About the locality
Killarney is a vibrant town located in County Kerry, in the southwest of Ireland. It is situated in the heart of the Ring of Kerry, a scenic route that takes visitors on a journey through some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes.
Killarney is known for its natural beauty, with attractions such as Killarney National Park and the Lakes of Killarney drawing visitors from around the world. The park covers over 10,000 hectares of mountains, lakes, woodlands, and waterfalls, and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including Ireland’s only herd of native red deer.
In addition to its natural attractions, Killarney is also a hub of cultural activity, with a thriving arts and music scene, as well as numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The town is home to a range of galleries, theatres, and cultural centres, and hosts events such as the annual Killarney Mountain festival, Killarney Fourth of July festival and the Killarney Races.
Killarney is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, kayaking, fishing, and golfing in the surrounding area.
The town itself is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and pubs, offering a large diverse range of dining and entertainment options for visitors.
Overall, Killarney is a dynamic and welcoming town that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, or simply relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Killarney is a vibrant town located in County Kerry, in the southwest of Ireland. It is situated in the heart of the Ring of Kerry, a scenic route that takes visitors on a journey through some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes.
Killarney is known for its natural beauty, with attractions such as Killarney National Park and the Lakes of Killarney drawing visitors from around the world. The park covers over 10,000 hectares of mountains, lakes, woodlands, and waterfalls, and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including Ireland’s only herd of native red deer.
In addition to its natural attractions, Killarney is also a hub of cultural activity, with a thriving arts and music scene, as well as numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The town is home to a range of galleries, theatres, and cultural centres, and hosts events such as the annual Killarney Mountain festival, Killarney Fourth of July festival and the Killarney Races.
Killarney is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, kayaking, fishing, and golfing in the surrounding area.
The town itself is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and pubs, offering a large diverse range of dining and entertainment options for visitors.
Overall, Killarney is a dynamic and welcoming town that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, or simply relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Accommodation
Killarney is a popular tourist destination and there is a wide variety of accommodation options available to suit every budget and preference. Some of the most popular types of accommodation in Killarney include:
Hotels
It is said that Killarney has the greatest number of hotel beds outside of Dublin and considered by many as the tourist capital of Ireland there is a huge range of accommodation providers. There are many hotels in Killarney, ranging from luxurious award winning five-star properties to more affordable three-star hotels. Many hotels are located in the town centre, close to restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Bed & Breakfasts
Killarney is home to many charming bed and breakfasts, offering a more intimate and personal experience than larger hotels. These properties are often located in quiet residential neighbourhoods, providing a peaceful and relaxing base from which to explore the town and surrounding area.
Guesthouses
Guesthouses are similar to bed and breakfasts, offering comfortable accommodations and a home-like atmosphere. They may offer additional amenities such as on-site restaurants or bars.
Self-Catering Accommodation
For visitors who prefer to have their own space, there are many self-catering options available in Killarney, including apartments, cottages, and holiday homes. These properties offer the freedom and flexibility to cook your own meals and enjoy a more independent vacation experience.
Hostels
For budget-conscious travellers, there are several hostels in Killarney offering shared or private dormitory-style accommodations. Hostels are a great option for solo travellers or groups looking to meet new people and save money on accommodation. Overall, there is a wide range of accommodation options available in Killarney, making it easy to find the perfect place to stay for your next visit to this beautiful town.
Transport
Bus
There are several bus companies that provide services to and from Killarney, including Bus Eireann and private operators. These services connect Killarney to other major towns and cities in Ireland, as well as to popular tourist destinations such as the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula.
Train
Killarney has a train station that is served by Irish Rail, with regular services to and from Dublin, Cork, and other major cities in Ireland.
Air
Killarney is only 17km from Kerry Airport, which serves a number of Irish and European destination including Dublin, London, Manchester, Frankfurt, Faro and Alicante.
Bicycle
Killarney is a popular destination for cyclists, with many scenic routes in the surrounding area. There are several bike rental companies located in the town, offering a range of bicycles for rent.
Walking
Killarney is a compact town, and many of the attractions and amenities are located within easy walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the town centre and its historic streets and buildings, as well as to enjoy the natural beauty of nearby parks and gardens. Overall, there are several convenient and accessible means of transport in Killarney, making it easy to get around and explore this beautiful town and its surrounding area.
