why visit cork ireland

• 10 Reasons Why You Should...

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Cork, Ireland

With the same vibrant spirit as Dublin wrapped up in a welcoming small-city vibe, Cork and its warrens of narrow streets promise some of the most enjoyable experiences to be had anywhere in the country. Read on to discover a few reasons why Ireland’s second city should be your next port of call.

To dine in the food capital of ireland.

Cork deserves its reputation as Ireland’s food capital, thanks to a perfect combination of an abundance of high quality local producers and a profusion of creative and passionate chefs. Whether you’re browsing the overflowing stalls at the centuries-old English Market or sampling dishes at the best of the city’s many cafes and restaurants, an appreciation for good food is evident pretty much everywhere you go in Cork.

To experience the coffee culture

To attend Ireland’s biggest jazz event

Founded in 1978 and sponsored by Guinness, Cork Jazz Festival attracts tens of thousands of music fans to Cork every October and is one of the most successful festivals of its kind. Having hosted such jazz greats as Ella Fitzgerald , Oscar Peterson and Mel Tormé throughout its long history, the festival still attracts major headliners. In 2016, Grammy-winner Robert Glasper and acoustic guitar duo Rodrigo y Gabriela were among the main acts. Acts outside the jazz realm also perform during the festival, with events taking place in pubs and venues all across the city. Other Cork festivals of note include Live at the Marquee and Cork Midsummer Festival .

To see where Michael Collins spent his last night

If you have an interest in Irish history, you might consider staying at Cork’s Imperial Hotel on South Mall, where the famous Irish revolutionary leader Michael Collins spent his last night. Having set out from here for a tour of West Cork on August 22, 1922, Collins was killed in the village of Béal na Bláth, in an ambush by Irish Republicans who opposed the Anglo-Irish Treaty he had helped to negotiate.

To discover the city’s rebellious past

To learn more about the key role that Cork, known as ‘the rebel city ’ – although this nickname relates to events that came much earlier – played in the Irish War of Independence, you can also visit sites like the city’s Military Museum at Collins Barracks, the Cork City Gaol , where revolutionary nationalist Constance Markievicz and other rebels were once jailed, or the prison at Spike Island , also known as ‘Ireland’s Alcatraz’.

To see the old city walls at Bishop Lucey Park

Cork was once an entirely walled city – with fortified gates at what are now known as North and South Gate Bridges – though only small sections of the original fortifications still exist. It is believed the old walls and their defensive towers were either demolished or left to decay after suffering extensive damage during the 1690 Siege of Cork. In the 1980s, during construction of the Bishop Lucey Park – situated at the former medieval centre of the city – a section of the city wall dating from the 17th century was discovered, along with artefacts from the period, now on display at Cork Public Museum .

To ring the Shandon Bells

St. Anne’s Church has stood on its current site in Cork’s Shandon district since 1722, when it replaced another church ruined during the Siege of Cork. The oldest church in continuous use in the city, it has become a well-loved landmark. Its clock tower is affectionately referred to locally as ‘The Four Faced Liar’ because each clock tells a slightly different time. But St. Anne’s is most famous for its bells, which inspired the famous song ‘The Bells of Shandon’. Visitors to the church can climb 132 steps to the belfry to ring the six-tonne set of eight bells – among the last remaining original 18th century church bells in the country – for themselves, and take in panoramic views of the city.

To visit one of the finest public buildings in the country

Designed by Irish architects O’Donnell + Tuomey, the Lewis Glucksman Gallery has won multiple awards, including being named the Best Public Building in Ireland by the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland in 2005. An art museum said to be the ‘cultural and artistic centre’ of the University College Cork campus, the gallery’s architecture was also given a UK Civic Trust award and a RIBA award.

To explore the stars at Blackrock Observatory

In 2007, a 16th-century castle just outside Cork City became the home of CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory , whose interactive Cosmos at the Castle exhibition has been internationally recognised as an outstanding themed attraction. The self-guided experience gives visitors the chance to do things like explore how the universe was formed and take a closer look at the night sky. It was recently announced that the Observatory will begin developing an outreach programme as part of the launch of Ireland’s first-ever satellite.

To listen to the distinctive accent

People from Cork are said to possess one of Ireland’s most unique accents, a lilting brand of Hiberno‐English that is often described as musical – check out an interview with Olympic medal-winning rowers Paul and Gary O’Donovan (from Skibbereen) for an example. Comedians such as Tommy Tiernan have poked fun at the Cork accent , but at least one survey has named it among the best Irish accents.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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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.

A unique experience awaits

Cork is a place you’ll want to revisit, over and over again..

Cork has amazing magnetism in so many different ways. It’s an immersive experience that will satisfy the needs of any visitor, whatever your interests. As well as visiting attractions or engaging in activities, many get to experience true local life, brought alive by the people that you encounter during your stay.

Nestled in the South West of Ireland between the signature visitor experiences of Ireland’s Ancient East and the Wild Atlantic Way, Cork offers the history, heritage and landmarks accompanied by artisan food and drink and a strong cultural, musical and artistic vibe. We are a place of dramatic natural landscapes, riverscapes, harbours, bays and seascapes. A place of mountains, river valleys and coastlines.

Cork is distinctive and it offers unmissable experiences that can be enjoyed in multiple ways. The city and county complement each other well; the coastline offers a calm escape or a sporty challenge, the hills and mountains are there to admire or climb and the rich food heritage adds an element of discovery and satisfaction to any day out.

For many visitors who live in other parts of Ireland, Cork is a special place that holds nostalgic memories of their own childhood-family holidays. That’s the magic of Cork that will bring people back time and time again.

Cork’s visitor website

Visit Cork is Cork’s visitor organisation, leading the way in promoting Cork to people who are about to embark on a visit to Cork. Their aim is to educate and enrich the visitor experience and their website  is a central hub to find out more about what Cork has to offer, visitor attractions, places to stay, festivals and events and much more, so please it as a resource to build knowledge or plan your trip.

A place of warm welcomes

The visitor experience in Cork is ‘made by many’. The many different characters that you will meet who will welcome you like an old friend and go out of their way to ensure your stay is a happy one. Our people are characterised by commentators as being amiable, approachable, helpful, open and independent minded. They are free-thinking who will share their stories and their passion for what’s real in life. They will want to connect with you and make you feel at home in a county that they have a deep pride and passion for.

An authentic experience

Many visitors want to immerse themselves in the locality of the place they are staying in. Cork is not manufactured, it is a truly authentic experience that is a rich mix of its traditional past and forward thinking focus. Visitors who have a deep appreciation for locally relevant activities and produce will not be disappointed in Cork. Community focused activities such as visiting local farmers markets, food producers or craft studios are available in most parts of Cork. Walking tours of villages or forests or a river or lake adventure are in abundance. Because of the local knowledge of the people, you will be able to discover the locality of Cork in a true and meaningful way and will never be too far from the next exciting experience.

