Where to Stay in County Kerry, Ireland 🇮🇪: Best Hotels & Accommodation

Welcome to County Kerry, a breathtaking slice of Ireland that captures the heart of every visitor.

County Kerry, Ireland

Located in the southwest corner of the Emerald Isle, Kerry is a land of contrasts, where coastlines meet green valleys, and ancient history meets modern culture.

Our pick of the best hotels in County Kerry: 🔥

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Ballyseede Castle
• ✨ 5-Star: Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa
• 🏨 4-Star: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa
• 🛏️ 3-Star: The Ashe Hotel
• 💸 Cheap: Eva Lodge
• 🏢 Apartment: The Blue Door Apartment
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Riverside Home
• 🏩 For Couples: Kathleen's Country House

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best places to stay across the county, from the bustling town of Killarney to the charming coastal village of Cahersiveen, helping you find the perfect base for your Kerry exploration.

Quick County Kerry Area Guide: ☀️

• 🏞️ For Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers: Killarney
• 🐬 For Coastal Charm and Rich Culture: Dingle
• 🏛️ For History Buffs and Modern Attractions: Tralee
• 💍 For Ring of Kerry Gateway and Picturesque Views: Kenmare
• 🏝️ For Historic Sites and Skellig Islands Access: Cahersiveen

1. Killarney Town – The Best Place to Stay in Kerry for Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers 🏞️

🍀 Irish charm: Killarney is perfect for exploring Kerry’s stunning landscapes. The main street, High Street, is always buzzing with locals and tourists alike. Killarney National Park is right next door. You can’t miss Ross Castle, a 15th-century fortress by Lough Leane, or Muckross House, a beautiful Victorian mansion with meticulously manicured gardens. Don’t forget to check out the 20-meter high Torc Waterfall and Ladies View for amazing scenery. The park is also home to Ireland’s only native herd of red deer.

Killarney Town

🚲 Easy exploring: Getting around is easy. You can take buses, but I loved renting a bike from O’Sullivan’s Cycles on New Street. For a fun ride, try a jaunting car – a horse-drawn carriage. The drivers, known as jarveys, are full of local stories and witty banter.

🍽️ Tasty eats: Killarney has great food. Bricín Restaurant serves delicious boxty (Irish potato pancake), while Cellar One at The Ross offers fancy food with local ingredients. For a more casual meal, Murphy’s Bar is great for traditional Irish music and pub grub. Don’t miss the seafood chowder at Cronin’s Restaurant or the artisan ice cream at Murphy’s Ice Cream.

📋 Top activities: Here are my top things to do in Killarney:

1. Take a boat trip on the lakes with Ross Castle Boat Tours
2. Visit the Killarney Brewing Company for local beer and a brewery tour
3. Shop on High Street for Irish crafts, especially at Quills Woollen Market
4. Hike in the national park, try the Muckross Lake Loop
5. Visit St. Mary’s Cathedral, a stunning 19th-century Gothic revival church
6. Take a day trip on the Ring of Kerry, stopping at Kenmare and Sneem
7. Explore the Gap of Dunloe by foot, bike, or pony trap
8. Have a pint at Kate Kearney’s Cottage, a 150-year-old family-run pub
9. Visit Innisfallen Island’s ancient ruins, accessible by boat
10. Enjoy live music at O’Connor’s Traditional Irish Pub, a local favorite

🍺 Night vibes: The Laurels Pub and J.M. Reidy’s are great spots for a pint and some craic (fun). For a fancier night out, try Treyvaud’s for modern Irish cuisine. If you’re lucky, you might catch a traditional Irish céilí dance at the Killarney Grand.

The street of Killarney Town

Killarney Town

Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park

🚗 Scenic drive: Don’t forget to take a drive or cycle around the Ring of Kerry. The views of the wild Atlantic coast are unforgettable. Stop at Molls Gap for breathtaking views of the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range.

Best accommodation in Kerry, Killarney: 🏨

⭐ Luxury hotels in Killarney

• Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa – This 5-star hotel provides luxurious rooms with stunning views of the lakes and mountains of Killarney. It features a spa with a pool, hot tub, and treatment rooms, as well as fine dining restaurants and a terrace bar.
• Muckross Park Hotel & Spa – This elegant hotel combines traditional style with modern amenities, offering spacious rooms and suites. It boasts a spa with a vitality pool and thermal suite, two restaurants, and a bar, all set within Killarney National Park.
• The Killarney Park – This 5-star hotel provides luxurious rooms and suites with marble bathrooms and separate sitting areas. It features a spa with a pool, outdoor hot tub, and fitness center, as well as fine dining options and a classic bar.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels in the town of Killarney

• Randles Hotel – This elegant hotel provides comfortable rooms with antique furnishings and modern amenities. It features a spa with a pool, steam room, and treatment rooms, as well as a restaurant serving Irish cuisine and a cozy bar.
• Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa – This 4-star hotel provides stylish rooms with marble bathrooms and city or mountain views. It features a spa with a pool, gym, and treatment rooms, as well as multiple dining options and bars.
• The Lake Hotel – This family-run hotel provides rooms with lake or garden views and traditional decor. It features a spa with a pool and outdoor hot tub, as well as a restaurant overlooking the lake and a cozy bar.

