Killarney is your quintessential Irish town. It’s quaint and picturesque and renowned for its hospitality. It’s also a magnet for any and all travellers to the Emerald Isle.
But with a town that has more tourists than locals at any given time, knowing where to stay here isn’t always easy.
All is well, dear traveller, as our expert travel team have come up with this detailed list of neighbourhoods, so you can choose your spot based on what you’re into.
It should be easy to pick your place, so you can get on with planning where you’ll be getting your first pint of Guinness from. It’s true what they say: it really does taste better in Ireland!
Before long you’ll have the town on lock, knowing exactly where to stay in Killarney!
- Where to Stay in Killarney
- Killarney’s Neighbourhood Guide
- Killarney’s 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in…
- #1 West Side of High Street – Where to Stay in Killarney Your First Time
- #2 Deerpark – Where to Stay in Killarney On a Budget
- #3 East Side of High Street – Best Area to Stay in Killarney For Nightlife
- #4 Aghadoe – Coolest Place to Stay in Killarney
- #5 Beaufort – Best Neighborhood in Killarney For Families
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Killarney
Not worried about the neighbourhood and just looking for a fit for you? Check out our favourite spots in Killarney overall!
Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!
Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.
Best Airbnb in Killarney – Cosy and Clean Private Bedroom in West Killarney
Located in the west side of High Street, this quiet bedroom is ideal for first time visitors to Killarney. You’ll be sharing the bedroom and will have access to a fridge with basic kitchen amenities as well as bathroom essentials. Only a two minutes walk from the main avenue, the perfection is perfect to explore the areas and tourist sights.
Cosy and Clean Private Bedroom in West Killarney is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel in Killarney – The Gardens
The Gardens is a 3 minute walk from Killarney town centre. It is nestled away in its own private walled garden.it is located only a 5 minute walk from the bus and rail station. They offer guests comfort and a good breakfast to start their day.
Sometimes the best way to experience a destination is from a good dorm room with good people. Book one of these sweet hostels in Killarney and get ready for the time of your life!
The Gardens is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Killarney – Killarney Lodge
Killarney Lodge provides comfortable 4-star accommodation in Killarney. It is close to the area’s tourist hot spots and is within walking distance of Killarney Railway Station. This lodge, rated 10.0 on travel sites, offers free wifi in public areas, as well as a garden for guests to unwind in.
Killarney Lodge is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Deerpark
Deerpark is east of the city centre and just north of Park Road. It’s the name of the retail park in the area, but for our purposes is the accommodation and attractions around there too.
Beaufort
Beaufort is similarly distant from Killarney town, lying 10km to the west, on the other side of the lake. It’s our runaway pick for the best area to stay in Killarney with kids.
Located in the southwestern corner of Ireland, in County Kerry, Killarney is a dream for those seeking ‘the real Ireland’. If you want to experience a traditional area of Ireland, come here.
It has its origins in nearby religious settlements from about 1500 years ago, and retains a strong Catholic flavour, to this day.
More recent history saw it as a key staging point in the 20th century Irish War of Independence.
The brightly coloured shop fronts and charming facades of the main street are a call back to former times, though the interior and services are completely modern.
Despite its modest size of only 14,500 people, there are more hotel beds in this town than in any other in Ireland, except Dublin. Now that’s capitalising on what you have!
Killarney sits at the entrance to the Ring of Kerry, an incredibly scenic loop around the Iveragh Peninsula. It’s this proximity that accounts for its popularity, over and above the charms of the town itself, of course!
There are parts of Killarney, and its outlying villages, that cater to different tastes and styles of travel.
To the east, you’ve got the camping area, with holiday parks for families and groups. To the west is The Demesne, a great open parkland for rambling that links to Ross Castle. Up north are the minor villages, and the pathway to the Ring. And south are the luxury accommodations, where guests can fancy themselves nobility for a night.
Whether you’re a high-roller or a backpacker, a family group or a bunch of friends, Killarney has a place for you to stay!
Killarney’s 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in…
Some of our picks have you smack bang in the centre, while some will have you further out. Either way, you probably want a rental car while you’re here or you’ll miss out on some great mini trips!
With the classic Irish way of placing an area based on its location, we reckon West side of High Street is the best place to stay in Killarney when it’s your first time here.
This has you in the middle of town and within walking distance of…well… everything. See, Killarney is small. It’s about one mile right from the main road running down the west of the town, to the highway running past the east.
The streets and lanes all around here are decorated in Celtic fashion, and you can find upscale food and shopping places behind old-timey signage. Here, you’ll also find some of the best cottages in Killarney.
High Street is awash with restaurants, pubs and cafes catering to the transient crowds and their hunger for Irish Stew!
