Best of Killarney

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Killarney
Killarney is a pretty town nestled against the famed national park of the same name. For over 200 years, visitors have come to Killarney to explore the mountains, lakes and forests lying just beyond the city center. Most people spend their days out on the trails or boating on the lake, and their nights relaxing in one of the town’s wide-ranging accommodation options. There are also a few worthwhile sights in the town itself, including the neo-Gothic St Mary’s Cathedral with its colorful stained-glass windows and a peaceful Franciscan Friary. By evening, you can catch live music at Killarney’s pubs, with shows nightly in the summer, and several times a week in spring and fall. 

Paths from Killarney lead to some of the national park’s highlights. About a 35-minute walk (or 10-minute bike ride) from town, you can reach Ross Castle, an impressive fortress that you can visit on a guided tour. From there, you can go kayaking or take a boat trip on Lough Leane, the largest of the park’s three lakes. You can also combine a boat trip across the lake with a hike into the stunning woodland scenery of the Black Valley. Other possibilities include horse and buggy rides (called “jaunting cars” here), scenic drives and several beautiful golf courses.
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Killarney National Park, Ireland
Map of Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Cycling Tour - 8 Days
Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Cycling Tour - 8 Days

Explore the Emerald Isle's beauty and historic villages by bicycle on this 8-day trip. Mórchuaird Chiarraí (Ring of Kerry) is a 111-mile circular route on Ireland's southwestern coast, encompassing Muckross, Killarney National Park, and picturesque Kenmare. Discover local treasures as you cycle in and around the eastern part of the Iveragh Peninsula.

Slea Head, Dingle Peninsula.
Map of Ireland Self-Driving Tour: Dublin, Killarney & Dingle - 5 Days
Ireland Self-Driving Tour: Dublin, Killarney & Dingle - 5 Days

Explore the magic of Ireland on this 5-day self-drive adventure. Start with a pint of Guinness in Dublin, dive into the Emerald Isle’s past at the Rock of Cashel, spend two nights in the famous heritage village of Killarney, and journey along the Wild Atlantic Way to tour the Dingle Peninsula.

Panoramic views in Kerry
Map of Guided Kerry Walk - 5 Days
Guided Kerry Walk - 5 Days

Explore the glorious southwest of Ireland, a region shaped by ancient glaciers and the pounding waves of the Atlantic Ocean. On this guided tour of the green hills, valleys, and pastures of Kerry, you'll enjoy plenty of fresh air and panoramic views, and you'll have frequent opportunities to meet local people and get a glimpse of daily life in their culture.

Skellig Cliffs on the Ring of Kerry
Map of Ring of Kerry Guide Assisted Hike - 8 Days
Ring of Kerry Guide Assisted Hike - 8 Days

This 8-day assisted hike combines the best of the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula, a land that's famous for its beauty, culture, and friendly locals. Hike through a series of spectacular mountains, deep-sea inlets, between ancient archaeological sites and through green sheep pastures. Hike through these wild stretches of uninhabitable coastline, enjoy spectacular views, and stay at night in comfortable village accommodations.

Climb down to the Dunquin Pier to ferry to Blasket Island
Map of Self-Guided Ring of Kerry Hike & Bike - 8 Days
Self-Guided Ring of Kerry Hike & Bike - 8 Days

Discover southwestern Ireland's most iconic scenery from ocean-carved cliffs to mist-shrouded bogs on this 8-day hiking and biking tour. Covering part of the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula, you'll alternate your days between cycling and hiking dramatic landscapes as well as spend a full day exploring the charming port-town of Dingle and its surroundings.

The medieval ruins of Ross Castle, Killarney National Park.
Map of Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Dingle & Galway - 7 Days
Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Dingle & Galway - 7 Days

Experience the best of Ireland's coastal scenery, historic sites, and vibrant cities on this week-long self-drive adventure. Starting in Dublin, this circular route takes you south to the Rock of Cashel and Ireland's second city of Cork, before heading into the wilds of Killarney National Park and along the spectacularly scenic Ring of Kerry. After a day spent exploring the Slea Peninsula and the seaside village of Dingle, you'll head up the west coast to hike along the Cliffs of Moher and spend a final night in Galway, enjoying the music, arts, and "craic" of the European cultural capital.

Visit the Cliffs of Moher from Doolin in County Clare
Map of Self-Drive Ireland: Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher - 7 Days
Self-Drive Ireland: Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher - 7 Days

Explore the magic of Ireland on this week-long self-drive adventure, starting with a pint of Guinness in Dublin. You'll dive into the Emerald Isle's kingly past with a visit to the Rock of Cashel, spend two nights in the famous heritage village of Killarney, and drive along the Wild Atlantic Way to explore the Dingle Peninsula. Cap off your trip with a trek to the majestic Cliffs of Moher before returning to the capital.

