How to get around in Killarney- for locals and vistors alike. Explore the best ways to experience Killarney
Walk
Killarney town is compact and easy to navigate on foot. Killarney National Park has a plethora of walks, hikes and runs to explore. Many of these are withing walking distance of the town centre. Many more are just a short drive or cycle from the town.
Drive
Killarney is the recognised base for the famous Ring of Kerry which many choose to drive. With plenty of scenic viewing points and places of interest along the way, it is ideal for a day trip in the car. Closer to home, there are short drives to Ladies View, Aghadoe and the Gap of Dunloe that offer stunning scenery within a short drive from Killarney. A drive is often handy for getting to the starting point for some of the walks and hikes in Killarney National Park.
Car Rental is available from a variety of operators at nearby Kerry Airport. In Killarney, you can rent a car from Budget in the town centre at the International Hotel and from Enterprise at the Gleneagle Hotel during the summer months.
Car parking is available in the town centre. Beware! It can be hard to find a spot in the busy summer months.
Wheels
Cycling is an easy and efficient way to get around Killarney. During the busier summer months, exploring on two wheels can often be the fastest way to get from A to B. Most of the town and surrounding National Park is on relatively flat terrain. The weather is always a consideration so expect changeable conditions – whatever the season! Many of the walking trails in Killarney National Park are also suitable for cycling – just take it slow and be mindful of walkers and other path users.
If you prefer your two wheels with an engine included, there are some wonderful motorbike routes around the Killarney area to take a spin. The annual Bikefest festival has attracted bikers from all over the world to the area.
Taxi
Taxis are popular and plentiful in the Killarney area all year round. There is a dedicated taxi rank in the town centre at College Square.
See a listing of local taxi operators here. The FREE NOW taxi app can be used in Killarney. Download it here.
Bus
Although there is no local public bus transport available in Killarney, a number of private operators provide services in and around the town, especially during the busier Summer months. These services will take you to some of the well known beauty spots at Muckross, Torc & Ladies View as well as to the panaromic views of Aghadoe.
Water
For many, the best way to experience Killarney’s is from a boat. The stunning beauty of Killarney National Park is well documented. Seen from the water of one of the three lakes, the experiences is even more magical. There are boat trips available from Ross Castle to the nearby Inisfallen Island on traditional ‘open’ boats. Covered vessels also operate from Ross Castle providing a tour of Lough Leane.
Ross Castle is also where the famous Gap of Dunloe trip operates from. The journey through the three lakes by boat is the highlight of this superb tour. Another great option is the boat ride from Muckross House to Dinis – crossing Muckorss Lake under the shadow of Torc Mountain. If you want to paddle your own canoe, you can also try your hand at kayaking from Ross Castle where a number of operators provide you with all you need for your mini adventure.
Hooves
Horses still clip clop through the streets of Killarney hauling the traditional jaunting cars along scenic routes. You can hire a jaunting car in the town centre at ‘the Haha’ near the Killarney Plaza Hotel. In the Muckross area, jaunting cars are available at the entrance to Muckross Abbey and near the Muckross Park Hotel.
If you want to get a bit closer to your equine friends, there are a range of horse riding and trekking options in the Killarney area. Ride through the Killarney National Park or trek through the woods of Muckross with one of the local horse riding operators in Killarney.
