I’m going to let you in on a little secret. Kinsale is one of Ireland’s true gems! There’s SO much to eat, drink, see and do, which is why I created the ultimate Kinsale travel guide just for you.
Even if you only have 24 hours, you’ll still be able to soak up all the rich history and picturesque scenes this little seaside town has to offer. The current population merely exceeds 5,000. However, the cozy coffee shops, tasty restaurants, boutiques
Mix and match the suggestions below for an unforgettable time in this magical Irish town!
THINGS TO DO IN KINSALE
Explore the Galleries, Shops and Boutiques
Kinsale is teeming with a variety of art galleries, shops and boutiques. Whether you’re in search of souvenirs, a work of art, jewelry or a new piece of clothing – Kinsale has it all. Be sure to check out my personal favorite, Stone Mad, which is pictured below!
Charles Fort
Don’t make the mistake of assuming Charles Fort is “just another historical tourist attraction”. The views are insane, and you can even bring your own food for a picnic. It’s located along the waterfront about 1.5 miles outside of Kinsale and is one of Europe’s best-preserved star-shaped artillery forts.
Car: If you choose to travel by car, take the Cork-Kinsale Road (R600) approximately 1.5 miles outside of town. The road will take you right to Charles Fort.
Walk: This was the mode of transportation I opted for. If you choose to make the journey by foot, note that it is a 30 to 45 minute uphill walk to (and from) Charles Fort.
Bus: At this time, there is no public bus to Charles Fort.
- Hours: Sunday – Saturday, 10 AM – 6 PM
- Entrance Fee: €5 for adults, €3 for children
Water-Based Activities
If you’re on a quest for some ocean adventures, there are many different water-based activities in Kinsale. These are of course weather permitting and dependant upon the time of year you visit. Here are some of your options:
- Stroll along the harbor
- Kayaking
- Fishing
- Whale Watching
- Sailing
- Scuba Diving
- Boat Charters
- Click here for more information on these activities!
Pop into a Book Store
I love perusing book stores in other countries! I’m always on the lookout for books I can share with my students to teach them about other cultures. For such a small town, there’s no shortage of shops filled to the brim with reading material. Below are some of your options in Kinsale:
- Kinsale Bookshop
- Bookstór
- Prim’s Bookshop: Bibliotherapy
- Poet’s Corner – The Reading Cafe & Book Exchange (See below for more details)
Get Lost in the Streets or Partake in A Walking Tour
Quite frankly, I don’t think it’s possible to get “lost” in Kinsale due to its size or lack thereof but just roam. Roam without any destination in mind, and you’ll surely experience some insanely charming moments.
If you’re big on history, check out Don & Barry’s Historic Stroll. This tour really brings the town’s past events to life!
- Walking Tour Duration: 90 Minutes
- Dates: November – February by appointment only
- Cost: €8 for adults, €1 for children
WHERE TO STAY IN KINSALE
Actons Hotel
Actons Hotel is located on the harbor (hello, oceanview room!) in Kinsale and is within walking distance to all the restaurants, shops and bars in the town. The rooms are clean and spacious! Some of the property amenities include free parking, a heated pool, fitness center and free breakfast.
- Hotel Class: 4 Stars
- Price: $$$
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN KINSALE
The Bulman Pub & Resturant
Whether you’re traveling to or from Charles Fort, you won’t miss the bright orange pub adorned with turquoise benches. Stop in to warm up by the fire or grab a pint and a bite to eat!
- Hours: Sunday – Saturday, 12:30 PM – 11:30 PM
- Sidenote: The bar is open on Monday, however, Bulman does not serve food on Monday.
Poet’s Corner – The Reading Café & Book Exchange
Attention book lovers! The Poet’s Corner is Ireland’s only café where you can read, buy AND exchange books while enjoying a cup of java. It’s located right in town and has such a chill, low key vibe.
- Hours: Sunday – Saturday, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Fishy Fishy Resturant
While I didn’t get the chance to dine at Fishy Fishy Cafe, it came highly recommended by multiple people. It’s located right along the harbor and is said to have some incredible seafood. The prices are a bit more expensive, but from what I heard – absolutely worth it.
- Hours: Sunday – Saturday, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Cosy Cafe
This cafe definitely lives up to its name. It is an awfully “cosy” cafe, but the menu is quite large. You can dine here for breakfast or lunch. Some menu highlights include french toast, a full Irish breakfast, seafood chowder, a plethora of bagel sandwiches as well as beef burgers.
Cosy Cafe also hosts Fondue Nights on Sundays throughout the month. Click here to get more information!
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday, 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
The White House
The White House is a stylish modern pub and bistro located in the heart of Kinsale. It’s full of rich history, not to mention seafood, chicken, steak and chowder. There’s also live music every Saturday night!
- Hours: Monday – Thursday, 8:00 AM – 11:30 PM
- Friday & Saturday, 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Sunday, 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
There you have it – the ultimate Kinsale travel guide! This seaside town truly exceeded my expectations. If Kinsale is even remotely on your Ireland travel radar, GO! It would be foolish to miss out on ALL the goodness this colorful Irish town has to offer.
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