Killarney is a popular tourist destination in Ireland and there are plenty of things to see and to do here.
One of the top attractions in Killarney is Muckross House and Gardens. It’s a lavish Tudor-style mansion that was donated to the Free Irish State in 1932.
Another highlight is the Muckross Abbey, located inside Killarney National Park. This ruined Franciscan friary dates back to the 15th century and is a must-see for any visitor.
1. Walk around Killarney
Whether you want to explore the town or head out for some adventure, you can find plenty of things to see and do in Killarney. Its UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, national park, lakes, and scenic coastline make it one of the top tourist destinations in Ireland.
If you’re looking for something a little more active, there are many hiking and cycling options around Killarney. There are easy walks along the lake and more challenging hikes in the mountains.
In addition, you can rent a bike from one of the rental shops in town and cycle around the National Park. This will allow you to see Ross Castle, Muckross House and Gardens, Torc Waterfall, and more.
Another option is to take a boat tour from the Boathouse on Muckross Lake. From there, you can visit Innisfallin Island, Dinis Cottage, and the Meeting of the Waters.
2. Go to a pub
Whether you are looking for a good pub to relax in or a nice meal to enjoy, there are plenty of options in Killarney. It's a small town, but it still has a lot to offer.
One of the oldest pubs in Killarney, Courtney's Bar is a cozy and homey establishment with wooden interiors and a big open fireplace. It's also a family-run place that's known for its wide variety of drinks and great service.
It is a great place to hang out with friends, or have some drinks after a day of sightseeing in the town. The menu is full of traditional Irish dishes that are sure to make you feel at home.
It's also a great place for sports fans as it is known to cover a variety of international and national sports events. A must-try drink is the signature Reidy's Whiskey Sour. Lastly, don't miss out on their great live music!
3. Listen to music
One of the best things to do in Killarney is to sit back and listen to some traditional Irish music. The town is filled with pubs and bars where you can relax and enjoy a pint of beer, a glass of wine or a cocktail while listening to a live band.
The pubs and bars in Killarney offer a range of options from modern trendy-style pubs to casual craft breweries that all play authentic Irish music. You can sit down and relax or get rowdy and dance your way through the night!
If you’re interested in traditional Irish music, check out Murphy’s Bar. It’s a family-run Irish pub that’s been open for more than 100 years and it has an authentic atmosphere. It also has a loft-style restaurant where you can eat delicious food and listen to live traditional Irish music.
4. Dance
Dance is one of the most popular forms of entertainment and is enjoyed by people of all ages. If you’re a keen dancer or want to learn a few moves before your big day, there are plenty of places in Killarney that offer the best of the best in the world of Irish dancing.
The Oireachtas Rince na hEireann is the oldest and most well-known Irish dancing competition in the world. This year, over 2,000 dancers from across the globe descended on the InEC in Killarney for what was a high-octane smorgasbord of entertainment. The biggest name in the ring is An Coimsiun le Rinci Gaelacha, but they are hardly alone in putting on the event. The most impressive feat of the show is that it is held in the prestigious Gleneagle INEC arena, which was designed for sports and music events. As the name suggests, it’s a great night out for the whole family and is certainly worth the hype.