🛏️ Best hostels

• Killaran House – This charming guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and a homely atmosphere. It features a guest lounge, a garden, and serves a delicious breakfast with homemade bread and local produce.
• Kathleen's Country House – This elegant country house offers individually decorated rooms with antique furnishings and modern comforts. It features beautiful gardens, a cozy lounge with a fireplace, and serves gourmet breakfasts using local ingredients.
• Old Weir Lodge – This family-run guesthouse offers spacious rooms with traditional decor and modern amenities. It features a guest lounge, a garden, and serves a hearty Irish breakfast, all within walking distance of Killarney town center.

2. Dingle – Where to Stay in Kerry, Ireland for Charming Coastal Town with Rich Culture 🐬

🌊 Coastal charm: Nestled on the southwest coast of Ireland, this charming fishing town is a perfect blend of traditional Irish culture and breathtaking natural beauty.

🚗 Scenic drive: One of the first things I recommend doing is taking a drive along the Slea Head Drive. This 30-mile circular route offers some of the most spectacular coastal scenery I’ve ever seen. The views of the Blasket Islands and the rugged coastline are simply unforgettable.

Dingle

🏖️ Hidden gem: Stop at Coumeenoole Beach along the way. It’s a hidden gem with golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Just be careful if you decide to swim – the currents can be strong!

🍺 Town center: The heart of Dingle is its colorful town center. Here are some of my favorite spots:

1. Murphy’s Ice Cream: Try their sea salt flavor – it’s to die for!
2. Foxy John’s: A hardware store and pub in one. Only in Ireland!
3. Dick Mack’s Pub: A former leather shop turned pub with an impressive whiskey selection.
4. The Little Cheese Shop: Perfect for picnic supplies.
5. Dingle Crystal: Beautiful handcrafted glassware.

🐬 Marine adventures: Dingle is famous for its marine life, especially Fungie, the friendly dolphin who used to visit the harbor regularly. While Fungie hasn’t been seen recently, you can still take a boat tour to spot other dolphins, seals, and even whales if you’re lucky. I went with Dingle Dolphin Tours and had an amazing time out on the water.

🍽️ Foodie heaven: From fresh seafood to traditional Irish fare, there’s something for every palate. Here are my top picks:

• Out of the Blue: A seafood lover’s paradise. Their menu changes daily based on the catch.
• The Fish Box: For the best fish and chips in town.
• The Chart House: A bit fancier, perfect for a special dinner.
• Bean in Dingle: Great coffee and breakfast spot.

And of course, no visit to Dingle is complete without a pint of Guinness. I suggest trying one at John Benny’s Pub, where you can often catch live traditional Irish music sessions.

Dingle

🏞️ Outdoor fun: Spend a day hiking Mount Brandon, the highest peak on the Dingle Peninsula. The views from the top are worth every step of the climb. For a more relaxed outdoor experience, take a stroll along Inch Beach. This three-mile stretch of sand is perfect for a leisurely walk or even surfing if you’re feeling adventurous.

🎭 Cultural immersion: Dingle is steeped in Irish culture and history. I highly recommend visiting the Gallarus Oratory, a 1,300-year-old stone church that’s incredibly well-preserved. The Blasket Centre is also fascinating, offering insights into the unique culture of the now-abandoned Blasket Islands.

For a truly unique experience, try your hand at making traditional Irish brown bread at the Dingle Cookery School. It’s a fun way to immerse yourself in local culture and you get to eat your creations!

