The Medieval City of Kilkenny
A day tour experience uniquely designed by Desmond Tours
Tour Highlights & Focal Points
- Kilkenny City
- Kilkenny Castle
- Castle Park
- Kilkenny Traditional Lunch
- Medieval Mile Museum
- St Canice’s Cathedral
- St Canice’s Roundtower
- Smithwick’s Brewery
Sample Itinerary
Book as shown or customize every detail to make it truly your own!
You will be warmly welcomed by our friendly driver who will escort you to your awaiting vehicle. The starting location of this day tour is at your accommodation in Dublin, however, other pick-up points are also possible. Do send us an enquiry through our customised tour page to receive a unique offer, tailored to your needs.
En route to Ireland’s south, we will begin our tour with a scenic drive passing Dublin’s highlights along the way. We will now make our way toward’s Ireland’s Ancient East, passing the rolling hills of Kilkenny en route.
On arrival in the medieval city of Kilkenny, there are so many activities to choose from – take a relaxing stroll and stretch your legs in the majestic castle park. Then visit the ancient Kilkenny Castle taking a tour with your guide – don’t miss the famous picture gallery!
At lunchtime, choose from an array of local delicacies in the local pubs, cafes and restaurants that Kilkenny has to offer. Consider dining at the famous Kyteler’s Inn (established in 1324) – an ancient medieval inn steeped in witchcraft history.
Perhaps pair your lunch with a pint of the black stuff (be it Coca Cola or Guinness!) and get ready to move onto your next adventure.
Depending on your group’s interests, consider walking the Medieval Mile with your guide, visit the new Medieval Mile Museum to learn about Kilkenny’s history or visit the local brewery, and taste some local Smithwick’s beer.
For the more adventourous climb up St Canice’s Roundtower and enjoy spectacular views over the city or take a boat trip on the River Nore. Before leaving Kilkenny, make sure you stop at Kilkenny Design Centre to stock up on some traditional Irish produce and gifts to take home.
Your driver will take you back to your accommodation and we will bid our farewells.
Would you like to book or customize this itinerary? Click below!
Booking this Tour
Unless otherwise agreed, your tour price includes the following:
- A fully customized itinerary designed with your touring needs in mind.
- Scheduled stops at must-see locations.
- Additional stops at lesser known hidden gems – Ireland’s best kept secrets!
- Live commentary, information and entertainment by an experienced, Failte Ireland approved driver guide.
- Driver overnight expenses (including accommodation & food).
- Private collection from / return to an address of your choice.
- Mercedes Benz vehicle (or similar) including associated costs such as fuel, tolls, insurance and car-parks – your own personal group vehicle.
- Recommendations on reputable accommodation choices, local Irish pubs, award winning restaurants and fun activities.
- Wi-Fi connection in your touring vehicle on request
- Standard itineraries, this is your customized tour!
- Personal insurance or travel insurance
- Any items of a personal nature
- Accommodation, additional transfers and activity bookings, unless specified in your tour quote
- Travel to/from Ireland, such as flights
- Driver-Guide Gratuity (at your discretion)
Can I choose a start date for my tour?
Our tours start on any day of the week, whenever it suits you best, subject to availability. Get in touch with your travel dates and we will check availability for you. Tours between May and September sell out quickly, so booking early is advised.
How many people can participate in the tour?
We organise tours for any group size. Larger groups may incur a surcharge, please contact us to enquire about specific rates.
Can we book accommodation through you?
Yes – and we highly recommend you ‘let us do the heavy-lifting’. With years of experience and strong relationships across Ireland, we know which hotels offer the best service, comfort, and value in every region. We focus on places that go beyond just a bed for the night – somewhere you can truly relax after a day of touring.
We’re happy to work within your budget and style, and we often secure perks like upgrades or better rates you won’t get by booking direct.
Prefer to book your own? No problem – we’ll gladly offer guidance and ensure everything fits smoothly into your itinerary.
How long is an average day of touring?
Usually groups are picked up at 9.00 in the morning and will then enjoy touring until around 17.30 but this depends entirely on the clients’ preferences. A longer touring day can easily be compensated by a shorter one the day after, providing you with a flexible touring experience.
How do we make a booking?
Please click here to start planning your customized tour, use our Tour Builder or feel free to email us with your personal Ireland Tour wish-list.
What vehicle(s) will be used for my tour through Ireland?
This will depend a little on the size of your group and the availability of our vehicles. Please note that the availability of a particular vehicle may not always be guaranteed due to maintenance and repairs. Feel free to contact us for more information or review our Mercedes fleet page.
It’s easy to create your dream tour of Ireland - Your tour, your way!
1
Check out our sample itineraries
You’re here. Well done.
You have completed the first step!
2
Let’s Have a Chat
You sit back while we craft a private tour tailored to your group members interests and individual pace. Every detail is handled, every moment is thoughtfully planned.
3
Show Up & ENJOY
From the moment you arrive, our office team and your driver-guide are by your side – providing support, sharing stories, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences along the way.
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