Still wondering what to do in Killarney? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Killarney and book your hotel today!
Nestled in County Kerry, Killarney is a renowned spot in Ireland, appreciated for its natural environment and historical sites. The town serves as a gateway to extensive National Park lands, encompassing impressive mountains and ancient woodlands. Visitors often seek out Ross Castle, a well-preserved 15th-century tower house on Lough Leane, and Muckross House and Gardens, a grand Victorian mansion offering insights into 19th-century estate life, alongside its landscaped grounds.
The area is celebrated for its lakes, including Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper Lake, which are traversed by the scenic Ring of Kerry route. The Gap of Dunloe, a narrow mountain pass, provides another popular route for those looking to experience the region's raw landscape. Killarney's connection to traditional Irish culture and its accessibility to diverse outdoor pursuits, from walking trails to boat trips, establishes its appeal.
Most visitors to Killarney opt to book their accommodation in Killarney Town Centre itself. This area offers the greatest convenience for accessing amenities and local attractions, making it a popular choice for both first-time guests and returning travellers.
Killarney Town Centre is home to a wide array of hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs, catering to various budgets. Here, you'll find the bulk of Killarney's dining establishments, from traditional pubs like The Laurels to modern restaurants, alongside various shops. St Mary's Cathedral is a notable landmark within easy walking distance, as is Killarney House and Gardens. The town centre also serves as a hub for cultural events and evening entertainment.
Slightly outside the immediate town, towards the national park, areas like Muckross Road and Lakes of Killarney offer larger hotels and resorts, often with their own grounds and leisure facilities. These options tend to provide a more tranquil setting, with many boasting views towards Lough Leane or the surrounding mountains. Muckross Abbey and Ross Castle are key historical sites situated within this broader area, offering direct access to the Killarney National Park trails.
When considering hotel bookings, Killarney is well-served by its transport links. Killarney railway station is centrally located, providing connections to Dublin and Cork. For air travel, Kerry Airport (KIR) is the closest, approximately 15km away, with various flights. Cork Airport (ORK) is a larger alternative, about an hour and a half's drive, while Shannon Airport (SNN) is roughly two hours away. Many hotels, particularly those further from the town centre, offer shuttle services or are easily accessible by taxi from these transport hubs.
When planning your stay in Killarney, a bit of timing can make a real difference to your budget. The most expensive times to book hotels are generally during the peak summer months, especially July and August, when demand is highest for the national park and lakes. Bank holiday weekends, such as the May and August bank holidays, also see price surges, as do major events like the Kerry Film Festival, which typically takes place in October or November, and any large sporting fixtures or conventions that might be happening locally.
For better value, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or the quieter months. April, May, September, and October can offer a good balance of decent weather and lower prices compared to high summer. You'll often find the most affordable rates during the low season, from November through to March, excluding the Christmas and New Year period. Booking well in advance, especially for any popular times, can also secure better deals, as can looking for hotels slightly outside the immediate town centre.