Best Things to Do in Killarney National Park
Read our travel guide on Killarney National Park in Ireland. Includes best things to do and see, tips on top attractions, how to get around, when to go, and where to stay.
Without any doubt, Ireland's first national park, Killarney National Park, is a top attraction in County Kerry.
It is also one of the most scenic places in the country, offering stunning views of dramatic mountains, dark-blue lakes, extensive grasslands, and lush oak and yew woodlands.
Today, the largest national park in Ireland is not only known for its spectacular scenery but also for recreation, well-preserved heritage sites, and well-maintained trails perfect for walkers and cyclists.
It's also one of the highlights of the iconic Ring of Kerry, which is part of the stunning Wild Atlantic Way, and you will often hear that no trip is complete without visiting Killarney.
It should come as no surprise that this incredible location draws a huge number of visitors each year.
Mind you; this article is mostly about Killarney National Park.
So, if you're planning on visiting this national park, make sure also to read our Killarney travel guide, which covers the entire area and includes helpful information.
But back to the point. Here's everything you should know about Killarney National Park before you go.
History
Killarney National Park was established in 1932 when the Muckross Estate was donated to the Irish State.
The park has been substantially expanded troughout the years and today features diverse ecology, extensive native forest, and Ireland's only native Red Deer herd.
Nowadays, Killarney National Park covers an area of over 26.000 acres incorporating lakes, mountains, woodlands, waterfalls, and heritage sites.
The park was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981 for its high ecological value, wide variety of species, and rare biodiversity.
What to See and Do
One of the main reasons why Killarney National Park is so popular is that it combines beautiful scenery with heritage sites while being accessible to a wide range of travelers.
There are tons of activities to experience in this area, from walking and cycling to sightseeing and organized trips.
Simply put, there are plenty of things to see and do in Killarney National Park.
The gateway to Killarney National Park is the charming town of Killarney, which sits on the parks' borders and is the tourist hub of this area.
Walking and Hiking
If you are active, walking and hiking are one of the best ways to see Killarney National Park.
The main advantage of exploring the park on foot is that you will be able to really soak up the atmosphere and reach some of the most secluded corners.
The main drawback of walking around the park is that this option is relatively time-consuming, and that's why plenty of travelers rent a bike instead.
There are plenty of walking trails in Killarney National Park with varying levels of difficulty.
Whether you are an experienced hiker or a total newbie, you will find a trail for every age and ability.
Obviously, the paths around the lake are usually rated as easy, while the mountain areas offer more challenging tracks.
Some of the best hikes in Killarney National Park are Ross Island Walk, Torc Waterfall, Muckross Lake Loop Walk, and Old Kenmare Road.
Cycling
Together with walking, cycling is currently one of the most popular ways to explore the national park.
The main advantage of cycling in Killarney National Park is that you will be able to reach more remote corners of the park in a relatively short amount of time.
In fact, cycling around the national park and including the Gap of Dunloe in your Ireland itinerary is the ultimate adventure in Killarney.
Mind you, this 55-kilometer trail is mostly for experienced cyclists, as you will need to use also the busy national roads (N71 and N72) on this trip.
Luckily, the surfaced trails around the lake area are perfect for all types of cyclists and are safe even for families with kids.
It won't come as a surprise that renting a bike in Killarney is super easy.
Boat Trips
Lakes of Killarney with MacGillycuddy's Reeks in the backdrop are one of the main attractions in Killarney National Park.
Lough Leane, with over 30 islands, is the largest of the Killarney lakes and is famous for its boat trips.
For instance, Innisfallen, featuring ancient monastic ruins, is the most famous island on Lough Leane and can be visited on a boat trip from Killarney.
Quite frankly, as the lakes cover about one-fourth of the park, taking a boat trip is one of the best things to do in Killarney.
We have already mentioned Lough Leane, but there are also Muckross Lake (where you will find Dinis Cottage) and Upper Lake.
Those three lakes are known as the Killarney Lakes, and many travelers decide to explore them on a cruise while in this area.
The boat trips depart either from Ross Castle or Dundag Pier in front of Muckross House, and the most popular cruises also visit the famous Gap of Dunloe.
The traditional boat trip from Ross Castle to Lord Brandon's Cottage (Gap of Dunloe) includes sights of Innisfallen Island, Bricin Bridge, Colleen Bawn Rock, Torc Mountain, Old Weir Bridge, and the Meetings of The Waters.