Have fun with the tribe as you explore the "fairy trails" in County Offaly
Map of Family Tour of Ireland: Dublin, Kinsale & Killarney - 7 Days
Family Tour of Ireland: Dublin, Kinsale & Killarney - 7 Days

Immerse your family in the wonders of Ireland on this seven-day self-drive tour. Start in Dublin, where you'll stroll through St Stephen's Green Park and visit the hallowed halls of Trinity College. Then, it's off to Kinsale for the good-luck charms of the Blarney Stone and a kayak tour of Ireland's most infamous pirate routes. Bike through the greenery of Killarney National Park, paint your own toy soldiers at Europe's only toy soldier factory, and commune with the little folk on Offaly's enchanted "fairy trails."

The path from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher
Map of Heart of Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Clifden, Doolin & Killarney - 11 Days
Heart of Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Clifden, Doolin & Killarney - 11 Days

Discover some of Ireland's most iconic natural landscapes on this unforgettable 11-day road trip. Starting in the capital of Dublin, you'll strike out toward the west coast to admire the beaches, castles, and villages of Connemara and County Clare, then hop on a ferry to the remote Aran Islands. Your trip winds down in Killarney with kayaking and cycling around the national park, before circling back to Dublin for a final night on the town.

Spot rainbows as you drive along the famous Ring of Kerry
Map of Southern Ireland & Dublin Grand Tour - 13 Days
Southern Ireland & Dublin Grand Tour - 13 Days

Explore the south of Ireland at your own pace on this unforgettable 13-day road trip. You'll experience its history, culture, and great outdoors on a variety of excursions that include nature hikes, visiting working sheep farms, touring coastal villages, exploring national parks, and sailing across glassy lakes. As if that's not enough, you'll drive the legendary Ring of Kerry and cap the trip the Irish way—with a whiskey tasting.

Take a drive through the Irish countryside
Map of South Ireland Scenic Road Trip - 8 Days
South Ireland Scenic Road Trip - 8 Days

A great choice for families or travelers who prefer a little independence, this itinerary will take you on a leisurely road trip through some of Ireland's most scenic cities and natural sites. Experience the allure of Ireland as you drive along the coast and over verdant hills between stop at the medieval Rock of Cashel, Killarney National Park, and the Cliffs of Moher.

Panoramic view of Killarney National Park
Map of Self-Guided Ring of Kerry Bike - 8 Days
Self-Guided Ring of Kerry Bike - 8 Days

Cycle the historic Ring of Kerry on this 8-day biking tour, staying at night in cozy B&Bs. Trace the coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula, explore Killarney National Park, and visit the historic villages of Sneem and Kenmare. See 6th-century ruins on Skellig and Valentia Islands, and enjoy sweeping views of the wild Atlantic Ocean. You'll cycle along quiet country roads, take in the serene countryside, and hear local stories and legends in the neighborhood pub.

The Cliffs of Moher on Ireland's wild western coast
Map of Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 5 Days
Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 5 Days

Hit the road and see the best of the Emerald Isle on this 5-day self-driving jaunt through Ireland. Walk the ancient streets of Dublin, kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork, visit the famous heritage town of Killarney, take in breathtaking views of the Cliffs of Moher, and revel in the energy of bohemian Galway. From windswept Atlantic coastlines to bustling city streets, this itinerary is perfect for independent travelers looking to pack some of Ireland's most iconic sights into a short space of time.

Cliffs of Moher, County Clare
Map of Southwest Ireland Road Trip: Cliffs of Moher, Dingle, Ring of Kerry, Dublin - 9 Days
Southwest Ireland Road Trip: Cliffs of Moher, Dingle, Ring of Kerry, Dublin - 9 Days

See the best of southwestern Ireland and Dublin on this self-driving tour through some of the Emerald Isle's best-loved counties. You'll discover Ireland's history in Adare and at Bunratty Castle, explore the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, wander the streets of Dingle, and view County Kerry's sparkling lakes and iconic green meadows. Before exploring Dublin's Trinity College and Grafton Street shops, you'll visit Cobh to sample local foods at The English Market and hear the bells of Shandon Steeple.

