Kinsale: Things to do in Ireland’s most colourful town [+ Map]

Kinsale is one of the most beautiful places in Ireland, and a sure bet on your trip to the Emerald Isle. Located 25 km from the city of Cork, it is one of the most picturesque villages in the country.

This seaside town may be the travel inspiration you need to convince yourself to click and book that flight to Ireland.

📍 Where is Kinsale?

Kinsale is situated in the south of County Cork.

🚌 How to get to Kinsale by public transport

The service covering this 45 minute journey is operated by Bus Éireann. The route is the number 226, with 15 buses per day.

I advise you to check the timetables here, as public transport timetables are greatly reduced throughout the country at the weekend.

🗺 Things to do in Kinsale

Kinsale is a seaside town, quite sought after in the area. It stands out for its unique style, where colourful houses blend with the colours of the sea and the myriad shades of green that exist in Ireland.

It’s easy to get around on foot, although you’ll have to climb a steep hill or two to reach the forts.

Kinsale is part of the Wild Atlantic Way. In fact, it’s the first (or last) point on this 1,500-mile coastal path.

📍Kinsale Town Centre

Like most towns in the country, its charm lies in strolling through its narrow streets and coming across little nooks and crannies like these.

I liked Kinsale because of the joy that its streets transmit. Every bookshop, flower shop or pub (to give a few examples) has facades that you will want to save in the memory of your camera, or phone.

Some of the most colourful streets in Kinsale are Market Street and Newman’s Mall.

📍 James Fort & Charles Fort

Kinsale has two forts: James Fort and Charles Fort.

The most visited of the two is Charles Fort, a star-shaped fortress with five bastions. It was built in the 17th century and today receives over 75,000 visitors a year.

From here you’ll have stunning views of Kinsale and the Old Head of Kinsale (the cliff where the lighthouse is located).

📍Map with the most important places to visit in Kinsale

TOURS NEAR KINSALE