Kilkenny’s walking tours cut right to the heart of Ireland’s best-preserved medieval city.
Skip the Historical Highlights Tour – it’s good but overpriced. Instead, grab a spot on the Historical and Hysterical Tour, which serves up solid history with Irish wit (and costs less).
Shenanigans Walks stands out for authentic local stories and legends, making history feel alive. For flexibility, the self-guided Medieval Mile Trail works perfectly – just download the map and go at your own speed.
The evening tours, especially during festival seasons, offer the best value and smallest crowds. Families particularly enjoy the Fun and Informative Tour, which keeps kids engaged with interactive stories and simple history lessons.
Let’s explore the best Kilkenny walking tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- The Kilkenny Historical and Hysterical Guided City Walking Tour offers a highly recommended blend of history, comedy, and anecdotes in a 1.5-hour experience.
- Shenanigans Walks – Guided Walking Tour provides an entertaining and informative 90-minute to 2-hour exploration of Kilkenny’s local history, culture, and folklore.
- The Guided Walking Tour of Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile, led by the charismatic guide Pat, offers an immersive 2-hour introduction to the city’s medieval heritage.
- The self-guided Medieval Mile Walking Trail allows for a flexible, at-your-own-pace exploration of Kilkenny’s historic sites, starting at the St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum.
- The Fun Family Walking Tour in Kilkenny, operated by Opatrip.com Ireland, includes entry to Kilkenny Castle and is suitable for families, with a private tour format.
Kilkenny: Historical Highlights Walking Tour
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Kilkenny’s captivating past, the Kilkenny: Historical Highlights Walking Tour provides an engaging and informative experience.
Priced at $12.64 per person and lasting 2 hours, this guided tour takes visitors on a journey through the city’s most significant historical sites. Highlights include the Cathedral of Saint Canice, the Black Abbey, and the iconic Kilkenny Castle.
Led by certified local guides, the tour offers insights into Kilkenny’s rich history and the stories of its famous citizens.
With a focus on accessibility and comfort, the tour is suitable for all fitness levels, though high-heeled shoes aren’t recommended.
Positive reviews praise the tour’s value and the guides’ ability to enhance visitors’ understanding of Kilkenny’s past.
Read our full review: Kilkenny: Historical Highlights Walking Tour Review
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Kilkenny: Historical and Hysterical Guided City Walking Tour
Visitors seeking a captivating and entertaining exploration of Kilkenny’s storied past can embark on the Kilkenny: Historical and Hysterical Guided City Walking Tour. Priced at $29.49 per person, this 1.5-hour English-language excursion is led by the charismatic Irish magician and storyteller, Nevin Cody.
The tour blends history, comedy, and unique anecdotes as it navigates Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile, including iconic sights like Kilkenny Castle, Black Abbey, and Kytelers Inn.
With a 5/5 rating based on 94 reviews, this wheelchair-accessible tour offers excellent value and a highly recommended experience for couples, groups, solo travelers, and families visiting Kilkenny.
Read our full review: Kilkenny: Historical and Hysterical Guided City Walking Tour Review
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Shenanigans Walks – Guided Walking Tour in Kilkenny
Shenanigans Walks offers another excellent guided walking tour option for exploring Kilkenny’s rich history and captivating culture.
With 368 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, this 90-minute to 2-hour tour has earned a Badge of Excellence in Kilkenny, Ireland.
Led by experienced local guides, the tour focuses on the city’s history, culture, and language, engaging participants with storytelling, props, tricks, and illusions.
Suitable for all ages, the tour highlights local history, folklore, and a touch of magic, providing an informative and entertaining experience.
Consistently rated 5 stars, Shenanigans Walks is a must-do activity for visitors to Kilkenny, offering unique insights and a memorable exploration of this historic city.
Read our full review: Shenanigans Walks – Guided Walking Tour in Kilkenny Review
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Private Walking Tour of Kilkenny. English, French or German
The Private Walking Tour of Kilkenny offers visitors a personalized exploration of the city’s historic landmarks, available in English, French, or German.
The tour accommodates groups of up to 15 people and takes them through the medieval mile, from St. Canice’s Cathedral to Kilkenny Castle.