Slea Head
Map of Ireland's Scenic Hikes & Drives - 9 Days
Ireland's Scenic Hikes & Drives - 9 Days

This road trip is the perfect introduction to some of Ireland's best-known sights and hikes, with a few off-the-beaten-path gems featured along the way. Over nine days, you'll explore the Emerald Isle's wild landscapes on breathtaking drives and fresh-air walks. Big names include the Cliffs of Moher, the Wicklow Way, and the Ring of Kerry, but there's equal joy to be found in strolling quaint towns or settling down in a traditional pub for an evening of folk music.

Admire stunning views every where you turn in Kerry County
Map of Guided Kingdom of Kerry Walk - 5 Days
Guided Kingdom of Kerry Walk - 5 Days

Featuring three full days of walking County Kerry's Iveragh Peninsula, you'll discover why locals lovingly refer to this Irish county as "The Kingdom." Starting in Sneem, you'll work your way west toward Abbey Island, around the coast, stopping to explore the Skellig Islands before ending in Cahersiveen. You'll cover all sorts of terrain from beaches and dunes, to narrow paths and unmarked open hillsides, and enjoy jovial evenings in cozy pubs along the way.

Experience the highlights of Ireland's southern counties, like historic Kilkenny
Map of Road Trip Through Ireland's South - 13 Days
Road Trip Through Ireland's South - 13 Days

Grab your passport and keys because you're off on an epic road trip around Ireland's scenic south. See firsthand why they call this the Emerald Isle as you drive along rolling green hills, shimmering lakes, medieval villages, and historic castles on your way through various countries, from Cork to Limerick. As a bonus, you'll enjoy city tours of Dublin, hiking coastal cliffs, whiskey tastings, and more.

Explore the Killarney National Park with the whole family
Map of Ireland South & West Family Road Trip - 10 Days
Ireland South & West Family Road Trip - 10 Days

This 10-day, self-drive Irish adventure is ideal for families with kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens. Starting in Dublin, you'll drive west to Athlone and then continue on a loop around western and southern Ireland, visiting the Connemara region, the Cliffs of Moher, Killarney National Park, and other natural and cultural highlights. Along the way, you'll enjoy a range of fun activities and outings—from touring "haunted" castles to sunset kayaking and adventurous hikes.

Stay two nights in the charming town of Westport while exploring County Mayo
Map of Ireland's Ultimate Self-Drive Adventure - 15 Days
Ireland's Ultimate Self-Drive Adventure - 15 Days

Take 15 days to loop around the island of Ireland at a relaxed pace. Starting in Dublin, head clockwise to check off several beautiful counties in the south and west, like Wicklow, Cork, Kerry, Clare, Mayo, and Donegal while staying in charming towns along the way. Spend the last few days of the trip exploring Northern Ireland's transformed capital and its coastal gems to complete this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Along the trail in Kerry
Map of Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Hike - 11 Days
Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Hike - 11 Days

Hike the Ring of Kerry at your own pace on this 11-day self-guided itinerary. The iconic Ring route is a loop of the Iveragh Peninsula on Europe's westerly edge. With the Atlantic and mountains ever-present, you'll follow the trail between some of Ireland's most charming towns and beauty spots, like Kenmare Bay, Caherdaniel, and Glencar. The start and end point of Killarney is easy to reach from a host of airports in Ireland.

Spectacular views from the Ring of Kerry
Map of Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Kilkenny, Killarney & Galway - 6 Days
Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Kilkenny, Killarney & Galway - 6 Days

Experience all that Ireland has to offer on this six-day road trip. Travel back to the medieval streets of Dublin, where you can see one of the world's oldest manuscripts, then head to Kilkenny to touch the cool stone walls of its famous castle. Drive the Ring of Kerry to marvel at breathtaking views, and sit down to a feast in Galway, the first place in Ireland to be designated a European Region of Gastronomy. Whether looking for history, nature, or the adventure of a lifetime, this road trip has it all.

Biking the Ring of Kerry
Map of Self-Guided Ring of Kerry Cycling Trip - 7 Days
Self-Guided Ring of Kerry Cycling Trip - 7 Days

With the highest mountain range in Ireland as a backdrop, this self-guided cycling tour follows the world-famous Ring of Kerry. Starting and ending in Killarney National Park, the journey traces the coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula, taking you through picturesque villages and natural wonders on a mix of inland and coastal routes.

Killarney National Park
Map of Irish Traditions Self-Drive Road Trip - 11 Days
Irish Traditions Self-Drive Road Trip - 11 Days

With empty roads and a landscape of spectacular cliffs, windswept castles, and dreamy pastures, Ireland is made for driving. A warm welcome awaits in the cozy towns and villages, including Doolin, the country's traditional music capital. It's easy to get around on your own, so set off in a rental car to create your own adventure on this 11-day itinerary. You'll start and end in Dublin, driving clockwise for a stretch on the Wild Atlantic Way, learning about Ireland's fascinating history and traditions as you go.

