Killarney Hotels Guide: 17 Best Hotels In Killarney (From Luxury To Pocket-Friendly)

There’s an almost endless number of hotels in Killarney. In the guide below, you’ll discover the best of the bunch.

If you fancy a short weekend break in the southwest of Ireland (or even a longer break), Killarney in County Kerry makes a great base for exploring this scenic corner of Ireland.

There are heaps of great pubs in Killarney, tonnes of places to eat and it’s a fine starting point for the Ring of Kerry drive.

There’s also a plethora of different things to do in Killarney. All of these things coming to make Killarney a great base for an adventure.

Our favourite hotels in Killarney

As there’s no end to the number of Killarney hotels on offer, we’ve split this guide up into several chunks, to make it easier to browse.

The first section has our favourite hotels in Killarney, the second is packed with the best 5 star hotels in Killarney and the third has the best central Killarney hotels in the town.

1. Killarney Towers Hotel 

First up is my favourite hotel in Killarney. Four-star luxury AND great value can be found at the Killarney Towers Hotel, part of the reputable O’Donoghue Ring Hotel Group.

Along with a restaurant and bar for live evening entertainment, guests can enjoy the superb leisure facilities onsite (see above).

The rooms in this place are spacious and tastefully furnished with everything from air-conditioning to bathrobes and a room safe.

The onsite leisure centre has a sauna, steam room, fully-equipped fitness centre and indoor heated pool while the spa is the ultimate place for pampering.

This is hands-down our favourite of the many Killarney hotels on offer (it’s also up there with the best hotels in Kerry). The reviews on booking.com are pretty solid, too!

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2. The Dromhall Hotel

Enjoy memorable dining and a comfortable stay at the Dromhall Hotel in Killarney. Managed by the Randles family since 1964, this gorgeous hotel includes 72 plush guest rooms, a bar and brasserie with an outdoor terrace.

The upscale Abbey Restaurant serves high quality contemporary and traditional fare (there are loads more excellent restaurants in Killarney if you’d rather explore the town).

This is one of several Killarney hotels that bosts both a Spa and Leisure Centre onsite including a sauna, steam room and 20-metre swimming pool for those morning laps. 

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3. Great Southern Killarney

Accommodation in Killarney doesn’t come much grander than a few nights at the Great Southern.

Built in 1854, this exquisite Victorian mansion is situated on the eastern edge of Killarney town centre amid six acres of lush gardens.

Choose from a range of rooms, running from standard classic rooms all the way up to ornate deluxe suites.

Sourcing the finest produce of the Kerry countryside and serving it under an elegant gilded dome in a beautiful dining room, the Great Southern’s Garden Room Restaurant is one of the towns best places to eat too.

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4. The Lake Hotel (some luxury accommodation in Killarney!)

If you’re in search of luxury accommodation in Killarney, the Lake Hotel is a great shout (you’ll find more 5 star hotels in Killarney later in the guide).

You’ll receive a warm welcome at the four-star Lake Hotel Killarney which has a magnificent waterfront setting and views of the islands and 12th century McCarthy Mór castle ruins.

This period property dates back to 1820 and offers luxury accommodation including satellite TV, bathrobes and Wi-Fi. 

Wake up to lake or woodland views and treat yourself to a mouthwatering breakfast with award-winning cuisine in the elegant dining room.

You might be tempted to indulge in a decadent afternoon tea in the Piano Lounge after a walk in the nearby Killarney National Park.

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The best hotels in Killarney town centre

The second section of our guide tackles the best hotels in Killarney town centre, which will suit those of you that want pubs and restaurants on your doorstep.

Below, you’ll find Killarney hotels that are a stones throw from the main attractions near the town (Torc Waterfall, Ross Castle, Muckross House etc.).

1. Scott’s Hotel 

If you’re in search of central places to stay in Killarney, Scott’s hotel is a great shout.  Situated right in Killarney town centre, Scott’s Hotel is a family-run hotel with a good reputation for its friendly atmosphere and top customer service.