If you are feeling more adventurous, rent a kayak and explore breathtaking surroundings at your own pace and your own way.
By the way, swimming at Lakes of Killarney is not prohibited (unless there is a warning), but the water is cold and uninviting.
Jaunting Cars
Even today, a horse-drawn jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park is still considered a traditional way to see many sights this area offers.
Jaunting cars have a long tradition in Killarney (and Ireland), as they were used as a mode of transport around the island from the early 1800s into the 20th century.
So, taking a jaunting car tour is often described as one of the best ways to see Killarney National Park.
At least if you have luck and the jarvey is charming, eloquent, and knows the local history well (it's not the rule).
We have always found this activity strange for various reasons, so we don't personally take carriage rides and prefer to explore on foot.
Ross Castle
Situated on the shores of Lough Leane, Ross Castle is one of the top-rated attractions in Killarney National Park.
The 15th-century castle is packed with fascinating medieval history, but it's the breathtaking surrounding scenery that attracts travelers from across the world.
While the Rock of Cashel or Blarney Castle are amazing places to visit, it's the lakeside setting that makes Ross Castle stick out of the crowd.
Bring a camera with you. Ross is one of the most beautiful castles in Ireland.
Ross Castle is one of the most popular sites in Killarney National Park, so expect that you won't have this place for yourself unless you get there early.
To really step back in time, consider taking a guided tour that will allow you to see the restored interiors and learn more about the interesting history.
Make sure also to do the Ross Island Loop, which offers even more spectacular views and copper mining history.
Muckross House and Gardens
Situated only a short drive from the town of Killarney, Muckross House and Gardens is one of the must-see sites in the national park.
The 19th-century Victorian mansion offers guided tours that allow you to enjoy the beautifully furnished interiors and learn more about this period.
Muckross House has a small admission fee, but there is no charge if you want to walk just around the gardens and see the house from the outside.
The gardens have a few theme areas and feature beautiful rhododendrons and many more species of flowers, plants, and trees.
Muckross Gardens are best visited from May to June, at least if you want to see the rhododendrons in full bloom.
There is also Muckross Traditional Farm which showcases how challenging local life was during the 1930s and 1940s in this area.
Muckross Abbey
All the must-visit sites in the area that everyone wants to see, such as Ross Castle and the Muckross, leave Muckross Abbey outside the spotlight.
It means that this former Franciscan friary of Irrelagh is a great spot to find a quiet moment.
Founded in the 15th century for Observatine Franciscans, the abbey features a vaulted cloister, bell tower, old graveyard, and a mysterious yew tree in the courtyard.
Despite its tragic history, the site is still fairly well-preserved, and you can even climb upstairs to get better views.
If you're looking for an interesting place to visit within the park that is not packed with crowds, this charming attraction full of history may be your best bet.
How Many Days in Killarney National Park
In general, you will need a day or two for Killarney National Park. This is a reasonable amount of time to get the most out of the Killarney National Park for most visitors.
However, the park is quite extensive, and every visit is individual. Some people can easily stay here for a week without getting bored.
If you plan to stay this long in Killarney, we would probably include also nearby top destinations such as the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, or Beara Peninsula.
Opening Hours
Most areas in Killarney National Park are open 24/7. However, keep in mind that overnight parking is often prohibited in the Killarney area.
Camping
Wild camping is not allowed in Killarney National Park, so you need to use designated campgrounds.
If you're road-tripping Ireland, overnight parking and camping are usually prohibited at main parking areas, such as Ross Castle or Muckross House and Gardens.
Make sure to check the opening/closing times as they change with the season before you go.
Entrance Fee
There is no entry fee to Killarney National Park, making it one of the best places to visit in Ireland.
Of course, places such as Ross Castle or Muckross House and Gardens have admission fees, but only if you want to take a guided tour to explore the interiors.
Yes, both the castle and house grounds are free to wander around.
Here you will find more tips to keep expenses low or if you're traveling around Ireland on a budget.
How to Get There
Killarney National Park can be reached by car, train, or bus.
The city of Cork is about 90 minutes drive from here, while Limerick sits approximately 110 kilometers north of Killarney. Galway is a three-hour drive from here.
From Dublin, you can reach the national park in about four hours, whether it's via M7 or M8.
