rovostays·

Cultural & heritage · Kilkenny

Top 10 cultural & heritage things to do in Kilkenny

Heritage walks, museum days, temple complexes, and the kind of guides who explain why a place matters rather than reciting dates. The cultural side of Kilkenny, paced for actual seeing.

  1. Kilkenny city game: The Shenanigans Medieval Adventure, Kilkenny1

    1. Kilkenny city game: The Shenanigans Medieval Adventure

    Curious about the lesser-known stories of Kilkenny? Starting with the very first steps of this playful walk, you’ll experience the thrill and beauty of discovery. Location-based riddles will show you the way to our favourite local places, including quiet courtyards, forgotten stories and cute hidden spots we’ll keep secret... for now! Fun fact: this trail was created by our local creator. - Explore Kilkenny during this interactive and fun discovery walk - Learn about the history and local stories of the city centre in a playful way - Solve 16 location-based riddles to unlock directions to your next stop along the route - See popular sights like Kytelers inn and the Kilkenny castle from a different angle and discover hidden local spots This discovery walk is an educational and fun activity for friends, couples, families with kids, curious locals, visitors, and team building.

  2. Private Fun Family Walking Tour in Kilkenny with a Pro Guide, Kilkenny2

    2. Private Fun Family Walking Tour in Kilkenny with a Pro Guide

    · 3 hours

    Explore at your own pace with a fully private guided tour. Embark on a magical journey through Kilkenny with our "Family Fun Tour," perfect for adventurers of all ages. From the historical enchantment of Kilkenny Castle to the engaging and interactive St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum, each stop is designed to fascinate and educate. Rothe House offers a glimpse into life in the 16th century with its preserved interiors and peaceful gardens, ideal for a family day out. This tour not only explores the grandeur and history of Kilkenny’s most famous landmarks but also makes you the hero of your own family adventure. Discover, learn, and create unforgettable memories with every step you take. Join us to experience the joy of discovery and the thrill of exploring Kilkenny’s treasures together.

  3. Kilkenny Private Walking Tour with a Local, Kilkenny3

    3. Kilkenny Private Walking Tour with a Local

    Explore the medieval charm of Kilkenny on a private walking tour led by a friendly local guide who brings the city’s history and character to life! Wander through winding streets, bustling squares, and hidden corners as you uncover the stories, culture, and everyday life that make this Irish city so special. Whether you choose a short 2-hour stroll or a full 6-hour exploration, your guide will tailor the experience to your interests, sharing local insights, secret spots, and authentic Kilkenny moments along the way. Experience the city like a true local and enjoy a personalized journey at your own pace.

  1. Walking Tours of Kilkenny with John Comerford, Kilkenny4

    4. Walking Tours of Kilkenny with John Comerford

    5.0· 40 reviews· 2.3 hours

    Discover Kilkenny’s rich history, stunning architecture, and hidden gems on a relaxed, flexible walking tour with John – your knowledgeable, qualified guide. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just looking for a memorable stroll, your tours offer something for everyone. Born and raised in Gowran in the heart of County Kilkenny, John has spent years immersing himself in Kilkenny’s unique history and culture. John has always been passionate about storytelling and sharing the hidden tales and well-known landmarks that make Kilkenny truly special. John is happy to offer private or custom tours for groups, families, or individuals. Contact John to find out more!

  2. Private Kilkenny Tour: Medieval History & Local Insights, Kilkenny5

    5. Private Kilkenny Tour: Medieval History & Local Insights

    5.0· 36 reviews· 2 hours

    Step into the story of Kilkenny on a private walking tour that brings 800 years of Irish history vividly to life. Beginning beside the majestic Kilkenny Castle, we trace the city’s evolution from Norman stronghold to thriving modern Irish city. Stroll along the Medieval Mile, stand in the shadow of St Canice's Cathedral, and uncover tales of merchants, monks, rebels and reformers who shaped the streets beneath your feet. Led by a nationally qualified, multilingual guide, this owner-operated experience is personal, story-driven and easy to follow. It’s the perfect introduction to Kilkenny before you explore further — engaging, authentic, and rich in human stories.

