Ireland's smallest city to be transformed into tourist hotspot with five-year plan

Kilkenny, Ireland's smallest city, is set to become a hotspot for tourists after Failte Ireland unveiled its five-year tourism development plan. Known for its rich history, lively pubs, and strong ties to the sport of hurling, Kilkenny is situated in the southeast of Ireland.

The Kilkenny Destination and Experience Development Plan (DEDP) aims to create a sustainable tourism destination by extending the tourism season and spreading business across all parts of the region over the next five years.

The plan was developed with input from key stakeholders including 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 seeks to enhance the promotion of the area's unique features. This follows the announcement that the city's 'Medieval Mile' will receive investment .

The development plan also aims to position Kilkenny as a prime destination for river activities, using the Three Sister Rivers to offer visitors a blend of urban and rural outdoor activity experiences.

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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.

"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."