Killarney, County Kerry is one of Ireland's most popular tourist destinations.The town of Killarney is adjacent to the National Park with the Knockreer and Ross Island areas of the park within walking distance. Its name comes from "Chill Airne", meaning "church of the sloes". The tourist business was developed as far back as 1750 through the vision of the major local landowner, Lord Kenmare. The business got a major boost with the visit of Queen Victoria to the area in 1861.

The diversity, uniqueness and luxuriance of its vegetation includes the oakwoods of Derrycunnihy and Tomies and the Yew Wood in the Muckross peninsula. Killarney is also famous for it mosses, liverworts and lichens and the rare Killarney fern is still found at a number of locations. The native Irish red deer roam the uplands and there is also a herd of the introduced sika deer.

The lakes, woodlands, mountains and demesne landscapes together with the many trails and footpaths offer the visitor a variety of options. The jaunting car is a must do trip for many people while the Gap of Dunloe trip is a chance to embrace the wild beauty and rugged scenery of the area by boat.

Killarney offers accommodation for all tastes and price brackets, including hostels, self catering, guest houses right up to five star hotels. Likewise when it comes to food there is an abundance of choice available through the many restaurants and bars in the town and surrounding area.

The traditional Irish pub/bar is a great place to meet the locals and make new friends. It is also an opportunity to benefit from the best of local knowledge. Husseys Bar on the High Street is popular with locals and visitors and well worth a visit if you are looking for the real thing.