Cork is Ireland’s Maritime Haven

Cork is a lush coastal playground backed by rolling hills with an endless succession of ports, coves and bays that are a magnet for sailors and those who just love to be by the sea. It has a maritime history spanning over a thousand years, including the most influential periods of European exploration. Here you will discover an immersive and quirky way to experience history and heritage that will stimulate all your senses.

Cork has the longest shoreline of any county in Ireland, the last sunset in Europe and one of the deepest natural harbours in the world. A Maritime Haven is the wild and rugged yet serene coastline that can be experienced through land or sea. See the colourful towns and villages; taste the abundance of local artisanal produce, savour the many stories and traditions from the locals.

Hear the quirky and quick-witted Cork personality with its uplifting tone, with lyrics around every corner, and experience a local creative vibe that stimulates all five senses. It is the layering of these things together that creates a true maritime haven.

The port and the coastal lands of Cork has created a wealth of maritime and outdoor activities, set in a scenic and unique lifestyle setting that allows you to explore the beautiful coastline in a number of different ways.

Creative & Cultural

We are a place that’s culturally rich and vibrant. A place with a wide range of cultural facilities and events as well as a creative flair that contributes to the cosmopolitan feel of the region’s city and towns. There are festivals with an international reputation, all of which add to the quality of life and visitor experience to be had in the region.

There are many authentic experiences on offer, many of which mean exploring something new or unexpected. The storytelling festival on Cape Clear, the story of Cork harbour, the Butter Museum or a trip to Blarney Castle. The stories of anywhere you choose to visit will complement each other and add to overall experience and love for Cork.

Cork’s creativity energy exudes from the people of Cork, inspired by the place of Cork. To get into the mindset of our creative offering, visit the English Market or local farmer’s market and hear of the local stories connected with our artisanal produce. Or why not visit a local craftsperson and hear first hand of the inspiration behind their work; go a step further and engage in a creative workshop to make something, not just buy it. By evening time, you’ll be ready for a live music session, often put together by a group of local people with a passion for the instrument they play.

The Socially Energetic

Whether you are visiting on your own, as a couple or in a group, there are some cool, exciting and energising things to do in Cork. From morning to night, there is enough to do that you will remember for a lifetime. If you are ready to try new things, Cork has a lot to offer; you can explore the city by day, on foot, by bike, kayak or currach and then immerse yourself in the city’s unique atmosphere at night.

Across city and county you will be able to enjoy lots of new, quirky activities such as kayaking at night, Triskel Arts Centre, live music events and water sports.

If planning your visit at festival time, you will get to enjoy the vibe of local and international entertainment in all its glory – street performers, live music, comedy tours and street art. So, if you are coming from afar on a main holiday or another part of Ireland for a long weekend, you won’t be disappointed with what Cork has to offer.

Some key highlights of Cork

It’s impossible to detail all that is great about Cork in one website, it’s the personal experience that matters. But here’s just a quick look at some of Cork’ strongest assets:

• West Cork and the Islands
• Fota Island, Blarney Stone, Ballymaloe, Midleton Distillery
• The Blackwater and Doneraile
• The characterful people and progressive thinking
• Strong tradition of music
• The artisanal producers and the English Market
• Second largest natural harbour in the world
• Marine and coastline accessibility
• High standard of accommodation offered in hotels and guest houses

Business Tourism

Cork is increasingly attracting business tourism as organisers recognise the attraction of hosting their conferences in the region. With world class conference facilities for up to 1,000 delegates, and internationally acclaimed hotels, set against a backdrop of 1,100 km of coastline and internationally renowned golf courses in Ireland’s gourmet capital, Cork offers a compelling location for business visitors.

The Cork Convention Bureau can help event organisers with practical supports and advice to ensure the smooth running and success of their event.

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A Locals Guide to the Best Things to do in Cork (2024 Guide)

Last Updated on April 23, 2024 by snaphappytravel

Why should you visit Cork? Well, I may be biased as Cork, Ireland is where I grew up. But, I’m of the opinion that Cork has it all! From the best beaches in all of Ireland, to quirky coffee shops that serve an excellent brew, to its colorful local characters who will welcome you with arms wide open.

As the largest county (by size) in Ireland, as you can imagine there’s loads to do in Cork or ‘the rebel county’ as locals (like me) tend to call it. But, some of my favorite things to do in my home of Cork include wandering the mouthwatering food stalls at the famed English Market and driving the Wild Atlantic Way through West Cork.

Read on to find out why you must visit Cork. Of course, I’ve included the big-hitter attractions like Blarney Castle and Kinsale but I’ve also written about several free things to do in Cork – ideal, if you’re on a budget!

You will be adding Cork to your Ireland itinerary in no time.

15 Best Things to do in Cork, Ireland

Despite traveling the world for the better part of 10 years, Cork still and always will be the place closest to my heart. The quote above is what encouraged me to write this post, even though I’ve been to some of the most beautiful destinations on the planet Cork remains the place I want to be my ‘forever home’.  All together now ‘aw,’ on that note, here are 15 reasons why you must visit Cork ASAP!

“Maybe you had to leave in order to miss a place, maybe you had to travel to figure out how beloved your starting point was” – Jodi Picoult

And the above quote describes my situation now, after traveling the world for over 10 years and living in places like Whistler in Canada , Sydney and Queenstown in New Zealand – I moved home to Cork on July 2020 and couldn’t be happier with my decision.

So, without further delay, let’s dive into what to do in Cork. Here are 15 activities I highly recommend in Cork!

1. Cork has the best beaches in Ireland

Boasting the second-largest coastline in the whole country,  there’s certain to be a beach that tickles your fancy. The beaches in West Cork are the best in my opinion. My personal favorites are Garretstown for surfing and The Dock near Kinsale winning the ‘cute factor’ – it’s teeny-tiny.

Another very popular beach in West Cork is Inchydoney near Clonakilty, which is a whopping 7 miles long! You can stay the night here at stunning  Inchydoney beach hotel   which overlooks the beach!

I also adore Barleycove beach  which is often named by the media here as the ‘most beautiful beach in Ireland’. Located a 20 minute drive from the town of Schull, and backed by numerous sand dunes – Barleycove is certainly a spectacular beach.

With Cork being the most Southerly county, the weather is typically the warmest in the country. It’s still Ireland though, so please don’t arrive expecting a Mediterranean climate or anything.

Related Read: You’re reading this blog because you love Ireland, then, why not read my detailed guide on how to move to Ireland

2. The sunsets in Cork are world-class

I’ve been blown away by the sunsets in Cork, I saw three of the most spectacular sunsets I’ve ever seen and I’ve lived in the sunset capital of the world – Australia.

Be sure to head down to West Cork for the best sunsets in my opinion – particularly at Mizen Head, Galley Head Lighthouse outside Rosscarbery or Sheep’s Head along the Beara Peninsula! A great secret sunset spot is Charles Fort in Kinsale, although popular during the day with history lovers its typically quiet at sunset and offers a great vantage point over Kinsale harbor.