Stand at the edge of the famous Cliffs of Moher for those impressive snapshots
Map of Road Tripping in Ireland: Dublin, Killarney, Doolin & Galway - 12 Days
Road Tripping in Ireland: Dublin, Killarney, Doolin & Galway - 12 Days

Explore some of Ireland's most memorable sights on this 12-day self-drive adventure. Start in Dublin with a tour and tasting at the famous Guinness Storehouse, then head to Blarney Castle and give a good-luck kiss to the Blarney Stone. Hike Killarney National Park, descend into the wondrous caves of Doolin, and see the magnificent Cliffs of Moher via boat. End your trip with a drive back to Dublin for a whiskey tasting at Jameson Distillery and a tour of the somber halls of Kilmainham Gaol.

Sunset over Doonagore Castle in Doolin
Map of West Coast of Ireland Road Trip - 8 Days
West Coast of Ireland Road Trip - 8 Days

Buckle up for a wildly beautiful road trip around Ireland's west coast. This eight-day adventure takes you along dramatic coastal routes, past ancient landscapes dotted with archaeological treasures, and into charming towns and villages. By day, you'll travel parts of the iconic Wild Atlantic Way, from the mighty Cliffs of Moher to the Irish-speaking Aran Islands. Come the evenings, settle down in authentic Irish pubs for fine food and traditional music.

Coastal view, Dingle Peninsula
Map of Discover the Dingle Peninsula - 10 Days
Discover the Dingle Peninsula - 10 Days

With countless routes traversing one of Ireland's most treasured peninsulas, Kerry is a walker's paradise. This tour combines the charming Irish towns of Dingle, Killarney, Sneem, and Kenmare with stunning hikes along Slea Head, Kenmare Bay, and the famous Dingle Way. You'll cycle in Killarney National Park, take the ferry to the Blasket Islands, stroll through oak forests, and enjoy views of grassy bogland, dramatic cliff drops, and the picturesque Slieve Mish Mountains.

Cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge in Ballycastle
Map of Northern Ireland & the West Coast - 13 Days
Northern Ireland & the West Coast - 13 Days

Experience highlights of both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland on this adventure-filled 13-day trip. Pick up your SUV rental car in Dublin and drive counterclockwise, first to Belfast, then on to the dramatic northern Causeway Coast, and down the west coast's Wild Atlantic Way. There'll be castles and culture aplenty, but the driving itself is one of the stars of the show, with spectacular views of mountains, lakes, cliffs, and sweeping beaches.

Brightly painted houses in the seaside town of Cobh
Map of Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Galway & Belfast - 14 Days
Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Galway & Belfast - 14 Days

Get ready to immerse yourself in Irish culture, history, and landscapes with this two-week, self-drive adventure. Starting in Dublin, you'll head south to explore highlights like the Rock of Cashel, the Ring of Kerry, and Killarney National Park. Continue up the wild west coast to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, and make a quick detour to the windswept Aran Islands. Revel in the culture and traditional music of Doolin, Westport, and Galway before crossing into Northern Ireland, where you'll discover the otherworldly geology of the Giant's Causeway and end your journey in the bustling streets of Belfast.

Sea views from historic Charles Fort in Kinsale
Map of Ireland Castles & Hiking Road Trip - 14 Days
Ireland Castles & Hiking Road Trip - 14 Days

Discover the splendor of the Irish landscape, and the atmospheric castles that embellish it, on this active two-week road trip. As you drive clockwise from Dublin, there are opportunities galore to explore the great outdoors. Hike on enchanting trails through remote mountain ranges, cycle the riverside Waterford Greenway, kayak under the stars, and set off on horseback from neo-Gothic castle grounds.

There's plenty of sand and surf as you roadtrip along Ireland's west coast
Map of Ireland Castles & Coast Family Road Trip - 14 Days
Ireland Castles & Coast Family Road Trip - 14 Days

Explore the castles and coastline of the Emerald Isle on this two-week family adventure. Choose your own pace as you wind your way from Dublin to the wild west coast and onto the iconic landscapes of the Ring of Kerry. Along the way, you'll hang 10 in one of Europe's best surf spots, capture the kids' imaginations in historic castles, and hike and bike through scenic national parks before circling back to Dublin for some educational fun at the Epic Museum.