There’s free parking in the underground garage (a big plus!) and 126 spacious bedrooms and apartments.

Comfortably furnished, the rooms include the usual tea/coffee making facilities, room service, 24-hour reception, TV and Wi-Fi.

After a busy day exploring this scenic area, return to enjoy the residents’ lounge, bar and courtyard restaurant serving great food in a comfortable atmosphere.

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2. Randles Hotel

I love Randles. It’s one of the few Killarney hotels I’ve stayed in on more than one occasion and that I’d happily stay in ten times more.

Rooms are elegantly furnished and all have ensuite marble bathrooms for soaking away the day’s aches and pains in a bubbly bath or power shower.

You’ll be sure of a warm Irish welcome and unrivalled hospitality in this classic hotel which includes a drawing room, conservatory, terraced garden and restaurant along with a leisure centre, pool and Zen Spa.

Randles is one of the older Killarney hotels. In fact, they’ve been welcoming guests since 1906. It’s a short 5-minute walk from this place into the town.

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3. Arbutus Hotel (one of the best hotels in Killarney for traditional music lovers!)

Run by the Buckley family for almost 100 years, the Arbutus is the place to come for genuine Irish warmth and hospitality.

This homely and affordable accommodation is situated right in the heart of the Killarney on College Street so everything you need is just moments away.

Comfy rooms are waiting upstairs while downstairs the handsome dining room will kickstart your day with a full Irish breakfast.

The hotel is home to Buckley’s Bar (one of the best pubs in Killarney!), a cracking spot for hearty food and great trad music.

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4. Killarney Avenue Hotel

The Avenue Hotel is another of the more popular places to stay in Killarney if you want to be based right at the thick of it. 

Combining comfort with a budget-friendly price, Killarney Avenue Hotel is one of the best choices for those looking for cheap hotels close to Killarney town centre.

This elegant four-star hotel has 66 beautiful rooms with large windows, high-end furnishings and luxurious bedding close to Kenmare Place and the entrance to Killarney National Park.

Enjoy Druid’s Restaurant and Avenue Suite Bar or head out to paint the town red after dark. A fine base for a night or two.

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The best 5 star hotels in Killarney

Although we go into luxury accommodation in Killarney in more detail in our guide to the best 5 star hotels in Killarney, you’ll find some of the best on offer below.

From the mighty Aghadoe Heights to the stunning Europe, there’s no end to the number of luxury Killarney hotels on offer.

1. Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa

The luxury Aghadoe Heights Hotel and Spa offers stunning views of Lough Lein and the Macgillycuddy Reeks from its enviable location just outside Killarney.

This glamorous property boasts luxuriously appointed rooms and suites complemented by a 10,000 sq.ft. Aveda Spa with treatment rooms, relaxation rooms and a thermal suite all making use of natural products derived from Irish organic seaweed.

Drive the Ring of Kerry by day and then spend the evening relaxing in the indoor pool and then dining on delicious cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant. 

There’s a reason this is widely regarded as one of the best spa hotels in Ireland, and for good reason!

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2. The Europe Hotel & Resort

The Europe Hotel and Resort is a world-leader when it comes to 5 star luxury accommodation in Killarney.

Overlooking the Lakes of Killarney, the resort includes a conference centre, golf course, gym and premium ESPA with golf, horse riding, boating and fishing all on the doorstep.

Upscale rooms include an electronic minibar, Nespresso coffee machine, interactive TV, digital newspapers and twice-daily housekeeping.

Currently ranked one of the Top 5 Hotels in Ireland, your stay at The Europe is sure to be unforgettable.

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3. Muckross Park Hotel & Spa

The award-winning Muckross Park Hotel and Spa is less than 5km from Killarney town centre, in the heart of the 25,000-acre national park near Muckross Abbey.

One of the Top 10 Luxury Hotels in Killarney, the hotel blends 18th-century elegance with 21st-century luxury, from the upscale restaurant to the luxury spa.