In fact, you can book this  highly-recommended tour to Mizen Head , which departs from Cork City and includes visits to Clonakilty, Bantry, Gougane Barra and Mizen Head!

3. Explore charming colorful Cork towns

Having lived abroad for the better part of 10 years, this is what tourists to Ireland always tell me was their favorite thing about Ireland.  And Cork has some of the most charming and most colorful towns in all of Ireland. Just check out this photos of the coastal town of Kinsale (above). Cobh too, in East Cork is especially vibrant. When in Cobh, you must take a photo in front of the Deck of Cards houses like I’ve done below and visit the magnificent St Colman’s Cathedral.

FYI if I had a spare million I’d move home and buy a house in Kinsale.

If you want to explore Kinsale and other colorful Cork towns by don’t fancy driving yourself – then why not consider this luxury guided tour from Cork City  that includes stops in Kinsale, Timoleague, Castlemartyr and Cobh.

Related Read: Our trip to rural and green Ballyhoura in Cork County !

4. Meet the charming local characters

Oh the Irish people. We’re the best aren’t we? Who doesn’t love us. I’ve travelled a lot, and still for me, the Irish people are the warmest and friendliest people in the whole wide world. I know I’m biased being an Irish gal myself. But even my very British husband agrees

5. Cork has too many excellent restaurants

There are way too many great restaurants in Cork to mention here, but personal favorites of mine include – the Bulman an award-winning gastro pub in Summercove, Kinsale; Liberty Grill on Washington Street in Cork City for the best breakfast of your life; Sophie’s in The Dean Hotel for yummy food and even yummier views. And of course you can’t visit Cork city without stopping at the famous English Market!

In fact, this private walking tour of Cork City will give you an insight into the locals favorite restaurants, stop by the famed English Market, as well as teach you about the history of the city!

6. Cork’s coffee would impress even the harshest critic

It really would. I love coffee. So much so, that I plan my whole day around how and when I can get a decent coffee.

Luckily for me, this wasn’t a problem in Cork City. From the locals favorite of Cork Coffee Roasters to Farmgate above the English Market to Three Fools Coffee on the Grand Parade for good coffee with a side of ‘cool’, there’s certain to be something to quench your caffeine fix.

Also, Starbucks only opened it’s first shop in the city a few years ago, so, that’s a testament to how much we Corkonians support our local coffee shops. Please don’t go to Starbucks, unless you really really need a Caramel Frappuccino, I totally get it.

7. Cork is home to the famous Blarney Castle

You’ve heard of the famous Blarney Castle right? The legendary stone that gives anyone who kisses it ‘the gift of the gab’. American tourists LOVE it. Believe me, I grew up in Blarney and the hundreds even thousands of American tourists who descend on the castle every day is insanity. Especially in the summer.

But, despite the crowds, the castle is well-worth a visit. The grounds are outstandingly lush and green, you could easily spend a full day getting lost here. Be sure to bring a camera,  because there will be lots of Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.

You can book on a guided tour of Blarney Castle that departs from Cork City, it’s highly recommended!

8. There’s good reason why Cork City is referred to as the ‘real capital’ of Ireland

Corkonians are notoriously patriotic, I don’t even know if that’s the right word, basically we think we’re better than everyone else. We have very unique phrases, that ‘outsiders’ struggle to understand. Even our neighbors in Kerry or Limerick don’t have a clue what we’re saying most of the time.

You can even buy a Dictionary of Cork Slang in most bookshops in the city. There’s also, an online Peoples Republic of Cork store where you can buy all sorts of merchandise to express your love for this glorious county.

9. Visit one of Cork cities’ amazing parks

Fitzgerald’s Park on the outskirts of the City is a favorite of mine, home to the ‘shaky bridge’, with a great little coffee shop, and lots of great photo opportunities. The park also hosts lots of cool free events during the summer.

We also love visiting Bell’s Field when we’re in the city. This is a large grassy area at the top of Patrick’s hill overlooking Cork City that is known as having the best view in all of the city! It’s quite a climb to reach it because you will be walking up the steepest hill in the city!

The view from the top is worth the climb, though, and you will see all of the Northside of the city, the Shandon Bells, and even St Fin Barre’s Cathedral in the distance. My top tip is to try and get here for sunset!

Other great local parks in Cork include the Regional Park in Ballincollig, Farran Woods a short drive from Ballincollig and The Lough a short drive from the CBD. Visiting a local park is one of the best free things to do in Cork City !

10. Wander around The English Market

Opened since 1788 this is easily one of the most famous markets in all of Ireland. It’s in fact the oldest indoor market in the country and is a must-visit for any visitor to Cork!

Come here on any given day for a true taste of the ‘rebel city’, from the moment you enter the English Market on the Grand Parade it’s an assault on all your senses. Smell fresh-off-the-boat fish, coffee brewing, freshly baked bread and listen to the unique Cork twang of the stall holders. This is certainly one of the top free things to do in Cork City!

What’s cool about the English Market is that small, new stalls sit next to larger stalls that have been around for generations. You could easily do your weekly shop here – with fresh fruit & vegetables, bread, meat, fish, and more all available for purchase. Be sure to stop by the world-famous O’Connell’s fish stall – even Queen Elizabeth has visited! 

My favorite stalls in the English Market include The Alternative Bread Company, and The Real Olive Company.

The English Market is also a great spot for a bite to eat with some of the best ready-made food in Cork on offer here like The Sandwich Stall (from the founders of The Real Olive Company) and  Maki Sushi Rolls . For great coffee, you can’t go wrong with Cafe Marius or Coffee Central. 

Or head upstairs to the famous Farmgate Cafe, which I mentioned earlier, for a doorstop sandwich (really thick bread, for those that don’t know) and a delicious coffee. There’s a fantastic view of the market from up here too. 

This guided culinary tour  is a great option to see The English Market with a knowledgeable guide and it also includes lunch.

11. Drive the Wild Atlantic Way

Did you know, the  Wild Atlantic Way runs from Kinsale in West Cork all the way to Donegal. At 2,500 km long, it is the longest coastal driving route in the world. If you don’t fancy your chances driving yourself, you can book this  luxury guided tour from Cork City  that includes stops in Timoleague, Kinsale, Castlemartyr, and Cobh. If you’re not from Ireland, you may find it a challenge to navigate the notoriously winding roads on this route.

Why not spend a full-day of your vacation to Cork driving some of the route in West Cork, stopping in some gorgeous towns and villages along the way, or even making the time to do a memorable  whale watching tour from the tiny town of Baltimore!

My suggestion for doing this drive is to start with breakfast at the  Lemon Leaf Cafe  in Kinsale, then drive the short 30 minutes to Clonakilty for a stroll around its quirky shops. Then, onwards to Rosscarbery, Skibbereen, and Baltimore. Stop for lunch at  Bushes Bar   in Baltimore. Then, full steam ahead to Schull, Bantry & Glengariff. For dinner, I recommend the Brick Oven in Bantry for the “best pizza in Cork. Spend the night in one of the towns or drive back to Kinsale.

