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Bounce in a club with Pure Cork pizzazz, revel in a festival or kick back to some jazz. Catch an intimate gig in a pub with a fire or watch a horse race with locals that comes down to the wire…

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Kayak around the city or head north for a hike, see Dursey by cable car and explore Beara by bike!

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Find a charming old cottage or quiet hotel, in our old merchant city or near the sound of sea swell…

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The good neighbours an exhibition by lorna macdonald blackwater valley makers gallery, dj jason an bróg bar and kitchen, the lee sessions trad trail sin é, ballycotton comedy festival ballycotton, wild orange country club thomond bar, tony roberts the welcome inn, souldriven cantys, cork voices of the irish revolution st. peters cork, ballycotton comedy festival: the main show sea church, ballycotton comedy festival: the noble call blackbird, #clmf24: cardinals & guests theatre the nest at coughlan's, bird on the wire - the songs of leonard cohen cork opera house, #clmf24 : silent disco coughlan's, afro house & amapiano #20 cyprus avenue, the lee sessions trad trail jj walsh's, sátántangó triskel arts centre, blue steel dwyers of cork, william o' halloran arty's bar, ballycotton comedy festival: danny o'brien sea church, big country cyprus avenue, joseph heffernan residency triskel arts centre, ahiohill music festival st. oliver plunketts gaa club, skibbereen walking festival weekend skibbereen walking festival weekend, not another disco the pavilion, arcadian shadows, the revolt & easy company crane lane theatre, #clmf24: wallis bird & guest iona coughlan's, stand-up comedy club: primetime comedy show the roundy, bar one racing irish greyhound laurels curraheen park greyhound stadium, eddy drums & nicole lonergan seventy seven, dj fadd jnr crane lane theatre, sal the richmond revival, sal the richmond revival, the best of cork special city limits, the lee sessions trad trail an spailpín fánach, clonakilty taste and tipple tour-the dining experience clonakilty food tour, #clmf24: soul journeys - the songs of gillian welch. coughlan's, stand-up comedy club: earlier show the roundy, the dolls house triskel arts centre, james elwood cantys, best of 80s & 90s music popscene, dj mossy (crystal bar) crane lane theatre, dj jean luc razza the pav, #clmf24: the kates - pictures here of dreams - ep launch. coughlan's, go to whats on >, the good neighbours an exhibition by lorna macdonald, the lee sessions trad trail, ballycotton comedy festival, wild orange country club, tony roberts, cork voices of the irish revolution, ballycotton comedy festival: the main show, ballycotton comedy festival: the noble call, #clmf24: cardinals & guests theatre, bird on the wire - the songs of leonard cohen, #clmf24 : silent disco, afro house & amapiano #20, william o' halloran, ballycotton comedy festival: danny o'brien, big country, joseph heffernan residency, ahiohill music festival, skibbereen walking festival weekend, not another disco, arcadian shadows, the revolt & easy company, #clmf24: wallis bird & guest iona, stand-up comedy club: primetime comedy show, bar one racing irish greyhound laurels, eddy drums & nicole lonergan, dj fadd jnr, the best of cork special, clonakilty taste and tipple tour-the dining experience, #clmf24: soul journeys - the songs of gillian welch., stand-up comedy club: earlier show, the dolls house, james elwood, best of 80s & 90s music, dj mossy (crystal bar), dj jean luc razza, #clmf24: the kates - pictures here of dreams - ep launch., news & blog, guinness cork jazz festival expands 2024 line-up, cork folk festival 2024 full line-up announced, cork on a fork 2024 kicks off, bambi thug to headline cork pride festival 2024, learn about four cork attractions with hysterical histories' videos, joy in the park announces 2024 lineup, holiday inspiration.

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24 Hours in Cork City

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Cork is the biggest county in Ireland and is part of both the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland’s Ancient East. With over 1000km of coastline there's a mesmerising amount of experiences to be had. Read our tips to get the most from your visit to our Maritime Haven.  

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The ultimate guide to visiting Cork, Ireland

As the travel industry reopens following COVID-19 shutdowns, TPG suggests that you talk to your doctor, follow health officials' guidance and research local travel restrictions before booking that next trip. We will be here to help you prepare, whether it is next month or next year.

When planning a trip to Ireland , Dublin and Galway are two of the main destinations that spring to mind. But Cork should be on any list, too. Located in the southwest of the country, it's Ireland's biggest county and has the second most populous city. The River Lee runs through it, and Cork is on the coast, too -- so there are plenty of unspoiled beaches with big skies.

Not only does Cork, also known as the Rebel County, have some terrific dining spots and activities in the city itself, but there are also loads of fun, interesting and magical things to do and see nearby. From its dramatic coastline to kissing the Blarney stone and visiting the Titanic's "last port of call" -- there's something for everyone. And you will certainly pick up some interesting turn of phrases along the way.

So here are our picks of the best spots and some insider tips for your first — or maybe return — visit.

Cork City is compact and very walkable — it even has the second-largest natural harbor in the world. You would definitely need a car for exploring the county, as public transport — especially in the countryside -- isn't amazing, but while you're in the city, on foot is best. There are loads of cafes, some great shopping and, of course, a pub on almost every corner. Cork has an exciting music scene, too.

The English Market

This fresh food market started in 1788 and has been described as a "food lover's delight" and "one of the best-covered markets in the U.K. and Ireland." It's brimful of tasty delicacies including the freshest of seafood. And if you've seen the Young Offenders, it's where Mairead, Conor's mom, works. You can buy everything from cakes to spices to wine -- so definitely make a stop before any picnic.

The stalls range from fledging traders to those who have been there for generations. It can be found between Grand Parade and Princes Street and is open Monday to Saturday year-round 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Crawford Art Gallery

Crawford Art Gallery is a fabulous space dedicated to the visual arts with a collection of more than 3,000 works, ranging from eighteenth-century Irish painting and sculpture, through to contemporary video installations. The Crawford also houses the famous Canova casts -- a gift from the Vatican 200 years ago. The casts were created by Antonio Canova, a renowned Italian Neoclassical sculptor who is said to be the most famous of his time.

There's also a lovely cafe, so stop off for tea and cake after getting your cultural hit. Admission is free.

Shandon Bells

St Anne's church, located in the Shandon area of the city, is one of the only churches in the world that lets you ring its bells unaccompanied. The belfry has eight bells -- weighing six tons in total -- and there's a range of tunes you can play. But remember, you can be heard all over the city, so make sure you get it right.

Read more : From Connemara to the Giant's Causeway: 9 of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland

You can also tread the 135 steps to the top of the tower for a stunning 360-degree view of Cork. Cork is known as a city of steeps and steeples, and you'll see why. The church and tower are open year-round and admission is $7.

The music scene

Cork attracts musicians from all over the world -- from trad to jazz to choral music. There are loads of events that will keep you up till the small hours, singing your head off.

To experience some Irish "trad" music, head to The Oliver Plunkett where you can hear live tunes every night. This late-night place is somewhat of an institution -- see who you can spot on its photo-covered walls. Plugd Records is a great record shop that also holds indie events. Every year, Cork hosts the Guinness Jazz Festival in late October and it attracts hundreds of jazz names and thousands of fans. The atmosphere is electric and greats such as Ella Fitzgerald have even performed at the event.

St Fin Barre's Cathedral

Time it right, and you might catch the choir practicing and see the magnificent organ being played at St Fin Barre's Cathedral. Built in 1870, the cathedral is actually on grounds where Christians worshipped way back in the seventh century. The neo-Gothic architecture is something to behold. Admission is free.

Restaurant top pick: Izz Cafe

Izz Cafe is Cork's only Palestinian eatery and has just celebrated its one-year anniversary. Located at George's Quay in the city center, it's created a huge amount of buzz since it opened. Izz is owned and run by a Palestinian couple who moved to Ireland as asylum-seekers. Specialties include maneesh (Palestinian pizza), "guilt-free" falafel and tasty cinnamon rolls.

Where to stay

There is a generous choice of places to stay in Cork, and most are fairly affordable. There are very few chain hotels in Cork, and many are family-run -- this provides a whole different experience that you should embrace while you're there.

You'll find genuine Irish hospitality, and Irish breakfasts are super. Wait until you try some freshly baked soda bread slathered in butter. Here are two of our favorite places to stay.

Hayfield Manor

This is Cork city's only five-star hotel and is essentially a manor house within a city. Each of the 88 rooms is individually adorned with antiques, and the vibe is pampered and serene. The property itself is a fairly new build but looks the opposite. However, the grounds and gardens date back 150 years.

And yes, Hayfield Manor family-run. There's also a gorgeous spa with an indoor pool overlooking the garden, an outdoor hot tub and most spa breaks come with lunch or afternoon tea. Rooms start at $271 a night.

Hotel Isaacs

This place is slightly edgier. It's very modish and located in the heart of Cork's theatre district, among lots of trendy boutiques and cafes. Hotel Isaacs used to be an Edwardian tobacco warehouse and some of the rooms have retained original features. But don't worry, there are heated towel rails, a pillow menu and rainfall showers. Another big draw is the hotel's restaurant , Greene's. It has been regularly voted one of the best in Cork, and residents get a 15% discount. The courtyard even has a natural waterfall -- a welcome respite from the din of the city.

Cork County

The blarney stone.

You can't visit Cork without kissing the Blarney stone. I did it as a child, and looking back, it's probably not that hygienic -- millions of other mouths have done the same. But, if you brave it, you'll supposedly be blessed with "the gift of the gab." That's where the expression "talking blarney" comes from -- the knack of clever, flattering sweet talk.

The stone, laid in 1446, is at Blarney Castle, about three miles outside Cork city. The origin of the stone is shrouded in mystery but one extreme theory is that it's the same rock Moses himself struck to provide water for the Israelites after escaping slavery in Egypt. After smooching the stone, you can also explore the castle, dungeons, the grounds and more. Entry is $18 for adults, and for children younger than 16, it's $8.

Fota Wildlife Park

This 100-acre wildlife and conservation park is home to 30 different types of mammals, including kangaroos, wallabies and cheetahs. In fact, Fota has successfully bred more than 200 cheetah cubs. All its habitats are carefully designed to promote biodiversity and "encourage the expression of a range of natural behaviors in the animals it houses." So much so that Fota created the "cheetah run" -- a device that suspends food items on a wire that travels 10 feet off the ground, at approximately 40 miles per hour to emulate a cheetah chasing its prey.

The park is on Fota Island, in Cork harbor, and visiting is a good activity that practices social distancing, as there's plenty of space. You can also stay at Fota Island Resort -- a five-star hotel and spa nearby. It offers self-catering lodges, too. Rooms start at about $199 per night.

This is the town I grew up in, so it has a special place in my heart. However, bias aside, it's marvelous. Kinsale is a fishing town about a 25-minute drive from Cork Airport and is home to some of the country's finest seafood restaurants. I highly recommend Max's Wine Bar and Fishy Fishy . The town itself is full of twisty alleyways and hidden corners and the buildings are all brightly daubed. Plus, there are practically no chain businesses -- for the most part, they're independently owned.

There are some great pubs including The Spaniard and The White House , and once you've fed and watered yourself, there's lots of walking to be done. Either down the pier to admire the marina, up to Compass Hill for some amazing views, to either James or Charles Fort for a bit of history or just meandering around the many shops. If you fancy a spot of crabbing, pop to Mylie Murphys on Pearse Street for all your bicycle and fishing needs.

Keeping with the seaside resort theme, from Kinsale, keep heading west along the coast until you get to Clonakilty, home of the famous black pudding. Clonakilty is a big tourism hub for West Cork and was voted the best town in Europe in 2017. The town is abustle in the summer with loads of flowered shop fronts with hand-painted signs in Gaelic and quintessentially Irish bars with a big emphasis on live music. I recommend De Barra's, a famous folk venue, which has seen the likes of Christy Moore and Roy Harper play there.

Nearby is the small island of Inchydoney, which is connected to the mainland by two causeways. It has two stunning and popular beaches, as well as a surf school. To stay, there's the luxurious Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa , which offers seaweed therapies as well as delectable seafood and lovely rooms.

Cork is full of pretty towns by the sea -- Cobh is another. However, one reason it particularly stands out is that it was the last place the ill-fated RMS Titanic docked before she set sail for America on her maiden voyage in 1912. There were 123 passengers who boarded at Cobh (then known as Queenstown) with only 44 of them surviving the sinking.

Historically, Cobh is also important as it was where millions of hopeful Irish people set sail for America to find their fortunes. To learn more, you can visit the Titanic Experience, which is in the old White Star Line ticket office. There's a guided tour, an exhibition and you will learn all about life on board and about the role of RMS Carpathia in the rescue of the survivors.

Bottom line

If you want to visit somewhere besides Dublin that is beautiful, authentic, close to the coast and near an international airport, then Cork needs to be on your bucket list. The myth that Irish people are friendly, welcoming and love to chat is true. Corkonians are ready and waiting to welcome you with a pint... or even a drop of the pure.

County Cork

• 1.1 City and harbour
• 1.2 Lowlands
• 1.3 Atlantic west
• 2 Other destinations
• 3 Understand
• 4.1 By plane
• 4.2 By train
• 4.4 By boat
• 5.2 By train
• 5.3 By road
• 12 Stay safe

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County Cork ( Contae Chorcaí ) is in Southwest Ireland , and historically part of the province of Munster. It's the largest county in the Republic, and Cork is the country's second largest city, with many visitor attractions. It has lush farmland dotted by defensive turrets such as Blarney Castle, and a rugged Atlantic coastline.

City and harbour

• 51.9 -8.473056 1 Cork is the lively city at the heart of the county.
• 51.851 -8.2967 2 Cobh is the city's port, departure point for some 2.5 million emigrants.
• 51.8 -8.3 3 Crosshaven has sailing and walking.
• 51.933067 -8.567952 4 Blarney Castle is itself a prime example of "Blarney".
• 51.904354 -8.956947 5 Macroom is where the Lee valley meets the mountains on the road to Kerry.
• 52.131 -8.6415 6 Mallow has the racetrack and is the main town in north Cork.
• 51.951671 -7.845612 7 Youghal is a small port, once home to Sir Walter Raleigh.

Atlantic west

• 51.7075 -8.530556 8 Kinsale has two forts guarding its historic harbour.
• 51.62196 -8.886395 9 Clonakilty was the birthplace of Michael Collins.
• 51.5486 -9.2636 10 Skibbereen is by the foot of Mizen Head peninsula.
• 51.533333 -9.183333 11 Castletownshend is a small relaxing harbour village.
• 51.483333 -9.366667 12 Baltimore has sailing and scuba diving, and ferries to Sherkin and Cape Clear islands.
• 51.526667 -9.548056 13 Schull is a sailing and fishing village.
• 51.679794 -9.45322 14 Bantry is a good base for all three of Cork's main peninsulas.
• 51.75 -9.552 15 Glengarriff has the gardens of Garinish Island.
• 51.6539 -9.9111 16 Castletownbere is the main town on Beara peninsula.

Other destinations

• 51.585 -9.7 1 Three peninsulas form the southwest tip of Cork: Mizen Head to the south, Sheep's Head in the middle and Beara to the north. Bantry is at the base of the middle peninsula and has roads to all three.
• 51.43 -9.5 2 Carbery's Hundred Isles are an archipelago in Roaringwater Bay. They actually number about 50, if you discount mere rocks, and several are inhabited. Those with a ferry service are Sherkin Island and Cape Clear from Baltimore, Heir Island from Cunnamore near Skibbereen, and Long Island from Schull.
• 51.389 -9.603 3 Fastnet : now you really are getting away from it all. It's a wave-lashed islet with a lighthouse, 13 km beyond the Cork mainland, the most southerly point in Ireland. Boat trips visit in summer from Baltimore and Schull.

County Cork ( Contae Chorcaí ) on the south coast of Ireland is the Republic's largest county by area, and in 2016 had a population of 542,000, concentrated around the city of Cork and its large natural harbour. Most of the area is lowland and fertile, along the valleys of the rivers Bandon, Lee (flowing through Cork) and Blackwater (the boundary with County Waterford). This attracted settlers from elsewhere, notably the Vikings, Anglo-Normans and Tudors, using the many small harbours and tidal channels. The county became dotted with early Christian monasteries, stone turrets and other fortifications. The incomers came into conflict with the ancient Kingdom of Deas Mumhan or South Munster, anglicised as "Desmond" - not until 1601 was this broken.

The southwest of the county by contrast is poor stony land, with a rugged convoluted coastline, small fishing villages and a scatter of islands. Life here was hand-to-mouth even in the good years, and then came the bad - the district around Skibbereen was among the worst stricken in Ireland during the Great Famine of 1845-49. Cork's harbours became busy with the export of Ireland's people to America, with lonely Fastnet their last glimpse of the Old Country. But the 19th century invented tourism and re-defined what we regard as "scenic", so these bleak depopulated hills and headlands became the county's prime draw, and still are. Here too are many Neolithic and Bronze Age relics, which elsewhere were cleared for farmland.

A last stand against English influence was in 1921 / 22, after Ireland achieved independence, but at the price of Partition. The new country was plunged into civil war, and the anti-Treaty faction was especially strong in County Cork, proclaiming a breakaway "Republic of Munster". Almost the last shot of that war felled the pro-Treaty leader and local man Michael Collins. This means that many centenaries fall in 2021 / 22, of local or national significance.

Some 15,000 people in the county are Irish speakers, concentrated in Cork itself and in the northwestern Múscraí (Muskerry) area. Everyone speaks English, in the "sing-song" southwest Irish pattern - listen to the football manager Roy Keane for an example of Cork diction.

Try to learn a few words of Irish every now and again. (Dia dhuit a chara - Hello friend).

Cork Airport ( ORK   IATA ) is 6 km south of Cork city center. It has flights from UK and Europe but is too small for direct long-haul aircraft. If you're flying in and renting a car, which you'll need to explore the southwest, then Dublin ( DUB   IATA ) or Shannon ( SNN   IATA ) might also work well.

Trains run hourly from Dublin Heuston, taking 2 hr 40 min to Cork via Kildare, Portlaoise, Ballybrophy, Thurles, Limerick Junction and Mallow . There are also rail connections from Limerick city, Waterford and Tralee.

There are no through-buses to Ireland from UK or the continent: change in London for the ferry ports. Buses run hourly from Dublin Airport (3 hr 30 min) and Busáras (3 hr) to Cork.

A bus runs hourly from Galway via Ennis, Shannon Airport, Limerick and Mallow to Cork, with a faster bus every 2-3 hours.

Buses run from Rosslare ferry harbour via Wexford, Waterford, Dungarvan and Youghal to Cork.

From the Channel ports, first sail to UK then cross it to sail to Dublin or Rosslare . Summer ferries from Roscoff and Santander sail to Cork , landing at Ringaskiddy 7 km south of the city.

Bus routes radiate from Cork. Buses from Dublin are non-stop to Cork so for other towns you have to change there: Bus 251 for Blarney, 220X for Crosshaven, 226 for Kinsale, 237 for Clonakilty, Skibbereen, Baltimore and Schull, and 236 for Bantry, Glengarriff and Castletownbere. Expressway Bus 40 trundles right across Ireland from Rosslare to Tralee; within this county it links Youghal, Cork and Macroom. For Cobh, Midleton and Mallow take the train.

