How to Plan Your Private Day Tour of the Medieval City of Kilkenny in Dublin
Dublin is a must-visit travel destination, with so much to see and do. One of the top things to do on your Dublin itinerary is to go on a private day tour of the medieval city of Kilkenny. Luckily, Desmond Tours offers a fantastic package that lets you experience all the best attractions in Kilkenny.
Overview
The day tour includes private transportation and a driver guide who will take you to all the must-see locations in Kilkenny. The tour also includes admission fees to various attractions, such as the Kilkenny Castle, the Medieval Mile Museum, and St Canice’s Cathedral. Plus, you have the option to add other attractions, like the Black Abbey or the Smithwick’s Experience Brewery tour.
What’s included:
- Private transportation
- Private driver guide
- Scheduled stops at must-see locations
- Admission fee to Kilkenny Castle (optional visit €8 p.p)
- Admission fee to Medieval Mile Museum (optional visit €9 p.p)
- Admission fee to St Canice’s Cathedral (optional visit €6 p.p)
Meeting and Pickup
You can select one of the available pickup points in Dublin before embarking on the day tour. If you require a different pickup point or time, please contact Desmond Tours directly. Please note that this tour may not be wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.
What to Expect
During the tour, you will get to visit Kilkenny Castle, home of the powerful Butler family for over 500 years. You will also visit the Kilkenny Design Centre where you can shop for handcrafted goods, and if you are interested in history you will love the Medieval Mile Museum. This tour will also take you to St Canice’s Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century, and offers breathtaking city views from the top of its 9th-century, 100-foot-high round tower. Your driver guide will take you to all these locations, ensuring that you experience the best of Kilkenny in one day.
Here are the top six stops on the tour:
| Stop | Location | Duration | Admission Ticket |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kilkenny Castle | 2 hours | Not included (optional visit €8 p.p) |
| 2 | Kilkenny Design Centre | 30 minutes | Free admission |
| 3 | Medieval Mile Museum | 1 hour | Not included (optional visit €9 p.p) |
| 4 | The Black Abbey | 1 hour | Not included (optional visit €5 p.p) |
| 5 | Smithwick’s Experience Brewery | 1.5 hours | Not included (optional visit €17.50 p.p) |
| 6 | St Canice’s Cathedral | 1 hour | Not included (optional visit €6 p.p) |
Additional Info
You will receive confirmation of your booking within 48 hours of booking this tour. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. Please note that this tour may not be wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available and it is stroller accessible. The tour is also located near public transportation.
Don’t Miss Out on This Private Tour
If you’re planning on visiting Dublin, don’t miss the opportunity to see the best of Kilkenny with Desmond Tours. Book the tour here and let your driver guide take you on an unforgettable adventure through the charming medieval town of Kilkenny.
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, is a popular tourist destination for many reasons. The city is known for its friendly people, rich history, beautiful architecture, and lively nightlife. If you’re planning a visit to Dublin, you may have some questions. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Dublin.
1. What is the best time to visit Dublin?
The best time to visit Dublin depends on your interests and preferences. The peak tourist season in Dublin is from June to August, which is when the city can be crowded and expensive. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy milder weather, then visiting in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) may be a good option.
2. How do I get to Dublin?
Dublin is well-connected to many cities around the world. Dublin Airport is the main airport in the city and is served by many international airlines. The airport is located about 10 km north of the city center and can be reached by bus, taxi, or car rental. You can also travel to Dublin by train or bus from other parts of Ireland or from the UK.
3. What are some must-see attractions in Dublin?
There are many top attractions to see in Dublin, such as:
- The Guinness Storehouse – Learn about the history of Ireland’s famous beer
- Trinity College Dublin – Home to the famous Book of Kells
- Dublin Castle – A historic castle with guided tours available
- The National Gallery of Ireland – Featuring art collections from the Middle Ages up to the present day
- The Temple Bar – A vibrant area with traditional Irish music, pubs, and restaurants
4. What is the weather like in Dublin?
Dublin has a temperate maritime climate which means mild winters and cool summers. The average temperature in the winter months (December – February) is around 5°C (41°F), while the summer months (June – August) see an average temperature of around 20°C (68°F). However, due to the city’s location on the coast, rain is common throughout the year.
5. What are the best restaurants in Dublin?
Dublin has a variety of restaurants serving traditional Irish cuisine, as well as international dishes. Some popular restaurants in Dublin include:
- The Winding Stair – A restaurant with a view of the River Liffey
- Chapter One – An award-winning restaurant serving modern Irish cuisine
- L. Mulligan Grocer – A gastropub with a focus on local ingredients
- The Pig’s Ear – A traditional Irish restaurant with a modern twist
- Bibimbap – A Korean restaurant with a great selection of dishes
6. What is the local currency in Dublin?
The official currency of Dublin (and all of Ireland) is the euro. Most businesses in Dublin accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for small purchases or tips.
7. What is the nightlife like in Dublin?
Dublin is known for its lively nightlife, with many pubs, bars, and nightclubs staying open until the early hours of the morning. Temple Bar is a popular area for nightlife in Dublin, with many traditional Irish pubs and live music venues. Other popular areas for nightlife include Camden Street and Harcourt Street.
