If you're an enthusiast of Irish crafts, Kilkenny City is well worth the trip. Its crafts scene is vibrant and lively, and it's difficult to leave empty-handed. The local tourist office provides a free Craft Trail map and lots of useful information on local artisans.
Kilkenny shopping hours are normally Monday to Saturday 9am to 6pm; many shops stay open until 9pm on Thursday and Friday.
The newest major addition to the shopping scene is Market Cross, a shopping center off High/Parliament Street (tel. 056/775-2666), with its own multistory parking lot.