There are very few cross-country buses between the radial routes, so you might have to double back via Cork. See individual towns for Local Link bus services. These are generally too sparse for visitors, running once or twice a week, but a few are practical ways of getting in and around, eg the Kinsale-Clonakilty service.

Cork City Tours operate a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Cork, and excursions to the Jameson Distillery, all of which you can easily visit independently. But they also have long day trips out to far-flung spots like Mizen Head and Ring of Kerry, very difficult to reach without your own car. They hope to restart excursions in spring 2021.

The only railways in the county are around Cork city: the mainline from Dublin Heuston via Mallow, and commuter lines to Midleton and Cobh .

Bicycling is pleasant on the quieter roads, but there are no traffic-free bike lanes outside Cork city. In the west expect to cycle in the teeth of a stiff Atlantic breeze, which will somehow fail to be at your back when you return east.

Car hire is available at the airport and in Cork city, with all the major companies represented.

• Cork city needs a few days to explore. City centre architecture is Georgian / Victorian, such as St Finbarre's cathedral, St Anne's with the Shandon Bells, the city gaol, and the English Market; while modern design is seen on the University campus.
• Easy day-trips from the city are Blarney for its touristy castle and Blarney stone, Fota wildlife park and Arboretum, and Cobh the colourful port.
• Other small ports were more important in bygone times: Youghal was a walled Tudorbethan town, and Kinsale was worth defending with two forts — one formidable, the other overgrown.
• To the west, Ireland ends in stony peninsulas dotted with prehistoric sites. Bantry is a good base for exploring them.
• Night skies are a lost cause near the city, but the rural places are free of light pollution. On a clear night, get away from the street lights and give your eyes 20 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other objects will swim into view as never before.
• Road Bowling is the Irish team sport of hurling a small cannonball down a public road. Wherever it stops, the next shot is taken from there, until one team crosses the finish line. It's played especially in County Cork and in County Armagh so you may well find a game along a back lane.
• The Wild Atlantic Way is the coastal driving route from Cork away up to Donegal. You're unlikely to want to do it all in one trip, it's best to explore one region at a time. It starts at Old Kinsale Head and heads west via Timoleague, Clonakilty, Galley Head, Glandore, Toe Head Bay, Skibbereen, Baltimore, Inishbeg, Cunnamore, Heir and Sherkin Islands, Ballydehob, Schull, Toormore and Barley Cove to Mizen Head. It then heads north via Sheep's Head to Whiddy Island, Bantry, Glengarriff, Castletownbere and Bere Island then Dursey Island. After Derryvegal you cross into County Kerry towards Kenmare. There isn't a fixed route, it's up to you whether you follow all the convolutions of the coast and hop to the islands, or shortcut on the main highway further inland.
• Gaelic games : the County GAA play home games in Cork, with Páirc Uí Chaoimh as the main stadium and Páirc Uí Rinn their second ground. There are some 180 club teams across the county.
• Fishing : there's sea angling, and coarse angling on the many lakes and rivers. The salmon-fishing rivers are the Bandon, and the Blackwater bordering County Waterford; the River Lee was finished off by a hydroelectric dam.
• Surfing : popular spots include Garretstown near Kinsale, Castlefreke near Clonakilty and Barleycove on the Mizen peninsula.
• Scuba diving : lots of shipwrecks, from shallow recreational stuff covered in marine life, to deep dark technical wrecks. There are a few inland sites but really only for novice training or if your sea-trip got blown out. Baltimore is a good centre.
• In ports such as Cobh learn sailing, power-boating and navigation.
• Theatres and cinemas are concentrated in Cork but there's a few in the other towns.

• Cork has the biggest selection.
• Clonakilty black pudding and Macroom oatmeal are local specialties.
• Hotels and bars are often a good bet for food especially in the smaller places.
• Some standouts are Max's in Kinsale, An Súgán in Clonakilty, Customs House in Baltimore, O'Connors in Bantry, Breen's in Castletownbere and Ballymaloe House near Midleton.
• The pubs often have decent bar food and live music, and are open to 23:00 or later.
• Cork has a huge selection. An Bróg (meaning "The Shoe") has one woozy regular who's beginning to suspect they don't sell shoes.
• Youghal was used in the 1956 film Moby Dick to represent New Bedford, and Moby Dick's pub was the base for director John Huston.
• In Clonakilty , raise a glass in Donovan's Hotel to the only wartime USAF crew member to survive an emergency landing only to be drunk to death by overwhelming Irish hospitality. He was called Tojo and he was a monkey. He may even have been navigating, as the crew thought they were over Norway.
• Distilleries and breweries: best known (and heavily marketed) is the Jameson distillery at Midleton near Cork . Others are in Kinsale, Skibbereen and Cape Clear Island off Baltimore. These may offer tours, and it's worth sampling their products anyway.
• Cork city has the widest selection, with several hotels getting rave reviews.
• Beyond the city, top rated places include Eccles Hotel in Glengarriff, Bridge House B&B in Skibbereen, The Castle in Castletownshend, and Inchydoney Island Lodge near Clonakilty,
• See Lismore for Ballyvolane House, 38 km northeast of Cork.
• Listen to Cork 96 on 96.4 MHz, C103 on 102.6 MHz, or Red FM on 106.1 MHz. (Those frequencies are for the city, and vary around the county.)
• Read Cork Independent , The Echo , The Cork , The Corkman or Cork Beo .

For emergency assistance (police, ambulance, fire & rescue and coastguard), phone 112 or 999.

South Doc provide out-of-hours primary medical services across the county, +353 1850 335 999.

• Northwest is County Kerry , with wild hills and rugged harbours similar to the far west of County Cork.
• North is County Limerick , with ruined castles of the Desmond dynasty, a prehistoric complex, and the interesting city of Limerick .
• Northeast is County Tipperary , where top sights are Holycross near Thurles and the Rock of Cashel .
• East is County Waterford , mostly lush country with mansions and gardens, especially around Lismore .

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Cork Travel Guide

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Cork is far and away Ireland’s largest county, though nearly all visitors simply ignore its massive hinterland of dairy farms, dotted with low mountains and evergreen plantations. The coast’s the thing, and in an east–west spread of over 170km it unfurls an astonishing diversity. Based around an island near the mouth of the River Lee, Cork city, the capital of the self-styled “rebel county”, is renowned for its independent spirit, and packs a good cultural and social punch in its compact, vibrant centre. With its excellent restaurants, cafés and specialist food market, the city also sets a high culinary tone, which much of the rest of the county keeps up. Further reminders of a prosperous seafaring past can be seen hereabouts in the ports of Cobh, Youghal and especially Kinsale, each of which has reinvented itself in its own singular way as a low-key, pleasurable resort.

The Mizen Head Peninsula

The sheep’s head, the beara peninsula, some history, neogothic cork, cork’s festivals, fota island, skibbereen and around, west towards skibbereen.

Though it meanders wildly through inlets and hidden coves, the coastline west from Cork city as far as Skibbereen remains largely gentle and green, with a good smattering of sandy beaches and a balminess that has attracted incomers and holiday-homers from the rest of Ireland and Europe. Facing each other across the shelter of Roaring Water Bay, the good-time ports of Baltimore and Schull are popular with a cosmopolitan, watersports crowd, but the offshore islands of Sherkin and Clear presage wild country ahead. Mizen Head is the first of Cork’s and Kerry’s five highly irregular, southwesterly fingers of folded rock, which afford spectacular views of each other and the Atlantic horizon. The next, narrow Sheep’s Head, is perhaps the most charming, where – especially if you slow down to walking pace – you’ll feel as if you’re getting to know every square kilometre of gorse, granite and pasture and just about every inhabitant. Shared between Cork and Kerry, the Beara Peninsula is especially dramatic, epitomized by mild, verdant Glengarriff’s backdrop of dark, bare rock and lonely mountain passes.

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The West Coast and Cliffs of Moher

This itinerary discovers the most authentic parts of the Emerald Isle. The spectacular Cliffs of Moher on the west coast, the many castles and fortresses in the south, together with the breathtaking landscapes of the Wicklow Mountains National Park presents the perfect backdrop to a trip.

East Cork (w www.eastcorktourism.com) occupies a blind spot in the eyes of many visitors, their focus set on the more spectacular coastline to the west, but several interesting places are worth considering, all of them served by public transport. A suburban train service makes possible an excellent, varied day-trip across the Lee estuary to Fota Island, with a sensitively restored Neoclassical hunting lodge and a wildlife park in its surrounds, and on to the attractive harbour town of Cobh on Great Island. Now isolated between Fota and the N25 at Carrigtohill, Barryscourt Castle makes for a fascinating visit, while further east lies Midleton, the traditional home of Jameson whiskey and a culinary hub. In an expansive setting at the mouth of the River Blackwater, the historic, easy-going resort of Youghal, some 40km east of Cork, marks the border with County Waterford.

YOUGHAL (pronounced “yawl”) enjoys a lush, picturesque setting on the west bank of the River Blackwater’s estuary, the border with County Waterford. It was one of Ireland’s leading ports in the medieval era, with a scattering of ancient buildings to show for it, and later became a centre for the carpet industry, but today it is popular with holidaying Irish families, who take their leisure on the long, sandy, Blue Flag beach to the southwest.

Mizen Head is a wild and beautiful peninsula, projecting southwestwards around the substantial mass of copper-rich Mount Gabriel. The whole of its empty northern coast presents sheer cliffs and stupendous views. The south coast is more populous, sheltering safe harbours, the large village and resort of Schull and the remote, sandy beaches of Barley Cove, while the only tourist attraction of any note is the signal station at the very tip, the Mizen Head Visitor Centre.

The peninsula’s main settlement, SCHULL, is a congenial harbour town that’s not only popular with yachties but also has an artistic bent, with crafts shops, galleries and a weekly food and crafts market (every Sun morning from Easter to Christmas; wwww.schullmarket.com). It shelters in the lee of 407-metre Mount Gabriel, to the north, topped by an aircraft-tracking station and blessed with fine views. The walk up there (about 8km there and back) is detailed in a very useful, annual booklet, Schull Visitor’s Guide, that’s available around the town; since the mountain was actively mined for centuries, take care on the way that you avoid uncovered mine shafts.

The Sheep’s Head, a precarious sliver of land between Dunmanus and Bantry bays, is the quietest and smallest of the major southwestern peninsulas. Gorse and heather sprout from its long granite spine, leaving room for narrow pockets of green pasture on its north and especially its south coast. With magnificent views of the larger peninsulas on either side, it can be best appreciated by pedalling the easy-to-follow, 90-kilometre Sheep’s Head Cycle Route, or by walking the 88-kilometre Sheep’s Head Way, both of which are waymarked circuits from Bantry; the latter is relatively easy walking, avoiding the round-peninsula road for most of the way, and is covered by OS Discovery Series map number 88. It can be done in four days, with two nights in Kilcrohane after two long days’ walking and a night in Durrus; the last day is missable, so you might want to catch a bus back to Bantry from Durrus.

BANTRY enjoys a glorious location, ringed first by lush, wooded slopes and then by wild, bare mountains, at the head of 35-kilometre-long Bantry Bay, one of the finest natural harbours in Ireland. The prime viewpoint is naturally occupied by Bantry House, which with its sumptuous interior and garden is one of West Cork’s few unmissable historic sites. At the junction of several important roads, Bantry is also a substantial market (Fridays) and service town, with plenty of amenities for visitors.

Bantry House

Bantry House is one of Ireland’s most compelling country houses, both for its lavish art works and for its magnificent setting, among formal gardens overlooking the bay. Built in the early eighteenth century and extended a hundred years later, it was spared destruction during the Irish Civil War, when it acted as a hospital for the wounded of both sides. Many of its beautiful furnishings were gathered by the Second Earl of Bantry on his nineteenth-century grand tour and boast name-dropping provenances, such as the gorgeous Aubusson tapestries made for Marie Antoinette on her marriage to the future Louis XVI. The highlight is the dining room, which resembles an extravagant stage-set: rich, Chartres-blue walls, a marble colonnade and vast seventeenth-century sideboards carved with cherubs and classical scenes. There’s a very attractive café, with tables under the house’s west balcony, which serves tea and simple lunches.

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The largest and most remote of Cork’s peninsulas, the Beara (w www.bearatourism.com) careers southwestwards for 50km between Bantry Bay and the Kenmare River. Patterns in the landscape are hard to distinguish here, and contrasts frequent. Indeed, the peninsula’s most popular tourist spot, Glengarriff, has built an industry on the stunning contrast between its lush subtropical setting and the irregular, barren rocks of the Caha Mountains behind. The mountainous spine is often augmented by ribs, and particularly in the awesome Slieve Miskish Mountains at the Beara’s tip, the coast road is forced to climb through whatever passes can be found. Round on the north coast, half of which belongs to County Kerry, the only settlements occupy occasional cups of green farmland beneath the stony ridges. This diverse scenery is linked together by two routes: the Beara Way, a 200-kilometre waymarked walk (9–11 days), following mostly tracks and minor roads from Glengarriff west (via Adrigole, Castletownbere and a ferry to Bere Island, which can easily be missed out) to Dursey Island, then along the north coast of the peninsula (via Allihies, Eyeries, Ardgroom and Lauragh) to Kenmare and back to Glengarriff; and the 138-kilometre Beara Way Cycle Route, which mostly follows the quiet main road around the peninsula. Route guides are available locally, and the Ordnance Survey 1:50,000 Discovery map 84 covers nearly the whole peninsula.

Glengarriff

The founders of GLENGARRIFF were perhaps having an off-day when they named it An Gleann Garbh, the “rugged glen” – or, to be charitable, maybe the climate has changed since then. It’s true that above and behind stands the magnificent backdrop of the wild, bare Caha Mountains, but the village itself sits in a sheltered oasis of balmy greenery. This picturesque juxtaposition, warmed by the Atlantic Gulf Stream, has attracted tourists since the eighteenth century, when the Eccles Hotel was built. The landscape – and the gift shops – still pull in the coach parties, but the village’s popularity also means there’s a decent range of places to stay, making it a good base for exploring some of Cork’s most beautiful countryside or for just hopping over to see the horticultural delights of Garinish Island. To the west, in the dramatic shadow of Hungry Hill, watersports and a pleasant hostel are on offer at Adrigole.

Garinish Island (Ilnacullin)

In 1910, the MP Annan Bryce bought Garinish (aka Ilnacullin) from the British War Office and, after shipping in all the topsoil, gradually turned the rocky inshore island into an exotic garden oasis. Having passed into public ownership in 1953, the island is now a delightful and accessible escape from the mainland, especially in summer, when colourful plants from around the world set the island alight against a backdrop of the sparse, jagged mountains just across the water. The island’s centrepiece is a formal Italianate garden, surrounded by a walled garden and wilder areas, a Grecian temple with magnificent views of the Caha Mountains and a Martello tower. There’s a coffee shop and a self-guided trail around the gardens, and serious horticulturalists should pick up the Heritage Service’s guidebook, which includes detailed plant lists. The ten-minute boat trip to the island takes you past the lush islets of Glengarriff Harbour, where you may see basking seals.

Looping round an especially harsh and rocky part of the peninsula on the R575, you’ll come upon ALLIHIES, its brightly coloured houses dramatically huddled together against the leathery creases of Slieve Miskish’s western flank and blessed with superb sunset views. In 1812, the Industrial Revolution descended on this most remote corner of Ireland with a vengeance, bringing state-of-the-art engineering and Cornish mining techniques to work the copper ore in the mountains above the village. At any one time, up to 1500 people, including women and children, worked for the mines here in desperate conditions, until their closure in the 1880s, when many of the miners emigrated to the huge copper lode in Butte, Montana. The story is now engagingly told at the excellent Allihies Copper Mine Museum, set up by a group of dedicated local enthusiasts, in a renovated Methodist church that was built for the immigrant Cornish miners. Highlights of the thoughtful displays include video recollections of local men who worked in the mines when they briefly reopened in the 1950s, bits of ore that you can handle and a small-scale reconstruction of a steam pump. In addition, a network of signposted trails has been laid out in the surrounding countryside, allowing you to take in ruined mine buildings and spectac- ular views. One of the trails leads down to Ballydonegan Strand (beware the currents when swimming), 1km to the southwest – this sandy beach is actually composed of crushed quartz produced in the copper extraction process.

Around 10km southeast of Midleton, off the R629 Cloyne–Ballycotton road, lies Ireland’s most famous restaurant Ballymaloe House, serving exceptional modern Irish cuisine using local ingredients, with some nice traditional touches – you’ll be asked if you want second helpings and you choose your dessert from a groaning trolley. There’s much more to this grand enterprise than just a restaurant: accommodation in the vine-covered, originally fifteenth-century manor house and adjacent courtyard mixes country-house style with contemporary art, and there’s a summertime heated outdoor pool, five-hole golf course and a tennis court, plus bicycles for guests’ use and walks around the extensive grounds and farm. Attached to the house is a shop selling crafts and, of course, kitchenware, with an excellent daytime café; there’s also a seventeenth-century grainstore that’s been converted into a concert venue. The nearby cookery school runs prestigious twelve-week certificate courses as well as a host of short courses, and you can visit the school’s restored nineteenth-century gardens, featuring the largest formal herb garden in Ireland and a Celtic maze.

On the southern coast of Great Island, with extensive views of Cork Harbour, COBH (pronounced “cove”) makes a great escape from the city on a fine day. This historic and unpretentious resort, clinging onto a steep, south-facing slope, sports a stony beach, a promenade with a bandstand and gaily painted rows of Victorian hotels and houses. Much of the tourist traffic comes now from the dozens of huge cruise-liners that dock here every year, continuing a long tradition for this fine, natural harbour: Cobh was a port of call for the Sirius, the first steamship to cross the Atlantic, in 1838, and for the Titanic on her disastrous maiden voyage in 1912. The port was also a major supply-depot during the American and Napoleonic wars, and became Ireland’s main point of emigration after the Great Famine. This long and often tragic seafaring history is vividly detailed at the Queenstown Story, a heritage centre in the former Victorian train station on the seafront (the town was renamed Queenstown after a visit by Queen Victoria in 1849, but its old name was restored after Independence). If your appetite for salty tales and memorabilia still hasn’t been sated, get along to the Cobh Museum, housed in a nineteenth-century Presbyterian church on the west side of the town centre.

The Republic’s second city, CORK (Corcaigh, “marshy place”) is strongly characterized by its geography. The centre sits tight on a kilometre-wide island, much of which was reclaimed from marshes, in the middle of the River Lee, while the enclosing hills seem to turn this traditionally self-sufficient city in on itself. Given this layout and its history, it comes as no surprise that Corkonians have a reputation in Ireland for independence of spirit, not to say chippiness. Indeed, in many ways, Cork sees itself not in second place but as a rival to Dublin. It produces its own national newspaper, The Irish Examiner, brews Murphy’s and Beamish, its own versions of the national drink, stout, and supports a vigorous artistic, intellectual and cultural life of its own. Even its social divisions match Dublin’s: here too the south side of the river is generally more affluent, while the north side has more public housing and a stronger working-class identification.

In colonial times, Cork also maintained its own strong links with London, through its role as a major port, proof of which can still be seen all around town. The main drag, curving St Patrick’s Street, was originally a waterway lined with quays, while you can still spot eighteenth-century moorings on Grand Parade. Though contemporary Cork doesn’t make the most of its long riverfront, much of which is now lined by major roads, the channels of the Lee, spanned by more than twenty bridges, break up the cityscape and pleasantly disorientate. The harbour area has Ireland’s largest concentration of chemical factories, fortunately downstream of the centre, while the city’s other main modern industry, computers, is linked to the prestigious university, to the west of the centre. All of this has spawned a widespread commuter belt, but the compact island is still the place for the many excellent restaurants, lively pubs and artistic venues.

