to the Cathedral in the afternoon.
- Key Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone lanes and book your transport and main attraction tickets online in advance to save money.
- Is it worth it? A resounding yes. It’s the ultimate medieval escape from the modern bustle of Dublin.