8. What is the best way to get around Dublin?
Dublin has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trains, and trams. The Leap Card is a convenient way to pay for public transportation in Dublin. Taxis are also widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Walking is also a great way to explore the city center.
9. What is the language spoken in Dublin?
The official languages of Ireland are Irish (Gaeilge) and English. English is the most commonly spoken language in Dublin, but some people may also speak Irish or other languages.
10. Are there any cultural events in Dublin?
Dublin is home to many cultural events throughout the year, including the St. Patrick’s Day parade, the Dublin Fringe Festival, and the Dublin Theatre Festival. The city also has many museums and galleries showcasing Irish culture and history, such as the Irish Museum of Modern Art and the National Museum of Ireland.
Conclusion
Dublin is a city with something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nightlife, there’s always something to see and do in Dublin. We hope this blog post has answered some of your questions about Dublin and helps you plan your trip to this beautiful city.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Dublin: A Comprehensive Guide
As the capital city of Ireland, Dublin attracts millions of tourists every year. It is a vibrant and charming city with a rich history, cultural diversity, and a lively nightlife. For first-time visitors, Dublin can be overwhelming with its endless options of things to see and do. In this guide, we will help you plan your visit to Dublin and make the most out of your time.
How to Get to Dublin
Before we start exploring Dublin, let’s discuss how to get there. Dublin is well connected to other major cities in the world by air, sea, and land. Dublin Airport is the primary international airport of Ireland, serving over 30 million passengers annually. There also are ferries that operate daily from the UK to Dublin Port. Once you arrive, there are several transportation options in Dublin, including buses, trams, and taxis.
Where to Stay
Dublin offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. The most popular areas to stay in Dublin are the city center and historic Dublin neighborhoods, such as Temple Bar and St. Stephen’s Green. You can find a great selection of hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and vacation rentals in these areas.
Things to See and Do
Dublin offers an abundance of attractions and activities for all interests. To make the most out of your visit, we have compiled a list of must-see places in Dublin:
1. The Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness Storehouse is the most popular attraction in Dublin, receiving over one million visitors each year. It is a seven-story brewing museum that takes you on a journey of the Guinness brand and its history. Visitors can learn about the ingredients, brewing process, advertising, and even enjoy a pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar on the top floor with panoramic views of Dublin.
2. Trinity College Dublin
Trinity College Dublin is Ireland’s oldest university, founded in 1592. It is home to the famous Book of Kells, a lavishly decorated manuscript Gospel book from the 9th century. Visitors can also explore the impressive Long Room Library, which houses over 200,000 books, including the oldest surviving harp in Ireland.
3. St. Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the largest cathedral in Ireland and one of Dublin’s most iconic landmarks. It was founded in 1191 and is dedicated to Ireland’s patron saint, St. Patrick. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cathedral, admire the stained glass windows, and learn about its rich history.
4. Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle is a significant historical landmark and a symbol of Ireland’s past. It was built in the 13th century and served as the headquarters of the English administration in Ireland for over 700 years. Visitors can explore the castle’s State Apartments, Chapel Royal, and the medieval undercroft.
5. Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park is one of the largest enclosed parks in Europe, covering over 1,750 acres. It is home to numerous attractions, such as Dublin Zoo, the Victorian People’s Flower Gardens, and the residence of the President of Ireland. Visitors can also cycle, jog, or stroll through the park and enjoy its natural beauty.
6. Kilmainham Gaol
Kilmainham Gaol is a former prison and now a museum located in Dublin’s west side. It played a significant role in Irish history, housing several famous political prisoners, including the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the Gaol’s history, architecture, and its connection to Ireland’s struggle for independence.
7. National Museum of Ireland
The National Museum of Ireland is a collection of four museums, dedicated to different aspects of Irish history, culture, and natural history. The archaeology museum features the finest collection of prehistoric gold artifacts in Europe, and the decorative arts and history museum showcases decorative arts, furniture, silver, and textiles.
Where to Eat and Drink
Dublin has a vibrant food and drinks scene, with lots of traditional and modern pubs, bars, and restaurants. Here are some suggestions:
1. Temple Bar
Temple Bar is a historic neighborhood in Dublin that is renowned for its nightlife and cultural events. It is the hub of the city’s entertainment scene, with many bars, pubs, and restaurants. Visitors can find traditional Irish food, live music, and a lively atmosphere.
2. The Brazen Head
The Brazen Head is Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back to 1198. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering delicious pub food, craft beers, and live music in a cozy atmosphere.
3. The Bailey Bar
The Bailey Bar is a trendy cocktail bar located in the heart of Dublin city center. It offers a wide selection of cocktails, craft beers, and small plates in a relaxed and stylish atmosphere.
4. Queen of Tarts
Queen of Tarts is a favorite spot for locals and tourists for its delicious cakes, pastries, and coffee. It is the perfect place for a morning or afternoon tea break in a cozy and chic atmosphere.
Conclusion
Dublin is a city that has something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, culture, food, or nightlife. By using this guide, you should be able to plan your visit, explore the city’s iconic landmarks, and experience its vibrant culture and nightlife. Don’t forget to make reservations in advance for popular attractions, and enjoy your stay in Dublin!
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