The best of the city’s sightseeing options are the Crawford Art Gallery, with its fine collection of eighteenth- to twentieth-century art, Cork City Gaol, which vividly evokes life in a nineteenth-century prison, and the hi-tech cosmological displays of Blackrock Castle Observatory. In truth, however, none of Cork’s sights are absolute must-sees, though it’s a pleasant place to stroll around on a fine day. The city centre is essentially the eastern part of the island, with its quaysides, bridges, old warehouses and the narrow alleys of the medieval heart, plus a segment to the north of the River Lee that has MacCurtain Street as its central thoroughfare.

In the seventh century, St Finbarr established a monastery at Cork, on the site of today’s cathedral, to the southwest of the modern centre. Three centuries later, the Vikings created a separate settlement, an island in the River Lee’s marshes, which was taken over in the twelfth by the Anglo-Normans. They strengthened the defences of the central part of the island with the construction of vast city walls, leaving the west and east ends to the swamp and later developing suburbs on the slopes to the north and south. The fortifications were largely destroyed, however, in the successful Williamite siege of 1690, and became redundant when the marshes were reclaimed soon after. The next century witnessed great wealth, through the trade in butter and pickled meat and the development of the port for provisioning westbound sailing ships. Brewing and distilling plants were established, which persist to this day, along with glass, silver and lace industries, but the Act of Union and the introduction of steamships brought stagnation in the nineteenth century. At the start of the last century, Cork took an active part in the War of Independence and the Civil War, and suffered as a consequence. In 1920, the Royal Irish Constabulary murdered the Lord Mayor, Tomás MacCurtain, and as a reprisal for an ambush, the Black and Tans burnt much of the city centre to the ground in 1921. MacCurtain’s successor as mayor, Terence MacSwiney, was incarcerated and went on hunger strike, which after 74 days led to his death on October 24, 1920.

For those with a taste for it – and with shoe leather to spare – there’s plenty of Neogothic church architecture to see in Cork, mostly along the river banks. The highlight is William Burges’s St Finbarr’s Cathedral on Proby’s Quay, consecrated in 1870, whose three soaring, French Gothic spires are visible all over the city. The well-lit interior, which is elaborately decorated with red Cork marble, stained glass and Italianate mosaics, also impresses with its lofty proportions. Leading nineteenth-century practitioners Augustus Pugin and George Pain also worked in Cork. The Church of SS Peter and Paul, just off St Patrick’s Street in the centre, was designed by Pugin and sports some fine woodcarving. Pain was the architect behind Holy Trinity Church on Father Matthew Quay, with its handsome lantern spire, and St Patrick’s Church out to the northeast on Lower Glanmire Road.

Blarney, Blarney, what he says he does not mean. It is the usual Blarney.

So spoke Queen Elizabeth I, and a legend and its accompanying tourist phenomenon were born. Though supposedly loyal to the queen, the Lord of Blarney, Cormac MacCarthy, had been stalling her emissary, Sir George Carew, who had been sent to restore English control of Munster, sidetracking him with wine, women and words. MacCarthy, it was said, could talk “the noose off his head”, and over the centuries blarney came to mean “flattering, untrustworthy or loquacious talk associated with…Irish people” (The Encyclopedia of Ireland). This story of the word’s origin, however, may itself be blarney…

At some stage in the nineteenth century, with the beginnings of mass tourism to the southwest of Ireland, it became popular to kiss the Blarney Stone, part of the machicolations of Blarney Castle, a fine fifteenth-century tower house, set in attractive grounds, in the village of the same name, 8km northwest of Cork. The stone stands over a 26-metre drop, and planting a smacker on it is meant to grant “the gift of the gab”. Legions of the verbally challenged queue up in summer, when it’s best to turn up early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Cork hosts plenty of lively festivals, of which the largest and most prestigious are the midsummer festival, a wide-ranging celebration of the arts in late June (wcorkmidsummer.com), the jazz festival in October (wwww.guinnessjazzfestival.com) and the film festival in October or November, with a particular focus on short films (wwww.corkfilmfest.org). There’s also an international choral festival in late April or early May (wwww.corkchoral.ie), an early-music festival in late September, shared between the city and East Cork (wwww.eastcorkearlymusic.ie), and a folk festival in early October (wwww.corkfolkfestival.com).

If you travel from the mainland by road, you’re hardly aware that Fota is an island in Cork Harbour. Its main attraction is Fota House, built in the 1740s as a hunting lodge for the Barry family, whose main seat had by then moved from nearby Barryscourt Castle to Castlelyons near Fermoy. In the early nineteenth century, the house was substantially redeveloped and extended in elegant, Neoclassical style, and now lies a ten-minute walk from Fota train station. Excellent guided tours reveal plenty of telling details, with the highlights being the entrance hall, a beautifully symmetrical space divided by striking ochre columns of scagliola (imitation marble), and the ceiling of the drawing room, with its plasterwork doves, musical instruments and hunting implements and delicately painted cherubs and floral motifs. The tour also goes below stairs to the servants’ quarters, which include an impressive octagonal game-larder and such features as gaps at the top of the windows of the butler’s servery – added so that food smells would tantalize the poor servants rather than the house guests. For visitors, there’s now a nice little café in the long gallery and billiard room. Much of the estate’s formal gardens and its internationally significant arboretum, laid out in the mid-nineteenth century, are under the care of the Office of Public Works, with free access. At its best in April and May, the arboretum hosts a wide range of exotic trees and shrubs, with many rare examples, including some magnificent Lebanese cedars, a Victorian fernery and a lush, almost tropical lake.

KINSALE, 25km south of Cork city, enjoys a glorious setting at the head of a sheltered harbour around the mouth of the Bandon River. Two imposing forts and a fine tower-house remain as evidence of its former importance as a trading port, and Kinsale has built on its cosmopolitan links to become the culinary capital of the southwest. Add in plenty of opportunities for watersports on the fine local beaches and a number of congenial pubs, and you have a very appealing, upscale resort town.

St Multose founded a monastery at Kinsale in the sixth century, and by the tenth the Vikings had established a trading post. After the Anglo-Normans walled the town in the thirteenth century, it really began to take off, flourishing on trade, fishing and shipbuilding in its excellent deep harbour, which became an important rendezvous and provisioning point for the British Navy. The Battle of Kinsale in 1601 was a major turning-point in Irish history, leading to the “Flight of the Earls” to the Continent six years later which saw the end of the old Gaelic aristocracy: Philip III of Spain had sent forces to Kinsale to support the Irish chieftains, but communications were poor and Chief Hugh O’Neill, more accustomed to guerrilla warfare, was defeated by Elizabeth I’s army in a pitched battle.

In 1689 James II landed here in his attempt to claim back the throne, only to flee ignominiously from this same port a year later, after defeat at the Battle of the Boyne. His supporters fought on, however, burning the town and holing up in James Fort and Charles Fort. After a series of decisive attacks by the Duke of Marlborough, they surrendered on favourable terms and were allowed to go to Limerick for the final battle under Patrick Sarsfield.

During World War I, in May 1915, a German submarine torpedoed the passenger liner Lusitania off the Old Head of Kinsale, as it was sailing from New York to England. Twelve hundred of the passengers and crew were lost, and the sinking was a major factor in the USA’s eventual entry into the war.

SKIBBEREEN (often shortened to “Skibb”, the lively administrative centre for this part of west Cork, is a good spot to take a break and recharge your batteries, with plenty of restaurants and accommodation options and an excellent heritage centre. To the south, it gives access to a rich coastal landscape where green pastures begin to alternate with the scrubby, rocky slopes so typical of more westerly parts. If you have your own wheels, you shouldn’t miss the uniquely beautiful lagoon of Lough Hyne, while regular buses run down to the animated resort of Baltimore, which is connected by ferry to the contrasting islands of Sherkin and Clear.

Between Kinsale and Skibbereen, the main route west along the coast – the R600 and then the N71 – carves its way across the top of successive peninsulas, touching the sea only at the estuary towns of Timoleague, Clonakilty (often shortened to “Clon”) and Rosscarbery. With names such as the Seven Heads (between Timoleague and Clon) these jagged-edged peninsulas are worth exploring with your own transport and no set destination in mind – crisscrossing minor roads will reveal sheltered coves, wild cliffs and balmy beaches. Clonakilty is the main base here, with the small coastal villages of Courtmacsherry and Glandore, which is handy for one of the country’s finest stone circles at Drombeg, providing picturesque and tranquil alternatives.

If you head out of Skibb on the Baltimore road and take a left turn after about 3km, you’ll come upon Lough Hyne after a further 3km or so. Ireland’s first marine nature reserve, this tidal lake is joined to the sea only by a narrow channel, known as the rapids, but reaches depths of 45m in places. A combination of warm waters from the Gulf Stream and diverse habitats – sea caves, whirlpools, shallow and deep areas – supports an astonishingly rich variety of saltwater species here, over a thousand in less than a square kilometre. Many are rare species that are generally only found in the deep ocean or the Mediterranean, such as the triggerfish and the red-mouthed goby. Sheltered by varied slopes of gorse, woods and bare rock, the placid waters are also popular among swimmers and kayakers. To make the most of a visit, see the exhibit at the Skibbereen heritage centre first, where you can also pick up a brochure for the Knockomagh Wood Nature Trail. Beginning where the road from Skibb meets Lough Hyne, at its northwestern corner, this two-kilometre trail zigzags upwards and westwards past fine viewpoints of the lake, ancient sessile oaks and bluebell meadows, to the 197-metre summit of Knockomagh Hill, which affords a panorama of the coastline stretching from Galley Head in the east to Mount Gabriel above Schull.

Though isolated at the end of a stubby peninsula to the southwest of Skibbereen, BALTIMORE comes as a lively surprise, bustling with fishing and pleasure boats and ferries to Sherkin and Clear islands. In fine weather, there are few pleasanter spots in Cork than the small, sun-trap square above the harbour, filled with café and bar tables. Overlooking the square stands Dún na Séad, a thirteenth-century tower house that was the chief residence of the infamous pirates, the O’Driscolls, but fell into ruins from the end of the seventeenth century until its painstaking recent restoration as a private home. It’s worth a visit in summer (June to mid-Sept daily) to see the imposing great hall on the first floor and to take in the commanding views of the harbour and Roaringwater Bay from the battlements. Basking in the shelter of large inshore islands, the port is particularly busy during the regatta held in early August, but there’s also a fiddle festival in early May (wwww.fiddlefair.com) and a combined food and sailing festival during the last weekend in May (wwww.baltimorewoodenboatfestival.com).

Sherkin Island

Guarding the west side of Baltimore Harbour, Sherkin (Inis Arcáin, “Island of the Porpoise”) is a tranquil, pretty island that shares the mixed scrub and pastoral landscape of the mainland hereabouts. On a half-day stroll around the boot-shaped island, you could take in the highest point, Slievemore, to the southwest on the toe of the boot, and the best beaches, Trá Bawn, Trá Eoghan Mhór and Silver Strand, to the north of Slievemore. Ferries from Baltimore land at the easterly pier, behind which stands a plain fifteenth-century Franciscan abbey, with its fifteen-metre tower intact; you can still see the outline of its cloister and the walls of a curious seventeenth-century fish “palace”, where pilchards were salted and barrelled for export to Spain.

Clear Island

Ireland’s most southerly inhabited point, Clear Island (Oileán Chléire, also known as Cape Clear) is an isolated outpost of the Gaeltacht, which welcomes teenagers from all over the country to learn Irish during the summer, and generally reaches out to visitors, with plenty of facilities and information available. The island also holds a traditional story-telling festival, with concerts, workshops and music (wwww.capeclearstorytelling.com), over the first weekend of September. Clear describes a very rough figure-of-eight, just six kilometres square, with North Harbour, where ferries dock, and cliff-girt South Harbour almost meeting in the middle. Its landscape of steep, rolling hills of heather and pasture is crossed by narrow, hedge-lined roads and paths, affording fine views of Roaringwater Bay and of Fastnet Rock to the west in the open sea, where whales, dolphins and sharks can sometimes be spotted. The island is most famous as one of the best seabird-watching sites in Europe, with breeding colonies of black guillemots, choughs and rock doves and an important bird observatory at North Harbour (t028/39181, wwww.birdwatchireland.ie; April–Oct). Late spring and October are the best times for twitchers, who can take field courses and stay at the observatory.

Whale watching and kayaking

The seas off Skibb, rich feeding grounds for herring and sprat, are earning a reputa- tion as one of Europe’s premier whale-watching sites, with minke (roughly from April), fin (from June or July), more rarely, humpback (from September) and occasional killer whales, as well as scores of dolphins and porpoises, coming remarkably close to shore; September to November is the peak time. For further information, consult the website of the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, iwdg .ie. Along the coast here, there are also sea-kayaking trips, ranging from half-day and starlight outings to two-day expeditions.

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updated 06.06.2021

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County Cork travel guide

Ireland’s biggest and most southerly county offers an attractive combination of sea and hill scenery, interspersed with lively small towns and villages, especially along its long indented coast. Because of the Gulf Stream, parts of the southwest coast are frost-free-year round, and have lush, subtropical vegetation, with massive rhododendrons and azaleas from mid-April to May. An added bonus is the high quality of County Cork’s natural produce – farmhouse cheeses made from the milk of sleek cows grazing the fertile green meadows, locally reared beef, pork and lamb, and freshly caught fish. Local honey, home-grown potatoes, salads and vegetables (increasingly organic) will impress with their flavour and freshness. These are sold locally in specialist food shops and at farmers’ markets, and feature on restaurant menus, giving the area a high reputation among food-lovers.

The vibrant hub of the southwest, Cork City has long divested itself of its sleepy second-city status, with multinationals (including Apple, which has its European headquarters here) creating jobs, a thriving student community and a significant population from European Union states such as Poland, Hungary and Lithuania adding a multicultural feel. The result is a cosmopolitan city bristling with fashionable bars and restaurants, live music venues and festivals.

Places to visit in County Cork

The historic centre of Cork is built on an island created by two channels of the River Lee. Read more.. .  

Renowned for its restaurants, Kinsale is a pretty seaport with a large, virtually landlocked harbour. Read more. ..

The colourful and compact town centre of Clonakilty is easily explored on foot. Look out for Emmet Square, lined by tall Georgian houses, and the Post Office, in a small 19th-century church on Bridge Street. 

Just outside Clonakilty is the birthplace of local hero Michael Collins, who played an important role in the founding of the Irish state. 

Blarney Castle

tel: 021-438 5252

www.blarneycastle.ie

A visit to Blarney Castle makes a pleasant half-day outing from Cork. The castle, a formidable keep built in the mid-15th century, is surrounded by well-tended gardens, two rivers, a ‘Druid’ grotto and parkland with an attractive lake. 

Kissing the Blarney Stone, a slab set high up in the wall below just the castle’s battlements, is supposed to bestow the gift of eloquence. Those who wish to romance the stone have to ascend the castle’s many steps to the rooftop, then lean backwards by the battlements (there are iron bars to hold onto – asking someone to hold you by the waist is also recommended), before finally landing a smacker onto the legendary surface. There is no charge for this odd ritual, but many people are so happy to survive it that they pay €10 at the exit for a souvenir photograph.

Bantry Bay, one of the big attractions of Southwest Ireland, is around 34km (21 miles) long and 6.5km (4 miles) wide. The town of Bantry is nestled in a magnificent setting at the top of the bay. Beside it, looking out to sea and set in subtropical gardens, is Bantry House, a stately home with a fine collection of antiques including Aubusson carpets, Gobelin tapestries, Russian icons, Chinese lacquer and French and Irish 18th-century furniture.

Beyond Bantry Bay the road climbs into open, more rugged country, offering ever-changing views across the bay. Glengarriff, a wooded glen with a sheltered harbour warmed by the Gulf Stream, has an especially mild climate. The village is teeming with craft shops, serving coaches en route to Killarney to the north, but Ilnacullin Gardens, on Garinish Island, five minutes offshore, are well worth a visit. The flora comes from five continents, and the centrepiece is a stunning walled Italian garden, surrounding a pool, its straight architectural lines contrasting with the ruggedness of the distant mountains that frame it.

The north side of Bantry Bay is formed by the Beara Peninsula, which stretches for about 48km (30 miles) southwest from Glengarriff. The southern part of the peninsula is in County Cork, while the north is in Kerry, with the Caha and Slieve Miskish mountains running down its centre. The road around the Beara, the Ring of Beara, makes a less busy alternative to the Ring of Kerry .

Foodies should head to culinary Kinsale and check out our guide to what to eat in Ireland

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Best Things to Do in Cork, Ireland (County Guide)

The southernmost county in Ireland is Cork, and it is one of the best places to visit on the Emerald Isle.

If you have not explored Cork before, or are visiting Ireland for the first time and wondering if it is worth adding to your itinerary, you will discover the best things to do in Cork, Ireland right here to help you decide.

Having visited Cork myself a few times, despite being a Dublin girl, I know some of the best things to see and do in the county. And I’ve added to my own knowledge by researching other things to do for a forthcoming trip to the county for my own family.

So, if you are looking for adventure in County Cork, read on for the best things to do in Cork, Ireland.

Gourmet Cork

Hayfield manor, casey’s of baltimore hotel.

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Cork is a county that I have only recently begun to explore, having eluded me throughout my childhood and teenage years.

As the largest county in Ireland, Cork has plenty to offer visitors, whether they are native to Ireland or not.

In this post, I help you uncover 10 amazing things to do in County Cork that will soon have you heading south!

Best things to do in Cork, Ireland

You need not be wondering what to do in Cork with this list of 10 things to do in the county. Whether you prefer the outdoors, history, food, or culture, there is something there for every type of traveller.

As the main city in the county, there are lots of things to see and do in Cork. Sitting on the banks of the River Lee, Cork was the base for the rebel movement during the fight for Irish independence. It is a bustling city.

There are several churches and cathedrals in the city worth visiting including St Anne’s Shandon, an 18th-century church that is a famous landmark in Cork. Its clock face was known as the four-faced liar because until 1986 when it was repaired, each of the four faces showed slightly different times. Visitors to the city can climb the tower and ring the famous bells for a small fee. St Fin Barre’s Cathedral is also worth visiting.

The Cork Butter Museum is another must in the city. In the 19 th century, Cork was the largest exporter of butter in the world and the museum tells the story of Ireland’s most important food export.

Cork City Gaol (pictured) is also another one of the great things to do in Cork City. Located a 20-minute walk from the city centre, the restored City Gaol has fascinating exhibitions about the lives of the inmates in the 19 th and 20 th centuries. There is also a Radio Museum in the same building. Book your tickets in advance for the Cork City Gaol here .

Blackrock Castle (discussed in more detail below) and Barryscourt Castle are both great places to visit in Cork too.

Other areas of Cork City to spend time in include the Quays, Grand Parade, St Patrick’s Street, and the Shandon Quarter where you will find galleries, antique shops, and cute cafes along its squares and old lanes.

Discover Cork on a walking tour of the city. For the latest prices and availability, and to book it, click here .

