Departing from Dublin
Dublin to Kilkenny Castle: Medieval Day Trip
Ireland's finest medieval city and its magnificent Norman castle in one perfect day
From
€45/ person
Rating
★ 4.7(3,240)
Duration
Full day (10 hours)
Rating
4.7 ★ (3,240 reviews)
Languages
English
Group size
Max 16 people
About This Tour
Leave Dublin behind and travel south through the Irish countryside to Kilkenny, one of Ireland's best-preserved medieval cities. At its heart stands Kilkenny Castle, a 12th-century Norman fortress that has dominated the River Nore for over 800 years. With a knowledgeable guide, explore the castle's lavishly restored State Apartments, the Long Gallery with its Pre-Raphaelite ceiling, and the sweeping parklands. Then walk the Medieval Mile — a kilometre of history connecting the castle to St. Canice's Cathedral, passing butter slips, medieval alleyways and the finest collection of medieval architecture in Ireland.
Highlights
- ✓Guided tour of Kilkenny Castle's restored State Apartments and Long Gallery
- ✓Walk the Medieval Mile between castle and cathedral
- ✓St. Canice's Cathedral and its intact medieval round tower
- ✓Free time to explore Kilkenny's craft shops, pubs and streets
- ✓Small group for personal attention and easier access
Ready to book this tour?
Free cancellation · Instant confirmation
Itinerary
Depart from central Dublin, passing through County Carlow as the guide introduces the history of the Norman invasion and the Butler dynasty who shaped Kilkenny.
Explore the castle's exterior gardens before entering the State Apartments. The Long Gallery dazzles with its hammerbeam roof painted by the Brock brothers in Pre-Raphaelite style. The guide covers 800 years of Butler family history inside these walls.
Walk from the castle through the heart of medieval Kilkenny: Rothe House, the Black Abbey, the butter slips marketplace, and St. Canice's Cathedral with its 9th-century round tower — one of only two in Ireland you can still climb.
Explore independently: browse the Kilkenny Design Centre for Irish craft, stop into Marble City Bar, or duck into one of the city's famous craft breweries before the return journey to Dublin.
What's Included
- ✓Return coach transport from Dublin
- ✓Professional English-speaking guide
- ✓Kilkenny Castle entry ticket
- ✓Medieval Mile walking tour
- ✓Headsets for outdoor commentary
Not Included
- ✗Meals and drinks
- ✗St. Canice's Cathedral entry (optional, ~€5)
- ✗Personal purchases
Insider Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes — the Medieval Mile involves uneven cobblestones
Book at least 3 days ahead in summer; tours sell out fast
Try a pint of Smithwick's, brewed in Kilkenny since 1710
The Kilkenny Design Centre has exceptional Irish craft work if you want to shop
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, very family-friendly. The castle has engaging displays and the Medieval Mile is manageable for children aged 6 and up.
How far is Kilkenny from Dublin?
About 120 km south, a 90-minute drive depending on traffic.
Is there free time to explore on our own?
Yes, approximately 90 minutes of free time is included after the guided walking tour.
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From
€45
per person
Free cancellation available on most dates · Secure booking
Meeting point
Dublin city centre — exact pickup point confirmed at booking
From
€45/ person