Killarney, Ireland is one of the most picturesque cities in the beautiful southwest of the country. For that reason, it is on the “to do” list for many visitors. It is an Irish dream city, which means it attracts many of the larger tour groups, so it is also very busy. But does that mean you should skip Killarney? No, although the city can be a bit touristy and even crowded, it is worth a visit, although it is best to plan your trip to Killarney outside of the main season.
Fabulous Killarney location
Nestled between high hills and large lakes, Killarney is in the southern part of County Kerry. The scenery is spectacular and comes with an impressive, scenic drive into the city. However, keep in mind that this is an area of Ireland where you need to heed all driving tips and be alert at all times. The national roads leading to Killarney are the N22, the N71 or the N72, although the city can also be reached by train from Cork and Dublin.
Killarney is the perfect starting point for exploring some of the Republic of Ireland’s most beautiful natural attractions, including the Ring of Kerry, the Kerry Way, and Killarney National Park. As well as having beautiful outdoor spaces, Killarney is a sweet town full of cozy pubs and shops selling local crafts.
Killarney population and history
Just over 14,000 people live in Killarney, with another 1,000 or so in rural areas of the city proper. Due to a large number of hotel beds, the perceived seasonal fluctuations in populations are enormous.
The area was already colonized for centuries when a Franciscan monastery (built in 1448) and nearby castles elevated it to a local center. Some of the mining provided industrial employment, but the tourism industry began here as early as 1700. Travel writers and the opening of the railway increased the influx of visitors to Killarney even further in the 19th century, and even Queen Victoria paid a visit. here, and its royalty influence helped make the city a major Irish holiday destination. His Ladies-in-Waiting also established one of the most spectacular viewpoints, called “Ladies’ View” even today.
Killarney hoy
Killarney remains one of the top tourist destinations for Irish and foreign visitors. Tourism is very important to the city and many of the local businesses are established to serve visitors. Although there are a few factories outside the city, the hospitality sector and smaller shops dominate the city center.
What to expect
Opinions on Killarney differ – it’s geared toward tourism and not much else. This can make it the perfect vacation spot for some, or make it feel like a tourist trap nightmare for others. Beauty, as always, lies in the eye of the beholder. The numerous hotels are necessary to cope with the influx of visitors and make the city seem insignificant at times. However, Killarney has its quiet and unspoiled corners, especially in the National Park.
When to visit Killarney, Ireland
Whenever you go, Killarney will surely be busy. It would be best to avoid the city during July and August and any Irish bank holidays. Note that Killarney can claim to have some of the highest prices for an overnight stay in the prime season.
Places to visit
Killarney, Ireland is so popular because of its location, but also because the city itself is so stereotypically Irish. Plan to walk downtown to window-shop or stop for fish and chips. However, there are not many major sites to see within Killarney. The nearby Muckross House and Muckross Farm are popular all year round, the typical horse-drawn ‘jaunt cars’ will take you there. Or head to Ross Castle (built around 1420) and from there take a boat trip around the Lakes of Killarney, be it a tour of the lakes or a round-trip to Inisfallen.
Across from Tomies Mountain (2,411 feet) and Purple Mountain (2,730 feet), a (watch out!) Driving, riding, or walking through the Gap of Dunloe is a dramatic experience. Coming from Killarney by car, you may be interested in continuing to Moll’s Gap, a spectacular mountain pass slightly pampered by the trendy souvenir shop at the top. But the views are magnificent and the N71 will take you back through Ladies’ View and through several interesting bends and tunnels towards Killarney. Hidden in the woods is the sixty foot tall Torc Waterfall, another must see.
Stop in Killarney as a place to recharge before heading out to drive the Ring of Kerry, one of Ireland’s most famous road trip routes.