Blarney Castle and more

Some of the best places to visit in Cork are the many castles and one of the top things to do in Cork, Ireland is to visit Blarney Castle (pictured).

As one of Ireland’s most famous tourist attractions, Blarney Castle welcomes thousands of visitors every year who flock to do one thing. Kiss the Blarney Stone. Legend has it that those who kiss the stone will be bestowed with the gift of the gab and never be lost for words again. The stone is located at the top of the castle, some 99-steps high and you must sit with your back to it, lean back, and kiss it upside-down.

But that is not all there is to do at Blarney Castle. There are stunning grounds to visit with a poison garden, fern garden, two waterfalls, playground, fairy garden, and more. My advice is to arrive early, kiss the stone and spend the rest of your time exploring the gardens.

Blackrock Castle in Cork City is also worth visiting. This 16th-century castle was built as a harbour fortification for the city and while it still looks like one, it now houses an observatory and museum with educational exhibits. You can climb to the top and discover the armoury on a guided tour.

Barryscourt Castle was the 16 th -century seat of the Barry family and has been extensively restored. The tower house stands out from most thanks to its 50m (164ft) long hall which occupies the west of the castle. The castle has period furnishings and decorations, and the orchard has also undergone restoration work. The work is not yet complete, meaning the castle is currently closed to visitors. But keep an eye on the website to see if it is open when you are planning to visit County Cork.

Other castles to visit in County Cork include

• Desmond Castle, Kinsale – 16 th -century fortified house once occupied by the Spanish. Enjoy exhibitions detailing its history, and a small wine museum.
• Baltimore Castle, Baltimore – 13 th -century stone tower castle which dominates Baltimore Harbour. Enjoy seasonal art displays, exhibits on the town’s and castle’s history, and views from the battlements.

Discover both Blarney Castle and Cobh on a day tour from Cork City. For more information and to book, click here .

Cobh is one of the best places to visit Cork. Pronounced ‘cove’, this charming coastal town in Ireland is dotted with colourful houses that are overlooked by a splendid cathedral, St Colman’s Cathedral. Cobh is one of the top places to visit in Cork thanks to its association with the Titanic.

Cobh was the final port of call for the fateful liner before it started its first and only journey out across the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can enjoy an insight into the tale of the liner at the Titanic Experience Cobh. Guided tours lead you through to a set of interactive exhibits before you get to stand on the exact spot from where the passengers left to board the ship.

Other places to visit in Cobh include the Cobh Museum which traces the history of the town, and the Cobh, Queenstown Story where you can learn about the emigration during the Great Famine and the convicts shipped to Australia, through interactive displays.

Houses and Abbeys

Some of the best things to do in County Cork are to visit the great houses and abbeys.

Bantry House is located about one and a half hours drive from Cork City and is an early 18 th -century historic house with gardens. Located along the Wild Atlantic Way, Bantry House has been the home of the White family, formerly the Earls of Bantry, since 1739. They still live there and manage the estate.

The house is adorned with art and furnishings brought from Europe by the 2 nd Earl of Bantry including tapestries originally made for Marie Antoinette. The gardens are a treasure, with the Italian Garden being a highlight in front of the great house, which leads to a set of terraces with incredible views. The house and garden are a must-visit in West Cork. And you can even stay there in one of the B&B bedrooms.

One of the best things to see in County Cork is Timoleague Abbey. Located in Carbery East in County Cork, this friary was established in 1240 on the site of a 6th-century monastic settlement and is a great place to visit if you like ecclesiastical architecture. Wandering through the grounds you’ll be able to explore the church, infirmary, walled courtyard, and lots of cloisters.

Islands off County Cork

One of the things you cannot miss if you are visiting this part of the Emerald Isle is to visit one of the islands off the coast. There are several islands lying off the coast of Cork and they are among the best things to see in Cork.

In Cork Harbour, you will find Spike Island. Once an important part of the city’s defenses with its artillery fort, it was used to house prisoners of war during the Irish War of Independence and between 1984 and 2004. This use of the island earned it the name “Ireland’s Alcatraz”. Today you can explore the former prison buildings on a guided tour. Allow plenty of time to enjoy the site.

A 10-minute ferry ride from Baltimore will lead you to Sherkin Island, a tiny island that is frequented by day-trippers and artists. If you are looking for secluded coves to swim in, want to gaze out to sea, or enjoy lunch somewhere different, then head to Sherkin Island.

Another of the Cork islands to visit is Cape Clear Island (pictured). The crossing takes 45 minutes from Baltimore to reach the island and there you will find private inlets, pebble beaches, and cliff-top walks. This small island is in a Gaeltacht area (Irish speaking) and is Ireland’s southernmost inhabited island. There are walking trails, a ruined 12 th -century church, the ruins of 14 th -century Dunamore Castle and you can take boat trips to see one of the best lighthouses in Ireland , the off-shore Fastnet Lighthouse, also known as Mizen Head Lighthouse. This rock is also known as the Teardrop of Ireland as it was the last sight of Ireland emigrants saw on their journey across the Atlantic Ocean. Titanic also passed her as she set sail across the ocean.

Other Cork islands to visit include

• Dursey Island, a wildlife sanctuary that is connected to the mainland via a cable car.
• Bere Island, with its ruined Martello towers and 19km loop of the Beara Way walking route.
• Garnish Island, also known as Ilnacullin, which is a horticultural wonder.

Coastal Towns

Among the top 10 things to do in Cork is exploring the pretty coastal towns. With a long coastline and as Ireland’s largest county, Cork has plenty of coastal towns to visit. Cobh, already discussed, is often top of people’s lists but you should also consider some of the others.

Kinsale is another Cork coastal town that makes it onto people’s wish-list (pictured). This pretty town has a harbour filled with yachts and is home to Desmond Castle, an early 16 th -century tower house. Just east of the town lies Charles Fort, an impressive 1670s-star fort that is one of the finest examples remaining in Europe today. Other things to do in Kinsale include visiting St Multose Church, Old Market House which is a museum, and the Signal Tower and Lusitania Museum dedicated to the ship of the same name that was torpedoed by a German U-boat in 1915. The Old Head of Kinsale is also the starting/endpoint for the Wild Atlantic Way .

One of the best towns in Cork to visit along the coast is Youghal. Located in the east at the mouth of the Blackwater River, Youghal pretty town that was once presided over by Sir Walter Raleigh who was its mayor between 1588 and 1589. You can enjoy walks, boat cruises along the Blackwater and discover the town’s history in the heritage centre.

County Cork has several peninsulas which are worth visiting and are home to some of the best beaches in Cork.

Peninsulas to visit include Mizen Head, Sheep’s Head, and the Beara Peninsula.

Mizen Head is home to one of the best Irish beaches , Barleycove beach. Schull is the main town from where you can take walking trails. There is also a planetarium and dive school. Mizen Head Visitor Centre is home to the information about the Fastnet Lighthouse (already mentioned, and pictured).

Sheep’s Head Peninsula is a rocky landscape where you can enjoy hiking and walking and also cycling. The Sheep’s Head Way is popular with walkers and is a 93km-long walking route around the peninsula.

The Beara Peninsula is home to parts of both Counties Cork and Kerry. It holds the third major ‘ring’ circular driving route in Ireland and the 137km Ring of Beara can be done in one day. However, you should make time to drive the Healy Pass Road too across the peninsula. At the end of the Beara Peninsula lies Dursey Island (mentioned above).

Fota Island

Lying in Cork Harbour is Fota Island, connected to the mainland by a short bridge. This former private estate is home to one of the fun things to do in Cork with kids, Fota Wildlife Park. As well as the wildlife park, there is a resort hotel, golf course, and beautiful gardens.

Fota Wildlife Park is a large outdoor zoo that has plenty of animals to delight kids including zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, and plenty of monkeys. Animals have enclosures that are large and some even roam free within the zoo itself including some cheeky lemurs. There is also a little train that goes around the zoo and a large playground that kids will love.

Fota House, Arboretum and Gardens are also located on the island and Fota House is a Regency-style house that you can take guided tours of. The 150-year-old arboretum is the highlight, along with the gardens which include walled gardens.

And finally, Fota Island Resort is a luxury hotel that boasts no less than three championship golf courses. There are self-catering holiday homes available if you’d rather not stay in the hotel and there is a spa for pure relaxation.

Michael Collins Trail

One of the interesting things to do in County Cork, Ireland is to embark on a Michael Collins Trail. Born just outside Clonakilty in Cork, Michael Collins was a leading figure in the War of Independence in the early part of the 20 th century and became commander-in-chief of the army of the newly formed Irish Free State in 1922.

There is a Michael Collins Centre in Clonakilty for those who are fans of the revolutionary hero, where you can learn about his life and the times in which he lived. From there, you can join a Michael Collins War of Independence Tour, visiting notable sites around County Cork that are associated with the man himself and the era. Pre-booking is essential. For more information, visit the website .

You can also visit the Michael Collins House , a museum dedicated to the Irish hero and revolutionary figure. This is also located in Clonakilty. This museum also has a Michael Collins Trail ( link here ) that you can follow to visit notable sites from his life and the War of Independence.

Although you might not think it, County Cork is becoming a culinary destination in Ireland. From food to whiskey, Cork is moving up in the world of Irish food and drink.

The Ballymaloe Cookery School is fast becoming the best place to visit in Cork, thanks to its owner and famous chef, Darina Allen. You can do half-day sessions, all the way to 12-week cookery courses.

Clonakilty produces some of the best black and white Irish pudding, one set of Irish foods I miss the most. Clonakilty sausages are also among the best ingredients for a full Irish breakfast.

Cork is also famous for its cheese, with the Mitchelstown and Charleville producers located in the county. Gubbeen Farm Foods are located near Schull and produces artisan cheese. Other products from the Gubbeen Farm include ham, salami, free-range eggs, and organic vegetables.

If you are looking for other artisan produce, head to the Belvelly Smokehouse located 19km east of Cork. This is the oldest smokehouse in Ireland and the owner is happy to show you around (arrange ahead of your visit). Seafood and cheese are smoked here and if you can’t make it to the house, there are stalls to buy the produce at Cobh and Midleton farmer’s markets, and at the Cork English Market.

As for drink, the most famous distillery in Cork is the Midleton Distillery where you can join the Jameson Experience tour to discover how Irish whiskey is made, in one of the best Irish distilleries . Book your ticket ahead of your visit by clicking here .

The West Cork Distillers produce liqueurs, vodka, and a range of whiskies. Although there are no formal tours, visitors are welcome to arrange a visit (call ahead of time).

Where to stay in CORK

Luxury hotels in cork, castlemartyr resort.

This luxury hotel and resort is located 35-minutes east of Cork City. This is among the finest castle hotel resorts in Ireland and if it is luxury you are looking for, then you won’t go wrong with this hotel. Stunning woodlands, a spa, golf course, and three dining options await you here. For more information and to book this hotel, click here .

Fota Island Resort

This 5-star hotel and resort is located on its own island is a haven outside of the bustling city of Cork. The resort has a luxury hotel, self-catering holiday homes, 3 golf courses, a spa, and much more. There are lots of on-site activities, plenty of dining options, and the hotel is ideally located for exploring Cork and Cobh. For the latest prices and availability, click here .

This 5-star luxury hotel is located in Cork City and is the ideal place to stay if you want to be located in Cork City. This family-owned, boutique hotel is often voted among the best in Ireland and offers walled gardens, luxury accommodation, and a relaxing spa, all within a 15-minute walk to the city centre. If you fancy a luxury stay in the heart of Cork City, then Hayfield Manor is for you. Click here for more information and to see the latest prices and availability .

Budget-friendly hotels in CORK

Jury’s inn cork.

One of the best hotels in Cork for budget-friendliness is Jury’s Inn in Cork City. Located on Anderson Quay, you will have a comfortable stay in this affordable hotel. The hotel is centrally located, has an all-day coffee bar, bar menu available, and a seasonal restaurant serving food after 6pm. Click here for the latest prices and availability .

Quality Hotel Youghal – Note, you should contact the hotel direct to enquire if they are taking bookings for 2022.

If you are looking for accommodation in the east of County Cork, then the Quality Hotel in Youghal is a perfect place to stay. With both hotel rooms and self-catering accommodation, this is a great place to stay in Cork, whether you are travelling as a couple or a family. There is a bar, restaurant, and leisure centre on-site. To find out more and see the latest prices, click here .

If you would prefer to base yourself in West Cork, then consider checking in to Casey’s of Baltimore. Located an hour and a half from Cork City, this hotel offers luxury stays at affordable prices. The hotel is located off the Wild Atlantic Way and has a variety of accommodation options, as well as a restaurant and easy access to lots of activities in the area. Find out more and check the latest prices here .

Things to know about County Cork, Ireland

If the county is new to you, or you don’t know much about it, this section has some interesting facts about Cork to know before you go.

Where is County Cork? – County Cork is located in the south of Ireland and in the province of Munster. It has a coastline that lies on the Celtic Sea, an area of the Atlantic Ocean to the south of the Emerald Isle. Cork is bordered by Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford.

County Cork facts :

• Cork in Irish is Corcaigh, from corcach, meaning “marsh”.
• The county covers 7500 square kilometres (2900 square miles) and the population of County Cork is approximately 543,000.
• It is one of the twenty-six counties of the Republic of Ireland.
• Cork is the largest county of Ireland (all 32 counties), by size and 3rd in terms of population. Cork City is the 2 nd largest in Ireland after Dublin.
• Cork has two Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) regions.
• Cork has a mountainous region, the Shehy mountains which form part of the border between Cork and Kerry. The highest peak is Knockboy at 706m.
• Rivers that flow through County Cork include the Lee, the Bandon and the Blackwater.
• The Old Head of Kinsale is the start/end point for Ireland’s famous Wild Atlantic Way Coastal Route.
• Notable cities towns in County Cork – Cork City (only city), Bantry, Midleton, Youghal, Blarney, Cobh, Mallow, Clonakilty, Charleville, and Skibbereen.

Weather in Cork – Cork has a similar climate to the rest of the Emerald Isle, with warm summers and mild, wet winters. Summer days are long with high temperatures of 19˚C (lows of 11˚C), and short, dark winter days with high temperatures of 8˚C (lows of 3˚C). Rain is common throughout the year, with April being the driest month. Don’t travel to Cork at any time of the year without a raincoat and umbrella. If you want to know more about the weather and best time to visit Cork, Ireland, read this post .

Famous people from Cork – Cork has produced its fair share of famous people including Michael Collins (revolutionary leader and hero, already mentioned), Sonia O’Sullivan (athlete), Jack Lynch (former Taoiseach), Micheál Martin (Taoiseach), Roy Keane (footballer), Graham Norton (TV personality), Jonathan Rhys-Meyers (actor) and Cillian Murphy (actor).

Final thoughts on the best things to do in Cork, Ireland

If you have been wondering what are the best things to do and see in Cork, I hope that this guide to the county has helped. From castles to islands and more, these are the best things to do in County Cork, Ireland.

More about visiting Ireland, Cork and its neighbouring counties:

• Best Afternoon Tea in County Cork
• Best Afternoon Tea in Cork City
• Best Places to Go Glamping in Cork
• Best Things to Do in County Tipperary
• Best Things to Do in County Waterford
• Best Time to Visit Ireland
• Navigating Ireland With or Without a Car
• Best Reasons You Should Visit Ireland
• Getting Around Ireland Without a Car
• The Ultimate Ireland Packing List
• Best Places in Ireland to Visit

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County Cork

Travel guide.

• Things to Do

Things to Do in County Cork

The largest of Ireland’s counties, Cork is also one of its most diverse. It encompasses a lively capital city, quiet country villages, rocky hills, picturesque beaches, and long stretches of flat, green farmland. Here, modern tourism (this is where you find Blarney Castle , after all) meets workaday Irish life, and somehow they manage to coexist gracefully. St. Fin Barre founded Cork in the 6th century, when he built a monastery on a swampy estuary of the River Lee, giving the place the rather generic Gaelic name of Corcaigh —which, unromantically, means “marsh.” 

Over the next 600 years, the little piece of swamp would ultimately become the crown in the Kingdom of South Munster, but by the end of the 12th century, the English had asserted their ownership of the region. Over the following centuries, Cork would change hands many times as the English and the Irish struggled for control. It resisted Cromwell's forces, only to lose to William of Orange.

Once firmly under English control, Cork thrived until the 18th century, when it was battered by the potato famine, which drained the region of its wealth and, ultimately, of its population.

It would not be until the end of the twentieth century that Cork would find its own true personality. It's now an affluent, foodie region of the country with a lovely stretch of coast and a laid-back personality. Its tough days seem long behind it.

The county's eponymous capital, Cork, is a university town, which keeps the population young and the arts scene ever evolving, and this also ensures that it has affordable restaurants and buzzing pubs and bars.

Range beyond the city to visit the pretty harbor town of Kinsale, famous for spearheading Ireland’s gourmet food scene in the 1990s and 2000s; the storied seaport of Cobh in East Cork; or the barren beauty of Cape Clear Island in craggy West Cork.

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Ireland Travel Guide: 7 Fantastic Things To See And Do In County Cork

Last Updated on the 7th of September, 2024

Even if you think you know what to expect from a certain place, being there in person will give it so much more context and excitement. After four hours of non-stop travelling, we finally arrived in Ireland’s second-largest city, Cork. Squinting in the bright afternoon sunshine we cheerfully ambled through its narrow alleyway to get a sense of the atmosphere.

Having visited Cork almost a decade ago where we used it as a short stopping point on the route to Killarney, it felt as if this was our first time. We gawked at historic buildings, imposing cathedrals and markets overflowing with fresh produce.

Even after three days of exploring County Cork, literally from dusk till dawn, we left with the slightest hesitation. Completely infatuated we desired to stay for more. We wanted to see more, taste more and photograph more.

If there is one thing to do in this part of Ireland, it’s to be in the present moment and to allow yourself plenty of time to see the sights. Take time to absorb every little architectural detail, smell the freshly baked bread before you take a bite, let the wild wind tangle your hair and calmly drink all the Guinness you can.

Read More : Your Ultimate Guide To Climbing Croagh Patrick In County Mayo, Ireland

Ireland Travel Guide: 7 Fantastic Things to See and Do in County Cork

Coming up with the 7 best things to do and see in County Cork also known as the Rebel County isn’t as easy as you might think. See out of all the 32 counties on the island, in terms of area, Cork is the largest one, covering 7,457 km². Within those square kilometres lies an abundance of things to see.

In short, you can walk the 100 steps in Bantry House and Gardens, take the cable car to Dursey Island, admire the charm and colours of Kinsale, visit Cobh, explore the Garnish Island Gardens, go on a whale-watching trip and more.

We came up with a small list of things for anyone that’s planning on visiting County Cork.

Read More: How To Visit Glenveagh National Park In County Donegal: The Ultimate Guide

#1. Explore its stunning beaches

When you are thinking of a beach holiday and looking to soak up the sun, sea and sand in a beautiful location, Ireland might not be the first place to make the list. And you are right: even at the peak of the summer, we need to wear a wetsuit to go surfing. and you won’t see many swimmers out in the sea.

But when the conditions are right and when the sunny spell reaches Ireland, the beaches are stunning in appearance and are beautiful enough to make you stop in your tracks and take a deep breath.

