What to do in Kinsale, Ireland

You will adore this colorful city! I do have to admit, it is a bit sleepy during the winter and do think it would be best in the spring or summer, but we loved it just the same. Quite a few people told us this was one of their favorite cities, but they visited in the warmer months when the city was in full swing. I definitely wouldn’t skip this city, but I probably would have lowered my expectations for the winter months. A lot of the city was closed, but that does mean we pretty much had the city to ourselves. None the less, we loved the vibrant colors of the city and the locals were so warm and inviting! I would still include Kinsale in my itinerary if I were to plan our trip all over again, as it really is a charming city.

Here are a few tips on what to do in Kinsale!  Stay tuned for more recommendations for other Irish cities!

Itinerary

• We only spent one night here, which is all you need in the winter. But I would love to go back during the warmer months and spend a few days here!

Airport/Train Stations

• Dublin Airport DUB & drive
• Cork Airport ORK

Hotel

• HomeAway
• Airbnb
• The Old Bank House {we stayed at B&B’s all over Ireland & LOVED getting to meet locals. The location of this B&B was perfect. Ask for the top floor room overlooking the bay}

Restaurants

• We ate breakfast at our B&B
• Lunch/Dinner
  • Bastion
  • Fishy Fishy
• Treats
  • Koko Kinsale has divine chocolate
•  Pub
  • Blacks Brewery
  • Bulman Bar {the fish & chips and beers are divine! And the view of the city from here is gorgeous! Visit here on the way back from the Charles Fort}

Transportation

• Rent a car
• Walk {my favorite way to see the city}
• Uber

Recommendations

• Buy cyrstal from Kinsale Crystal. We had a custom decanter made and purchased a few vases. They are the most stunning crystal pieces I’ve ever seen! And ask to see their equipment and how they make their crystal. It’s a family run company and is incredible! They are pricey, but are the best kind of souvenirs! Now we get to reminisce from our trip each time we use our lovely pieces!
• Visit Charles Fort – The views of the city center from here are stunning!
•  Aimlessly walk around this colorful, seaside town. It’s small enough to easily explore most of the town in a day.
• Desmond Castle {built in 1500}

Did I miss anything?
What would you add to the list?

down coat {on sale for $60- I’ve had mine for 2 years & it is still the warmest, most comfortable coat ever!}
leggings Loft :: boots Sam Edelman :: bag Lo & Sons