Kilkenny (medieval city) ★ 4.5
Kilkenny in Co Kilkenny is an hour and a half by train south of Dublin: the medieval castle, the Smithwick's Brewery Experience, the Hole in the Wall pub and craft food row.
Tip: Train from Heuston Station; Smithwick's Experience runs 11:00 to 17:00 with the EUR 20 tasting tour. The Anocht restaurant inside Kilkenny Castle Yard is the lunch reference.