Kilkenny

Kilkenny is Ireland encapsulated, from the rich lore of its Medieval Mile to its blooming culinary realm. Frozen in time, the sprawling Medieval Mile stretches from the Anglo-Norman Kilkenny Castle to Ireland's second-longest church, St. Canice’s Cathedral. In between the two, along the banks of River Nore are a wealth of Medieval structures, hidden down alleys and serpentine lanes. The remarkably well-preserved Rothe House is one of the neighborhood's better-known attractions, a historic merchant's home that is a veritable piece of local history. Hidden gems, like the Black Abbey, are no less delightful, replete with vibrant stained-glass that dapples the interiors in myriad colors. Nearby, the original Smithwicks brewery sheds light on the history of this legendary ale, while Nowlan Park is where the local passion for the sport of hurling comes to the fore. Scattered throughout are fabulous boutiques, restaurants and bars that run the gamut from hole-in-the-wall local pubs to fine dining establishments, as well as a verdant countryside riddled with trails; Kilkenny is quintessentially Irish. There's also a host of festivals to look forward to including the Roots Festival, Medieval Week, Savour Kilkenny and the Summer Arts Festivals for theater, music, dance and comedy.