Things to do
Killarney is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland and used to explore the spectacular local attractions as well as a base to discover nearby locations such as the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula. Kerry, known for its stunning natural beauty, historic landmarks, and lively cultural scene. Here are some of the top things to do in Killarney:
Killarney National Park
The town is surrounded by the beautiful Killarney National Park, which is home to several stunning lakes, mountains, and woodlands. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by bike, or on horseback, and can visit popular landmarks such as Muckross House and Gardens and Torc Waterfall.
Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is a scenic driving route that loops around the Iveragh Peninsula, taking in some of the most beautiful landscapes in Ireland. Visitors can take a guided tour or drive the route themselves, stopping at charming villages, historic landmarks, and breath-taking viewpoints along the way.
Ross Castle
Located on the shores of Lough Leane, Ross Castle is a restored 15th-century tower house that offers a fascinating insight into Ireland’s rich history. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle and its beautiful gardens, as well as enjoy boat trips on the lake.
St Mary's Cathedral
Built in the mid-19th century, St. Mary’s Cathedral is a striking example of neo-Gothic architecture. Visitors can admire the cathedral’s intricate stained-glass windows, marble floors, and beautiful choir stalls.
Jaunting Car Tours
One of the most popular ways to explore Killarney is on a traditional horse-drawn jaunting car tour. These tours take visitors through the town’s historic streets, past landmarks such as Ross Castle and Muckross House, and into the surrounding countryside.
Traditional Irish Music
Killarney is home to several traditional Irish music pubs, where visitors can enjoy live music performances, dancing, and lively social gatherings.
Shopping & Dining
Killarney has a vibrant town centre, with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can browse local crafts and souvenirs, sample traditional Irish cuisine, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this charming town. Overall, Killarney offers a wealth of activities and attractions to suit every taste and interest, making it an ideal destination for visitors to County Kerry.
Shopping
Killarney is a popular shopping destination in County Kerry, with a wide variety of shops, boutiques, and markets to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the top shopping areas in Killarney:
High St, Main St, College St
Located in the heart of the town centre, lined with a wide variety of shops, from fashion and beauty boutiques to gift and souvenir stores. Here, visitors can find everything from handmade crafts and local produce to designer clothing and jewellery.
Killarney Outlet Centre
For bargain hunters, the Killarney Outlet Centre is a must-visit destination, offering discounted prices on a wide variety of well-known brands, from fashion and footwear to home and kitchenware.
Deerpark Shopping Centre
Located on East Avenue Road, the Market Cross Shopping Centre is home to several popular chain stores, including Next, Tesco, and Boots, as well as a range of smaller independent retailers.
Killarney Craft Centre
For unique, locally made crafts and souvenirs, the Killarney Craft Centre is a great place to visit. Located on Beech Road, the centre features a range of handcrafted items, from jewellery and pottery to textiles and art.
Killarney Farmers' Market
Held every Friday morning in the town centre, the Killarney Farmers’ Market is a popular destination for foodies and artisanal enthusiasts. Here, visitors can sample and purchase a range of fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and other locally sourced delights.
Overall, Killarney offers a wide range of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to bargain outlets and local markets, making it a great place to indulge in a little retail therapy while exploring the beauty of County Kerry.
Community
Killarney is a vibrant town with a strong sense of community and a rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the main communities and cultural groups in Killarney:
Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA)
The GAA is an important part of the community in Killarney, with a strong tradition of Gaelic football and hurling. The local GAA clubs, Killarney Legion, and Dr Crokes are popular destination for sports enthusiasts and provides opportunities for both children and adults to participate in these traditional Irish sports.
Musical and theatrical groups
Killarney is home to a number of musical and theatrical groups, including the Killarney Musical Society, Killarney Choral Society, and the INEC Killarney, which hosts a range of concerts, plays, and other performances throughout the year.
Killarney Tidy Towns
The Killarney Tidy Towns group is a community-based organization that works to improve the town’s appearance and environment through a range of projects, from litter clean-ups to planting flowers and trees.