FYI –  this private tour is another great option if you don’t fancy driving the Wild Atlantic Way yourself and includes stops in Kinsale, Clonakilty, Drombeg Stone Circle, and many more!

12. Explore Charles Fort in Kinsale

Just outside the colorful town of Kinsale lies the historic Charles Fort. A 17th century star-shaped fort, associated with some of the most momentous events in Irish history.

There is a small visitor’s center here, with audio and visual exhibits for a self-guided experience. Or you can arrange a guided tour which lasts about one hour. The entrance to Charles Fort costs €2.50 per person.

Are you interested in ghost stories? Then watch out for the ghost of the White Lady. According to local legend, a local soldier had to go on patrol of Charles Fort on his wedding night. He arrived at the fort drunk after his wedding celebrations and fell asleep on watch. He was shot for abandoning his post, and his grief-stricken bride threw herself from Charles Forts’ walls when she was informed of his death. She is said to still haunt Charles Fort to this day.

13. Visit Blackrock Castle

The magnificent  Blackrock Castle  is the oldest surviving building in the entire county of Cork, having been built back in 1582. Throughout the years, the castle has served many different purposes, including as an Admiralty Court, a lighthouse, and a gun battery! It’s now home to an observatory that showcases fun scientific exhibitions and star viewings. 

Journeys of Exploration is a new interactive experience offered here in association with Failte Ireland; it tells the story of how the castle helped to defend the city of Cork from attacks throughout the 16th Century. 

There’s a great Cafe on-site, within the walls of the castle so it’s very photogenic. You can visit the Cafe for free and take some photos of the exterior of the castle, but there is a fee to visit the exhibitions inside the castle. If you visit the Cafe first you can get 10% off the castle entrance fee!

The Cafe here is open 10 am – 9 pm Wednesday – Sunday, opening hours for the exhibitions in the castle vary

14. Check out the gorgeous town of Glengarriff

Glengarriff, aka the Rugged Glen, is heaven for hikers of all abilities. The trails here feature some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland. I’ve listed some of the best ones below –

The  Glengarriff Woods Nature Reserve  is a stunning mature oak woodland situated in the middle of the old Glengarriff valley. There are many viewpoints and several picnic areas along the trail. But the best lookout point on the trail, in my opinion, is Lady Bantry’s Lookout, which offers a panoramic view across Bantry Bay and up to the Caha Mountains. 

The Blue Pools is an easy and short walk from Main Street in the village of Glengarriff. You can enter the path to the blue pool next to  Quills . The Blue Pools has many trails and walkways through a magical forested area with epic views of the harbor. If you walk beyond the Blue Pools, you will reach an area known as The Point. Here, there is a diving board and a beautiful sun-drenched bathing area. There’s also a pontoon for you to swim off.

15. Ring the Shandon Bells

The Shandon Bells are an institution ‘Leeside’ (what locals call Cork City), the third tallest building in the city offers you the opportunity to climb to the top for a fantastic 360-degree view of Cork as well as the chance to try your hand at ringing the church bells on your way to the top.

There are 8 ropes for the 8 bells and you can choose to play the bells to the tune of a song. Don’t worry you will be given instructions. The bells can be heard across the city though so no pressure!

You must climb 135 steps to reach the viewing balcony, so, this Cork activity is not recommended for those with mobility or heart issues! 

It’s a  €5 entrance fee for adults and children aged from 5-15 will be charged €2.  

This hop-on-hop-off bus tour of Cork City  visits the Shandon Bells as well as Cork City Gaol, The English Market and more! Another highly-recommended tour is  this full-day guided tour that takes you around Cork City’s best attractions  including The English Market and Shandon Bells before hopping on a private mini-bus to explore the seaside town of Kinsale

Is Cork Worth Visiting?

Yes, Cork, Ireland is definitely worth visiting! For one, it boasts one of the largest coastlines in the country (a whopping 1,200 km) so, as you can guess Cork is home to some drop dead gorgeous beaches. My favorite is Barleycove Beach. Cork is also where you can start (or end) the famed Wild Atlantic Way Drive and if you’re a foodie you’re in luck. As Cork is known by many as the culinary capital of Ireland – the English Market is an absolute must-visit if you love to eat!

Where to Stay in Cork City

Cork City Center Self Catering Apartment – Located near Cork City Hall and Saint Finbarres Cathedral this modern apartment is very centrally located. The one-bedroom apartment is 26m 2  and has a kitchen (including fridge, microwave and oven), dining room and separate bedroom. Free WiFi is also included in the rate.

River View Apartment  – A luxurious apartment with river views and a terrace just a few minutes walk from the city center. It comes with a fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities. This is a quiet part of town.

Hayfield Manor – this super-luxurious hotel is one of the best in Cork City and is definitely one for the bucket-list. It is located a few minutes drive from the CBD.

Montenotte Hotel – this super-cool and quirky hotel has been recently renovated. It has lovely gardens and a cinema!

River Lee Hotel – with prime views over the River Lee, large bedrooms and a fantastic on-site restaurant this is one of the most popular hotels in Cork!

Thanks for reading my blog!

And, that’s it folks. If you’ve visited Cork previously or are a legendary Corkonian like myself is there anything else you would include that I’ve missed? If so, please leave a comment below.

P.S if you’re planning a move to Cork I’ve written a detailed blog post about renting in Cork that you may find helpful!

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35 thoughts on “ A Locals Guide to the Best Things to do in Cork (2024 Guide) ”

I missed Cork when I visited Ireland because I thought it was too touristy but this post sets me straight. Have to see it next time.

My friend just moved to Cork so I had to come and check out your blog! You’ve got me all excited about what I’ll be seeing when I visit her – love it, thanks!

I live the colors! I have never heard of Cork but when I feel safe enough to travel again, I’m definitely going to add it to the list!

Love this post! You have convinced me I need to visit Cork. Over the past year I’ve been seeing more and more about Ireland that makes me want to go! I can see why you love Cork as it looks so charming and a beautiful place. I’d definitely want to see Blarney Castle too for sure. Hoping to go next summer if possible! 😁

I really need to go here on my next trip to Ireland!

These colourful houses are beautiful and the beach looks amazing. Might have to take a trip over the water soon!

I haven’t been to Ireland yet, but so wanna go! Cork seems like the perfect place to add to my itinerary, though. Thanks for showing off your beautiful home town. I’ll definitely go there one day!

• Pingback: Towns in Ireland You HAVE to Visit | Volumes & Voyages

This city looks so charming! I would love to visit it!

Cork look amazing! Thanks for sharing 🙂 I love the colorful houses.

