How to Spend a Weekend in Killarney, Ireland
Though it’s a popular destination, Killarney has managed to maintain a small-town feel with an impressive nightlife.
What to do:
Tour Killarney National Park
Castles, wildlife and an abundance of plants are a few of the things you’ll see in Ireland’s first national park. We visited first thing in the morning, before heading to The Ring of Kerry. Tour the park via a Horse and Carriage ride; this was very fun and inexpensive - they’re also flexible with times and have many options (you can book yours here).
Take a day trip around The Ring of Kerry
One of Ireland’s top attractions, this is not to be missed. Stop in charming towns, grab treats at roadside pubs and lay your eyes on some really spectacular views. Check out my guide to The Ring of Kerry.
Where to Eat + Drink:
Killarney Grand
Located beneath a hotel, featuring a bar and nightclub. If you want a spot to sit, get here before 10. They’ve got a dance floor in the back. Around 11, they bring a live band in the main area. Everyone we spoke to said this was the place to be, and having spent most of our night there, I’d agree. This bar was lively and packed with people.
Not sure what to order? Here’s my Ireland drink guide.
The Shire Bar & Cafe
The little pub is an ode to Tolkien fans, with an exterior reminiscent of something from The Shire, and an interior that celebrates Lord of the Ring with decor, quotes, and drinks named after various characters. However, this is spot is just as fun for those not acquainted with the books. I’d recommend ordering a flight of beer so you can try more of the local flavors.
Flesk
Being an island, Ireland has great, fresh seafood - so at some point, one should take a minor break from potato-based meals. I ordered fish cakes topped with smoked salmon (each meal here was about 20 euros, so it is a bit on the pricier side compared to other spots).
Caragh Restaurant
This was a lovely sitdown dinner. I had many shepherd's pies while in Ireland, but this one - topped with cheese - was my favorite. This restaurant can get busy, so expect a short wait.
Scruffy’s Bar
Of all the pubs, this one had the cheapest drink deals (think, three shots for 10 euros). This bar went deep back and has is a great music venue, but had very limited seating - so expect to stand.
Where to Stay:
Earl’s Court House Hotel
Earl’s Court House Hotel
(Woodlawn Road, Dromhale, Killarney, Co. Kerry, V93 E782, Ireland).
This four-star hotel has all the charm of your favorite bed and breakfast. It’s an easy 10 minute walk into town, with complimentary breakfast (including award-winning porridge) and spacious rooms.
Book your room here.
