Kilkenny

If the cobblestone pedestrian streets and old fashioned storefronts don't charm you, Kilkenny's medieval castles and stone churches are sure to win your heart.  This traditional Middle Age city has aged with poise and is filled with all the flavor of the old world.

Kilkenny

• Located on Ireland's south east side, is one of the driest regions on the island with relatively mild temperatures year round.

• Unlike many cities throughout the world who have adapted the modern traditions, Kilkenny holds strong to its Irish culture and Irish heritage as the creative capital of Ireland - home to numerous art galleries and craft centers: National Craft Gallery and Kilkenny Design Centre.

• Although this is Ireland's smallest city, both in population and area, Kilkenny is a tourist dream offering many nearby attractions:
  • Dunmore Cave - These unique and exquisite caves date back to the time of the Vikings, and display some of the most stunning calcite formations found in Ireland.
  • Kilkenny Castle - Take a journey back in time when you visit this 12^th Century brilliantly refurbished castle.
  • St. Canice Cathedral - The second largest Irish cathedral on the island, preserved in its original style and structure, housing worship for over 800 years!

• Offers a taste of home to the brew connoisseur because its home to Smithwick's, a famous Irish red ale.  The original brewery opened as St. Francis Abbey Brewery but is now home to Diageo Global Supply, the world's leading premium drinks business.

Whether you're in the mood for a journey back in time to the medieval ages or a seat at the local Irish pub to enjoy your favorite brew, Kilkenny can offers your Ireland tour exactly what your looking for.

Attractions

Countrywide Pub Crawl (Countrywide)

We've planned an event that will surely challenge even the most loyal pub patrons!  Visit our hand-picked selection of 20+ of the best pubs across Ireland!  Don't worry...you have seven full days to do this, so pace yourself and remember it's a marathon, not a race.  Visit all 20 and you'll be rewarded!

*AVAILABLE IN 2009!

Waterford Crystal

Be one of thousands who visit the Waterford Crystal Visitors Center to witness the creation of some of the world's most stunning and impressive hand-crafted art pieces. View the craftsmen hard at work, as they create one-of-a-kind pieces right before your eyes. Be sure to bring a piece of Waterford home with you, as the gift shop offers a wide range of crystal pieces ranging in price to satisfy even the budget-minded traveler.

Dunmore Cave

These unique and exquisite caves date back to the time of the Vikings, and display some of the most stunning calcite formations found in Ireland.

Kilkenny Castle

Take a journey back in time when you visit this 12^th Century brilliantly refurbished castle.

St. Canice Cathedral

Walk through the second largest Irish cathedral on the island, preserved in its original style and structure, housing worship for over 800 years!

Hotels

Kilkenny River Court Hotel

In the heart of Kilkenny, but secluded from the bustling and winding city streets, the 90-room Kilkenny River Court Hotel is overlooked by the majestic 12th Century Kilkenny Castle. Upon arrival at the hotel, you will feel a sense of belonging as the hotel staff welcomes you to the finest accommodation Kilkenny City has to offer.