Being on the West side of High Street grants you easy access to The Demesne as well. This makes it an easy stroll to Ross Castle, the 15th century tower house and keeps sitting solidly on the lakeside of Lough Leane.
St Mary’s Cathedral is also in the west, the 19th century gothic church with magnificent stained-glass windows and some resident churchyard rabbits.
And the visitor centre is here too, to help you plan your time in Kerry.
Things to See and Do in West side of High Street
– Walk around the main town centre, admiring how they’ve combined old and new.
– Take a wander through The Demesne, down to the lakefront.
– Visit Ross Castle, the seat of the O’Donoghue clan.
– Attend mass in St Mary’s Cathedral, or visit at other times to admire the architecture and stained-glass.
– Attend a concert at St Mary’s Church of Ireland (not to be confused with the above), a venue known for its amazing acoustics.
Best Airbnb in West side of High Street – Cosy and Clean Private Bedroom in West Killarney
Located in the west side of High Street, this quiet bedroom is ideal for first time visitors to Killarney. You’ll be sharing the bedroom and will have access to a fridge with basic kitchen amenities as well as bathroom essentials. Only a two minutes walk from the main avenue, the perfection is perfect to explore the areas and tourist sights.
Cosy and Clean Private Bedroom in West Killarney is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel West Side of High Street – Neptune’s Town Hostel
Neptune’s Hostel is located right in the town centre, up a little lane called Bishop’s Lane. An easy walk to all the main street has to offer. Family owned and run, it has been open for 20 years and is recommended by Lonely Planet.
Neptune’s Town Hostel is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in West Side of High Street – Brook Lodge Boutique Hotel
Providing a shuttle to Kerry Airport, as well as free wireless internet, Brook Lodge Hotel is a convenient place to stay in Killarney. It is ideally positioned for those wishing to discover the area’s attractions. Brook provides a golf course, a 24-hour reception and room service.
Brook Lodge Boutique Hotel is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in West Side of High Street – Windway House B&B
The bed & breakfast offers comfortable accommodation, as well as a safe, a library and a tour desk. There is off-site parking for guests travelling with a car. The spacious rooms at Windway House B&B have a private bathroom, wireless internet access and heating.
Windway House B&B is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
We’ve tested countless packs over the years, and now we’ve found our absolute favourite: the nomad-approved Nomatic Travel Bag.
Want more deetz on why we love it so damn much? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
Learn More Now!Deerpark is east of the city centre and just north of Park Road. It’s the name of the retail park in the area, but for our purposes is the accommodation and attractions around there too.
We’ve chosen Deerpark as the best place to stay if you’re travelling on a budget because – why else? – it’s cheap!
The accommodation here runs at a reduced rate from the town centre, though there are a number of upscale options if you so wish.
The size of Killarney also means that being out here will be no bother to you, as you can just stroll on into the town centre for anything you may wish.
In Deerpark, you can visit the Irish Franciscans monastery, still active, and admire the ornately carved wooden altars.
You’ll also find a bunch of chain stores with familiar names for fueling up both you and your car. Its proximity to the retail park means you won’t want for anything in terms of supplies for your continued road trip!
And while it may not have the rolling greens of other areas, you can tee off at the PItch and Putt just north of the shops!
Things to See and Do in Deerpark
– Visit the Irish Franciscans Monastery.
– Catch a game of Gaelic Football at Dr Crokes GAA Club.
– Practise your swing at Deerpark Pitch and Putt Club.
– Stock up on goods at the retail park.
– Use it as your base for getting into Killarney proper!
Best Hostel in Deerpark – Killarney Railway Hostel
Within the hostel, they have both dormitory-style accommodation and private en suite rooms. The family en suite room consists of one double bed and two single beds. Facilities include free light breakfast, free Wi-Fi, Internet access, a fully-equipped kitchen and dining room,
Best Airbnb in Deerpark – Comfortable Private Room in Remote House by Nature
This quiet and rural house, surrounded by fields, is ideal for those visiting Killarney on a budget. Surrounded with nature, it’s also perfect if you want to hike, or just spend some time in the mountains. The bedroom consists of a double bed and there’s also a private bathroom with a spa bath and a shower. The house also has a large garden with views overlooking the mountains.
Comfortable Private Room in Remote House by Nature is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Deerpark – Carranross House B&B
Located in Killarney, Carranross House is a short drive from Aghadoe and the Muckross House. It is conveniently positioned for guests wishing to discover the area’s attractions. A gym is available to guests wanting to keep active while travelling.
