Ireland's smallest city set to become major tourist hotspot after new plan revealed

Kilkenny, the smallest city in Ireland, is poised to become a tourist magnet following the unveiling of Failte Ireland's five-year tourism development plan.

The city, located in the southeast of Ireland , is renowned for its rich history, vibrant pubs, and deep-rooted connection to hurling .

The Kilkenny Destination and Experience Development Plan (DEDP) has been designed with the goal of creating a sustainable tourism destination by extending the tourist season and distributing business throughout the region over the next half-decade.

This strategy was formulated with contributions from key stakeholders such as Kilkenny County Council, Kilkenny Leader Company, the Local Enterprise Office, Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce, Kilkenny Tourism Group, the Office of Public Works, Coillte, Waterways Ireland, and Design and Crafts Council of Ireland.

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The plan aims to enhance the promotion of the area's unique features, following the announcement that the city's 'Medieval Mile' will receive investment.

Furthermore, the development plan seeks to establish Kilkenny as a prime location for river activities, utilising the Three Sister Rivers to provide visitors with a mix of urban and rural outdoor activity experiences.

A seaside town just outside Dublin is set to become a hub of activity for visitors.

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"This five-year Destination and Experience Development Plan captures the unique themes that are central to Kilkenny and features key priority projects which will transform the tourism offering across the region," said CEO of Fáilte Ireland, Paul Kelly at an event.

"The development of the River Barrow Tourism Masterplan, reimagination of the Medieval Mile, and building on Kilkenny's cultural and creative heritage will strengthen Kilkenny's position as an internationally compelling destination in Ireland's Ancient East."

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"We're also delighted to announce an additional $1.6million (€1.5million) in funding for the creation of the new Museum of Medieval Kilkenny which will become a major visitor attraction in Kilkenny City and serve as a central point for the Medieval Mile. This brings the total investment from Failte Ireland and Kilkenny County Council to nearly $7,588,350 (€7 million) for this project."