Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your pickup time
Overview: car trip from Dublin to Kilkenny
There's no better way for the Land of a Thousand Welcomes to greet you than with a picture-perfect drive from Dublin to Kilkenny. The mix of urban landscapes formed by traditional towns and rural settings consisting of thick woodlands showcases everything you imagine when thinking of Ireland.
After speeding by Dublin's Victorian-style avenues, you'll quickly find yourself on the free-flowing M7 highway, sandwiched by lush greenery. The further south you venture, the further back in time you seem to be traveling. Unspoiled hills in the distance look untouched by mankind, and rustic farmyards littered with fluffy sheep remain a constant from your car window.
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!
About Kilkenny
After your drive from Dublin to Kilkenny, you'll arrive in one of the Republic of Ireland's largest and most picturesque towns. Although it's not considered one of the nation's five cities, it has a population of over 27,000 locals. Religious settlers established a settlement here over 1,400 years ago in Ireland's southeast and the province of Leinster along the River Nore.
Early Kilkenny
The town of Kilkenny began to emerge after the English Empire invaded the island in the 12th century. During this period, the Normans ordered the construction of Kilkenny Castle and several fortification walls surrounding the growing village. Less than two centuries later, the Lord of Leinster granted Kilkenny town status after construction began on St. Canice's Cathedral.
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!
From Dublin to Kilkenny: travel tips
Don't worry if it's your first time traveling from Dublin to Kilkenny. With our insider tips and tricks, you can avoid hurdles and take full advantage of every opportunity en route!
Prepare for the weather
If you've been to the Republic of Ireland in the past, you'll know that you can experience the four seasons in one day. You should check the weather forecast before you leave your hotel in Dublin. But still carry a few essentials in case the weather changes in the blink of an eye. A rain jacket, umbrella, and waterproof shoes are all ideal, even if it's sunny.
### 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.
How to get from Dublin to Kilkenny
Three modes of transportation are available on your 80-mile expedition from Dublin to Kilkenny. So whether you prioritize speed, comfort, or cost, there's a method to suit your travel preferences.
Buses from Dublin to Kilkenny
The bus is the fastest way to travel from Dublin to Kilkenny. Therefore, it's a popular means of transportation for locals and backpackers traveling in Europe on a budget.
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 (ā¬13)
Average bus ticket price: $17.50 (ā¬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 (ā¬10)
Average train ticket price: $36 (ā¬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
Things to do when you get to Kilkenny
Kilkenny is one of Ireland's most sought-after destinations, despite its size. From its pub culture to ancient landmarks, you're sure to have a packed travel timetable after your tour from Dublin to Kilkenny!
Visit St. Canice's Cathedral
St. Canice's Cathedral, built in the 13th century, is the second-largest medieval cathedral in Ireland. It's a fine example of Gothic architecture and is still used for worship by locals today.
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.
When is the best time to visit Kilkenny?
The warmer months are the best time to book your Dublin to Kilkenny transfer. However, there are several reasons why traveling in the spring or fall is more enticing than visiting during the peak summer season.
The lively festivities are the most notable reason to travel from April to May and September to October. Ireland's blue skies mark the beginning and end of outdoor events and beloved farmers' markets. Most are free to enter, so you can indulge in Irish heritage while keeping your hard-earned cash in your wallet.
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!
Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,800+ cities around the world.
Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries theyāre visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.
Verified reviews from 471 travelers who booked this route
Oct 6, 2024
"We recently had a wonderful trip with Sean - he picked us up from the Dublin airport & drove us to Kilkenny. His communication was great - we found him so easily after we landed. Once we started our journey to Kilkenny, Sean was so kind & so informative, he was like our own little tour guide for the drive. He answered all of our questions & gave us some good tips for traveling around Ireland.
We would highly recommend Sean to anyone who needed a ride around Ireland ! "
Linda T.
United States
Sep 9, 2024
"drive from Dublin to Kilkenny and back to Dublin. Vehicle clean. Driver was friendly and easy to communicate with.
"
Barry F.
United States
Jul 5, 2024
"Alan did a great job. On time and shared so much good information about the area and whole country.
"
Keith S.
United States
Jul 4, 2024
"My experience with Daytrip was perfect! 10/10! Sean reached out right away when we landed and coordinated the pickup clearly, giving us some time to get our luggage and grab coffee/breakfast in the airport. We loved the conversation on the way to Kilkenny.
I would definitely book again!"
Paige M.
United States
Jun 30, 2024
"John was absolutely fabulous!!
We enjoyed his company very much
He was very informative and accommodating
He also had waters every day for us which was very thoughtful
He went above and beyond to make our trip most enjoyable"
Michael M.
United States
Oct 13, 2023
"Aoife confirmed ahead of time (allowing us to relax, knowing our driver would be there the next day). She was on time, professional and knowledgeable of the area where we were traveling to - not a requirement, but definitely a welcome bonus to our trip!