Carranross House B&B is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Deerpark – Saint Anthony’s Lodge B&B
Saint Anthony’s Lodge B&B offers 4-star accommodation in Killarney. It is ideally located for guests wanting to visit the area’s popular attractions. The rooms at Lodge offer a coffee maker and all the necessities for an enjoyable stay.
Saint Anthony’s Lodge B&B is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
On the other side of the main strip running through town, the East side of High Street is the best place to stay in Killarney if it’s nightlife you’re after.
Irish nightlife involves a lot of pubs with live music. Experiencing a singalong in a local bar with volunteer musicians is fantastic, and joining in is even better.
If you’re lucky, at the end of the evening will come the tradition of the ‘Lock-In’. This is where they’ll shut the windows, pull the blinds and bolt the door, pretending no-one is inside while carrying on serving drinks as normal. You just can’t peek outside or the jig’ll be up!
High Street itself is the best pick for this, where you can go from place to place, checking the atmosphere ‘till you find one just right.
Don’t be fooled by what you can see through the windows though, there’s often a door through what you thought was the back that opens out onto a bigger, more open beer garden type arrangement!
It’s not all boozy banter either, and there are plenty of restaurants serving great food on this stretch, to be sure!
Things to See and Do in East side of High Street
– Make your own pub-crawl down High Street.
– Join a lock-in, if the locals will have you – you’ve gotta be in the right place at the right time so pick a lively place an hour or so before closing and act cool.
– Find live music and join the revelry of an Irish jig!
– Try any one of the excellent restaurants at the junction of High Street, New and Main.
– Grab a train at the nearby station, to check out neighbouring destinations.
Best Airbnb East Side of High Street – Large Modern House in the Heart of Nightlife
This Airbnb in Ireland is located in the heart of Killarney and consists of two bedrooms each with a double bed, a bathroom with all essentials and an utility room with a washing machine and a dryer, and a fully equipped kitchen. You’ll enjoy outstanding views from Killarney and the surrounding nature. It’s a perfect base to explore the area or to go out as you’re walking distance from all the bars and pubs.
Large Modern House in the Heart of Nightlife is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel East Side of High Street – The Shire Accommodation
Renowned for their warmth and friendliness, they will ensure your stay in Killarney is pleasant, comfortable and especially memorable. The property was built in 1795 as a home for estate workers of Lord Kenmare, a local landlord.
The Shire Accommodation is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel East Side of High Street – McSweeney Arms Hotel
McSweeney Arms Hotel is set amongst a variety of dining options and is minutes on foot from Killarney Railway Station. This charming hotel provides a tour desk, luggage storage and an on-site bar, conveniently situated for socialising in the evening.
McSweeney Arms Hotel is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel East Side of High Street – The Killarney Park
This award-winning hotel provides luxury accommodation in Killarney. It features a gym, as well as an indoor pool, outdoor tennis courts and free Wi-Fi. This stylish 5-star hotel provides a sauna, valet parking and an express check-in and check-out feature.
The Killarney Park is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected. It’s just that easy.
Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Buy an eSIM!Aghadoe is part of the parish of Killarney but actually sits slightly separately, on the road running north of the main town.
It’s a stunning village, famous for its views over the lake, national park and Killarney town.
Aghadoe is our choice for the coolest area in Killarney to stay just because of that remoteness, and its proximity to lake and land.
You’re on the path to the Ring of Kerry here, so you won’t have to dodge the tour buses on your way to the west. And you’re off the tourist trail, where you may find the streets of your village more authentic than those in the town, partially played up for the visitors.
Aghadoe has an epic past too if you’re a fan of history. The whole area was founded around this little place, where the legendary St Finian built a monastery in the 6th or 7th century. Then the Normans built a castle here after the invasion in 1169.
Oh yeah, and there’s that big beautiful lake you’re right beside. The waters are sparkling and if you’re tough enough to brave those Irish temperatures, well worth a dip. You’ll come out invigorated at least!
Things to See and Do in Aghadoe
– Get the jump on the crowds heading to the Ring of Kerry and be there before anyone else.
– Head to the one pub in the village, the Golden Nugget, for a meal and a drink and chat to some locals.
– Explore the historic sites of Aghadoe, imagining what went before you.
– Take a dip in Lough Leane to rejuvenate your spirits.
– Admire the views over the surrounding areas – you’ll see why it’s called the Emerald Isle!
Best Airbnb in Aghadoe – Spacious Cottage near Main Tourist Attractions
This cosy and traditional cottage is well-appointed and ideal as a base for those who want to explore the Kerry area and for sightseeing. It has three bedrooms in total, one with an ensuite bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen with a Nespreesso coffee machine and free condiments and essentials, as well as a big living room with a TV. There’s also a big garden.