I realize the this was posted nearly 4 years ago, but I was glad to find it. I am in the very beginning process of planning a trip to Ireland, particularly to Cork. My heritage is Irish from Mallow. All of the above reasons are enough to draw a person in, but I want to explore the area where my family originated. What will there be for a 65 year old couple to enjoy besides the picturesque views, the coffee shops, and general shopping? We are healthy and can hike if needed. I’m asking for your perspective, as you’ve lived there. I know all about all of the “big” attractions, but what do the locals enjoy most? Thanks for a reply. Chere’

I do love a killer sunset. Guess I’ll have to make my way to Cork when I make it to Ireland.

I am going to Ireland in April and Cork is 100 percent on my list of places to visit! I have heard wonderful things and this just solidifies it. Love to see they have great coffee too 🙂

Ireland in general is next on my list to visit. It’s really been too long a time coming. But Cork looks lovely. Such a beautiful place

I’m not much of a coffee drinker but all the other reasons have resonated with me. Seems like I’ll need to plan a trip over soon! And that’s so funny how you have your own slang dictionary hahaa.

Travelling has made me appreciate going home so much more, you see it from a totally different point of view! Cork looks lovely, I’d definitely go up to Patrick’s Hill and admire the views!

I’ve never heard of this city in Ireland and now I’m rethinking of visiting this area when I book my trip. I love coffee and colorful towns. I especially love the photos of the beaches you shared. Usually, I see gloomy photos of the beaches in Ireland, so this gave me a whole new perspective!

I love Cork, though I only saw one part, in Killarney. You’re right about the Irish people, they’re so warm, friendly, and very funny too! I didn’t get to see any beaches while there, but the landscapes and vistas are incredible. I also didn’t realise you call yourselves ‘Corkonians’! Now I know 🙂

I will surely be adding Cork to my Ireland itinerary after reading your post. I had no idea that Ireland has so beautiful beaches. The small coastal town of Kinsale seems like photographer’s dream. I love those colors.

Cork was hands down my favorite place in Ireland! We met a lady before Mass at St Patrick’s who was so charming and invited us to tea in her home. Cobh was gorgeous and had the best scones I’ve ever tasted. I was amazed at how much Blarney Castle had to offer – we could have spent the entire day there. The Jameson Experience in Midleton was also wonderful – the history in those buildings was spectacular and the whiskey Divine. The only problem we encountered in Cork was that we had to leave. I will definitely be returning and will spend the better part of the trip exploring more of this fabulous county.

I’m so glad to hear! Home is where the heart is, and I’m very proud speaking of my home country when I travel 🙂

That looks amazing, Cork just became part of my bucket list. I actually would not have expected these colourful houses here, among other things. Well, too many things to explore, so better I go check it out myself 🙂

Thanks for sharing – I am not yet convinced to visit Cork; but the country, Ireland, on the other hand, would be on my list. 🙂 @knycx.journeying

Cork is so charming and your post has bowled me over. The beaches, the natural beauty, the elegant town and to wash it all down Irish Coffee, it can’t get better than this.

Looks amazing, i never knew Cork had so much to offer. The beaches look great for a swim if the sun ever comes out lol.I really must get to Ireland one day soon we have done most other countries in Europe. Glad to see somewhere in Europe does great coffee, being from Australia great coffee is a way of life here.

Lovely, lovely Cork. You have captured the beauty and spirit of the place wonderfully. I had a great fish chowder at the covered English Market there a while back and was just thinking about it today

It really DOES look like a photographers dream! I have yet to go to any part of Europe, but when I do I’ll be sure to get to Ireland (I’m mostly Irish in heritage too) and visit Cork!

Wow, I didn’t realise that the towns were so colourful! I need to go to Ireland- I’m from Glasgow so I have absolutely no excuse!

I agree, but the #1 reason I went to Cork was to see the Jameson distillery!!

Lol, good one. May do a follow-up post on all the great bits I’ve forgotten.

Love the colorful town of Kinsale – the colors really do draw the eye in. Would it be too expensive to live there?

Not in terms of day to day living costs, but the property prices are very high for a town so far from the city centre (30-40 minutes).

Cork definitely looks like a photographer’s dream. The city is so picturesque. I’m not exactly sure about what is the gift of the gab but it sounds interesting to kiss a stone. Hahaha

Yes! I totally agree Cork is amazing! I loved the beach and watching the sunset from those beaches. The colourful towns and beautiful scenery are definitely a photographer’s dream come true!

I like your photos 🙂 I’ll be heading out to the UK at the end of the year so will def have to visit Cork 🙂

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28 Best Things To Do In Cork In 2024 (With Map)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: April 8, 2024

Although the best things to do in Cork are arguably the Ring of Beara and Mizen Head, this is far  from a two-horse-county!

Cork is Ireland’s largest county, and it’s easily one of the most scenic.

The result is that there’s endless  places to visit in Cork that’ll knock you sideways, from castles and coves to cliff walks and more

In this guide, I’ll show you what to do in Cork based on the many, many  holidays that I’ve spent here during my 35 years of living in Ireland.

Table of Contents

The best things to do in Cork

Click to enlarge map

The map above has what are, in my opinion, the best places to visit in Cork plotted on it. 

Take 30 seconds to throw your eyes over it as it’ll give you a lay of the land nice and quickly!

1. The Beara Peninsula

Photos via Shutterstock

You’ll find the magnificent Beara Peninsula finely plonked between Bantry Bay and the Kenmare River in West Cork. It’s here that you’ll discover a landscape that’ll never leave you.

The Peninsula, which is arguably one of the most scenic places to visit in Cork, is best explored by foot, although you can see some of the finest scenery it has to offer on the Ring of Beara drive.

Beara’s two mountain ranges (the Caha Mountains and the Slieve Miskish Mountains) make this a glorious place to hike around and the Beara Way trail is worth committing a week to.

Related read: 31 of the best things to do in West Cork in 2024

2. Mizen Head

A journey to Mizen Head will take you to Ireland’s most southerly point where the Wild Atlantic Way’s scenery is at its most dramatic.

The signal station at Mizen was constructed to protect those sailing off the coast of Ireland and those that visit will be immersed in the areas history via the Maritime Museum.

However, it’s what’s outside that counts at Mizen. When you leave the visitor centre, you’ll follow a well-trodden path towards the station and across the Mizen Head bridge.

The towering cliffs, the whistle of the wind and the crashing of the waves below combine to make this one of the best things to do in Cork for good reason.

3. Ireland’s Teardrop and Cape Clear Island

One of the more non-tourists things to do in Cork is a tour that takes you from Baltimore  to Cape Clear Island and then, on the return journey, around Fastnet Rock .

Fastnest is nicknamed ‘Ireland’s Teardrop’ as it was the last part of Ireland that many 19th-century Irish emigrants saw as they sailed across to North America.

You can climb aboard the ferry to Cape Clear (takes 45 minutes) and then hop into a shuttle bus that takes you to the islands heritage centre where there’s a multimedia exhibition.

