Things to Do in Kilkenny: A Guide to Exploring the Medieval City

If you’re planning a day trip, a weekend getaway or simply looking for something different to do in Kilkenny, the city has plenty to offer. With historic landmarks and charming streets to great food, local cafés and unique experiences, there’s something for everyone

And if you’re looking for a fun way to round off your day, why not get creative with chocolate at The Chocolate Garden Café?

Explore Kilkenny Castle

No visit to Kilkenny would be complete without seeing the iconic Kilkenny Castle. Sitting at the heart of the city, the castle dates back to the 12th century and is surrounded by beautiful parkland — perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Take some time to explore the castle before wandering through the surrounding streets and discovering some of Kilkenny’s independent shops, cafés and restaurants.

Wander the Medieval Mile

Kilkenny’s famous Medieval Mile takes you through the heart of the city, connecting Kilkenny Castle with St Canice’s Cathedral.

Along the way, you’ll discover historic buildings, atmospheric laneways and plenty of interesting places to stop along the way. Don’t forget to explore some of Kilkenny’s hidden gems, including the charming Butter Slip and the historic streets around Kieran Street.

Visit St Canice’s Cathedral

For history and architecture lovers, St Canice’s Cathedral is well worth a visit. Dating back centuries, it is one of Kilkenny’s most impressive historic landmarks.

The cathedral and its surrounding area offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s medieval past.

Enjoy the Best Hot Chocolte in Kilkenny | Chocolate Garden Café 

After exploring the city, there’s nothing better than taking some time to relax with a good coffee, sweet treat or something a little more indulgent.

Kilkenny has a fantastic café culture, with plenty of independent cafés to choose from. And, of course, if chocolate is your thing, make sure to call into The Chocolate Garden Café on High Street. We have the best Hot Chocolate in Kilkenny – made the real way!

Here you can also enjoy award-winning chocolates, homemade ice cream and baked treats – the perfect place to recharge before continuing your Kilkenny adventure.

Looking for Something Different? Try Paint & Sip – Chocolate Style!

If you’re visiting Kilkenny and looking for an experience that’s a little different, Paint & Sip – Chocolate Style at The Chocolate Garden Café is the perfect way to spend an hour.

Part of Kilkenny’s Café Lates initiative, Paint & Sip brings together creativity, chocolate and a delicious hot chocolate for a fun evening experience. Café Lates encourages Kilkenny cafés to extend their opening hours and offer unique cultural and social events after 6pm.

Rather than painting on a traditional canvas, you’ll create and decorate your own chocolate figure while learning more about the fascinating journey from cocoa pod to chocolate bar.

And, of course, there’s plenty of chocolate to enjoy along the way!

What’s included?

🍫 Create your own chocolate figure
☕ Enjoy our signature real hot chocolate
🍫 Take part in a guided chocolate tasting
🌱 Discover the journey from cocoa pod to chocolate bar

The experience lasts approximately one hour and is suitable for ages 12 and upwards. Advance booking is essential, as spaces are limited.

For Café Lates 2026, Paint & Sip – Chocolate Style takes place at The Chocolate Garden Café on 17 September from 6.30pm to 7.30pm, with tickets priced at €20.

Book Paint & Sip – Chocolate Style

Make a Day of It

One of the best things about visiting Kilkenny is that so many of the city’s attractions are within easy walking distance of one another.

Spend the afternoon exploring the castle and Medieval Mile, stop for coffee and cake, browse the independent shops and then finish your day with an evening experience.

With its combination of history, culture, food and creativity, Kilkenny makes the perfect destination for a day out with friends, a date, a girls’ day out or a weekend getaway.

And what better way to finish your Kilkenny adventure than with a little chocolate? 🍫

Plan Your Visit

The Chocolate Garden Café is located at 98 High Street, Kilkenny, just five minutes from Kilkenny Castle and the city centre.

Whether you’re stopping by for a hot chocolate, treating yourself to some award-winning chocolate or joining us for one of our chocolate-making experiences, we’d love to welcome you to The Chocolate Garden.

Explore Kilkenny. Discover something new. And always leave room for chocolate! 🍫