Key highlights include the Black Abbey, St. John’s Priory, and the Butler Gallery.
The knowledgeable tour guide provides engaging commentary and is open to customizing the experience based on the group’s interests.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is easily reached by public transportation.
Priced at $107.42 per group, it’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors seeking an immersive introduction to Kilkenny’s captivating history.
Read our full review: Private Walking Tour of Kilkenny. English, French or German Review
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Fun and Informative Kilkenny Walking Tour With a Qualified Guide
Explore the medieval capital of Ireland on this fun and informative Kilkenny Walking Tour led by a qualified guide.
Discover the city’s historic landmarks, from the iconic Kilkenny Castle to the stunning St. Canices Cathedral and Black Abbey.
As you stroll along the Medieval Mile, your guide, John, will share captivating stories and insider tips, enhancing your understanding of Kilkenny’s rich heritage.
With a maximum group size of 15, you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience, allowing for personalized attention.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars by 188 travelers, this tour is a must for anyone seeking to enjoy Kilkenny’s medieval charm.
Read our full review: Fun and Informative Kilkenny Walking Tour With a Qualified Guide Review
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Guided Walking Tour of Kilkennys Medieval Mile
Embarking on a guided walking tour of Kilkenny’s historic Medieval Mile allows visitors to explore the city’s captivating past.
Led by the charismatic guide Pat, this 2-hour small-group experience brings the medieval period to life through engaging storytelling and visits to key landmarks.
Participants praise Pat’s ability to seamlessly blend history and humor, creating an informative and entertaining tour.
The route spans from the 13th-century St Canice’s Cathedral to the imposing Anglo-Norman castle, showcasing Kilkenny’s rich heritage.
With rave reviews, a 5-star rating, and a Badge of Excellence, this walking tour is an ideal introduction for first-time visitors, offering an immersive and memorable exploration of the Medieval Mile.
Read our full review: Guided Walking Tour of Kilkennys Medieval Mile Review
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Medieval Mile Walking Trail
Step off the beaten path and learn about the captivating history of Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile.
The self-guided Medieval Mile Walking Trail starts at the St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum, just a 5-minute walk from the iconic Kilkenny Castle.
Explore the city’s medieval landmarks at your own pace, with no time constraints. This moderate-level trail is accessible for strollers, though not for wheelchairs.
While service animals are permitted, the trail may not be suitable for those requiring full accessibility.
With reviews praising the knowledgeable tour guide and the manageable walking distance, the Medieval Mile Walking Trail offers an informative and immersive experience for visitors to uncover Kilkenny’s rich past.
Read our full review: Medieval Mile Walking Trail Review
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Fun Walking Tour During Christmas in Kilkenny
Visitors to Kilkenny during the Christmas season can enjoy a fun walking tour that showcases the city’s festive charm.
Operated by Opatrip.com Ireland, this private tour offers a local professional guide to lead your group through the heart of Kilkenny.
The tour starts at the iconic Kilkenny Castle and ends at the impressive St Canice’s Cathedral.
Along the way, you’ll take in the city’s medieval sights adorned with twinkling lights and holiday decorations.
The tour is easily accessible, with the meeting point near public transportation.
Priced at $267.47 and up, the tour provides confirmation upon booking and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Fun Walking Tour During Christmas in Kilkenny Review
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Fun Family Walking Tour in Kilkenny
Families exploring Kilkenny can enjoy the city’s rich history and festive charm on the fun family walking tour. Operated by Opatrip.com Ireland, this private tour allows only your group to participate.
Priced from $213.76, it offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. The tour starts at St Canices Cathedral and ends at Kilkenny Castle, covering the city’s top sights.
Included is the entry fee for Kilkenny Castle, ranging from 4 EUR for children/students to 8 EUR for adults. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation and suitable for most travelers.
Read our full review: Fun Family Walking Tour in Kilkenny Review
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Break Down
Kilkenny offers a variety of walking tours to suit different interests and budgets. From historical highlights to hysterical guided tours, visitors can explore the city’s medieval charm and discover its rich past. Whether you’re interested in a private tour or a fun family-friendly experience, Kilkenny has something to cater to every traveler’s needs. With these walking tours, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s storied history and vibrant culture.