Excellent service overall. Thank you! "
Mary C.
United States
Sep 17, 2023
"I have used a few different services, but Daytrip is certainly the most organized. I really appreciate being given the driverās name and car description. For a young company, you seem to be accomplishing great things-bravo!
Tanvirpal S. is a gem! We had trouble finding him, so he parked the car and came to get us. Heās very personable and a safe driver. "
Barbara F.
United States
Sep 4, 2023
" Antony met us inside our hotel in Dublin so that we didn't need to look for him outside, and he was ahead of time. We had a very pleasant and upbeat chat all along the way, and he explained many things about Ireland to us (this was our first trip to the country). The side trip to Glendalough was enjoyable and adventurous, and showed off Antony's skills driving on the country roads. At Glendalough he gave us plenty of time to enjoy hiking around the monastery and lake. We arrived at our hotel in Kilkenny on time. We are quite happy with our experience with Antony, and don't have a recommendation for improvement.
"
Harold H.
United States
Aug 24, 2023
"The trip was great. Mick was very communicative with me so I knew just how to find him. And he was very friendly and helpful. Trip was perfect particularly after a long, delayed flight
"
Jennie W.
United States
Jul 25, 2023
"We had a wonderful experience! Aiife was there to meet us and she was like a friend by the time we reached Kilkenny. She was a great driver and we definitely would use your service again!
"
Marianne W.
United States
Jun 19, 2023
"I was extremely happy with my trip from the Dublin airport to my hotel in Kilkenny. Ektor was very professional and courteous. He was there when we got off the plane and was waiting for us in the terminal. His car was very clean and comfortable.
"
Michael P.
United States
Oct 4, 2022
"Garry was great. The trip was smooth and timely. Thanks very much for a professional experience. I will definitely use your service again and recommend it to others.
"
MARK H.
United States
Dec 3, 2021
"Excellent experience driver on time, professional, car clean , pleasant and safe. Will use service again."
Katherine E.
United States
Oct 1, 2019
"The trip was great. Mohammed was on time, car clean and comfortable, and the trip was smooth. Mohammed was friendly and pleasant to talk with but not too talkative. He ā readā us correctly. You havenāt asked for a star rating but Iād give the experience a 5 star rating. NO COMPLAINTS! Diane"
Diane E.
United States
Questions & Answers about Traveling from Dublin to Kilkenny
A private car service is the fastest way to get from Dublin to Kilkenny because you don't need to get to a bus or train station. All ground transportation can make the trip in as little as 1 hour and 15 minutes, but only Daytrip's door-to-door service brings you to and from your hotel.
Kilkenny is an excellent day trip from Dublin. A round trip can take less than three hours, leaving you with plenty of time to explore the town. Kilkenny also has a compact center, so you can explore its historical lanes, visit its highlights, and sip a pint of beer in one of the endless pubs here in a day!
The train ride from Dublin to Kilkenny is a scenic experience that passes through the province of Leinster and Ireland's Ancient East. You'll witness traditional villages along with vibrant natural wonders en route. Seating is comfortable, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the views unfolding.
Daytrip's private door-to-door service is the easiest travel method from Dublin to Kilkenny. With our flexible schedule and departure points, you can decide when and where to leave. You'll also travel directly to your hotel, so there's no need to hire a taxi to your accommodation when traveling with luggage.
Kilkenny is one of Europe's most underrated destinations worth visiting. It's one of Ireland's liveliest and friendliest towns, where you can experience the authentic Irish lifestyle. From the busy bars to the historical ruins and mouth-watering restaurants to the nearby outdoor attractions, there's something for everyone to appreciate here!
As of 2024, Dublin Airport is the closest airport to Kilkenny with passenger services. The terminal is almost 84 miles northwest of the town. However, the journey is straightforward due to Daytrip's private door-to-door service and a vast public transportation network connecting the regions.
Visit these sights on the way
Castletown House
The first and largest manor of its kind in Ireland, this elegant estate immerses visitors in the beauty of days gone by.Ā Principal PalladiumĀ
Russborough House
The opulently decorated rooms of this Palladian manor house a renowned private art collection. Ā The Art of DecoratingĀ
Kildare Village
This outlet shopping center in the heart of Irelandās horse-racing mecca offers deals on designer goods all year round.Ā Race to the BottomĀ
Irish National Stud and Gardens
Surrounded by serene gardens, the legacy of Irish horse racing lives on at the only stud farm open to the public.Ā HorsicultureĀ
Dunamase
Destroyed multiple times, this once mighty medieval castle is now an atmospheric ruin.Ā A Slightly Rocky HistoryĀ
Altamont Gardens
This Georgian manor offers a look into the private lives of the British Royal Family.Ā Her Majestyās ManorĀ
