Things to do in Killarney

No. 11 of Best Things to Do in Ireland

Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is located in the southwest of Ireland, right next to the town of Killarney. It features three interconnected lakes as its main scenery: the vast Lough Leane, the tranquil Muckross Lake, and the mountain-enclosed Upper Lake. Native oak and yew forests stretch along the shores, where native Irish red deer roam; you can often spot them from a distance in the open meadows during the early morning or evening. The park has an extensive network of trails. Starting from the Muckross area, you can follow the path along Muckross Lake to Torc Waterfall, where stone steps lead upward, offering a panoramic view of the lakes from above; the lakeside route also connects Muckross House and the abbey ruins. Ross Castle stands on the shores of Lough Leane, and the ancient ruins of an abbey remain on Innisfallen Island in the middle of the lake. If you prefer not to hike, you can take a traditional local jaunting car near Ross Castle or Muckross, driven by a driver known as a jarvey who will share local stories as you travel along the tree-lined paths; alternatively, you can take a boat tour to enjoy the reflections of the mountains and forests from a different perspective on the water.

Selected for Best Things to Do in Ireland

Muckross House

is a 19th-century Tudor-style villa surrounded by beautiful scenery, with lakes and mountains, making it a great place for leisurely walks and relaxing bike rides.

Lough Leane

Located near Killarney in southwestern Ireland, it consists of 3 interconnected lakes. The Upper Lake is surrounded by dense forests, and its eastern shore features many limestone caves. A wide channel connects it to the Middle Lake, which contains over 30 small islands, including Innisfallen Island, home to a 9th-century monastery. A waterway connects to the Lower Lake (also known as Lough Leane), which is larger, contains many islands, and features ancient castle ruins. A waterway then flows into the River Laune, which leads to the Atlantic Ocean. The lakes are surrounded by mountains, making them a famous attraction and a popular tourist destination.

Ross Castle

Ross Castle is located within the famous Killarney National Park. It is a historic castle with over 100 years of history. The castle has a quaint, old-world charm, and it is surrounded by beautiful gardens. Many rare and precious plants are grown here. The air is fresh, making it a great place to visit.

Torc Waterfall

Muckross Abbey

This attraction is located within the beautiful Killarney National Park, adjacent to a cemetery. It was built around an ancient yew tree, and the monastery interior features many exquisite stone carvings, tombstones, and ancient historical walls.

Gleneagle Arena

Celtic Steps The Show

St Mary’s Cathedral

St. Mary's Cathedral is a beautiful building built with towering stone columns, a wooden roof, and ornate stained glass, and it is very popular locally.

Wishing Bridge