Killarney Historical Society
The Killarney Historical Society is a group of local history enthusiasts who meet regularly to discuss and promote the town’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
International communities
Killarney is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. As a result, the town has a diverse range of international communities, including a large Polish community, as well as smaller communities of people from countries such as France, Spain, and Italy. Overall, Killarney is a welcoming and inclusive community that celebrates its cultural heritage and diversity, making it a great place to live and visit.
Schools
Killarney is home to a number of excellent schools, providing education to students of all ages and backgrounds. Here are some of the top schools in Killarney:
St. Brendan's College
Founded in 1860, St. Brendan’s College is an all-boys’ school with a rich history and strong academic and sporting reputation. The school offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs, including a wide variety of sports and music activities.
Killarney Community College
Killarney Community College is a co-educational school that provides education to students from first year to Leaving Certificate level. The school is known for its strong commitment to innovation and creativity, and offers a range of programs, including a dedicated music and arts program.
St Brigid's Secondary School
St. Brigid’s Secondary School is an all-girls’ school that offers education to students from first year to Leaving Certificate level. The school has a strong academic reputation and is known for its supportive and nurturing learning environment.
St. Oliver's National School
St. Oliver’s National School is a primary school that provides education to students from junior infants to sixth class. The school is known for its commitment to providing a safe and inclusive learning environment, and offers a range of extracurricular programs, including sports and music activities.
Presentation Monastery National School
The Mon has a long tradition in the centre of Killarney town and has served generations of families from the Killarney area and beyond. The school was opened on our present site in 1958, but the first school run by the Presentation Brothers was opened on College Street in 1838. The school has a Catholic ethos, and we cater for boys from classes 2nd to 6th.
Holy Cross Mercy School
For over 170 years Holy Cross Mercy School has been delivering an outstanding education for students. The school aims to combine the best of traditional values with the very latest in teaching methods and technologies. Holy Cross Mercy School is a Catholic School under the patronage of the Bishop of Kerry, it has seventeen mainstream classes, an Autism Unit, Special Education Teachers, and Language Support Teachers. It is coeducational from Junior Infants to First Class and only girls attend from 2nd to 6th class. which inspires enjoyment, learning and achievement.
Killarney School of English
Killarney School of English is a language school that provides English language classes to students of all ages and backgrounds. The school offers a range of programs, from general English to exam preparation courses, and is known for its experienced and dedicated teaching staff. Overall, Killarney offers a diverse range of educational opportunities for students of all ages and interests, making it a great place to live and learn.
Co Working
Killarney has a number of coworking spaces that provide flexible workspaces for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers. Here are some of the coworking spaces in Killarney:
Killarney Innovation Centre
The Killarney Innovation Centre is a modern coworking space located in the heart of Killarney. The space offers a range of facilities, including high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and hot desks, private office and is a popular destination for startups and small businesses.
The Box Co Works
Located in the town Centre, the Box offers shared works paces and private office space to business.
Overall, Killarney has a number of excellent coworking spaces that provide flexible workspaces for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers. These spaces offer a range of facilities and support services, making them ideal for those looking for a professional and productive work environment.
Networks
Killarney has a number of networks and organizations that support businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals in the area. Here are some of the networks in Killarney:
Killarney Innovation Centre
The Killarney Innovation Centre is a technology-focused organization that supports startups and technology businesses in the area. The organization provides a range of services, including mentorship, incubation, and funding opportunities.
Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce
The Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce is a business organization that represents the interests of businesses in the Killarney area. The chamber provides a range of services and support to its members, including networking events, training programs, and advocacy.
Kerry Businesswomen's Network
The Kerry Businesswomen’s Network is a professional organization that supports women in business in Kerry. The network provides a range of events and activities, including networking events, training programs, and mentorship opportunities.
Local Enterprise Office Kerry
The Local Enterprise Office Kerry is a government organization that provides support to small businesses and entrepreneurs in the area. The organization provides a range of services, including training programs, mentorship, and funding opportunities.
Overall, there are a number of networks and organizations in Killarney that support businesses and professionals in the area. These networks provide a range of services and support to their members, making them an excellent resource for anyone looking to start or grow a business in Killarney.