  3. Kayak Tour Kilkenny, Kilkenny6

    6. Kayak Tour Kilkenny

    5.0· 22 reviews· 1.5 hours

    We are life time paddlers, sharing our passion, incorporating fun, learning and awareness of river and its surrounds . Our customers get personal attention and feel very safe and love our tours which are adapted to peoples energy and ability. You will paddle double kayaks up and back down through Kilkenny and see historical buildings which dominate the the City skyline. The tour can include white water paddling over a weir, playing in the rapids if that is of interest. If you prefer to stay dry, that's your choice of course and we do provide over-trousers to keep you pretty dry. If you prefer, one of our guides can paddle the double kayak with you for extra stability to ensure that we maximise your enjoyment and safety. Visual highlights include Kilkenny Castle, The Tholsel, St Francis Abbey, the old home of Smithwick's Brewery and St Canice's Cathedral. Hear about the importance of the Nore to Kilkenny and its milling history for centuries.

  4. Kilkenny Walking Tour with Local Guide – History & Stories, Kilkenny7

    7. Kilkenny Walking Tour with Local Guide – History & Stories

    5.0· 13 reviews· 2 hours

    Discover Kilkenny with a certified guide who was born and raised here. This relaxed 2-hour guided city tour combines history with personal stories and insights you won't find in any guidebook. In a small group you will explore the main sights and also hidden places. Guests describe the tour as “informative, entertaining and entertaining” – many say the two hours fly by. You will learn not only what happened, but also why Kilkenny is like this today. Questions are always welcome, and the tour is often experienced as more personal and flexible than classic tours. Ideal as an entry point : Many guests recommend taking this tour right at the beginning of their stay to better understand the city and discover the best places for later.

  5. Kilkenny Private: Artistic Charm & Hid Stories Local Guide, Kilkenny8

    8. Kilkenny Private: Artistic Charm & Hid Stories Local Guide

    5.0· 2 reviews· 2 hours

    Discover the city on a private tour made just for you. Step into a world where history comes alive with every step you take on our "Kilkenny's Artistic Charm & Hidden Stories Tour" walking tour. Traverse the medieval streets of Kilkenny and uncover the stories of ancient castles, serene abbeys, and historic inns. From the mysterious passages of Butterslip to the solemn beauty of St. Canice’s Cathedral, each site offers a unique glimpse into a past filled with intrigue and wonder. Feel the echoes of history at Grace's Old Castle, and stroll through the lush Rothe House Garden. As you explore, you’ll not just see Kilkenny’s iconic landmarks—you’ll become a part of the city’s vibrant history. Join us for an adventure that's not only about places but about experiencing a connection to the legends and lives that shaped them. This tour isn't just a journey through time; it's your chance to be the hero in your historical exploration.

  6. Hurling Tours Ireland - Hurling Experience in Kilkenny, Kilkenny9

    9. Hurling Tours Ireland - Hurling Experience in Kilkenny

    5.0· 165 reviews· 1.5 hours

    At Hurling Tours Ireland, we provide a unique cultural Irish experience for visitors. Established in the home of hurling, Kilkenny, we give guests an opportunity to fully immerse themselves in Irish culture, by attempting our most ancient sport, hurling. Hurling is a game steeped in tradition and history, played with a passion and intensity that is unmatched in any other sport. Our hurling experience in Freshford gives visitors the opportunity to experience this sport in a tradional Irish pub in the heart of the village. Here we give visitors a presentation information them of the history and rules of Hurling. We have had visitors from many different nationalities and backgrounds fall in love with Hurling and the culture it creates in Ireland. Visitors from Canada, USA and Australia even promising to join a GAA Club when they return home, it is never too late to try new things and why not the sport that is at the heart of Irish culture and community.

  7. Walk the Medieval Mile with Pat, Kilkenny10

    10. Walk the Medieval Mile with Pat

    5.0· 138 reviews· 1.8 hours

    Walk the Medieval Mile, hear the stories of Kilkenny. Quirky tales of medieval life and lives. Witches, merchants, psychopathic bishops and why they grow yew trees in graveyards ! We welcome children on the tour but the stories are of witches, political skulduggery, irish history and murder. So therefore it speaks more to adults than small children. Guide in costume - great for Insta photos !

Top places to visit in Kilkenny

See all 2

More in Kilkenny

Other things to do

Cultural & heritage in other destinations

Top cultural & heritage elsewhere

Same category, different cities — hand-picked cultural & heritage experiences across Ireland.

See more

Places to see in other destinations

Hand-picked sights, neighbourhoods and landmarks across our destination network.

Visiting Kilkenny?

Stay with Rovostays

Hand-picked, verified serviced apartments — concierge always included.