Renting a car in Ireland was easy, and it was a great decision as we were able to see tons of places at our own pace.
Having your own transport is a huge advantage, not just for this area, but many other amazing places in Ireland, such as the Wicklow Mountains National Park or Burren National Park.
If you opt for public transport, don't forget that you will need most likely find another mode of transport to get around the park itself.
When getting around by car, read our guide packed with tips for driving in Ireland.
How to Get Around
Honestly, there isn't a single best way to see Killarney National Park.
Some use their car to get around, some prefer to walk and hike around the park, some may prefer to use a bicycle, and some join a guided tour to have a stress-free trip.
Where to Stay
The lively town of Killarney is the best place to stay before or after exploring Killarney National Park.
As it's popular with visitors, there are plenty of accommodations that will cater to all your needs and provide you with an enjoyable and comfortable stay.
The town has really grown in the past decade and has some traditional pubs and great restaurants.
Here are our tips on the top hotels in Killarney.
Budget | Murphys of Killarney - With its superb central location and great hospitality, this hotel is always a safe option when in Killarney. Murphys is a traditional hotel with stylish rooms, an even more traditional Irish pub (with live music during the summer season), and a welcoming atmosphere.
Mid-range | The Lake Hotel - Sitting on the shores of the Loch Lein, the family-friendly Lake Hotel features en suite rooms with mountain views, free private parking, an on-site restaurant serving Irish cuisine, an outdoor hot tub, and free parking.
Luxury | Muckross Park Hotel and Spa - Situated in Killarney National Park, this luxurious 5-star hotel is a perfect place for travelers who want to relax and unwind. Muckross Park Hotel and Spa features individually designed and spacious rooms, a quiet location, free private parking, an on-site restaurant and bar, and an award-winning spa.
Staying Safe
Killarney National Park is generally a safe place to visit for tourists.
However, the weather in Ireland is unpredictable, and you need to be prepared for your outdoor adventure.
Luckily, this step is easier than you think, so check out our tips down below.
Also, take sensible precautions to protect yourself from petty crime and never leave your valuables in your car.
For more information on this topic, read our guide on staying safe in Ireland.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
When to Go
The best time to visit Killarney National Park is May through September.
Spring, summer, and fall provide pleasant weather, warm days, and plenty of daylight.
However, the summer months of July and August also attract lots of tourists, so be prepared for steep hotel rates.
One of the main reasons is that Killarney is one of the most popular staycation destinations in Ireland, and this entire area gets super busy during the summer.
If you're looking to avoid the crowds and the high prices, this is not an ideal time to visit Killarney.
The national park is relatively quiet in winter, between November and February, but it requires some additional planning.
We explored Killarney National Park at the beginning of the month of May, and we believe it's one of the dark horse seasons with long days, thinner crowds, and excellent weather.
In our opinion, it's one of the best times to visit Ireland.
Remember, start really early to beat the crowds. This approach may require some determination from your side, but it really helps in the summer season.
What to Pack
Bringing the right gear is essential to enjoy your day out, at least if you want to have peace of your mind.
When getting dressed for hiking in Killarney National Park, always think of layers.
Light and quick-drying materials are ideal, especially if you pick one of the more challenging trails.
Make sure to wear good footwear, whether it's lightweight trail runners or sturdy hiking boots with ankle protection.
A quality rain jacket and rain pants are great for longer hikes.
Honestly, it always helps to pack lightweight waterproof gear, even on a summer day, as you never know what the weather might do when hiking in the mountains.
We also always bring a comfortable daypack to carry everything we need for the day.
Sunscreen and insect repellent against midges and ticks are a must-have.
Lastly, we can't fail to mention that you need to stay hydrated troughout the day, so don't forget to bring your favorite water bottle with you.
Here you will find more tips on what to pack for Ireland.
Is Killarney National Park Worth Visiting?
Killarney is one of the most beautiful national parks in Ireland that is waiting to be explored.
There are plenty of fun things to do and see in Killarney National Park for all ages and abilities.
Killarney National Park is definitely worth seeing, whether you're an experienced hiker, solo backpacker, or a family with kids.
It's easily accessible and relatively inexpensive to visit, especially if you opt for staying in a more affordable bed and breakfast outside Killarney town.
And if you plan your trip carefully, you can avoid the summer crowds and just relax and unwind.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