Best Kerry hotels in Dingle: 🏨

⭐ Luxury hotels

• Inch Beach Cottages These charming cottages offer stunning sea views and direct access to Inch Beach, featuring fully equipped kitchens, cozy living areas, and private patios, perfect for a relaxing seaside getaway.
• Dingle Bay Hotel Overlooking Dingle Bay, the hotel combines modern amenities with traditional family hospitality, and offers spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to the bustling marina and local attractions.
• An Portán Situated in the picturesque village of Dunquin, An Portán offers cozy accommodations with stunning views of the Blasket Islands, featuring comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• The Cloisters The Cloisters provides comfortable accommodations with a serene atmosphere, located just a short walk into town and near to Dingle’s main attractions, perfect for a peaceful stay.
• Dingle Skellig Hotel Dingle Skellig Hotel is one of the best hotels in the area, offering a great location with stunning views of the bay, a selection of dining options, and a relaxing spa. Guests rave about the delicious full Irish breakfast in the morning and the friendly staff who make every stay memorable.
• Hotel Ceann Sibeal Located in DIngle, Ceann Sibeal Hotel features spacious rooms, traditional local cuisine, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for walkers and hikers.

🛏️ Best hostels

• Rainbow Hostel Located a minute walk to town, Rainbow Hostel offers clean, comfortable accommodations with shared facilities, free parking, and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for budget travelers.

• Old Irish Farmhouse Nestled in the tranquil countryside of Annascaul, the Old Irish Farmhouse provides a charming stay with traditional decor, modern amenities, and a warm, friendly host, ideal for those seeking a quiet escape.
• Dunquin House Bed and Breakfast Located near the Blasket Centre, Dunquin House Bed and Breakfast offers recently renovated accommodations with free private parking, free WiFi, and a beautiful garden view, making it a perfect base for exploring the Dingle Peninsula.

3. Tralee – Best Place to Stay in County Kerry for History and Modern Attractions 🏛️

⏳ Time travel: Make your first stop at the Kerry County Museum. The Medieval Experience here is like stepping into a time machine. Wander through a recreated medieval street, complete with sights, sounds, and even smells of 15th-century Tralee.

Tralee

🦆 Nature’s playground: Next go the Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre. This place is a nature lover’s paradise right in the heart of town. I took a boat tour through the wetlands and spotted all sorts of wildlife. The view from the 20-meter high viewing tower is absolutely breathtaking – you can see all the way to the Slieve Mish Mountains on a clear day.

🚶 Architectural walk: Here are some spots you shouldn’t miss:

1. Siamsa Tíre: Ireland’s National Folk Theatre
2. St. John’s Church: A beautiful Gothic Revival church
3. Ashe Memorial Hall: Home to the Kerry County Museum
4. Blennerville Windmill: Just outside town, it’s the largest working windmill in Ireland

🍽️ Tasty treats: I highly recommend Croí Restaurant for a taste of contemporary Irish cuisine. For a more casual meal, Madden’s Bridge Bar & Restaurant serves up hearty pub grub with a side of live music on weekends.

🏊 Modern fun: The Aqua Dome is a fantastic indoor water park that’s perfect for a rainy day (and let’s face it, this is Ireland!).

🚌 Easy exploring: Tralee is well-connected with Bus Éireann services to other parts of Kerry and beyond. The town center is compact and walkable, with plenty of hidden gems tucked away in side streets.

Tralee

🌹 Festival fun: To really get a feel for Tralee’s culture, visit the Rose of Tralee International Festival. This annual event turns the whole town into one big party, with parades, street performances, and of course, the selection of the Rose of Tralee herself. It’s a uniquely Irish experience that shouldn’t be missed if you’re here in August.

Popular hotels in Kerry, Tralee: 🏨

⭐ Luxury hotels

• Ballyseede Castle – This historic castle hotel provides luxurious accommodations in a grand setting with 30 acres of private grounds. It features elegant drawing rooms, fine dining with traditional Irish cuisine, and rooms that tell a story, providing an unforgettable stay.
• The Ashe Hotel – This hotel provides modern and stylish accommodations in the heart of Tralee. It features a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine and a bar with a wide selection of drinks.
• Meadowlands Hotel – This relaxing hotel provides air-conditioned rooms with free internet access and plenty of facilities. It features pretty gardens, an intimate 2-floor bar, and an informal restaurant specializing in seafood dishes.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Ballyroe Heights Hotel – This hotel provides comfortable rooms with modern amenities and scenic views. It features a restaurant serving Irish and international cuisine, as well as a bar and lounge area for relaxation.
• The Brandon Hotel – This centrally located hotel provides comfortable rooms with all necessary amenities. It features a leisure center with a pool, gym, and sauna, as well as a restaurant and bar.
• The Grand Hotel – This historic hotel provides charming rooms with traditional decor and modern comforts. It features a restaurant serving local cuisine and a bar with live music on weekends.