With the Wild Atlantic Way starting at the Mizen Head peninsula, Cork is home to many beautiful beaches to choose from. Here are, in our humble opinion, some of the best beaches located in County Cork:

• The Warren Beach, Rosscarbery
• Garrylucas Beach, Kinsale
• Inchydoney Beach, Clonakilty
• Shelly Beach, Mizen Head
• Barleycove Beach, West Cork

Read More : How To Spend a Brilliant Weekend In Beautiful Killarney, Ireland

#2. Visit the charming town of Cobh

Cobh is a very pretty port town located a 30-minute drive away from Cork City famous for its colourful row of terraced houses.

Over the centuries, the town was the departure point for millions of Irish emigrants who fled Ireland either to Canada or the United States. Cobh was also the last port of call for the Titanic before it set sail on its fateful voyage.

While in town, you can visit the Titanic Experience museum which provides valuable information on the ill-fated Titanic and the Lusitania, get to know more about Ireland’s Ancient East at the Cobh Heritage Centre and catch a boat to Spike Island.

If you are staying in Cork, you can either drive to Cobh or can take a train from Kent Station. Cork station (Kent) is a brisk 10-minute walk from Cork City Centre and Cobh station is only a 3-minute walk to Cobh town.

Read More: 10 Essential Items To Pack For An Unforgettable Trip To The Emerald Isle

#3. Take in the views at Mizen Head

If you wish to cross the iconic Mizen bridge and experience the solitude of the Keeper’s lives that a day trip to Mizen Head makes for an adventure to remember. Combining history and stunning coastal scenery, Mizen Head is one of the most southwesterly points on the Emerald Isle located about a two hours drive from Cork.

The tickets grant access to the Station Keeper’s Quarters and the Marconi Radio Room. You can also see the visitor’s centre has exhibits on sea life, geology, local lighthouses and the history of Mizen Head.

• Parking: There is a large free parking lot in front of the visitor’s centre when you arrive.
• Getting there : From Cork take the N71 and then take the Ballydehob exit.
• Entrance fee: Adult: EUR 7.59, Senior/Student: EUR 6, Child under 14: EUR 4.50

Read More: Your Guide To Exploring Burren National Park In County Clare, Ireland

#4. Discover the West Cork Islands

If you want to witness the Gulf Stream working its magic on Garnish Island located in the sheltered harbour of Glengarriff in Bantry Bay then take a trip out on a small boat from Glengarriff Pier and walk among sub-tropical plants.

Garnish is a small island of 15 hectares and it takes around 15 minutes to reach them by ferry.

The main sights on the island, besides the blooming gardens, are Bryce House and the Martello Tower. Unfortunately, due to social distancing restrictions, they were closed during our visit,

The day we visited the weather on the mainland was cold but as soon as we hit the island we could feel the increase in temperature. We only stayed about 90 minutes but would recommend staying longer to see everything

The island is spectacular throughout the year, but if you wish to see the vivid colours of rhododendrons and azaleas then make sure you plan your visit from May to June.

• Getting there: Get the Garnish Island ferry from the Main Pier in Glengarriff Co.Cork

Read More: Ireland Travel Guide: Top 9 Things To See And Do In Beautiful Connemara

#5. Explore Cork City and take a trip to Blarney Castle

Known throughout the country for its exceptional food, Cork is the second-largest city in Republic , but the locals call it the real capital of Ireland.

Top attractions in the city include Cork City Gaol, Cork Public Museum that’s known as The Shrubberies, the Crawford Municipal Art Gallery, the English Market and the Shandon Tower just to name a few.

If you’re staying in self-catered accommodation in Cork, then visiting the English Market, that’s been in its present location since 1788, is a must. You can pick up traditional specialities like drisheen and pigs’ trotters or stock up on fresh bread, fish, cheese and fruit, veg to make your own dinner.

Situated five miles northwest of Cork City, Blarney Castle is a solid fixture on almost any tour itinerary and makes for a great day trip if you are staying in Cork City. The partly ruined fortress at Blarney is one of the most visited castles in Ireland.

Originally built by the MacCarthy dynasty, The Blarney Castle is nearly 600 years old and its main attraction is the Blarney Stone. Legend has it that anyone that kisses a limestone block will instantly receive the Irish “gift of the gab”.

Read More: A Short Guide To Visiting Clare Island In County Mayo, Ireland

#6. Go Whale and Dolphin Watching

Pay tribute to the city’s seafaring heart and catch a boat for a morning of whale watching. Dolphins, humpback whales and basking sharks –  the second biggest fish in the sea, behind whale sharks – are amongst the most common sights around Cork.

You could even combine whale and dolphin sighting with a Fastnet Rock Tour as it crosses through some of the best areas for sighting these impressive creatures. The boat tour will bring you to Ireland’s most southerly Gaeltacht Island Cape Clear Island where you’ll have a chance to see the Fastnet Exhibition and multimedia display in the Cape Clear & Fastnet Rock Heritage Centre. 

Fastnet Rock direct Tour departs from Shull and Baltimore, is around 2.5 – 3hrs long and provides once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities.

Read More: 20+ Memorable Things To Do In Sligo, Ireland For Every Type Of Traveller

#7. Hit the trails at Gougagne Barra

Located in West Cork, the area around Gougagne Barra is a wonderful place if you are looking to engage with Ireland’s fascinating history and scenic locations. The peaceful valley is home to Gougane Barra Lake with the well-known St Finbarr’s Oratory located on the lakes island. Surrounding Caha mountains and stunning woodlands are filled with a great number of hiking trails offering nature lovers panoramic views over the magnificent Forest Park and steeply sloping hills.

Within its 137 hectares, you’ll find six walking trails to suit all levels of fitness. The most majestic of all the trails in the park, the one that we chose to tackle despite the rain is  Slí na Sléibhe. The trail is 2.5 km in length and brings you 130 metres above your starting point.

• Getting there : Gougane Barra is located just 1 hr 30 minutes drive from Cork City driving via Ballingeary
• Facilities on site : Car park and restroom facilities both inside and outside of the park. Cronin’s Bar & Café for food and a warm cup of tea. There is also  Gougane Barra Hotel if you wish to spend a night.
• Entrance : If you wish to drive the scenic loop through the Gougane Barra Forest Park, it costs €5 fee in coins on entry. Otherwise, you can leave your car beside the church which is around 700 m from the park entrance and continue on foot for free.

Read More: Ireland Travel Guide: 8 Amazing Things To See And Do On A Trip Around Inishowen Peninsula

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Now, over to you!

Have you been to County Cork? Let us know in the comments!

Let us know if you are plotting a visit to Cork and have travel-related questions!

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58 thoughts on “ Ireland Travel Guide: 7 Fantastic Things To See And Do In County Cork ”

You’ve made me want to go to cork!! It looks beautiful and I didn’t realise there was so much to do! X

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We loved exploring Cork. Cork and the adjacent coastline have a strong seafaring and trading tradition and once you leave the beautiful city behind, you’ll find many amazing things to do. Like the Dursey Island Cable Car which is the only in Europe that goes over the sea. How cool is that? Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

Cobh looks fascinating. 🙂

We had such a great time visiting Cobh! The town is dominated by St. Colman’s Cathedral and some of the best attraction includes a 60-minute minute Titanic Trail walking tour, the Cobh Museum, and the Queenstown Story Heritage Centre. Thanks for stopping y and have a lovely day. Aiva

Hi Aiva, your posts are really amazing at making me want to come to visit these places in Ireland;-) The pictures are spectacular. I’m bookmarking this for when we can travel easily again. Thanks 🙂

Thanks so much. We love where we live and we love exploring Ireland but I hope we can start travelling again one day. I would love to go home to see my family and friends, but who knows when that’s going to happen. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

Great pictures! we toured Ireland a year or two ago, and were very unimpressed by Cork – clearly we have missed a thing or two! You’ve made me want to go back.

We were surprised by how there was to see and do in County Cork. We started with visiting Cork and Cobh and then headed towards West Cork that begins at Kinsale and runs in a westerly direction to Dursey Island at the tip of the Beara Peninsula. The further west we drove, the more rugged and “wild west” the landscape became. We loved Gougane Barra and its forested hills sweeping up from the lake of the same name. Thanks for reading and I hope you get to revisit Cork one day. Aiva

West cork looks wonderful, definitely would like to visit these locations in future!

West Cork is magical and one of the unique things you can sign up for is midnight kayaking in the bioluminescent waters of Lough Hyne which is the only saltwater lake in Europe. It’s definitely an experience not to be missed and never to be forgotten. Thanks for reading and I hope you get to explore Cork one day. Take care. Aiva

Cork is definitely on my travel bucket list now. Seems like a place that I would enjoy with such a stunning landscape and rugged shoreline. I bet there’s some nice hiking here.

I can’t believe we waited for so long to finally visit Cork. We enjoyed hiking through the beautiful Gougane Barra forest and visiting blooming Garnish Island. I would love to return one day to challenge myself to undertake Sheep’s Head Trail Main Loop trail which is 93km long walk that starts and finishes in Bantry town. The trail is rated as difficult, divided into 11 sections and features wild scenery, picturesque loughs and fantastic coastal views. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

Super wonderful photos… I bet you really enjoyed your trip. I’d love to see that garden, the beach and cliffs and the town, OK everything…LOL

Thank you, Pam. We did enjoy the trip very much; it was so nice to finally hit the road and set foot in another city. The garden was quite a surprise. Located in the sheltered harbour it felt like we were far away from everything. Thanks for stopping by. I hope all is well. Aiva

It’s so nice to catch up on your blog and the wonderful photography again – especially when we can’t travel at the moment. I hope everything is well where you are and that you are having a lovely start to the autumn x

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Thank you very much. I’m so excited for the changing seasons; I was born in November and the fall is my favourite time of the year. The leaves are still green, but it’s exciting to wake up to mist-covered mountains and low hanging clouds. Ireland is a spectacular place to explore and photograph. Thanks for stopping by and take care. I hope all is well. Hugs and kisses. Aiva

Fabulous post Aiva. We have enjoyed a couple of visits to Cork, once in 1977, when we visited Blarney Castle with 10,000 other tourists and more recently when Cork won the Irish football championship. We visited Cobh then too, as that is where Patty’s father caught his boat to Canada. Great memories. Thanks. Allan

Thanks so much, Allan. Visiting Cobh and seeing from where her father sailed to Canada must have been an emotional moment for Patty. We are both emigrants and that’s why it was very interesting and quite emotional for us to see the historic pier, dubbed the Heartbreak Pier by locals in Cobh and learn about many Irish emigrants who left the country never to return again. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. I hope you re enjoying your time in the Canadian wilderness. Aiva

It looks absolutely stunning. I love the steep cliffs, the cute villages, the beach! I kissed the Blarney stone when I was 12, I think it’s time to visit again. My 12 year old eyes didn’t appreciate the beauty of the landscapes.

We loved by the steep cliffs to and were amazed by how rugged the coastline around cork is. Because of COVID, many attractions were closed and that’s why we didn’t get to see the famous Blarney Castle. Instead, we enjoyed visiting lesser-known parts of southwest Ireland and loved everything we saw along the way. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

The coasts of Co. Cork, how many wonderful places to discover. I loved Cobh, but strangely I never felt very comfortable in Cork City, maybe those slopes that surround and reduce the city centre to a few streets, the university is worth seeing. Blarney Castle, I have a more mixed feeling, I climbed up there, but I feel that the story of the kiss looks like a tourist circus.

Having lived in the small town of Sligo for nearly three years, it was nice to finally visit a bigger city. The weather was cold and rainy and we escaped to the famous English Market. Blarney Castle was closed due to the coronavirus, but I am not sure about kissing the Blarney Stone! I wouldn’t be that keen on laying my lips on Ireland’s most germ-ridden tourist attraction! Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

You really can transport us with your narrative Aiva. Wonderful, so well written and so much valuable information. I love it completely and now will begin planning a visit (hopefully soon). Your photographs are brilliant, they alone can tell a clear story. Take good care Aiva and all the best to you and your family, Francisco

Thank you very much, Francisco. Exploring Ireland and learning more about its history has made us fall in love with it even more. Because of the coronavirus, we didn’t get to visit many places, but it was still nice to be back on the road. Who knows what’s going to happen next year, the pandemic is far from over and that’s why it’s so important to make the most of every moment. Have a good day. Aiva

Making the most of every moment is definitely my mantra…

I’ve only been to Cork and Blarney Castle, but Mizen Head’s cliffs look absolutely stunning! I’d love to go back to Ireland and explore more of it, especially in Cork County. Thanks for sharing your adventures with us!

Exploring Mizen Head was a highlight of the trip, that’s for sure. The views from the Bridge have to be seen to be believed; every time we visit, we capture different colours in the rock and different blues in the ocean. We loved the history behind the Lighthouse and exploring the coast at a slow pace making every moment count. You need a clear day to get the most from the visit and if you want solitude then you can go to Sheeps Head that’s located a few miles to the north. Thanks for stopping by, Rebecca and have a good day. Aiva

Fabulous post. Felt an incredible pull to travel to Ireland and experience these adventures for ourselves. Hopefully, one day.

Thank you very much. Exploring Cork and seeing most of its famous and lesser-known attractions made for a fun family adventure. The cultural region of West Cork is one of the most popular tourist areas in all of Ireland thanks in large part to its rural beauty, but the towns and little villages are beautiful too. Couldn’t recommend this part of Ireland enough! Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

Wow! How dreamy. Definitely adding to my travel list now!

Cork is a fresh-faced city and home of the University College Cork often touted as the best place to study in Ireland. I hope you get to visit once we are allowed to travel. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

I couldn’t agree with you more about staying in the present moment and giving yourself time. This region certainly looks like one that shouldn’t be rushed. Your photos are stunning Aiva. I’m particularly charmed by the town of Cobh and its interesting history.

Thanks so much, Caroline, I am so glad to hear from you again. Our initial plan was to spend two weeks driving around the whole of Ireland, but we didn’t want to rush through its villages and towns. In the end, we settled to visit Ireland’s southwest and take each day as it comes. It was nice to sit behind the wheel and hit the road without going through the usual madness in Airports. Thanks for stopping by. I hope all is well. Aiva

I love the peace and serenity of your last image! I so wish I’d have taken that photo!!

Thank you very much. Gougane Barra is a little slice of heaven and because of its lush green landscapes, it is a very popular place for wedding ceremonies. I’ve seen many stunning images from the little church and was delighted to finally feast my eyes on it in person. Have a good day. Aiva

This place looks like it’s right out of a fairytale, oh my god! These are such beautiful pictures, and it almost seems like they’re stuck in time and surrounded by magic! What a lovely place to visit, I hope I get to see it someday! Hope you’re having a lovely week! 🙂

Thank you very much, Arshia. Exploring our backyard has been an experience o remember in years to come. I’m so glad we had an opportunity to do it despite the current madness and now we can peacefully look towards changing seasons and fast approaching winter months. I hope all is well with you and your family. Thanks for stopping by and take care. Aiva

So much to do! Sounds like you could spend your entire vacation in Cork and still not see it all!

Exploring Cork and Ireland’s southwest was just what was needed for our family after living in lockdown for a month on end. Instead of rushing through the region and barely seeing places, we decided to travel slowly and savour the changing landscape.

Yes, you are right. Given the size of the county and endless amounts of places to see, you could easily devote your entire vacation to exploring it and still not see it all. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

What lovely weather you got!!! Lucky you. We were on the Beara peninsula this summer and got to Garnish Island for the first time ever. The Gougane Barra area is new to me so I’m definitely going to follow up on that. The whole of West Cork is stunning isn’t it. Spike Island is probably closed at the moment but is worth a visit when in Cobh. Hope you all keeping well in Sligo. XXXMarie

Hi, Marie. I’ve been to Cork many times, but it was our first time visiting the Beara Peninsula, the Gougane Barra and Garnish Island and I was blown away by everything we had a chance to see and do. Our road trip took place two months ago, but we still talk about it.

I’ve heard about the Gouganne Barra many times but being there in person, seeing the charismatic church and hiking through the park was a memorable experience. There is plenty of parking options, accessible bathrooms and various trails for hill or forest walking.

We spend the night in Cobh and wanted to take a trip to the Spike Island, but given the large amount of crowd that gathered to get on the boat, decided to leave it for some other time when social distancing isn’t necessary. Thanks for stopping by. I hope all is well. Aiva

I’m surprised the Spike island boat was running at all … although the Garnish one was operating when we were in Glengariff. I’m delighted with your suggestions re Gougane Barra – starting to put a list together of future trips here at home… just in case…

I wasn’t able to get to County Cork when I visited Ireland, but it was high on my list. Loved your photos and descriptions of the area, and will use as a guide whenever its possible to get there. Thank you! -Michael

Thanks so much, Michael. County Cork was wild, rugged and full of lovely places to explore. I particularly loved Gougane Barra with its various hiking trails and the trip to Garnish Island. I’m so delighted we jumped at a chance to explore Ireland; case numbers are rising across the country and many counties are back again in lockdown. Can’t wait to see the end of it. Thanks for reading and I hope you get to visit Cork one day. Aiva

Another excellent post Aiva. Well, our “Irish bucket list” is getting longer and longer with every post you publish! I guess, we will need to stay at least a month in Ireland now 🙈. Thank you! Hope you are keeping well, Martina x x.

Hi, Martina, how are you? As we haven’t been anywhere except Ireland for well over a year, my travel wish list has grown immensely. I would love to take a few months off work and explore the world, but who knows when that’s going to happen. A girl can still dram, thou! Thanks for reading and have a good day. I am super excited autumn has finally arrived; this particular season keeps me a few feet of the ground! Take care. Aiva xxx

so happy i ran across your blog. great content 🙂

Thanks so much, girls and right back at you – love your blog and colourful pictures. Have a good day and thanks for stopping by. Aiva

Nice short guide to Cork 😅. Love it and the featured photography!! I’ve been to the University of Cork with my class at the start of this year for a debating event but other than that, i’ve never really much of anything else of Cork, bar the Mizen Head Cliffs, though they are outside of the city really. What do you love most about the City 😅

Hi, David. Given Cork’s size and variety of attractions, you can easily write a book about everything there is to see and do. We were quite pushed for time and really managed to squeeze quite a lot of locations into a short space of time. If you would like to get more out of the trip and engage in more activities than just sightseeing, we would recommend more than three days. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

Amazing post, the photos are really good and have made us want to visit! We have literally driven through Cork but this makes us want to travel down and spend a bit of time exploring when things open up again!

While Ireland might be thought of as a small country that is easy to get around, there are so many hidden gems and beautiful things to see and do that you will honestly never have enough time to travel all around it!

After spending some time in County Cork, I have already curated a list of things that I want to see and do when we go back! Visiting Mizzen Head was one of the trip highlights, I can highly recommend visiting it. Thanks for stopping by, I hope all is well. Aiva

This is one of my dream places. Thank you for making an article about Ireland. Amazing. Keep posting.

Thank you very much. Visiting Cork has been a dream of mine for a very long time. Although we missed travelling abroad this year, we had so much joy exploring our backyard. Ireland is a truly magical country. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

Late to the party here in commenting on this post, but wow! Thanks for sharing. These photos are AMAZING. I have been wanting to go to Cork because I am a huge Michael Collins fan, but I had no idea it had so much other stuff to offer. Those beach views!! Be still my heart! ❤ Great post!!