Spacious Cottage near Main Tourist Attractions is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel in Aghadoe – Killarney International Youth Hostel
Situated in Aghadoe on the Ring of Kerry road, adjacent to the national park, this An Oige Youth Hostel is an impressive 18th century mansion on 77 acres of beautiful gardens and forests 5km from Killarney.
Killarney International Youth Hostel is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Aghadoe – Killeen House Hotel
Killeen House Hotel provides a unique setting while in Killarney. The charming hotel dates back to the 19th century. This 3-star hotel provides a golf course, laundry facilities and a safe. Staff are available 24/7 and can book tours and tickets.
Killeen House Hotel is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Aghadoe – Loch Lein Country House
This relaxed hotel in Killarney offers complimentary Wi-Fi and a 24-hour reception. Just a short stroll from Fossa, it provides cosy rooms equipped with wireless internet access. This 4-star hotel offers luggage storage, a garden and a safe.
Loch Lein Country House is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Beaufort is similarly distant from Killarney town, lying 10km to the west, on the other side of the lake. It’s our runaway pick for the best area to stay in Killarney with kids.
The main reason for this is that it’s very close to the lake and the river. There are watersports available that you can take part in as a family, and put a little adventure into the holiday!
You’re also on the Ring of Kerry, so if you’re up early you can get out before the crowds and not have to attempt overtaking a tour bus on the narrow lanes!
The Gap of Dunloe, one of the most iconic spots on the drive, and one sometimes missed if coming through Killarney, is only about two miles south of here too.
There’s a few great historic spots here, with the charmingly tiny St Mary’s Church Beaufort sitting proudly on its gated field. And the more ancient Dunloe Ogham Stones, burial markers inscribed with a medieval alphabet. The sense of time gone by is very real here.
There’s also just fields and quieter paths for wandering through the pretty landscape, a simple pleasure that can’t be beaten!
Things to See and Do in Beaufort
– Go kayaking on Lough Leane and try not to take a dip in the cold water.
– Take a dip in the cold water of Lough Leane, on purpose!
– Check out the Gap of Dunloe, while no one else is around yet.
– Imagine the history and significance surrounding the Dunloe Ogham Stones.
– Play a round at the welcoming Beaufort Golf Club.
Best Airbnb in Beaufort – Spacious and Extremely Clean House in Low Country
This cosy, spacious and clean house is ideal for families visiting Killarney and wanting to explore the surroundings. Located only 20 minutes drive away from Hilton Head Island Beach, it’s in a very quiet and peaceful neighborhood close to everything and ideal to visit the low country aerta. It comes with all the basic equipment and appliances you will need to have a very comfortable stay.
Best Hostel in Beaufort – Inveray Farm
Inveraray Farm is a family-run bed and breakfast in picturesque Beaufort. Just a short drive from Killarney, and located just off the Ring of Kerry, it’s the perfect base to explore this beautiful county.
Inveray Farm is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Beaufort – The Purple Heather B&B
The Purple Heather B&B is ideally positioned in a peaceful setting in Beaufort, just a short car ride from Ross Castle. It also offers a ticket service, luggage storage and free Wi-Fi. This 3-star B&B has an on-site restaurant, for your convenience.
The Purple Heather B&B is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Beaufort – The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens
Situated in Beaufort, The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens is an easy drive from Killarney and provides an indoor pool, a rooftop terrace and a sauna. This 5-star accommodation features a gym, as well as a kids club (perfect for families) and a free shuttle service to and from the airport.
The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens is one of our favourites in Killarney but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Killarney
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Killarney and where to stay.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Killarney
World Nomads’ mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. They offer simple & flexible travel insurance, and safety advice to help you travel confidently.
They’ve been doing it since 2002 – protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you.
Get a quote below or read our in-depth review!
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Killarney, Ireland
Killarney is one of the most beautiful towns in Ireland and home to friendly and welcoming people. It’s a stop on your great Irish road trip that you’ll be genuinely pleased you made.
There are all sorts of different ways to approach your stay here so why not venture even further afield? You may even end up camped out at Muckross House, the idyllic 19th century manor house!
Staying at our best overall hotel, Killarney Lodge, will actually have you not far from there, ideally located to explore Killarney and its noble past.
That’s it from us. You’ve now got all the knowledge we have on the town, surrounds and where to stay in Killarney.
Oh, and if someone asks you, “What’s the craic?” the proper response is “Grand, you?” Took me years to get that one right!
“By all the shamrocks in old Killarney, ‘tis a joy to know you and that’s no blarney.” – Irish saying
Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? Want to be featured in our list? Email [email protected] to find out how.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
