This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Kilkenny.
Kilkenny is a rather fun place to end up if you are traveling through Ireland. While the city does attract a fair amount of tourism, it has lost neither its charm nor its warmth toward visitors. And besides the well-preserved medieval city itself, there are a host of other activities to do and attractions to see.
Kilkenny hostels are mostly centrally located within the city, and well within walking distance of shops and some local attractions. Parking can be a bit of an issue, so if you have a car, be prepared to fork over some money for parking. For sightseeing, Kilkenny Castle is at the top of a hill, and since it is part of the OPW Heritage, it is pretty cheap to get in and take a tour. If it's closed or you don't feel like spending any money, the castle grounds themselves are free and lovely to take a stroll around.
If you have the means to travel outside the city, take a tour of Dunmore Caves, just a few miles north of the city, and check out the formations and learn about the viking raiders who pillaged the townspeople hiding in the caves. Farther away, but still within the county of Kilkenny, are Kells Priory and Jerpoint Abbey. There is a lively musical scene in Kilkenny (as in many Irish towns), so be sure to check out the pubs in the evening to see some live music. Kilkenny also hosts music festivals, so make sure to book ahead if you're arriving during a busy time, otherwise you can mostly just walk up to any Kilkenny hostel.
There is a large shopping center in the middle of town, so you can find almost anything you'll need -- it's within walking distance of everything. On the whole, Kilkenny isn't the best place to come for crazy nightlife, but for a solid Irish atmosphere, this city hits the spot.
Written by local enthusiast for Kilkenny hostels
Emily Schreiber