🛏️ Best hostels

• Imperial Hotel – This elegant hotel provides comfortable rooms with classic decor and modern amenities. It features a restaurant serving Irish and international cuisine, as well as a bar and lounge area.
• Los Molinos – This hotel provides comfortable rooms with a Mediterranean flair. It features a restaurant serving Spanish and Irish cuisine, as well as a bar with a selection of Spanish wines.
• Eva Lodge – This cozy guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with a homely atmosphere. It features a guest lounge and serves a hearty Irish breakfast.

4. Kenmare – Picturesque Gateway to the Ring of Kerry 💍

💍 Kerry’s jewel: Nestled between the Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara, Kenmare is a little slice of Irish heaven. Firstly, stop at the Kenmare Stone Circle. It’s just a short walk from the town center. This Bronze Age relic, known locally as “The Shrubberies,” is one of the largest stone circles in southwest Ireland. Grab a coffee from Puccini’s Coffee And Books and sit among the 15 heavy boulders.

Kenmare

🌳 Nature’s embrace: Next up, make time for a stroll through Reenagross Woodland Park. It’s a green oasis just south of the town center, perfect for clearing your head and getting back to nature.

🐬 Sea adventures: For a real treat, I recommend taking a Seafari Eco-Nature and Seal Watching Cruise. Captain Raymond Ross is a legend, and his tin-whistle playing often attracts curious seals. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins!

🍽️ Culinary delights: Kenmare is a food lover’s dream. Here are some of my favorite spots:

1. No. 35 Kenmare: They have their own farm just a mile up the road!
2. The Lime Tree: Housed in a beautiful 1832 building with a cozy wood fire.
3. Mulcahy’s: Great for gourmet burgers and a lively atmosphere.
4. Tom Crean Fish and Wine: The Ice Bar is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
5. Crowleys: Perfect for a pint of Guinness and live music.

🚣 Adventure awaits: For a real adrenaline rush, head to Star Outdoors Adventure Centre. From water skiing to Ireland’s largest water park, it’s a day of non-stop fun. I particularly enjoy kayaking along the rugged coastline – it’s a great way to work off all that delicious food!

🏛️ Local lore: To really understand Kenmare, I highly recommend taking a Heritage Tour. You’ll learn about the town’s fascinating history as Ireland’s first planned town and visit the Kenmare Store Circle, one of the country’s largest stone circles.

Kenmare

🍫 Sweet memories: Before you leave Kenmare, make sure to stop by Lorge Chocolatier. I took a chocolate-making course here, and it was a highlight of my trip. There’s something magical about creating (and eating!) your own truffles and ganache.

Best hotels in Kerry, Kenmare: 🏨

⭐ Luxury hotels

• Kenmare Bay Hotel Lodges These 4-star hotel in Kenmare offers luxurious accommodation within the grounds of Kenmare Bay Hotel. Each lodge features two spacious en-suite bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen with granite worktops, and an open-plan dining and lounge area.
• Sheen Falls Lodge This 5-star hotel in Kenmare is a Relais & Châteaux property set on a 300-acre estate overlooking Kenmare Bay and Sheen Falls. The hotel offers 77 elegant rooms and suites, each providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Park Hotel Kenmare Park Hotel Kenmare is a historic 5-star hotel dating back to 1897, offering a blend of heritage and luxury. The hotel features 46 individually decorated rooms and suites, furnished with antiques and modern amenities.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Grenane Heights Grenane Heights is a highly-rated bed and breakfast boasting sea views and located next to Ring of Kerry Golf Club. The property offers rooms with private bathrooms, garden views, and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy either a continental or à la carte breakfast.
• The Happy Pig The Happy Pig is a unique, bike-friendly guesthouse. This cozy 3-star accommodation offers a laid-back atmosphere and basic amenities: comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. Its quirky name and casual vibe make it stand out among Kenmare’s lodging options.
• 2 Mile Lodge The architecturally designed lodge offers individually decorated rooms with private en-suite bathrooms, complimentary toiletries and hairdryers.

🛏️ Best hostels

• Bridge Street Townhouse Bridge Street Townhouse is a boutique guesthouse located in the heart of Kenmare. The property offers stylishly decorated rooms with modern amenities and comfortable furnishings. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning, setting them up for a day of exploring.
• Valhalla BnB Valhalla BnB is a cozy bed and breakfast offering a comfortable stay in Kenmare. The property features well-appointed rooms with modern amenities and a homely atmosphere. Guests can start their day with a hearty Irish breakfast, prepared with care by the friendly hosts. The B&B’s location provides easy access to Kenmare’s attractions and serves as a great base for exploring the surrounding areas. Valhalla BnB is known for its warm hospitality and personal touch, ensuring guests feel welcome throughout their stay.
• Davitts Davitts Guesthouse is a 3-star accommodation located in the center of Kenmare. The guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere.

