A new £5.8 million investment aims to boost tourism in Kilkenny, Ireland‘s smallest city, with a variety of exciting attractions. 

Fáilte Ireland and Kilkenny County Council are spearheading a five-year redevelopment plan that focuses on the city’s medieval history, hurling heritage, and local pubs. 

The transformation includes a £1.2 million Museum of Medieval Kilkenny and reimagining the Medieval Mile trail. 

Additionally, the Three Sisters Rivers will become a hub for outdoor activities, and creative visitor experiences will highlight Kilkenny’s artistic legacy.

Earlier this year, Paul Kelly, the boss of Fáilte Ireland said: “This five-year Destination and Experience Development Plan captures the unique themes that are central to Kilkenny and features key priority projects which will transform the tourism offering across the region.

“The development of the River Barrow Tourism Masterplan, reimagination of the Medieval Mile, and building on Kilkenny’s cultural and creative heritage will strengthen Kilkenny’s position as an internationally compelling destination in Ireland’s Ancient East. 

It’s still unclear when the new attractions in Kilkenny will open, but the city offers plenty to explore in the meantime. 

Kilkenny Castle, built in the 12th century and later remodeled in Victorian style, is a major draw, welcoming visitors to its stunning 1830s interiors. 

Other highlights include St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower, Rothe House and Garden, and The Black Abbey. Beer lovers can enjoy Smithwick’s Experience for brewery tours and tastings of Irish ale.

The city has been hailed by several tourists on TripAdvisor forum. One wrote: “Kilkenny is a very beautiful medieval city with incredible history, a lovely river Nore running through it and offers families, couples of all ages, and single travelers a great holiday location.”

A second user wrote: “Kilkenny was one of our favorite cities that we visited during a trip to Ireland in the spring of 2009. It has a feeling of antiquity while at the same time has a very upbeat atmosphere.

“The local establishments provided some of the best food on our trip and the local musical entertainment was top-notch. We can’t wait to return.”

A third user said: “We read recommendations that Kilkenny is a good stop for a first night in Ireland after arrival at Dublin. We found the drive there on the new motorways easy (even driving on the opposite side of the road).

“But be aware that if you have a GPS that is a few years old its maps will not have these new roads. Kilkenny is a nice size town for walking and has some nice pubs and restaurants.

“We visited the castle, the National Craft Gallery and St. Canice’s Cathedral, which was just the right amount of sightseeing for that first day.”