The island is home to raw, unspoiled beauty and plenty of archaeological sites, too. The return journey around Fastnet will give you an eye-full of one of Ireland’s most impressive lighthouses.

4. Blarney Castle

Now, Blarney Castle gets its fair share of criticism. This is mainly due to people thinking that the Blarney Stone is the only thing that Blarney Castle has to offer.

That isn’t the case – the grounds here are gorgeous and they’re the perfect spot for a ramble. There are also some very unusual places to see, like the ‘Witches kitchen’.

If you want to kiss the Blarney Stone, you can of course. According to legend, the stone has the power to give anyone who kisses it the gift of the gab – aka the ability to speak with ease and confidence.

The castle and its gardens are one of the more popular places to visit in Cork during the peak season, so arrive early if you’re visiting during summer.

5. Bantry House

Our next stop takes us to Bantry House and Gardens – the ancestral home of the Earls of Bantry. You’ll find it finely perched on a site that overlooks Bantry Bay.

The house and it’s beautifully maintained gardens opened to the public in 1946. Those that visit can kick-back with a bite to eat in the tearoom or head for a saunter around the gardens.

One of the reasons that this is one of of the more popular Cork attractions is due to the view (above) that you can get of the house and the bay beyond from an elevated area.

6. The Baltimore Beacon walk

The Baltimore Beacon is arguably best-visited around sunset when the sun dips over Sherkin Island (as an added bonus you can enjoy a pint in nearby Bushe’s Bar after!).

You’ll find it standing proudly at the entrance to Baltimore harbour where it’s been acting as a warning system for sea-farers for many a year.

The British ordered the construction of the beacon after the 1798 Rebellion. The current structure is said to have been built at some stage during the 1840s.

You can drive to it (there’s parking beside the hill) or you can do one of the trails from our Cork walks that leaves from the town and ends at the Beacon.

Related read: See our guide to our 9 of the best hotels in West Cork

7. Gougane Barra

I’ve visited our next stop, Gougane Barra, on many occasions and it is, in my opinion, one of the best things to do in Cork when the weather’s good!

There are few places in the world, never mind in Ireland, like the magical Gougane Barra . Those that visit will discover a large valley and lake that are enveloped by mountains which rise up to 370 metres in height.

If you’re thinking, ‘Is that yoke a little church?’, it is indeed! The story goes that St. Finbarr (the Patron Saint of Cork) built a monastery on the little island in Gougane Barra Lake during the 6th century.

The little chapel on the island that stands today isn’t the original, but it adds to the fairytale-like surroundings at Gougane Barra. There are several trails of varying length and difficulty to try here!

Few towns in Cork are as photographed as the wonderful Cobh in East Cork . When you arrive, park up behind Cobh Cathedral and admire the impressive architecture.

Although there are plenty of things to do in Cobh , most people only visit to see the Deck of Cards (photo on the left above). They’re worth a visit, but there’s more to Cobh than some colourful houses.

Your next stop is the Titanic Experience tour where you’ll learn about the Titanic’s arrive into Queenstown (what we now know as Cobh) on its maiden voyage.

You can then take the ferry over to a place known as ‘Ireland’s Hell’ – Spike Island . Over the course of 1,300 years, the island has been home to a 24-acre fortress, a 6th-century monastery and the biggest convict depot in the world.

9. Lough Hyne

This sea-water lake is nestled within a fold of rolling hills, 5km from the lively little town of Skibbereen . It’s also Ireland’s First Marine Nature Reserve with its very own ecosystem.

This Lough Hyne Walk takes you up Knockomagh Hill and treats you to stunning views out over the lake and the surrounding countryside.

It can take around an hour, with stops, and is pretty steep in places. However, the climb to the top is well worth the effort. 

10. Cork City

Cork City makes a great base to explore from – especially as you can round off a day of adventure in one of the trad pubs in Cork !

Activity wise, there’s plenty of things to do in Cork City , like St Fin Barre’s Cathedral , where you’ll see the swinging cannonball which arrived in 1690… when it was fired from Elizabeth Fort during the siege of Cork.

Then there’s the brilliant Cork City Gaol tour (it was designed in the early 1800s to replace the city’s old gaol) and the English Market which has been running since 1788!

Nip into one of the restaurants in Cork to refuel and then it’s on to the impressive Blackrock Castle , parts of which date back to 1582. Round off your day in the quirky Cork Butter Museum .

Need a place to stay in the city?  Hop into our guide to hotels in Cork City or our Cork B&B guide

11. Bull Rock

If you’re wondering what to do in Cork for a very unique experience, take a tour around Bull Rock – it’s the island near Dursey (yep, it’s the one with the cable car!).

You’ll find three large ‘rocks’ off Dursey Island; Cow Rock, Calf Rock and the one that looks like something from a Disney Movie – Bull Rock.

Bull Rock stands at 93m high and 228m by 164m wide. If you’re after a unique experience, you can hop on a 1.5-hour tour with the lads at Dursey Boat Tours.

You’ll be taken over to the island (note: not onto the island) and through the tiny passageway that cuts through Bull Rock! Some other nearby island tours include Bere Island and  Whiddy Island .

12. Charles Fort and Elizabeth Fort

Charles Fort near Kinsale is a late 17th-century star-shaped fort that’s linked to several significant events in Irish history.

The most significant of which was the Williamite War (1689-91) and the Civil War (1922-23). You can do a self-guided tour here that’ll take you around the inside of the fort and through a number of different buildings.

Another mighty Cork fort is Elizabeth Fort , a 17th-century star fort located on Barrack Street in Cork City. It was built as a defensive fortification on high-ground outside the city walls.

Cork City then gradually grew around Elizabeth Fort. Over time, as the city swelled, the fort became redundant. These are two of the more popular Cork tourist attractions for good reason.

13. Garnish Island

Photos by Chris Hill via Tourism Ireland

Those that take the 15-minute ferry ride over to Garnish Island in Glengarriff harbour with the folks at Garnish Island Ferry are in for a treat.

The journey across includes a stop off at seal island where you’ll get to see a seal colony. The colony is believed to be comprised of a whopping 250 seals. You can just imagine the noise off of these lads!

When you land on the island, there’s plenty of things to see. After you’ve had a stroll through the gardens, head on to the Martello Tower. You’ll get the view above from towers battlements!

14. Glengarriff and its surrounds

Glengarriff is a fine base to explore to and there’s plenty to see and do a stone’s throw from the town.

Head to the Caha Pass ( follow this route on Maps), first, and spin through the tunnels while soaking up beautiful valley views.

Next, tip into Glengarriff Nature Reserve . This is another one of those places to visit in Cork that tends to rock you a little.

Do the Waterfall Walk. It’s short but packs a punch and the trail is nice and gentle with very little incline.

