Kilkenny, a beautiful city in Ireland’s Ancient East, is steeped in rich history dating back to the medieval era. Taking a stroll along the narrow, cobblestone streets feels like travelling back in time. The city is known for its well-preserved historic buildings, including castles, historic houses, cathedrals, abbeys, and churches, showcasing the long-established religious heritage. Kilkenny is also active in the arts, festivals, music scene, and nightlife.
Table of Contents
Is Visiting Kilkenny Expensive?
Ireland, for starters, is one of the most expensive countries to visit. So if you’re planning to explore Kilkenny, a medieval city that’s among the top attractions in Ireland, it’s nice to prepare your savings. According to data from previous travellers, a one-week vacation in Kilkenny costs around €494 per person on average. That includes food, transportation, and accommodation.
But just because it’s not a cheap destination doesn’t mean visiting the amazing Marble city would remain a dream. There’s plenty of room to cut down your expenses if you’re willing to travel below your means. With thoughtful planning, you can travel on a low to medium budget without missing out on the best there is to see and experience in Kilkenny.
In this article, we’ll list down 5 money-saving travel hacks every budget traveller in Kilkenny needs to know.
1. Plan ahead and create a detailed itinerary
Ever had a laidback, spontaneous holiday that ended up hurting your wallet? Unfortunately, it’s difficult to combine “spontaneous” and “cheap” in one trip. Expect that Kilkenny is packed with many magical places that are worth visiting (and unique things that are tempting to buy).
If you’re travelling on a limited budget, planning ahead is key to avoid overspending. Here are some tips:
- Book early
- Find great deals on hotels, flights, and car rentals
- Research your destination and create an itinerary from home
- Look for free ways to inject some spontaneity, like taking a stroll off the beaten path and taking pictures, or enjoying street performances.
2. Book a cheap accommodation
Next to airfare, accommodation is another expensive travel essential that takes a huge chunk of your budget. The average price of a hotel in Kilkenny is €134, but you can find a variety of cheaper alternatives. These include budget hotels, backpacker hostels, and B&Bs that can go for as low as €80 per night (per couple/double occupancy room).
Chances are that you’d be out most of the day and would only use your hotel room for resting after the long day. That said, stick to cheap yet clean and comfortable hotels with fewer amenities. Depending on your travel style, you may also find accommodation properties with a kitchen, like vacation rentals — a great choice if you’re staying a bit longer and opt to save by preparing your own food.
Check out these budget accommodation tips:
- Avoid traveling during peak seasons (summer season, weekends St. Patrick’s day, and other major holidays). The rule of thumb is to book a few weeks before your scheduled trip. If you’re visiting outside of the peak season; book a few months in advance if you’re visiting during a high tourist season.
- Don’t look at the price alone — check the neighbourhood, amenities, and proximity to the places you plan to visit,
- If staying in an offbeat destination, like vacation rentals and B&B, consider its proximity to the places you’re planning to visit, Check the transportation options and costs.
3. Take public transportation and bikes
Since you’re travelling on a low budget, swear to spend your money only on things that matter the most — and that don’t include taxis. Fortunately, Kilkenny is a small, compact, and walkable city. You can reach both ends of the city, from Black Abbey to Kilkenny Castle, in a matter of minutes. Plus, walking through the Medieval City is enjoyable too.
Aside from getting around on foot, you can also rent a bike for a day. You can also hop onto public transportation, like a bus, if you’re planning to step out of the city.
4. Fill yourself up early
The meal prices in Kilkenny vary but it costs €10 on average per day. It’s worth noting that the breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner.
To cut your spending, we suggest booking a hotel that includes breakfast, better if it’s a buffet. As for the rest of the day, go for local street food and small eateries instead of dining at sit-down restaurants. You won’t go hungry and broke with a wide variety of cheap yet satisfying food including Thai, Mexican, burgers, sandwiches, and fish and chips.
Another tip is to plan when to eat out (or order takeaway) and when to prepare your own meals.
5. Check out a wide array of free things to do in Kilkenny
We always say, “the best things in life are free”. This is exactly the case in Kilkenny, as the landmarks and must-visit attractions in the city can be visited without paying a dime. There are a couple of free walking tours to take advantage too!
Here are the top Kilkenny attractions to visit for free:
Historic sights and landmarks
- Kilkenny Castle and Gardens
- Rothe House & Garden
- The Tholsel, Kilkenny
- Black Freren Gate
- Maudlin Castle
Churches
- Saint Mary’s Roman Catholic Cathedral
- Cathedral Church of St Canice & Round Tower
- Black Abbey
Art and history:
- The Medieval Room at the Parade Tower of Kilkenny Castle
- National Design and Craft Gallery
- Butler Gallery
- St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum
- MADE in Kilkenny Craft Trail
Nature
- Kilkenny Castle’s Rose Garden
- Castlecomer Discovery Park
- Woodstock Gardens
- Nore Valley Park
Author Bio: Carmina Natividad is a travel and lifestyle writer. Aside from taking vibrant street photos, you can find her writing articles about travel, food, and lifestyle. To know more about hotels and travel blogs, you may visit Pembroke Hotel Kilkenny.