Ring of Kerry
Map of Highlights of Ireland Road Trip - 10 Days
Highlights of Ireland Road Trip - 10 Days

Explore the magic of Ireland independently with this self-drive itinerary. You'll go from the ancient streets of Dublin to the rebel city of Cork, the quaint village of Killarney, and the breathtaking Ring of Kerry. Keep going to the spectacular views of the Cliffs of Moher and the buzzing cultural scene of Galway before you ultimately return to Dublin.

Kerry County countryside
Map of Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Hike - 8 Days
Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Hike - 8 Days

Explore the southwest corner of Ireland at your own pace on this 8-day walking itinerary of the Kerry Peninsula. This popular driving route is even better on foot as you cover the countryside from cliffs to beaches across rolling pastures, peat bogs, and mountain ranges. Start in Killarney, walking through Kenmare, Sneem, and Caherdaniel. Veer west through Waterville and Cahersiveen to your final village in Glenbeigh.

Beautiful coastal seascape
Map of Guided Ring of Kerry Hike - 8 Days
Guided Ring of Kerry Hike - 8 Days

Explore the beautiful landscape of the famous "Kerry Gold" butter on this 8-day hiking tour. See County Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula on a series of stunning day hikes, returning to town in the evening for a hot meal and a hearty pint at the neighborhood pub. Discover medieval monastery ruins, nesting bird colonies, and mountainous peninsulas carved deep with steep inlets.

Cliffs of Moher
Map of Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Doolin, Westport & More - 14 Days
Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Doolin, Westport & More - 14 Days

This ultimate self-driving tour of Ireland is filled with adventures in historic towns and along scenic coastlines. Start in Dublin before exploring the villages of Laragh, the medieval Rock of Cashel in Cork, and the hiking trails in Kinsale. Then, tour Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, and Inch Beach off the Dingle Peninsula. The final leg of the road trip takes you to the must-see Cliffs of Moher, bohemian Galway, and two historic national parks before a final night in Derry.

Sunset over the Claddagh in Galway
Map of Adventure in Southern Ireland: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 11 Days
Adventure in Southern Ireland: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 11 Days

On this 11-day journey through southern Ireland, you'll eat, drink, and travel like a local. In Dublin, you'll see highlight landmarks on walking tours plus imbibe at the famous Jameson Distillery and Guinness Storehouse. Then hit the road and enjoy the stunning scenery of counties Cork, Kerry, and Galway as you take boat trips, visit the Cliffs of Moher, embark on nature hikes, tour historic villages, and much more.

Cycle around the rugged coastline of Inishmore, the largest of Ireland's Aran Islands
Map of Ireland Self-Guided Cycling Tour: Dublin, Galway, Doolin & Dingle - 12 Days
Ireland Self-Guided Cycling Tour: Dublin, Galway, Doolin & Dingle - 12 Days

Soak in western Ireland's inspiring coastal landscape on this 12-day itinerary, which features both two and four wheels. Flying into Dublin, you'll head directly west to Galway and journey down the Wild Atlantic Way. Between short drives, you'll cycle around striking scenery, from the lunar-like Burren region to a host of awesome peninsulas. There'll be time to discover key sites on foot, too, from the Cliffs of Moher to Muckross House, as well as Dublin's highlights.

The trail to Dunquin
Map of Ultimate Southwest Ireland Hiking Adventure - 15 Days
Ultimate Southwest Ireland Hiking Adventure - 15 Days

Explore Ireland's most picturesque locations on foot with this rugged 15-day itinerary. Begin your adventure in Dublin, a city steeped in history, before moving on to Killarney for a cruise through its lakes and a hike along the ancient "butter road" to Kenmare. Head to Sneem to learn about the area's rich history and explore its natural beauty. Enjoy a walk around Slea Head, trek along the wild Cliffs of Moher, and end your journey with a night at the medieval Kinnity Castle.

Along the Ring of Kerry
Map of Kingdom of Kerry Guided Hike - 8 Days
Kingdom of Kerry Guided Hike - 8 Days

Circle both the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula, 2 of Ireland's most popular regions, on this combination 8-day itinerary.  Explore expansive grass hillsides crisscrossed by ancient trading paths, mountainous coasts, stone ruins, and quaint fishing villages as you hike the Skellig coast, Slea Head, and more, all accompanied by your expert guides.

Other popular travel destinations in Ireland
Dublin · County Kerry · Galway · Dingle Peninsula · Doolin · Dingle Town · Northern Ireland · Cork · Belfast · Killarney National Park · Kenmare · County Cork · Kinsale · Donegal · Westport · Birr · Tralee · Ballycastle · Letterkenny · Laragh · Clifden · Sligo · Limerick · Aran Islands · Kilkenny · Waterford · Donegal town · Portmagee