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Day 8
Next stop: Dublin Previous stop: Cork City Return to full itinerary »

Kilkenny is one of Ireland's most alluring destinations, thanks to its large number of medieval churches, castles, and abbeys. These ancient stone buildings are in stark contrast to the number of contemporary galleries all over the city, showcasing the work of artisans and crafts people from every region of Ireland. To recharge after a long day of sightseeing, head to one of Kilkenny's charming pubs and enjoy your Guinness to the tunes of "trad" music.
Learn more about Kilkenny City »

  • Art and Culture
  • Architecture

Experiences

  • Explore the medieval sites in Kilkenny, including Black Abbey, Kyteler's Inn, or the Market Cross.
  • Buy a piece of the shamrock by visiting the Kilkenny Design Centre, one of the many art galleries in town that stock crafts and art work from contemporary Irish artisans.
  • Kilkenny Castle, located on 50 acres of parkland, is a dazzling and over-the-top blend of Victorian and Gothic style.

Festivals

Side Trips

  • Black Castle, located in Leighlinbridge (9 mi/15 km northeast of Kilkenny), is a romantic, Norman-era fortress.
  • Discover overlooked Thomastown, a pretty, stone-built village on the River Nore, 9 mi/15 km south of Kilkenny.

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