Tralee Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around in Tralee, County Kerry, Ireland.


Introduction to Tralee

Tralee is a charming town located in County Kerry, Southwest Ireland. It is situated in the middle of the Dingle Peninsula and Ring of Kerry, making it an ideal base for exploring the beautiful landscapes of Ireland. The town is steeped in history and offers visitors a glimpse into Irish culture and traditions. Tralee is famous for its rose of Tralee festival, a celebration of Irish heritage, which takes place in August every year.

List of Places to Visit in Tralee

Tralee has many attractions for tourists to explore. From cultural landmarks to natural wonders, there is something for everyone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kerry County Museum: Located in the Ashe Memorial Hall, the museum offers a unique insight into the heritage of Kerry. It features exhibits on the medieval period and the 1916 Rising, amongst others.
  • Aqua Dome: A great place to visit for families, the Aqua Dome offers indoor and outdoor waterpark experiences. It also includes a health suite and a gym.
  • Banna Beach: This beach was famous for its connection to Sir Roger Casement, an Irish nationalist and human rights activist. It is also a great spot for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and surfing.

Natural Attractions of Tralee: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dingle Peninsula: A beautiful scenic drive around the peninsula offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic coastline, lighthouses, and ruins of ancient castles.
  • Killarney National Park: The park boasts over 10000 hectares of woodlands, waterfalls, and lakes. Visitors can take a scenic drive, hike, or bike ride, to explore the park.
  • Blennerville Windmill and Visitor Centre: A well-preserved mill that is still operational and open to the public, visitors can learn about the milling process and take in the stunning views of Tralee Bay.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tralee

Tralee offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Trails are available for all levels of experience, from beginner to advanced.

  • The Dingle Way: This 179 km trail circles the Dingle peninsula and offers a fantastic experience for hikers. It takes around 8 days to complete, but shorter routes are also available for those with less time.
  • The Kerry Way: A 214 km trail, it is Ireland’s longest and most popular hiking route. The trail takes around 9 to 10 days to complete and offers spectacular views of the Ring of Kerry and the Skellig Islands.

Best Things to Do in Tralee: Activities and Tours

Tralee has plenty to offer, from sightseeing to adventure activities. Here are some of the best things to do in the town:

  • The Rose of Tralee Festival: A celebration of Irish heritage and culture, the festival takes place in August every year and features parades, live music, and family-friendly events.
  • Siamsa Tíre Theatre: A cultural center dedicated to promoting Irish music, dance, and theatre. It features traditional Irish productions, as well as contemporary works.
  • Pitch and Putt Golf Course: A fun activity for all ages, the course offers a great way to explore the beautiful countryside of County Kerry.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tralee

Day 1: Arrive in Tralee, check into a hotel or hostel Day 2: Visit Kerry County Museum and the Aqua Dome Day 3: Take a drive around the Dingle Peninsula, visit Blennerville Windmill and Visitor Centre Day 4: Explore Killarney National Park Day 5: Hike or bike the Kerry Way Day 6: Embark on a tour to the Skellig Islands Day 7: Relax at Banna Beach

Food and Drink Scene of Tralee

Ireland is known for its delicious food and drink, and Tralee is no exception. Here is a list of must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Irish Stew: A hearty and flavorful stew made with lamb, potatoes, and vegetables.
  • Seafood Chowder: A creamy and rich soup made with fresh seafood, potatoes, and vegetables.
  • Boxty: A traditional Irish potato pancake, served with various fillings.

Local Beverages

  • Guinness: A famous Irish beer, with a rich and creamy taste.
  • Irish Whiskey: A distilled spirit made from malted barley and other cereals.

Where to Stay in Tralee: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tralee has many options for accommodation. Here are some top-rated hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • Ballyseede Castle: A luxurious hotel located in a beautiful castle, with stunning views of Tralee Bay.
  • The Grand Hotel: A stylish hotel located in the town center, close to the Kerry County museum and Siamsa Tíre theatre.
  • The Rose Hotel: A modern hotel with spacious rooms and great facilities, including a spa and fitness center.
  • Tralee International Youth Hostel: A budget-friendly option, the hostel offers clean and comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.

What to Buy in Tralee: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Tralee offers many souvenirs and local products to remember your trip. Here are some popular options:

  • Aran Sweaters: A traditional Irish sweater made from wool, perfect for colder weather.
  • Irish Whiskey: A bottle of a famous Irish whiskey, with many local varieties to choose from.
  • Irish Pottery: Handcrafted pottery, often with traditional Irish designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Tralee

The Irish are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. Visitors to Tralee can expect a warm welcome and are encouraged to embrace the local customs and culture. Greetings are an essential part of Irish culture, and visitors should be prepared to greet locals they meet on the street or in shops.

Best Time to Visit Tralee

The best time to visit Tralee is from May to September when temperatures are mild, and the weather is generally dry. The town is also less crowded during these months, making it easier to explore the attractions and enjoy the outdoors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tralee

Do:

  • Embrace the local culture and customs: The Irish are friendly and welcoming people, and visitors should be respectful and engage in local customs.
  • Explore the outdoors: Tralee and its surroundings offer stunning outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, and water sports.
  • Enjoy traditional Irish food and drink: Ireland is known for its delicious cuisine, and visitors to Tralee should try traditional dishes and local beverages.

Don’t:

  • Forget to bring rain gear: Although the weather is generally mild, Ireland is known for its rain, and visitors should be prepared for wet weather.
  • Drink and drive: Drinking and driving is illegal in Ireland and can result in severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
  • Ignore safety precautions: Visitors to Tralee should take necessary safety precautions, especially when engaging in outdoor activities and adventure sports.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tralee

Tralee is a safe town for tourists, but visitors should take basic safety precautions, such as staying alert and being aware of their surroundings. It is also essential to lock doors and windows when leaving accommodation.

Health in Tralee

Tralee has excellent medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Visitors should have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency evacuation.

Getting to Tralee: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tralee

The nearest airport to Tralee is Kerry Airport, located around 20 km from the town center. Other airports in the region include Cork and Shannon airports, both around two hours’ drive from Tralee.

Bus Stations Near Tralee

Tralee is well-connected by bus services, with regular buses to Dublin, Cork, and other major towns and cities in Ireland. The main bus station is located in the town center and offers easy connections to other destinations.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Tralee by train, with regular services from Dublin, Cork, and other major towns and cities. Tralee train station is located in the town center, making it easy to access local attractions and accommodation.

How to Get Around in Tralee

The town center is easy to explore on foot, with most attractions within walking distance. Visitors can also use public transport, including buses and taxis, to get around the town and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Tralee: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tralee is an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of Southwest Ireland. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Dingle Peninsula: Take a drive or a boat tour around the peninsula and explore the stunning natural landscapes and charming villages.
  • The Ring of Kerry: A famous scenic drive through the beautiful landscapes of Kerry, the Ring of Kerry is a must-see for visitors to Tralee.
  • The Skellig Islands: These remote islands off the coast of Kerry offer a unique adventure, with stunning natural scenery and ancient ruins.

Conclusion

Tralee is a charming town located in County Kerry, Southwest Ireland. It offers visitors a glimpse into Irish heritage and culture, with many attractions and activities to explore. From cultural landmarks to natural wonders, there is something for everyone in Tralee. Visitors can also take advantage of the town’s location and explore the surrounding countryside and nearby destinations, making it an excellent base for a trip to Ireland.

Tralee town centre Tralee town centre Ardfert Cathedral Ardfert Cathedral Still held in August Still held in August Blennerville Windmill Blennerville Windmill Memorial to Casement at Banna Strand Memorial to Casement at Banna Strand