Guests can look forward to bracing walks and bike rides in unrivaled scenery before sleeping dreamlessly in one of the beautifully appointed deluxe rooms and suites.

Interestingly enough, the Muckross Park is one of the few dog friendly hotels in Kerry, which will suit those of you in search of Killarney hotels that welcome pets.

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4. The Dunloe (one of the places to stay in Killarney)

Those lucky enough to spend a night at The Dunloe Hotel and Gardens are in for a very relaxing and luxurious treat.

Guests can admire the 12th-century castle ruins in manicured gardens onsite near the lovely River Laune while exploring the grounds.

This hotel opens seasonally from April through October to provide guests with a base for hiking, sightseeing, fishing and exploring.

Return to enjoy the leisure facilities of the techno-gym and fine dining while children enjoy their own fun in the Kid’s Clubs with movie nights. 

Related ready: Love funky accommodation? Check out our Airbnb Killarney guide – it’s packed with the most unique Airbnbs in the town.

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The best value / cheap hotels in Killarney

When it comes to accommodation in Killarney, one of the questions we get asked about most revolves around cheap hotels in Killarney.

It’s rarely cheap to stay in Killarney Town. It’s a tourist hotspot. So it tends to be pricey. However, there are some Killarney hotels where your € will stretch further.

1. Brook Lodge Boutique Hotel

Just off Killarney Main Street, Brook Lodge Hotel offers four-star accommodation in Killarney with beautiful rooms with all the ambience of a country retreat.

Private parking and Wi-Fi are standard and you won’t want to miss the fabulous breakfast to start your day in top form.

Spacious air-conditioned rooms and suites include bespoke furnishings and garden views. The onsite Linda’s Bistro and resident’s bar are just one of the reasons to stay at this superb town centre hotel. 

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2. Killarney Court Hotel

The Killarney Court Hotel is a modern hotel with 116 standard and superior rooms just a 10-minute stroll from Killarney’s bars, shops and attractions.

Enjoy comfortable well-appointed accommodation and dine heartily at the award-winning carvery in the Seasons Restaurant each evening.

The Beauty and Rejuvenation Treatment Centre offers a full range of holistic treatments while the Macgillycuddy Bar is the perfect place to relax.

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3. Eviston House Hotel

Brimming with character, Eviston House Hotel in Killarney town centre has affordable beautifully furnished standard and superior rooms.

It is centrally located just a stone’s throw from St Mary’s Cathedral and many of the Killarney National Park walks start a short distance away.

From shopping to hiking and trekking, you’re within easy reach of everything from this well-located 3-star hotel.

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4. Tatler Jack (one of the best-value of the many Killarney hotels)

One of the more traditional hotels in Killarney is Tatler Jack, a family-run business with 10 ensuite guest rooms.

The cosy bar and restaurant are open to non-residents and are popular with locals, which is a recommendation in itself.

The friendly Irish bar is the place to learn the rules of Gaelic football from passionate supporters. It’s all part of the charm of staying in an authentic local hostelry with sports bar entertainment.

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5. Abbey Lodge Killarney

With 15 luxurious rooms, Abbey Lodge Killarney offers intimate Bed and Breakfast close to Muckross Road and Killarney shops, bars and nightlife.

Rooms are filled with interesting antiques and knick-knacks and you’ll find friendly service always on hand.

Room prices include a buffet breakfast so fill up before heading out to explore the local sights and attractions nearby. 

Related read: Bed and Breakfast Killarney: 11 B&Bs That’ll Feel Like A Home From Home.

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Killarney hotels: Which ones have we missed?

There’s an almost endless number of hotels in Killarney town centre and beyond, so it can be tricky to gather up the best of them for one guide.

If you have some accommodation in Killarney that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and we’ll check it out. 

FAQs about accommodation in Killarney

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from what are the best hotels in Killarney town centre to which ones are the fanciest.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.