Southern Ireland is full of charming and colourful small towns. A road trip through southern Ireland is the best way to see as many cute small towns that you can. To read my blog post, “A Road Trip Through Southern Ireland,” click here. If you are visiting southern Ireland, I highly recommend stopping in or staying in these five adorable small towns!
Kilkenny
Kilkenny is just a 1.5-2 hour drive south of Dublin. I absolutely loved visiting this small town – it has so much to offer! Walk along colourful High Street and admire the River Lore. Here you’ll find tons of restaurants and Smithwick’s Experience – an 18th-century brewery that you can tour. Make your way to the gorgeous Kilkenny Castle where you can choose to take a tour or simply wander around the outside. A short walk will bring you to the Church of St Canice. Climb up the very narrow round tower for great views of Kilkenny!
Kinsale
Kinsale is another one of my favourite small towns in southern Ireland. This charming town is on the southern coast of Ireland and it runs along River Bandon, which leads to the Celtic Sea. Kinsale is known as a historic port and fishing town with colourful buildings, two 17th-century fortresses, and fantastic seafood.
Kenmare
The small town of Kenmare is found on the Ring of Kerry in southwest Ireland. Kenmare’s charming town centre is formed in a triangle by its three main streets. Outside of the town centre, you can admire breath-taking views overlooking Kenmare Bay.
Dingle
Dingle is the only town on the Dingle Peninsula, which runs along the coast of the North Atlantic Ocean. Walk around this charming port town and admire Dingle Harbour. Grabbing ice cream at the infamous Murphy’s Ice Cream is a must!
Doolin
Just a 10 minute drive north from the Cliffs of Moher is the adorable town of Doolin. This coastal village is known as the capital of traditional Irish Music. Walk along Fisher Street where you’ll find The Sweater Shop (below), several great pubs, and Doolin’s harbour.
I hope you enjoyed this list of five charming small towns in southern Ireland!
To read my blog post, “10 Must-See Attractions in Southern Ireland,” click here.