5. Cahersiveen – Historic Town and Launching Point for Skellig Islands 🏝️

🏛️ Historic gateway: Nestled on the Ring of Kerry, Cahersiveen is the perfect launching point for an adventure to the Skellig Islands. Begin with Cahergall Stone Fort. This circular stone fort dates back to the 7th century and offers a glimpse into Ireland’s ancient past. The views from the top are breathtaking – on a clear day, you can see all the way to Valentia Island.

Cahersiveen

🏝️ Island adventure: No trip to Cahersiveen is complete without a visit to the Skellig Islands. I recommend booking a boat tour to Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The journey itself is an adventure, with the Atlantic waves providing a thrilling ride. Once you reach the island, prepare to climb 600 steep steps to the ancient monastery at the top.

🍽️ Tasty eats:

1. QC’s Seafood Restaurant: Their seafood chowder is to die for!
2. The Oratory Pizza and Wine Bar: Perfect for a casual dinner with great views.
3. Camo’s: A local institution for hearty Irish breakfasts.
4. O’Neill’s The Point Seafood Bar: Fresh catches with a view of Valentia Harbour.
5. Frank’s Corner: Great for a pint and live music on weekends.

🏛️ Time travel: History buffs will love the Old Barracks Heritage Centre. This quirky castellated building was originally built to defend against a French invasion that never came. Now, it houses fascinating exhibits on local history, including the story of Daniel O’Connell, “The Liberator,” who was born nearby.

🌅 Sunset magic: For a unique experience, I suggest visiting Ballycarbery Castle. This 16th-century ruin is hauntingly beautiful, especially at sunset when the stones glow golden in the fading light.

🏞️ Scenic hike: If you’re up for a hike, head to Geokaun Mountain and Fogher Cliffs on nearby Valentia Island. The panoramic views of the Skellig Islands and the Kerry coastline are simply stunning.

Cahersiveen

🎵 Festival fun: To really get a feel for local culture, time your visit with the Cahersiveen Festival of Music and the Arts in August. The town comes alive with music, dance, and art exhibitions.

Best County Kerry hotels in Cahersiveen: 🏨

⭐ Luxury hotels

• QC's Seafood Restaurant Bar with Rooms – This charming establishment offers comfortable rooms above its renowned seafood restaurant. Guests can enjoy fresh, locally-sourced seafood dishes and a wide selection of drinks in the bar downstairs.
• The Blue Door Apartment – This self-catering apartment offers a cozy and homely atmosphere with modern amenities. It features a fully equipped kitchen and a comfortable living area, perfect for those seeking a home-away-from-home experience.
• Riverside Home – This spacious holiday home offers comfortable accommodations with a fully equipped kitchen and living area. It features a garden and terrace, providing a peaceful retreat for families or groups.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Iveragh Heights – This bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and scenic views. It features a shared lounge and garden, and serves a delicious Irish breakfast each morning.
• Sea Breeze Bed and Breakfast – This cozy B&B offers comfortable rooms with en-suite bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. It features a guest lounge and serves a hearty Irish breakfast, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests.
• Ferryview Bed and Breakfast – This family-run B&B offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and scenic views. It features a garden and terrace, and serves a delicious breakfast with vegetarian options available.

FAQs about trips to County Kerry ❔

What is the most scenic part of Kerry?

The Ring of Kerry is widely considered the most scenic part of Kerry. This 179-kilometer circular route offers breathtaking views of coastal landscapes, Kerry mountains, lakes, and charming villages.

What is the main town in Kerry?

Tralee is the main town and administrative center of County Kerry. With a population of around 26,000, it serves as the county town and is known for its rich history and cultural significance.

What area is best to stay in Ireland?

Killarney is often regarded as one of the best areas to stay in Ireland, especially for exploring Kerry. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, with Killarney National Park nearby, and a vibrant town atmosphere with plenty of accommodation options.

What city is closest to the Ring of Kerry?

Killarney is the city closest to the Ring of Kerry and is often used as the starting point for the route. It’s ideally located at the northeastern edge of the Ring, making it a convenient base for exploring the scenic drive.

How long does it take to drive the whole Ring of Kerry?

The Ring of Kerry drive takes about 3.5 hours to complete without stops. However, to fully appreciate the scenery and attractions along the way, it’s recommended to allow 6-10 hours for the entire loop, including stops at various points of interest.