Related reads: See our guide to the best things to do in Glengarriff and find a place to stay in our guide to the finest Glengarriff hotels

15. Kinsale

Kinsale is one of the most popular places to see in Cork amongst visiting tourists, mainly thanks to its colourful streets and busy harbour.

However, there’s a handful of things to do in Kinsale if you’re looking to explore the area, including the Scilly Walk , Charles Fort and the Old Head of Kinsale walk .

If you, like me, are as fond of a pint or five, there are some mighty pubs in Kinsale , with the Bulman and the Spaniard being the pick of the bunch.

The town also has a flourishing food scene, thanks to its position on the coast. Some of the finest restaurants in Kinsale are the Black Pig and Man Friday.

Fancy staying in the town? These are the  hotels in Kinsale that I’ve been recommending for years

16. The Ballycotton Cliff Walk

There are few walks as fine as the Ballycotton Cliff Walk . This is an absolute peach of a ramble that’ll take between 2 – 2.5 hours to polish off, depending on pace.

You’re treated to brilliant views throughout and you’ll have a chance to see some lovely hidden beaches, the Ballycotton Lighthouse and plenty more.

If you’re looking for places to visit in Cork that’ll treat you to glorious views throughout your ramble, get yourself here. Round it off with a bite to eat in Ballycotton Village and you’re laughing.

17. Healy Pass

Healy Pass is one of the most unique roads that you’ll find in Ireland. The pass was created back in 1847, during the famine years, to help prevent starvation.

You’ll find it on the Beara peninsula where it takes drivers, cyclists, and walkers on a unique and bendy route through the Caha Mountains.

Places like this make me happy. They make you feel like you’re on a different planet and 90% of the time you visit (basing this on my last 3 visits) you’ll be one of the only people there.

18. Dursey Island

You’ll find of the more unique things to do in Ireland at Ballaghboy, at the very tip of the Beara Peninsula. I’m talking, of course, about the cable car to Dursey Island .

The Dursey Island Cable Car has been in operation since 1969. It runs an impressive 250m above the ocean below and it takes just 10 minutes to cross.

When you arrive over on Dursey, you’ll be able to soak up some unrivalled views of the Beara Peninsula on this lovely looped walk.

19. The Youghal Clock Gate Tower

Photos © Tourism Ireland

A visit to the Clock Gate Tower is arguably one of the most popular things to do in Youghal and you’ll find it in the centre of the East Cork town.

Standing at 24 metres in hight, this historic landmark boasts a colourful history spanning over 700 years, and you can learn all about it on the tour.

The tour offers a unique sensory experience in the Merchants Quarters where you can smell spices and see smooth silks. You can also see the gaol cell and catch panoramic views from the top of the tower.

20. Visit the Jameson Distillery

Photos courtesy Hu O’Reilly via Fáilte Ireland

If you’re looking for things to do in Cork with a group of friends, plan a trip out to the Jameson Distillery in Midelton .

Jameson called Dublin home for 200 long years. Then, in 1975, they packed up and moved their expanding operation to Midleton in Cork.

Whiskey lovers can now take a ramble around the distillery on the highly recommended Jameson Experience Tour. This is a fully guided tour around the original Midleton Distillery with excellent reviews online.

Related read:  See our guide to 13 things to do in Midleton

21. Clonakilty and its surrounds

Photo left and top right: Micheal O’Mahony via Failte Ireland. Others via Shutterstock

There’s plenty of things to do in Clonakilty and it’s for that reason that the town comes alive during the summer months.

Start of your day here with a ramble (or a paddle!) at the gorgeous  Inchydoney Beach .

Next, work up an appetite at Clonakilty Black Pudding Visitor Centre before heading into the Michael Collins Heritage Centre .

To polish off your day, DeBarras Folk Club and catch a live music session while quenching your thirst with great Irish beers or Irish stout .

22. Doneraile House and Wildlife Park

Photos courtesy Ballyhoura Fáilte

Doneraile Court and Wildlife Park is another great spot for those of you wondering what to do in Cork with the family.

The estate straddles the Awbeg River and it’s a joy to have a ramble around. If you fancy a ramble, there are several trails you can head off on.

You can also try the Doneraile Court Tour (perfect if it’s raining) or head for a ramble around the finely manicured gardens.

23. Whale watching

Whale watching in Cork is one of the more unique experiences the county has to offer (note: you’re not guaranteed to see whales on any of the tours).

If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see everything from Basking Sharks and Harbour Porpoise to Sea Turtles and Jellyfish on one of these tours .

There’s a 2-hour tour which, according to those that run it is, ‘a thrilling fun-packed coastal sightseeing tour of the West Cork coastline, with whale, dolphin, seal and wildlife watching.’

24. Breath-taking beaches

Some of the best places to visit in Cork are the sandy stretches that are dotted along the county’s magnificent coastline.

And, as is the case with most coastal counties, a few Cork beaches , like Inchydoney Beach , Garretstown Beach and Barleycove Beach (pictured above), tend to get all of the attention.

The result is that many tend to miss the joys of the likes of Allihies Beach (one of the most impressive beaches in West Cork ) and  Warren Beach .

FAQs about what to do in Cork

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What are the best things to do in Cork if you only have a day?’ to ‘What are unique things to see in Cork?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the most unique places to visit in Cork?

I’d argue the the most unique places to go in Cork are the county’s many islands. A lot of people get put off by having to take a ferry to an island, but many of Cork’s islands can be reached in under an hour (with some reachable in 10 minutes).

What are the best things to do in Cork for an active break?

If you’re wondering what to do in Cork that’ll get you out of the car and treat you to heaps of scenery, look no further than the Sheeps Head Way and the Beara Way. These are two long-distance walks that pack a punch.

I’m wondering where to go in Cork on a weekend break?

If you only have a couple of days, your best bet is to find a base and explore around it. Cork City is a good option here, but this’ll depend on where in Ireland you’re travelling to Cork from. Kinsale is another good option if you want a lively town.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Wednesday 8th of July 2020

Nano Nagle Centre near St. Finbarrs Fitzgerald Park Cork Crawford Art Gallery The Old Waterworks Cork Doneraile Park North Cork Fota House and Gardens FOTA Wildlife Park The Ewe Experience West Cork Whale Watching Courtmacsherry.

Friday 6th of March 2020

you forgot Youghal!!

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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Cork City: Top 9 Attractions

Cork City has a world-class market, historic fort and incredible food and drink to enjoy

Cork City is yours to explore with a world-class market, historic fort and incredible food and drink to enjoy

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Get to know Cork city through modern masterpieces, a bustling covered market and the blessed brews of a Franciscan pub. Just don’t time yourself by the church tower – its clock is known as the four-faced liar!

1. The English Market

The envy of foodies throughout Ireland, the English Market has been around since 1788. Far from being English (it’s named for its Protestant origins), this is the place to pick up traditional specialities like drisheen and pigs’ trotters, although the 55 or so stalls also stock bread, fish, cheese and fruit and veg. The market has survived fire, civil war and an attempted name change, but it took a failed bid to replace it with a parking lot in the 1980s for the people of Cork to realise that their culinary capital was worth saving! Today hailed as the "best covered market in the UK and Ireland" by chef Rick Stein, the English Market is thriving. Drop into the Farmgate Café for delicious dishes made from the market’s wares.

