Getting Here

Getting here is easy. Leaving? Not so much!

How to Get to Kilkenny

It has never been easier to get to the medieval city and county in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East Just 90 minutes from Dublin, two hours from Cork and three hours away from Belfast, County Kilkenny is conveniently connected through major transport routes and links so you can access it by planes, trains and automobiles!

From culture to creativity, fine eateries, a vibrant nightlife scene, outdoor adventures and medieval magic, this is the place that has something for everybody. Plan your journey below.

VIEW GOOGLE MAPS

Travel Options

Find the best way to reach Kilkenny

By Air

There are no direct international flights to Kilkenny but we are never more than two hours away any of Ireland’s main airports. You can rent a car and explore the Irish countryside as you make your way towards a truly authentic Irish holiday experience in the heart of the Emerald Isle or avail of the many regular rail and bus routes to Kilkenny.

Dublin Airport
1 h 25 min (134 km) via M9 Motorway
Shannon Airport
1 h 50 min (160 km) via M7 Motorway
Cork Airport
2 h (160 km) via M8 Motorway
Belfast International Airport
3 h 30 min (300 km) via M1 Motorway

By Sea

While Kilkenny isn’t short of wonderful river based water activities, we don’t have a coastline but that won’t stop you from reaching us by sea from any one of the main Irish ports. With camping and glamping parks in ample supply, this is the perfect destination for the intrepid adventurers exploring Ireland by motor.

Rosslare Europort
94km
Dublin Port
139km
Belfast Port
297km

By Land

Not only is there something for everybody in Kilkenny, but there is also a route for everybody. There really is no excuse for not making Kilkenny part of your holiday experience whether you are an international visitor seeking an authentic and real vacation or the visitor from our own shores looking for a break away at home. You could also be simply seeking fun and festivals, of which Kilkenny has plenty!

Public Transport

By Bus
Kilkenny is connected by regular bus services from Dublin, Waterford, Tipperary and Kildare. Buses drop-off only a short walk from the city centre and the heart of the festival action. You can check timetables, plan your trip, and view live updates here:

Jj kavanagh

the green bus

Bus Éireann

By Train
Irish Rail provides frequent services to Kilkenny MacDonagh Station, a short walk from the city centre. You can check timetables, fares, and service updates on their website:

Irish Rail

Local Bus
Kilkenny has a local bus service serving the city, as well as buses that serve surrounding towns and villages. Where possible we encourage everyone to walk or use public transport:

LOCAL CITY BUS

Kilkenny LOCAL LINK

FAQs

Have questions? Get fast answers about events, timings, accessibility, participation, travel, and everything else you need to know before the festival kicks off.

Read the FAQs