Private car transfer
from Dublin to Kilkenny

Even when you reach the bustling lanes of Kilkenny, you'll find it difficult to believe it's still the 21st century. The dominating Kilkenny Castle looming over the charming lanes and the plethora of spires towering above colorful houses are a change of scenery from the modern high-rise glass buildings.

Fortunately, you don't need a time machine to admire historical relics while traveling on this thrilling voyage. However, you need to uncover the best way to travel from Dublin to Kilkenny in our in-depth local guide below!

From 1642 to 1652, Kilkenny was the headquarters of the newly formed Irish Confederation. It opposed English and protestant rule until its collapse after Oliver Cromwell seized control of the land. The town's fortunes grew with Smithwick's Brewery's establishment in 1710. But like the rest of the nation, Kilkenny suffered during the Great Famine, with over 4,100 locals dying in the fever hospital.

Kilkenny today

Luckily, Kilkenny has resurrected itself in the 21st century. Its lively cultural events and vibrant festivities are vital reasons why the city has burst onto the tourist map. Throughout the year, Kilkenny bubbles with excitement, most notably at events such as Yulefest, Kilkenny Roots Fest, Savour Kilkenny, and TradFest, which offer a unique glimpse into Irish life.

But you don't need to wait for a festival to have a memorable time in Kilkenny. The historical lanes are like something from a Disney film, housing cozy stores selling anything from handmade goods to boutique clothing. But what'll most likely catch your eye is the row after row of authentic Irish pubs. Live folk bands will draw you in from afar, but the bars overflowing with beer and laughter will hold you there for the night!

• Language: English and Irish
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Climate: Oceanic
• Time zone: GMT
• Plug types: G
• Fun fact: Architect James Hoban, who built the White House, was born in Kilkenny!

Explore manors and mansions

Most people don't recognize the Republic of Ireland for its lavish villas and grand estates. So, the majestic mansions hiding along the road from Dublin to Killkeny will pleasantly surprise you. Altamont Gardens gives you an insight into British royalty life; Russborough House offers you a private art collection; and Castletown House shows you the nation's first and largest manor!

Book in advance

The European Union named the Republic of Ireland the fifth most expensive country to visit within its borders. It's also one of Europe's most costly nations for train travel. Therefore, booking early for the lowest fares is crucial. Also, Kilkenny is a small town. So many hotels can book out, especially during the summer season.

J.J. Kavanagh & Sons and Dublin Coach are the bus firms operating on this route. Both services offer multiple daily services with modern conveniences. However, coaches from JJ Kavanagh & Sons depart from Dublin Busaras and arrive outside the Newpark Hotel, whereas Dublin Coach leaves from Bachelors Walk and stops at Ormond Road.

• Cheapest bus ticket price: $14 (€13)
• Average bus ticket price: $17.50 (€16)
• Fastest bus duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes
• Average bus duration: 1 hour and 40 minutes
• First bus departure: 2:15 AM
• Last bus departure: 11:50 PM

Trains from Dublin to Kilkenny

The train is cheaper and more scenic, but more time-consuming than the bus. IrishRail is Ireland's national train provider and the only company operating on this line, with an average of seven daily direct services on its timetable.

You can purchase a ticket from Dublin Heuston Station to Kilkenny McDonagh Station online at Irish Rail for the lowest fares. On board, you can access restrooms, wifi, power outlets, and onboard catering facilities.

• Cheapest train ticket price: $11 (€10)
• Average train ticket price: $36 (€33)
• Fastest train duration: 1 hour and 27 minutes
• Average train duration: 1 hour and 42 minutes
• First train departure: 7:20 AM
• Last train departure: 6:35 PM

Daytrip car transfer from Dublin to Kilkenny

Daytrip's private car service is the easiest and most comfortable way to travel from Dublin to Kilkenny. You can conveniently schedule your ride from your hotel whenever it suits you. For 1.5 hours, you'll travel in a clean, quiet, and sanitized vehicle with stunning scenery passing by your window.

But Daytrip is also the most adventurous way to transfer between the cities. You can speak to your professional driver with extensive local knowledge of Ireland's mythical tales before exploring folklore wonders en route. Visiting the Rock of Dunamase allows you to envision legends and history in its ruins or stroll through the Irish National Stud and Gardens, which symbolize the beauty of the Republic of Ireland!

• Seats from: $59
• English-speaking driver
• Complimentary bottled water
• Equipped for kids, pets, groups, or those with limited mobility
• 24/7 customer service
• Free cancellation 24 hours before departing

Adjacent to the cathedral is a well-preserved round tower dating back to the 9th century. You can climb the 100-foot-high lookout spot to enjoy stunning panoramic views of Kilkenny city and the surrounding countryside.

Explore Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny Castle is an icon of its city and county. The well-preserved stone structure located a short distance from downtown, dates back to 1260. The Earl of Pembroke ordered its construction to control the crossroads of numerous waterways here.

Today, you can book a guided tour and uncover how this fortress has stood for over eight centuries and the events that led to the destruction of one of its four dominating turrets. You can also unwind in the gorgeous garden, which was once a haven for royalty.

Savor a pint of Smithwick's beer

Most travelers call Smithwick's a beer. Well, the Irish take their drinks seriously, and will tell you that it's, in fact, a red ale. Fortunately, Smithwick's is the king of its trade, and there's no better place to sample its flavor than in its hometown.

Head to virtually any bar in town, and you can sample its malty aromas while chatting with the locals and listening to live folk music in the background. Or you can taste its profiles while learning how experts make it at the Smithwick's Experience!

Learn history at St. Mary's Medieval Mile Museum

Due to its rich and fascinating past, learning about Ireland's history can be time-consuming. Luckily, St. Mary's Medical Mile Museum somehow squeezes an abundance of exhibits into this small setting.

The former church now houses a display of medieval artifacts, including ancient manuscripts, religious relics, and the tombs of Kilkenny's prominent historical figures. The museum is also the starting point of the Medieval Mile, connecting the cathedral with the Anglo-Norman castle.

There's another reason why traveling outside the peak season will save you even more money. Hotels and transportation services are significantly cheaper as firms offer exclusive deals to attract customers before or after the slow winter period. The more you save, the more you can put towards your next adventure!