Thanks so much, Katie. We didn’t get time to visit the house where Michael Collins once lived. And because of the pandemic, many galleries and museums were closed to the public. I have to say that the Irish are one a talented bunch. Numerous people from all over the Emerald Isle have excelled in the fields of music, literature, science, and just about anything else you can think of. There must be something in the soil. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

County Cork is fantastic!! I live on the Seven Heads peninsula in West Cork, moved from Sweden in 2020, and will never look back. There are some nice places on this list (although I would also add the town of Clonakilty with its brilliant music scene and lots of interesting events in the summer, in years without pandemics of course). I really need to visit Garnish island, especially after reading here about the exotic plants! Garnish island isn’t far from us but for some reason we haven’t yet been there – perhaps because it’s so close that we think we can go anytime. But will definitely visit next summer, if all goes well.

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Cork Travel Guide: Best Places To Stay, Eat And See (For 2024)

Categories Cork , Travel Guides

Are you looking for a comprehensive Cork travel guide ? 

Cork City is the second largest city in Ireland after  Dublin . Corkonians, however, refer to Cork as the “Real Capital” owing to its history.

For a long period of time, Cork had a sizable seaport. It began on an island in the Lee River’s swampy estuary (where the name Cork comes from the Irish word Corcaigh, meaning “marsh”) and gradually climbed both sides of the steep banks. Viking invaders expanded Cork, which had begun as a monastic settlement, around 915.

Cork was once completely surrounded by fortifications, and remnants of the medieval town center can still be seen on South and North Main streets.

The city earned the nickname “the rebel city” as a result of its support for the Yorkist cause during the Wars of the Roses. Corkonians refer to the city as “the real capital” because of its opposition to the Anglo-Irish Treaty during the Irish Civil War.

Cork’s city center is now an island sandwiched between two Lee River channels that meet downstream at the city’s eastern end, where quays and docks connect to Lough Mahon and Cork Harbour, one of the world’s largest natural harbors.

Things you'll find in this article

Best Time To Visit Cork

How to get around cork, where to stay in cork, where to eat , where to drink/party , things to do in cork .

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As a tourist destination, Cork has something for everyone. Numerous parks, museums, galleries, and other tourist attractions are located throughout the city . The picturesque city center provides easy access to numerous historical, natural, and cultural attractions.

Are you thinking about making a trip to this southern city in the near future? This Cork travel guide will assist you in planning your visit and revealing why Cork City is referred to as Ireland’s “true” capital.

Temperatures in the southern city of Cork are regulated by the North Atlantic Current, which travels through the Atlantic Ocean. Cork receives significantly more rain than Dublin throughout the year, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in the winter months. If you are planning to visit, make sure to check weather forecasts.

From May to August is the best time to visit Cork. It’s also a good idea to go in the early fall. Cork hosts an abundance of fantastic festivals. Many of them take place between spring and autumn, when Cork is at its most picturesque. The Cork Jazz Festival and the Cork Folk Festival are two fantastic festivals to attend in October .

Cork, as a major city in Ireland, has a well-developed public transportation system. This simplifies the process of getting around Cork.

If you are planning to visit the city’s major tourist attractions , the city is compact enough that you may be able to walk almost everywhere.

Other places or day trips , like Blarney Castle & Gardens , would require taking public transportation. If you’re visiting Cork soon and want to know how to get around, check out this Cork travel guide to help you out.

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Cork, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland, is beautiful all year. It is a cosmopolitan college town with affordable dining and a vibrant nightlife.

As one of Ireland’s larger cities, Cork offers a diverse selection of hostels, bed and breakfasts, hotels, and vacation rentals to suit any traveler’s needs and budget.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Cork City .

Kinlay House Hostel Cork

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Cheap dormitory rooms with a bright and lively atmosphere are what make Kinlay House Hostel. Guests could enjoy a walking distance from the Cork English Market as well as the Cork Opera House.

Kinlay House is one of the most flexible accommodations in Cork. It has a variety of rooms to choose from. They have private standard rooms for those who want to enjoy a room for themselves.

If you want to stick to your budget, they also have dormitory rooms offered at a cheap price.

For the latest rate,  click here. 

Hotel Isaacs Cork

First on the list of mid-range hotels in Cork is Hotel Isaacs which is one of the best value accommodations in the city. Check out its affordable spacious rooms.Hotel Isaacs is a boutique hotel that offers mid-range rooms for guests who want to stay close to the city center.

The English Market and Shandon Steeple are the closest attractions from the hotel but bus stops leading to other parts of Cork are also nearby. Each room has a full kitchen and a private bathroom.

For the latest rate,  click here.  

Hayfield Manor

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel with a beauty spa and an elegant restaurant, Hayfield Manor is the perfect accommodation for you. They have a variety of luxurious rooms fit for royalties like their guests.

The bedrooms are not only fancy but the toilets as well. The rooms also feature a flat-screen TV and an entertainment system. If you prefer a relaxing afternoon, the hotel also has a pretty garden for afternoon walks and beauty treatments in its spa.

For the latest rate,  click here

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Cork is dubbed the “foodie capital” of Ireland. That alone should persuade you to pay a visit to this charming city.  Many of Ireland’s best and most prestigious restaurants are located in the city.

From cafes and eateries serving food made with the famous Cork butter (visit the museum , too!) and cheese to seafood restaurants, here are some of the best dining places in Cork.

Strasbourg Goose

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A restaurant in Cork known for its unbeatable value for money, Strasbourg Goose should be on top of your must-visit places to eat here.They have the popular three-course menu that costs 21, with a varied menu for each course.

If you avail of this, there’s also an option to trade one course for a glass of wine. Regular customers recommend that you try their seafood offerings as a starter, then go for the steak and finish with a decadent dessert.

The food is delicious and the portions are quite generous, so make it a point to visit this restaurant when you’re in Cork. 

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Café Gusto (@cafegusto)

A classic example of a small place but big in taste, Cafe Gusto serves casual dining fare that are hearty and delicious.

This is the Cork restaurant that’s known for its rolls, salads, and wraps, as well as tapas and hot dishes. Try their filling sandwiches as well as dishes like Italian meatballs or Iberico Chorizo & Chickpea Stew.

Cafe Gusto also serves good coffee and if you’re going here in the evening, you may bring your own drinks for a minimal corkage fee. 

Farmgate Cafe

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Farmgate Cafe is among the best restaurants in Cork for a reason, and it starts with its location. It is in the mezzanine of the English Market, and you can even choose a seat where you can watch the hustle and bustle in the area.

If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, the dining room boasts of artsy walls that feature works by local artists and even poetry. This poetry wall features poems from Irish and international poets, carefully curated by the café.

A lovely place to visit any time of the day, Farmgate  Cafe serves local dishes, using quality ingredients sourced from local producers.

A must-try is their tripe and onions with drisheen, Irish lamb stew, and their hearty sandwiches. 

If you’re in Cork for a visit and want to experience the nightlife, you’re in for a treat! Owing to Cork’s university status, expect to see a large number of young, energetic students in search of cheap drinks and a good time!

This is the crowd you want to be around when you’re in the mood to party, and this Cork nightlife guide should assist you in planning your ideal pub crawl. Thus, here are some of Cork’s best drinking and partying establishments.

Costigan’s Pub

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Costigan’s dates back to 1849 when it first opened its doors for business, making it one of Cork City’s oldest pubs. Visitors to the city often stop by to sample the pub’s extensive selection of gins and whiskeys.

With its prime location on Washington Street, Costigan’s managed to hold on to much of its historic charm. The bar counter, cozy snug, and parlor area with fireplace are all part of the establishment’s offerings.

The Corner House

The Corner House offers a glimpse into more traditional Irish nightlife, which may be too. laid back for professional partygoers. It’s a convenient location for a night out in the Victorian Quarter.

The Corner House has a wide selection of beverages, from wine to craft beer, on its menu. Local bands and singers perform traditional Irish music in the early evenings and into the wee hours of the night. This is a great spot to unwind with a cold beer.

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“Sin E” (Gaelic for “this is it”) is a fitting name for this pub, which truly does have it all. With over 150 years of continuous service, this bar is not short on history or character. Downstairs is always crowded, so if you prefer to sit, you’ll want to arrive early.

The atmosphere at Sin-E remains vibrant, with a long-standing tradition of good music and beer to keep things going strong. The bartenders are enthusiastic and attentive as they serve up a wide selection of spirits and local craft beers to their customers. This folk music joint’s relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to strike up a conversation with the locals.

There are almost innumerable things to do in Cork City . The city is home to a number of Cork county’s most popular tourist attractions.

There is something for everyone, from historical landmarks and world-famous restaurants to museums and bustling little pubs. This Cork travel guide includes a variety of activities that will ensure that you get the most out of your visit.

Fancy the 16th-century art in the Crawford Art Gallery, Cork

The Crawford Art Gallery holds an array of art pieces from the 16th century until the present. It features paintings, sculptures, and prints on all three floors of the building. While there are permanent exhibits, the gallery also has open doors for special exhibits which are only available for a certain season. It also offers presentations and hands-on experiences.

Revisit the city’s history in Cork Public Museum

This Georgian House in one of the most popular parks in Cork City hosts a variety of artifacts which could help you take a tour back to the city’s past. The Cork Public Museum exhibits items from the Bronze Era, War of Independence, etc. You can also find examples of  Cork  silver and needlepoint lace in this museum.

Take a trip to the Cork City Gaol

Of course, Cork City also has unusual tourist attractions which turned out to be one of the best experiences in the city. The  Cork City Gaol  used to be the city’s home for lawless citizens until it was closed in 1923.

From 1824 until 1923, this prison witnessed a lot of history which is now the main highlight of the guided tours in Cork City Gaol.

It also has a picnic area for families who want to stay after the tour, a souvenir shop for those who want to take home badass pieces of the prison’s history, and a cafe for those who want to take a break.

Be mesmerized by St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral

Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral is a neo-Gothic cathedral built for the devotees of the city’s patron saint. This cathedral is surely difficult to miss most especially when you’re walking along Dean Street at night.

The three spires of the cathedral and its architectural style give the city’s skyline a mystical touch.

The interior of the cathedral is also as breathtaking as the exterior so whether you’re in Cork City as a pilgrim or as a tourist, the Cathedral should make it to your list of things to do in Cork City.

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 60 countries for the past 12 years. I also lived in 4 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia, Africa and now in Europe. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images

Ireland's second city is first in every important respect – at least according to the locals, who cheerfully refer to it as the 'real capital of Ireland'. It's a liberal, youthful and cosmopolitan place that was badly hit by economic recession but is now busily reinventing itself with spruced-up streets, revitalised stretches of waterfront, and – seemingly – an artisan coffee bar on every corner. There's a bit of a hipster scene, but the best of the city is still happily traditional – snug pubs with live-music sessions, restaurants dishing up top-quality local produce, and a genuinely proud welcome from the locals.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Cork City Gaol

This imposing former prison is well worth a visit, if only to get a sense of how awful life was for prisoners a century ago. An audio tour (€2 extra)…

English Market

The English Market – so called because it was set up in 1788 by the Protestant or ‘English’ corporation that then controlled the city (there was once an…

Crawford Art Gallery

Cork's public gallery houses a small but excellent permanent collection covering the 17th century through to the modern day, though the works on display…

St Fin Barre's Cathedral

Spiky spires, gurning gargoyles and elaborate sculpture adorn the exterior of Cork's Protestant cathedral, an attention-grabbing mixture of French Gothic…

Cork Butter Museum

Cork has a long tradition of butter manufacturing – in the 1860s it was the world's largest butter market, exporting butter throughout the British Empire …

University College Cork

Established in 1845 as one of three 'queen's colleges' (the others are in Galway and Belfast) set up to provide nondenominational alternatives to the…

Blackrock Castle

Blackrock Castle is a restored 16th-century castle that now, rather incongruously, hosts a small hands-on science centre, an inflatable planetarium and a…

Elizabeth Fort

Originally built in the 1620s, and serving as a garda (police) station from 1929 to 2013, this small star-shaped artillery fort once formed an important…

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Cork Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 5, 2024

Cork is a bustling city nestled on Ireland’s southern coast. Originally a maritime hub, today Cork is a cosmopolitan university city filled with cheap eats and a fun nightlife scene.

Breathtaking all year round, Cork is one of the more popular cities in the country (it’s the second-largest city in Ireland ). Many travelers come here to kiss the Blarney Stone for good luck, hike around Gougane Barra, and bask in the postcard-perfect coastal landscapes around Mizen Head.

The city also boasts historic castles, art galleries, museums, water activities, vibrant festivals, and day trips galore to charming towns and scenic landscapes. I thought the city lived up to all the hype and really enjoyed my time here.

This travel guide to Cork can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in the beautiful destination.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip

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Top 5 things to see and do in cork.

1. Kiss the Blarney Stone

Built nearly 600 years ago, Blarney Castle is now in partial ruin. However, at the top lies the Stone of Eloquence, more commonly known as the Blarney Stone. Here visitors hang upside down to kiss it for good luck. Numerous legends surround the stone and its power. Some believe that it was brought to Ireland after the Crusades, or that Cormac Laidir MacCarthy (a 15th-century Irish chieftain) was told of its power after saving a witch from drowning. Others believe that the stone absorbed the magical tears of a fairy queen as she wept for her beloved. Either way, for 200 years people from around the world have made the pilgrimage to receive the stone’s luck — including Winston Churchill, Sir Walter Scott, Mick Jagger, and Ronald Reagan. While the stone is neat, I think the gardens are the real prize here where you can stroll along the paths through 60 acres of pristine gardens and admire plants from around the world.

2. Tour Bantry House

Dating to 1730, this historic manor (originally known as Blackrock) is known for its art collection and tapestries. Probably one of its most redeeming features, however, is the fantastic view over Bantry Bay as well as its lovely gardens. The luxurious décor and gorgeous natural setting make this an ideal place to spend an afternoon, and perhaps even overnight as several of the stately rooms have been converted into B&B accommodations. On a sunny day, you can visit the Bantry House Tea Room and purchase a takeaway picnic with wine to enjoy in the extensive gardens. Admission is 24 EUR.

3. See Mizen Head

Ireland’s southernmost point, Mizen Head is the tip of the peninsula near Cork. It’s an iconic stopping point along Ireland’s famed Wild Atlantic Way and is located along an important transatlantic shipping route. Over the years, Mizen Head has served as the first sighting of European land for many sailors. Make a point of climbing the 99 steps and walking the suspension bridge to enjoy the crashing Atlantic as it smashes against this stunning landscape. Once you cross the bridge you’ll find a lighthouse, a weather station, and a signal station. The old signal station now serves as a museum commemorating the Mizen Head’s historical importance.

4. Wander the English Market

Dating to 1788, this is one of the oldest covered markets in Ireland (and Europe ). In its earliest days, it functioned as a meat market, but the original building was lost in a fire. The building that houses the English Market today dates to the mid-19th century and is celebrated for its Victorian-inspired design, stained glass windows, archways, and a central cast iron fountain. Besides offering a wide array of world foods to sample, the market also plays host to boutiques and department stores as well as a handful of restaurants and cafes. If you’re cooking some of your own food, the market is an excellent place to shop for fresh local produce as well as traditional cheeses and baked goods. Locals travel for miles to shop for the best seafood and meat in Cork.

5. Hike around Gougane Barra

Gougane Barra is a settlement and protected forest near Gougane Barra Lake at the mouth of the River Lee. There’s a beautiful loop around the lake that you can hike as well as an old monastery on a small island. Legend says the original structure was built in the 6th century by Saint Finbarr. More recent ruins from a hermitage built by a priest named Denis O’Mahony remain on the island. During the Penal Laws period (a time of religious oppression), the area became a retreat for Catholics to celebrate mass. Now, a more modern chapel with a beautiful interior sits close to the ruins. The area has been reforested in recent years and you can enjoy 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) of hiking trails through woodland with over twenty species of native and non-native trees.

Other Things to See and Do in Cork

1. Visit Baltimore fishing village

This charming fishing town is located 90 minutes from Cork. It started as an English colony in 1600 but was eventually sacked, devolving into a haven for pirates for almost two centuries. Today, Baltimore is a lovely place to relax with its colorful houses, quiet streets, and coastal views. You can explore local pubs, go fishing, whale watching, or scuba diving around shipwrecks in the bay. If you have time, take the ferry to one of the nearby islands. Cape Clear has prehistoric and Neolithic archaeological sites and Sherkin is known for its Franciscan friary, arts, and handicrafts.

2. See the Cork Butter Museum

Here you can learn about all things butter. (Irish butter is a huge industry. To me, it’s the second best butter in the world. France has the first in my opinion.) You’ll learn how butter was first made in Ireland, how they used to preserve butter in bogs, and how the commercial butter trade blossomed here into a huge industry. The Cork Butter Exchange was central to the city’s trade in the 1700s and it grew into the largest butter market in the world. There’s even a collection of butter wrappers from Irish dairies over the years. While it’s a quirky museum it’s also super informative and unlike any other museum you’ll visit! Admission is 5 EUR.

3. Visit the Church of Saint Anne Shandon

Shandon, meaning “Old Fort” in Gaelic, was one of the original settlements in medieval Ireland. Located just across the River Lee, this church was completed in 1726 on the site of an even older church that dates back to the 12th century. You can climb the 132 steps to the top of the church’s bell tower to take in the view (it’s one of the best in Cork). You can also ring the church bells when you get to the. Admission is 6 EUR. Be sure to dress respectfully as this is a place of worship.

4. Learn about (and sample some) whiskey

If you’re a whiskey fan, take a tour of the Jameson Distillery and see how Irish whiskey is made. Jameson is one of the oldest whiskey companies in Ireland and is the best-selling Irish whiskey in the world. On a tour, you’ll visit the main buildings and learn how their whiskey is made and how the company got started. There are several different tours, but the Jameson Distillery Experience tour is the best value at 26 EUR. It’s 75 minutes long and includes a whiskey sample.

5. Escape to Doneraile Wildlife Park

This park has over 400 acres of deciduous trees, herds of deer, and numerous walking paths. There are canals and ponds too. Located within the park is Doneraile Court, an early 18th-century manor built by Arthur St Leger, the 1st Viscount of Doneraile. The house is open to visit from March to October with guided tours. There’s also a tearoom where you can enjoy a snack in the historic setting. The grounds are well-maintained and resemble historic landscaped parks from the 18th and 19th centuries. From April-October, guided tours of Doneraile Court are available for 8 EUR. It’s just 45 minutes north of Cork by car.

6. Visit the Lewis Glucksman Gallery

Located on the University College Cork campus, The Glucksman is an exquisite gallery housed in an award-winning building made of limestone, timber, and steel (it won Ireland’s ‘Best Public Building’ design award in 2005). Most of the art you’ll see is contemporary and spans a variety of subject matters and mediums. Because it’s part of the university, there is a strong focus on providing educational programs and workshops for exploring modern art so try to attend a workshop if you can. The gallery has three display areas, all with rotating exhibits as well as a basement café with surprisingly delicious food. Admission is free (suggested donation is 5 EUR). Check the website to see what exhibitions are on during your visit.

7. Explore the Cork City Gaol

This was a jail until the early 20th century when prisoners were moved and the gaol was left empty. The jail was considered the finest in the country when it was built and looks like a small castle. It remained empty until 1927 when Cork’s first radio station, 6CK, began broadcasting in the main building. The radio station remained at the jail until the 1950s. In 1993, the jail was reopened as a tourist attraction. I enjoyed hearing stories about the lives of the prisoners and staff. It gave an interesting look into the past. Admission is 11 EUR.

8. Attend a festival

Cork comes alive in the summer with all kinds of festivals and events. Midsummer Festival, an arts festival with music, theatrical performances, and artwork, is held every June/July. In September, the Cork Oyster Festival is a succulent treat, and the Cork Folk Festival and Cork Jazz Festival both take place in October. In November, the Cork Film Festival showcases both national and international films. In short, there are always tons of events and festivals happening so be sure to check with the Cork Tourist Information Centre on arrival to see what’s happening during your visit.

9. Go stand-up paddle boarding

One of the most unique ways to explore the city of Cork is by stand-up paddleboarding on the River Lee. Tours are organized by Cork City SUP and include 90 minutes of SUP on the river. The tour starts in the heart of the city and you’ll get a tutorial before heading down the river. You’ll cover around 3 kilometers and see several historic bridges and landmarks. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the city from this unique perspective. Tours are scheduled during high tide when the current is smoother and gentler so no experience is required. The tours cost 55 EUR.

How to Stay Safe in Cork

Cork is very safe and the risk of violent crime here is low. That said, scams and pickpocketing can occur on crowded public transportation and at busy bars so always keep your valuables out of reach.

If you’re going out to the pub at night, only bring the cash you need. Leave the rest locked up in your accommodation.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you rent a car, don’t leave valuables inside the vehicle overnight. While break-ins are rare, they can still occur.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, be sure to follow standard safety precautions (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific information about a place, check out one of the many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 or 999 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase quality travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Where to Stay in Cork

While Cork doesn’t have a lot of hostels, there are a lot of budget hotels so you can easily stay that can help keep your costs down. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• The Address Cork
• Bru Bar & Hostel
• Sheilas Cork Hostel
• Hotel Isaacs Cork City

Cork Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel Dorms – 38-50 EUR per night
• Hostel private rooms – 85 EUR per night
• Budget hotels – 125 EUR per night
• Airbnb private rooms – 65 EUR per night
• Airbnb apartments – 90 EUR per night
• Campsite – 28 EUR
• Sit-down restaurants – 18-40 EUR
• Casual take-out places – 10-17 EUR
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) – 10 EUR
• Beer – 6 EUR
• Cappuccino/latte- 3.50 EUR
• Bottled water – 1.50 EUR
• Groceries for a week – 40-60 EUR

Cork Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – 85 eur per day.

On a backpacking budget, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, and take public transportation to get around. You’ll need to limit your drinking and do free and cheap activities like wandering the parks and markets. If you plan on drinking, add another 10-20 EUR to your daily budget.

Midrange – 190 EUR Per Day

On a mid-range budget, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for most meals at cheap fast-food places, and have a couple of drinks. You’ll be able to take the occasional taxi and do more paid activities, like stand-up paddleboarding or visiting the gaol.

Upscale – 265 EUR Per Day

On this budget, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car for day trips, and do as many tours and excursions as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Cork Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

While there’s nothing here that really costs a ton of money, it’s always a good idea to watch your spending. Here are some tips to help you save money in Cork:

• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Eat the pub food – Eat at the pubs for hearty Irish food that won’t destroy your wallet. It won’t be healthy, but it will be the most affordable meal you can find!
• Skip the drinks – Ireland’s strong pub culture can hit your wallet hard. Temper the cost by visiting happy hours, drinking at home, nursing your beer, or skipping drinks altogether.
• Use student discounts – If you have a student ID, ask for discounts. Most attractions offer them and you can save a ton of money on activities.
• Redeem hotel points – You can sign up for hotel credit cards and use those points when you travel. Most cards come with at least 1-2 nights free when you sign up, which can save you a lot. Here’s an article that can help you learn the basics . That way, you can start earning points right away and have plenty by the time you travel.
• Get the Leap Card – With a Leap Card, you can travel on Bus Éireann around the country for up to 30% less than the cash fare. Cards can be purchased at shops throughout Cork, as well as online.
• Get an OPW Heritage Card – If you love to tour heritage sites, pick up one of these cards. It guarantees free access to many attractions around the country, including tons of castles. The card costs 40 EUR for adults. This is a must for people visiting multiple cities in the country.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you a free place to stay and teach you about their city. I love this service a lot and highly recommend you try to use it to meet people!
• Eat early – Many restaurants have budget dinner options if you eat early (usually before 6pm). You won’t have as much variety since it’s a set menu, but it will be cheaper!

How to Get Around in Cork

Public transportation – Cork’s bus network is run by Bus Éireann, which has excellent coverage throughout the city. A single fare costs 1.90 EUR while a day pass costs 4.40 EUR. You can also buy a day pass for 4.50 EUR or a week-long pass for 18.60 EUR.

Taxi – Taxis in Cork charge an initial fare of 42.0 EUR, then 1.30 EUR per kilometer after that. The bus covers pretty much everything though so skip the cabs if you can. (There are no ridesharing apps like Uber here.)

Bicycle – The city has a bike-share program with 32 stations and 330 bikes. A security deposit of 150 EUR is required and a 3-day subscription is 3 EUR. The first 30 minutes of each ride are free. After that, it’s 0.50 EUR for the first hour, 1.50 EUR for two hours, 3.50 EUR for three hours, and 6.50 for four hours. Every thirty minutes after that is a 2 EUR increase. However, if you return the bike every 30 minutes you won’t have to pay the hourly fee.

Car rental – Car rentals here can be found for as little as 25 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. You won’t need a vehicle to get around the city, however, they can be handy for exploring the region and doing day trips. Renters need to be at least 21 years old. Also, keep in mind that they drive on the left in Ireland.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Cork

Cork’s temperate climate makes for a pleasant destination to visit year-round, keeping in mind that you’re likely to encounter lots of rain throughout your visit (especially in the fall and winter).

In winter, temperatures rarely fall below freezing and the average high sits around 5°C (49°F) per day. Expect brisk, windy weather with lots of rain. During the winter months, there are 12-13 days with rain. Because of the northern latitude it also gets dark pretty early with sunset around 4:30 PM. Unless you’re planning to just visit museums and stay indoors, I’d avoid visiting during the winter. The weather is tolerable, but it’s far from ideal.

The summer (June-August) is the warmest and busiest time to visit. Average temperatures hover between 15-20°C (59-68°F) and can climb up to 25°C (77°F). The city is lively and fun during this time, though you’ll want to book in advance since the hostels are few and far between and can fill up. You’re still likely to get 8-10 days with rain during this time of year and temperatures drop between 10-12°C (51-54°F) at night, so be sure pack layers and rain gear. There’s plenty of daylight for outdoor activities during the summer with the sun staying up until nearly 10 PM near the end of June.

Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) are excellent times to visit as the temperatures are still mild and the city isn’t busy. While rain is common, the weather is still pleasant enough for hiking and exploring on foot. There’s still a fair amount of daylight during these seasons as well so you’ll have plenty of time for enjoying the outdoors. Just be sure to book in advance if you’re coming for St. Patrick’s Day as the city fills up fast. Bring a rain jacket too!

Cork Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

There’s a lot of free information online but do you want to spend days searching for information? Prob not! That’s why guidebooks exist.

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

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Cork Travel: A Guide To Visiting The City

Even though it’s the second-largest city in Ireland behind Dublin, Cork is considered to be the country’s foodie capital.

The city of Cork (in the county of the same name) is also home to the biggest jazz festival in Ireland and the famous Blarney Castle.

You truly can’t say you’ve experienced Ireland until you’ve taken at least a day trip to Cork — better yet, a weekend ! Use this Cork travel guide to start planning your next Emerald Isle adventure!

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit Cork is the same as the best time to visit the rest of the country.

Most people will visit in the summer months because of Ireland’s warm weather. This is when everything is guaranteed to be open, no disappointments in the summer! 

In spring and autumn, it’s a bit less busy and the weather is still quite nice. Fewer people will visit during the winter months even though Cork doesn’t get any snow.

This area of Ireland has pretty mild weather year round — you can enjoy travelling Cork throughout the seasons. 

Peak Season

Peak season in Cork City is June through August.

It doesn’t rain as much during Cork’s summer months which is a huge plus to visiting during this time.

The weather during Cork’s peak season is quite nice and averages around 14 ° C.

However, since this time is the busiest, you can expect to have to book tickets ahead of time for every attraction you wish to visit.

Prices for accommodations most likely will also be inflated during this season.

Unless you don’t have another option, try to avoid the summer months in Cork due to how busy the city can get.

Shoulder Season

Cork’s shoulder season consists of March through May (spring) and September through November (autumn).

The weather during both of these times is not too bad, averaging around 8 ° C in the spring and 11 ° C in autumn.

Keep in mind that it does rain a lot more in the shoulder season, especially in the springtime.

However, you aren’t experiencing Ireland if you don’t witness at least one dreary day!

The nice thing about travelling to Cork during this time is that not as many people visit, except for around St. Patrick’s Day (which is held in March).

You’ll find that accommodations will be a lot more reasonable price-wise.

Cork’s off-season is December through February, the winter months.

During this time, the weather averages 8 ° C, so it’s not warm enough for you to go out and walk the streets unless the sun is out.

This is the time that it rains the most in Cork as well, so that’s something to keep in mind if you plan on visiting in winter.

On the plus side, since it’s the off-season, you’ll find that hotels and bed and breakfasts are a lot more budget-friendly.

The winter months aren’t the best time to visit Cork, unless you’re trying to avoid all possible crowds in the city, are travelling on a strict budget, or if you’re planning to visit around Christmastime to enjoy the markets on offer!

Neighbourhoods

Where to stay.

Cork is filled with so many amazing places to stay! Since Cork is a larger city in Ireland, there are a variety of hostels, bed and breakfasts, hotels, and Airbnbs in all of these areas.

The price can vary depending on where you choose to stay in Cork. The closer you are to the city centre, the higher the price, unless you opt to stay in hostels.

Here’s a look at some of the best areas to stay in Cork City.

Victorian Quarter

If you’re looking to stay in a historical area of Cork City, then you have to consider the Victorian Quarter. This area of Cork is filled with 19th-century landmarks and buildings.

The Victorian Quarter is home to a variety of restaurants, museums, book stores, and a lot of fun bars. This area is also very photogenic and is located near the city centre.

Most places to stay here will cost you €70 ($80) to €88 ($100) per night.

Cork City Centre

Staying in the city centre is the best, no matter the city because you’re right in the middle of all the action.

The majority of Cork’s festivals are held here, and this area is also home to all of the great pubs, restaurants, and stores for shopping.

If you’d like to stay in Cork city centre, be prepared to spend €88 ($100) to €122 ($140) per night.

University College

With stunning architecture, green spaces, and a vibrant student scene, this is a great place to stay for a younger crowd.

The University College Cork is also known as being the foodie area of the city — you’re never far from a good pub or restaurant here!

Near the campus, you’ll find Cork Lough, which is a great place for walking.

Blackpool is one of Cork City’s suburbs and therefore is a great place to stay if you’re looking to stay outside of the city. This is especially a good option for families.

The suburb of Blackpool is only a 7-minute drive or 25-minute bus ride from Cork city.

This area doesn’t have many hotels, but all the bed and breakfasts in the area cost €44 ($50) to €70 ($80), so it’s a lot more affordable than staying near the city centre.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Cork is an extremely historical city that’s filled with a lot of activities, both outdoor and indoor. It’s a great city to explore whether you’re visiting with a family or just by yourself.

Below, find some of the best things to see and do in Cork.

Explore Blarney Castle & Gardens

This Cork travel guide would not have been complete without at least mentioning Blarney Castle & Gardens. This is the main attraction that everyone comes to Cork to see.

Don’t let that deter you! Blarney Castle & Gardens is filled with rich history and there’s a lot more to the castle than the Blarney Stone.

At the castle, be sure to explore the rest of the gardens that the estate owns. I recommend looking for the Poison Garden, the Jungle, and the Bog Garden.

An adult ticket costs €18 ($21) and a child ticket costs €8 ($9). You could also purchase a family ticket for €45 ($51) which will cover two adults and two children.

Eat At The English Market

The English Market is a market that has been in the same spot since the 18th century in Cork City. Your Cork travel experience will be a million times better if you at least stop by this market!

There are so many great things to purchase here, from lunch to souvenirs. This is a great place for a family to grab a meal because there truly is something here for everybody.

Even if you don’t plan on purchasing anything, it’s a lot of fun to meander throughout the market and explore all the stalls. It’s also a great way to meet some of the locals.

Visit Cork City Gaol

Cork City Gaol is a 19th-century jailhouse. It was a prison until the early 20th century, and then soon after became a radio station.

Today, the jail is a museum that is well worth visiting. You can learn all about what the prison was like and explore a Radio Museum.

Adult tickets cost €10 ($11) regular or €12 ($14) with an audio guide. A ticket for a child costs €6 ($7) regular or €8 ($9) with an audio guide. Family tickets are also available for €30 ($34).

TOP TOURS IN CORK

Cork has a lot of lovely tours in the city because it’s so widely-visited. From food tours to historical tours, this city has it all.

Keep in mind that it’s best to always book your tours well in advance to guarantee that you’ll be able to go on them.

Below are a few of the most highly-rated tours in Cork City.

Jameson Experience Whiskey Tour

Your trip to Cork won’t be complete without sampling and learning about Jameson Whiskey!

Jameson whiskey is proudly produced near Cork City in the town of Middleton, so while you’re in the area, why not take advantage of the location and learn more about it?

The Jameson Whiskey Experience will bring you to a museum dedicated to Jameson where you’ll be able to try different whiskeys and learn about how the whiskey is produced.

At the end of the tour, you can even enjoy lunch at the Malt House Restaurant. Keep in mind that this tour is best for couples and solo travellers, but not kids! Click here to read more about the tour.

2-Hour Guided Walking Tour

This guided walking tour is a great way to get introduced to the city. The tour is run by a local guide who will bring you to some of Cork’s top things to see.

Plus, the tour is capped at only 20 people so you’re sure to have an intimate experience with the city.

This tour is great for families, couples, and solo travellers. Be sure to wear comfy shoes that are great for walking because it lasts two hours. Click here to read more about the tour.

Cork Food and History Tour

The Cork Food and History Tour will provide you with an overview of some of the best food and drinks in the city.

It is more of a historical food tour, so you’ll learn a lot about the city’s history with food.

Some snacks are provided on the tour, though if you’d like additional food, you will have to pay for yourself.

This tour is great for all types of travellers, including solo travellers, couples, and families. Click here to read more about the tour.

BEST DAY TRIPS FROM CORK

As one of Ireland’s major cities, Cork is in a great location for day trips. It’s close to so many of Ireland’s other gems.

Many of the day trips from Cork can be reached using public transportation because of how well-connected the city is to the rest of the country. You can, of course, also drive.

Here are some of the most popular day trips from Cork.

Cobh is only a 25-minute drive or train ride from Cork City. This town has a lot of rich history related to the Titanic and is, therefore, a popular place to visit for history buffs.

The small town of Cobh is very picturesque and should be at the top of your list if you have enough time to take a day trip.

While in Cobh, be sure to visit the Titanic Experience, join a walking tour of the town , and see the Cobh Heritage Centre.

Kinsale is known for being one of the most photogenic towns in all of Ireland and for good reason.

It was once a popular fishing port and is now a great place to visit for its prime location and beautifully-painted shops.

You can easily visit Kinsale by either taking a 50-minute train or driving for 30 minutes.

During your day trip to Kinsale, check out Charles Fort and Desmond Castle. If you’re driving to Kinsale, try to also stop at Mizen Head, which offers one of the best coastal views of the Emerald Isle!

Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel is one of the most-visited tourist attractions in the whole of Ireland. It consists of a 12th-century chapel and a 13th-century cathedral atop a hill surrounded by walls.

Cormac’s Chapel is the real star of the show at the Rock of Cashel, which you can only see by purchasing a tour.

To get to the Rock of Cashel from Cork, you can either book a tour, drive, or take a bus. It takes 1 hour to drive there while the bus ride is closer to 2 hours.

WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT

As mentioned earlier in this guide, Cork is considered to be Ireland’s foodie capital! That’s reason enough to want to visit this lovely place.

Because it’s Ireland’s foodie hotspot, there are dozens of great dishes to try. A lot of Ireland’s best and top-notch restaurants are found in the city.

Plus, no matter when you’re travelling to Cork, you can find these amazing dishes and restaurants waiting for you.

Cork is well-known for its dairy products (cheese especially), produce, meats, and also black pudding. It’s located near the water, so there are also a lot of seafood dishes as well.

Now this isn’t necessarily a dish,  but you need to order something with cheese in it. Oftentimes, you’ll even be able to order a cheese platter from local Cork restaurants.

Some popular cheese flavours to keep your eye out for include St. Gall, Blarney Castle (yes, I  swear  it’s a flavour!), Dubliner, and Gubbeen.

If you choose to just purchase cheese from a grocery store, this will cost around €4 ($4.50), while a cheese platter at a restaurant would cost closer to €10 ($11.50).

Clonakilty Black Pudding

Clonakilty black pudding is made up of beef, onion, and blood. It might sound strange, but black pudding is a classic Irish dish.

It’s made locally near Cork City in a town called Clonakilty which is about an hour away.

If you don’t want to try it completely alone, try ordering a Full Irish Breakfast which will cost around €10 ($11.50). You could also purchase some at the store for around €3 ($3.50).

Tripe & Drisheen

This dish consists of beef tripe cooked with onions and drisheen which is a sausage made with sheep’s blood and beef.

The most popular place to order this is actually at The English Market.

Above the market is a little restaurant called Farmgate Cafe where you can order tripe and drisheen for only €5.50 ($6) or a large for €11 ($13).

Best Restaurants in Cork

Greene’s Restaurant: This restaurant is located right in Cork’s Victorian Quarter. It’s known as being of the best places to get an Irish meal in the city.

Greene’s Restaurant is considered upper midrange to expensive when it comes to price. Click here to find it on the map.

Market Lane : Market Lane is a family-friendly laid-back restaurant in Cork’s city centre. The restaurant is most well-known for sourcing many of its ingredients from The English Market.

This is a mid-range restaurant, with most prices for lunch averaging €15  ($17) and dinner averaging closer to €17 ($19.50).

Make sure to order their chocolate and peanut butter caramel tart for dessert! Click here to find it on the map.

Good Day Deli: This deli is a sustainable restaurant near the city centre. You’ll be amazed at the unique atmosphere of this restaurant, from its wooden tables to its succulents and large open windows.

Most dishes on the menu cost around €15 ($17). Order the GDD Halloumi Stack for an excellent lunch! Click here to find it on the map.

BEST PUBS IN CORK

Cork has a lot of brilliant pubs that you won’t want to miss out on. Everyone in Cork goes to a pub once the sun goes down, and you’re sure to find some great live music at almost any pub in the city.

Below are a few of the best pubs in Cork.

The Mutton Lane Inn

The Mutton Lane Inn is an 18th-century pub next to St. Patrick’s Street. This pub’s lighting is always quite dim which just adds to the atmosphere of the place at night.

The dim lighting makes this a very intimate pub compared to other places to get a pint in the city. It’s also a lot smaller than the average Cork City pub.

In Gaelic, Sin É  means  this is it because Sin É is one of the best pubs in Cork that will suit your every need. This pub has been in the same spot since the 19th century.

The basement gets crowded quickly, so try to get there earlier to ensure that you get a seat.

This bar is most known for its amazing trad music, so if you’re looking for a place to grab a pint and listen to some Irish music, Sin É is your place.

Fionnbarra Bar

This is a unique pub that’s unlike any other pub around.

This pub is known for having the best beer garden in all of Cork.

The atmosphere is very eclectic and different and everything on the menu was affordable. It’s not your traditional Irish pub, but if you’re up for a change, consider checking out Fionnbarra’s .

LIVE MUSIC VENUES

Cork is home to quite a few spectacular live music venues that you won’t want to miss out on. At most of these places, you can find some live music no matter what night of the week it is.

In addition to these few places listed below, you can also hop into almost any Cork pub and find that at least some sort of live music is playing.

Here are a few of the greatest live music venues in Cork.

An Spailpín Fánac

An Spailpín Fánac is an 18th-century pub on Cork’s Main Street that is best known for its trad music! There is a different type of live music almost every night of the week.

While you enjoy your live music, be sure to grab some traditional Irish pub food. Their Irish stew is a top hit.

The Corner House

This venue is an Irish bar that has some fun live music. They’ve even dubbed themselves “Cork’s House of Music”.

To see a calendar of their live music events, be sure to check out their website. They tend to offer live music four to five times a week.

Crane Lane Theatre

Crane Lane Theatre offers live music every single day of the week. They’re even located in a former Gentleman’s Club in Cork’s city centre.

The music here covers a wide variety, including everything from DJs to country to even Burlesque!

This joint is also known for its beer garden, so if you’d like to sit outside while you listen to some of the best live music in Cork, be sure to visit Crane Lane Theatre.

FESTIVALS IN CORK

Cork is home to some pretty amazing festivals. A lot of them are held in either the spring or autumn, which are great times to visit Cork.

Below are a few of Cork’s most important and well-known festivals.

Cork Jazz Festival

The Cork Jazz Festival is hands-down the city’s most successful festival. It’s been held annually since 1978 in October.

Since it’s the biggest jazz festival in Ireland, thousands of people come to attend every year.

Over the years, hundreds of different musicians have performed during the festival.

Tickets normally go on sale in early summer. Click here for details.

Oyster and Seafood Festival

This is a celebration of culture, music and of course, seafood! This relatively new festival (launched 2017), is one even non-seafood lovers can enjoy.

There’s the “Gourmet Trail” where some of the best restaurants in Cork showcase their dishes, and some amazing bands perform as well. 

But, the highlight has to be the oyster shucking contest. Click here for details.

Cork Folk Festival

Running since 1979, this is one of the oldest traditional folk festivals in Ireland. The Cork Folk Festival is a singing and dancing extravaganza.

If you travel Cork in October, you won’t want to miss this festival. 

There’s always a great lineup of musicians and other artists, and many of the shows are actually free. 

A big parade, complete with music and dancing kicks off the event. Click here for details.

HIKING IN CORK

If you find that you have more than a few days in Cork City, then you’ll want to check out some of the nearby hiking trails.

Southern Ireland is known for having some amazing viewpoints that you won’t want to miss!

Sheep's Head Way

This hike is only about an hour and fifteen minutes away from Cork City and offers some unbelievable views of the sea.

It’s best for pro hikers since it’s a 57-mile loop — but, you can (of course) choose to hike just a portion of it.

On the hike, be sure to keep an eye out for some of the wildflowers that grow along the trail. The trail also goes all the way out to the beautiful Sheep’s Head Lighthouse which is a great viewpoint.

Keep in mind that this trail is safest when used between March and September. Click here for details.

Old Head of Kinsale Loop

This 4-mile walk is only 45 minutes away from Cork. It’s known for having some of the best coastal views of the Atlantic Ocean.

During the hike, you’ll see the Old Head Lighthouse as well as some ancient ruins from 100 BC!

The Old Head of Kinsale Loop is great for beginner and advanced hikers alike. 

Ballycotton Cliff Walk

The Ballycotton Cliff Walk is 4 miles long and is only 40 minutes from Cork. Because it’s one of the more popular cliff walks in the area, it’s best to try to visit during the week if you can.

This cliff walk is safe for beginners and families. During the whole walk, you’ll get sweeping views of Ireland’s southern coast.

BEACHES IN CORK

Cork is located right next to the water in Ireland’s southern region, so it’s actually near quite a few great Irish beaches!

Keep in mind that you do have to drive or take public transportation to get to most of these beaches, but they are all 100% worth it.

A multitude of visitors travel to Cork in the summer just to visit some of the beaches to the west of the city. A trip to Cork isn’t complete without seeing at least one beach. Here are a few to get you started.

Inchydoney Beach

This beach is located about an hour’s drive south from Cork City and is considered by many to be the top beach in Ireland.

This beach is very sandy and calm compared to other beaches in the area. It’s a great beach for swimming and there are always lifeguards on duty during the summer months.

Inchydoney Beach is also a great beach for surfing!

While you’re in the area, be sure to visit the small town of Clonakilty which is a short drive from the beach.

Garylucas Beach

Garylucas Beach is another beach located just an hour’s drive south of Cork City. The water at this beach is extremely clear and the sand is perfect for children to play in.

You can swim and surf at this beach, and also partake in other water sports.

It’s located right next to Kinsale, so you could make a whole day trip out of visiting this area.

Warren Beach

This is a beautiful beach that’s also only around an hour’s drive away from the city of Cork and therefore is great for a quick afternoon trip to the beach!

If you visit, you’ll find that this beach is very different from what you’d expect a typical beach to look like, as it’s surrounded by a lot of green hills.

It’s a great beach for swimming, especially in the summer months when there’s a lifeguard on duty.

COST OF TRAVEL IN CORK

Since Cork is the second-largest city in Ireland, it can be a bit more expensive to visit there compared to other places in the country.

However, if you’re willing to forgo some luxuries, it is possible to travel here on a budget. 

One night in a hostel dorm room will cost around €20 ($23), while a night in a hotel will average closer to €80 ($91) a night.

Airbnbs in Cork are also an affordable option, with some nicer places costing as little as €45 ($51) if you book well in advance.

An average meal will cost around €14 ($16), though this can change depending on if you choose to eat at more touristic areas of the city. Local restaurants are normally a lot more affordable!

Depending on where in the city you choose to stay, you’ll find that you won’t need to spend more than around €10 ($11.50) a day on public transportation. This is true of most cities in Ireland.

Budget €45 / Day

With a budget of €45 ($53) per day, you could spend the night in one of the cheaper hostel dorms in Cork.

You could eat out for about one budget-friendly meal a day (such as at a cafe) but mostly purchase food from the Tesco to make on your own meals.

Mid-Range €140 / Day

This budget would allow you to stay in a hotel or a nicer bed and breakfast in the city.

You’ll be able to eat at some of the pubs and restaurants for your meals and should be able to visit the attractions you’d like.

Top-End €270 / Day

By budgeting for €270 ($320) a day, you’ll be able to go all out and stay at a luxury hotel like the Hayfield Manor or Maryborough Hotel.

This budget will allow you to not worry about the price of any attraction, you could use taxis to get everywhere, and you’d be able to eat at luxury restaurants in the city.

Transportation

Getting around cork.

Since it’s a major city in Ireland, Cork has widely available public transportation. This makes travelling in Cork easy.

If you know that you’ll mostly be seeing some of the more major tourist sites within the city, you may find that you can walk pretty much everywhere.

Besides walking, you can take the public bus, especially to visit places like Blarney Castle & Gardens.

On average, you probably won’t spend more than €10 ($11.50) per day maximum on public transportation if you purchase a Visitor Leap Card .

• Public Bus: The public buses in Cork are run by Bus Éireann and will get you around the city and to the surrounding areas. The bus is a great affordable way to travel Cork. One way on the bus will cost around €2 ($2.30).
• Metro: Unfortunately, there are no metros in Cork.
• Uber: Cork does not have Uber, but it does have taxis which are reliable and affordable.
• Taxi: Taxis are easy to use in Cork city if you download the Free Now app on your phone. The taxis in Ireland work similarly to Uber; you order the taxi straight from your phone and you can even order it to come and pick you up at a specific time. If you're just travelling around the city, you shouldn't find yourself spending more than €20 ($23).
• Cycling: Cork is safe for cycling and this can save you a lot of money. The best way to cycle around Cork is to take part in the Coca-Cola bike share system. There are 30 different spots around the city where you can stop and leave the bike and then pick it up again.
• Walking: Cork is a very walkable city, you can pretty much walked everywhere except for when visiting Blarney Castle & Gardens. Once you're downtown, everything is quite close.
• To & From The Airport: The main airport servicing the city of Cork is Cork Airport, which is conveniently located only a 12-minute drive away from the city centre. You could easily catch a taxi for €20 ($23) from the airport to the city centre, or take the 226 bus which costs about €6 ($7) to €8 ($9) depending on the time of day. Keep in mind that the bus will take closer to an hour to get you to the city centre because of the number of stops along the way.

IS CORK SAFE?

Like most places in Ireland, Cork is generally quite safe, even for solo travellers.

Keep in mind that the city’s south side is known for being safer than the north side.

However, that doesn’t mean that the north side is dangerous, just that you’ll want to pay more attention to your surroundings if you’re north of the river.

Just because Cork is safe doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t exercise normal precautions that you would when travelling anywhere else.

Enjoy your trip to Cork!

Note: All images in this Cork travel guide are sourced from Shutterstock.com .

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The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Cork Itinerary

Last Updated on February 22, 2024

by Lizzie Fitzgerald

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

With a 1, 2, or 3 days in Cork itinerary, Ireland’s second-largest city is sure to steal your heart with its old-world charm and infectious spirit.

Located in the south of the country, Cork is a city that is equal parts charm, accent, and beauty. It’s a wonderful little city that also makes for the perfect base to explore southwestern Ireland.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Cork?

Whether you fancy yourself a slow traveller or just want to do a hit-and-run of Cork, the city has something to offer that you will never forget. The answer to how many days to stay in Cork is never simple and its charm will keep you firmly in its grip, making you wish you could stay forever.

If you only have 1 day, you’d better pack your walking shoes. The city centre isn’t very large but it is beautiful, encouraging you to take it all in on foot. You will have enough time to shop at the English Market, listen to some buskers, visit a museum, and drink a glass of Murphy’s.

You read that right – in Cork, the locals prefer a perfectly tapped glass of locally brewed Murphy’s stout with its effortlessly creamy finish.

If you can extend your stay to 2 days in Cork you can also enjoy the spoils of the areas around the city. Cobh should be top of your list and honestly, no trip to Cork is complete without seeing the iconic Deck of Cards Houses.

The grand prize is 3 days or a long weekend in Cork, giving you plenty of time to see the city at a leisurely pace, enjoy a day trip or two, and enjoy an evening out on the town.

Getting To & Around Cork

Getting to Cork is a breeze, thanks to its well-connected transportation hubs. The city is served by Cork Airport, which offers both domestic and international flights. From the airport, visitors can take a bus or taxi to reach the city centre, which is only a 15-minute drive away.

If you’re coming from the Irish capital, the drive from Dublin to Cork is around 3 hours, however, there are also plenty of places to stop off at along the way. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices for car rentals in Ireland.

For those who prefer train travel, Cork Kent Station is the main railway station, with direct connections to Dublin , Limerick, and other major Irish cities. The station is conveniently located in the city centre, making it easy to navigate and reach your destination.

Once you’re in Cork, getting around could not be easier. The city has a compact and walkable downtown area, with most attractions and amenities within easy reach. For longer distances, there are buses and taxis available, as well as bike rentals for those who prefer to explore on two wheels.

Cork is also well-connected to nearby cities, making it a great base for exploring the wider region. Visitors can take day trips to the must-see Blarney Castle or any of the charming towns surrounding the city.

With a variety of transit alternatives and an easy-to-navigate city centre, getting to and from Cork is, overall, a hassle-free trip. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, Cork is a city that will delight and inspire you. 

1, 2 or 3-Day Cork Itinerary 

Day 1 – cork’s city centre.

Spend your first day getting to know the city and sniffing out all the coolest spots around town. If you want to spend some of your day exploring with a guide, then you can take this historical walking tour

The English Market

Start your morning with a stroll through the English Market, a quintessentially Corkian activity. Peruse the freshly baked goods, smell the brewing coffee, and grab a bite to eat as you get your day going.

This market has been trading since 1788 and it still has personal over-the-counter service that gives the whole market a warm and hospitable atmosphere.

Get to know the locals and feel the famous spirit of Cork as you have a chat with a sausage salesman or a baker, all before 9 AM. You can also organise a food tour here for later in the day.

Shandon Mile

The Cork City Council has laid out a charming 1-mile walk through the most historic parts of Cork and even put together a guide listing all the significant history that passed through the streets.

The walk starts at Daunt’s Square just outside the English Market and takes you almost on a complete circular route. There are 10 information panels along the mile to keep you informed and on the right path.

Some of the notable sights along the mile include St. Anne’s Church, the Butter Museum, and Shandon Bridge over the River Lee.

Make sure to go inside St. Anne’s Church to be Quasimodo for a moment as you ring the famous Cork bells and climb the 132 steps to the top of the tower for a splendid 360 view of the city.

Cork City Gaol

The gaols of Ireland (or jails if you don’t speak Irish) are a unique part of the country’s history. It is a magnificent building, architecturally speaking, but Cork Gaol tours also give you a captivating insight into the country’s Civil War history which still echoes through the current climate.

Cork is not immune to light afternoon showers in the afternoons so try to schedule this visit to escape the drizzle.

Explore Cork’s Historic Sites

Much of the magic of Cork lies in the atmosphere. The city is compact and noticeably less tourist-laden than Dublin giving you the chance to see the real Ireland.

Simply walking along the river or seeking out quaint lanes could fill up 1 day in the city, but there are a few more historical sites you could visit.

Elizabeth Fort, Blackrock Castle, Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, and Cork Public Museum are all worth a visit if you want to venture into the past.

Mutton Lane Inn

If you only visit one pub in Cork (which would be an injustice to yourself), it should be this one. It is one of the oldest pubs in the city but its charm oozes from every whiskey-soaked corner.

It is right next to the English Market tucked away in a tiny lane that once furrowed sheep into the market. Today it only leads lambs to the drinking hole.

Day 2 – Cobh, Midleton, Kinsale or Whale Watching

If you have 2 days, you can spend a full day exploring the city and another venturing out to the nearby towns in County Cork.

There is public transport to most of them and various guided tours or shuttles such as this full-day tour or this day tour but renting a car is the most efficient if you are strapped for time. These are some of the enchanting towns around Cork to visit.

If there is only one village to see around County Cork, Cobh takes top honours. The town is only 30 minutes away and this is where you will find Spike Island, the Titanic Experience, and the picture-perfect cathedral with the brightly coloured stacked houses in the foreground.

You could easily fill a whole day in Cobh but try to grab breakfast at one of the many cute bistros, visit the Titanic experience, and set off to visit at least one more town in County Cork.

Midleton is a quintessential Irish town but most notably it is home to the Jameson Distillery. Take a tour through the distillery to learn how this golden elixir is made and also taste its complex flavours. You can pre-book tickets here .

This could be a fun second stop after a visit to Cobh and the two towns are only 20 minutes apart. If the weather is nice you may want to check out one of the many blue flag beaches nearby or pay a visit to the lively farmers market.

This hidden treasure is the most southern town on the Wild Atlantic Way and it is colorful beyond compare. It is also one of the best culinary assets of Ireland and this seemingly sleepy town has a Michelin-star restaurant and two more recommended by the highly acclaimed guide.

With only 2 days, golf might not be your top priority, but if you feel an unstoppable urge to tee off you should head to Old Head Golf Links. You will play among ancient ruins at the very edge of some pretty dramatic cliffs at one of the most unique courses in the world.

Whale Watching

West Cork is the best place to charter a whale-watching tour and there are several villages where you can start the journey. Courtmacsherry is the closest to the city of Cork and is only an hour away. Further west along the coast is the most popular whale-watching town in Ireland, Baltimore.

Minke whales and humpback whales are most commonly spotted but killer whales and fin whales have also been known to show their faces. There are tours all year round (depending on the weather) and you can see different species at different times of the year.

Tours usually last 2-2.5 hours so you can easily do this in the morning or afternoon and still have plenty of time to see other spots around Cork. You can organise a tour here.

Day 3 – Blarney Castle or County Cork Hiking

The lucky few who have more than 48 hours in Cork can spend their last day on more time-intensive activities.

Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle is one of the most popular things to do in Cork, and probably in the whole Republic. It is less than 10 km from Cork city but to properly visit the castle you will need a few hours to fully appreciate it. 

Everyone is in a rush to kiss the famed Blarney Stone at the top of the castle and get the gift of the gab. However, the castle has loads more to offer. It should be noted that kissing the blarney stone seems easier than it really is and people with a fear of heights might need to think twice.

Dangling upside down over a ledge gets very real, very quickly and you don’t want to risk a freakout with a queue of eager onlookers behind you. Climb up the 128 narrow steps to the top nonetheless, the view across the rolling green fields is superb.

The castle grounds are around 60 acres and it is worth it to walk around and appreciate the tranquility of it all. Enter the poisonous garden at your own risk, pop into the dungeon and witch’s kitchen, stroll through the lush lanes and garden paths, and see the crazy plants in the carnivorous garden and fern forest. This is an excellent place to visit if you have 3 days in Cork.

The cliffs around the fringes of Ireland are in one word: epic. Cork has some insanely beautiful coastal scenery and the Wild Atlantic Way kicks off on this side of the country.

If you have time to spare, you might want to consider doing one of the short coastal walks, especially the Ballycotton Cliff Walk. The walk is 3.5 km each way (7km total — it is not a circular route) and it is ideal for people of all fitness levels.

The Old Head of Kinsale Loop is another popular one that is only 6 km long and you will pass the old Celtic Fort and the black and white lighthouse. The Lough Hyne Hill Walk is another impeccably scenic walk and you can even mosey on down to the lough and take a dip or kayak if it is nice out.

If you prefer not to hike, you can still see some of the Wild Atlantic Way by going to the Ring of Kerry. You can self-drive or organise a tour here.

Catch a sunset

One of the best ways to end any trip is with an epic sunset. There are several spots in and around the city where you can do just that.

The hills in Frankfield, Rober’s Cove, and Sheep’s Head are all mesmerizing spots where you can end your day in the most spectacular fashion.

Where to Stay in Cork

Shandon Bells Guest House – Overlooking the River Lee, this guesthouse is an excellent mid-range accommodation option in Cork. Offering everything from single to family rooms, there is also breakfast and free parking.

The River Lee Hotel – Also situated on the banks of the River Lee, this luxe hotel has a gorgeous indoor swimming pool, plenty of modern rooms, 2 restaurants, a bar, a terrace and breakfast in the mornings.

Bru Bar & Hostel – Located in a lively area of Cork, this hostel has its own bar along with plenty of dorms and private rooms available. There is also breakfast included and self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cork hotels!

Cork is a sadly underrated city in the far south of Ireland but it has a magnitude of treasures that will blow you away.

Are you planning to visit Cork? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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10-Day Ireland Itinerary: 3 Road Trip Routes

About Lizzie Fitzgerald

Lizzie is a writer for The World Was Here First. She loves travelling and discovering new places but also often finds herself returning to her favourite destinations. She has a particular affinity for Greece where she has visited countless islands and destinations on the mainland.

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