Three modern Irish eateries

2. Cork City Gaol

A mixture of grand Gothic and classical architecture, Cork City Gaol looks more like a castle than a penitentiary. But don't be fooled – these elegant walls have enclosed some of the most battle-hardened veterans of armed struggle. And not very well, either, if you consider one frosty night in 1923 when no less than 42 prisoners tied clothes and sheets together and snuck over the walls in batches of 14, fleeing silently into the night on stockinged feet. This was chiefly a women’s prison, where many republican women were held during the War of Independence. Take a tour through the gloomy cells and corridors to be transported back to those tough and turbulent times.

3. Crawford Municipal Art Gallery

In Cork's stunning old Customs House, the relaxed Crawford Municipal Art Gallery is art made easy. At the heart of the permanent collection here is a series of Graeco-Roman casts, modelled from sculptures held in the Vatican. Since their acquisition in 1816, a collection of Irish art has blossomed around these busts, including paintings, sculpture and installations. In a nod to Ireland's rich literary tradition, the Crawford is also home to a number of portraits of beloved Irish writers, from Samuel Beckett to WB Yeats and Elizabeth Bowen. A tour of this welcoming gallery is perfectly bookended by a coffee and bite to eat in the friendly, airy café.

Three cultural must-sees

4. Elizabeth Fort

Built almost 400 years ago, this bruiser regularly caught the eye of attacking forces, right up until the Irish Civil War of the 1920s. In fact, after the original structure took shape in 1601, locals were so worried by the potential for invasion that they destroyed it. Bad idea: when order was restored, the people of Cork were made to rebuild it again at their own expense. The fort was replaced in 1624 and Oliver Cromwell is said to have added improvements while besieging the city, resulting in roughly what we see today. Take a stroll along the ramparts – many claim this offers the best view over Cork city.

Three green spaces for a stroll

5. Franciscan Well Brewery

The weight of Cork's lengthy history adds a certain richness to this city, not least of all to its strong tradition of brewing, reinvigorated today at the Franciscan Well. The brewery is named after the site itself, where a medieval Franciscan monastery once stood – complete with a healing well. While the beer brewed onsite today may not technically have curative powers, it’s still pretty good! Patrons can choose from a range of specialist lager, ale, stout and wheat beers, as well as various tipples from micro-breweries all round the world. Relax with a pint in the beer garden, where tunes from local musicians often fill the rafters. Cheers!

Three great pubs and bars

6. UCC campus (including Lewis Glucksman Gallery)

There's nothing quite like a stroll through University College Cork , along the leafy banks of the River Lee. The trees adorning this verdant campus lend it a stately air; in the President's Garden, there even stands one that was brought back from the trenches of the First World War as a sapling that had sprouted in the pocket of a fallen soldier. Indoors, the award-winning Lewis Glucksman Gallery hosts regular exhibitions and continues the university's proud tradition of nurturing the visual arts. In fact, the entire campus is dotted with numerous works of sculpture, photography, print and paint. See how many you can spot as you ramble through the grounds...

Two galleries to see Irish art

7. St Fin Barre’s Cathedral

Although the cathedral that stands today is a French Neo-Gothic masterpiece, this site has been used for Christian worship since Cork's patron saint Fin Barre established a monastery here the 7th century. After numerous changes, renovations and re-builds, the current cathedral was completed in the 19th century, for the princely sum of more than £100,000 – obliterating the paltry original budget of £15,000. When you see the beautiful stained glass, ornate organ and preserved 12th century carved stone heads, you'll appreciate why. Keep a sharp eye on the angel on the cathedral's east side – local legend holds that he will blow his bugle to herald the Apocalypse!

8. St Anne’s Church and Shandon Bells

Just how much the people of Cork love St Anne's Church becomes clear once you learn that the red sandstone and white limestone of the church's tower are said to have inspired the red and white of Cork’s sporting colors. Although a church has existed here since medieval times, the one that stands tall above the city today was built in 1722. Don’t trust the clock on the tower, though – locals call it the ‘four-faced liar’, because the different faces each tell different times. Almost uniquely, visitors can ring the church bells, but the system is automated nowadays, so you don’t have to swing on a rope.

Three historic churches to see

9. Cork Butter Museum

In case you didn't know by now: food is a BIG deal in Cork. We're not just talking the fresh delights of the English Market, either. Cork also honors its more historic tasty traditions, in particular, its past at the center of Europe's butter trade. The Cork Butter Museum speaks to Ireland's dairy pedigree: the lush local grazing and temperate climate have long made butter, milk and cheese central to the island's fortune and this museum brings the visitor on a wholesome tour down memory lane. From the pretty labels of local creameries to an exhibition on the traditional craft of domestic butter-making, this is a delightful reminder that hearty, homely, high-quality produce will never go out of style in Cork.

Three more museums to visit

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A local’s guide to Cork, Ireland: top 10 tips

The Republic’s second city may be small but it packs a big punch when it comes to the arts, food and having a good time

Best of the black stuff

There’s a pub on George’s Quay called Callanan’s . It’s one of my favourite places to take someone who’s from out of town to have a pint of Beamish and watch the old men playing rings in the back room. I’ve taken Steve Reich there, and Aidan Gillen and Camille O’Sullivan. We use it in the Sounds From a Safe Harbour festival for some of the acoustic shows on the music trail we run through the city. It’s real, unpretentious old Cork. The family who run it live upstairs, so when you go to the loo you feel like you’re going through their house. And it does the best Beamish in the city: the atmosphere adds to the taste. 24 George’s Quay, on Twitter

Cafe and culture

The Glucksman gallery is a stone’s throw from the southern arm of the River Lee, and it’s always nice to have brunch at the Bobo Café there and then go up and peruse the exhibitions. It’s part of University College Cork, where I studied, so I have a real connection with the place. They often make an academic context for their exhibitions and a dialogue between the artwork and the campus – a recent one was called Circadian Rhythms: Contemporary Art and Biological Time , and it brought together artists and designers such as Suki Chan and Maarten Baas with the university’s microbiome research centre. The brunch menu at Bobo has dishes like homemade granola with yoghurt and fruit (€6.50), shakshuka, and chilli tempeh with beans and patatas bravas (both €9).

A night at the opera

There are great venues all over Cork: the Opera House , the Everyman , Live at St Luke’s , the Kino … You’re never short of work to go and see. I was chief executive at the Opera House for five years. So many people said it was a poisoned chalice but I have zero regrets, and it’s how I ended up doing what I’m doing now. It’s 165 years old (rebuilt in 1963), the largest venue in the south of Ireland but still an incredibly intimate room, with 1,000 seats, and not a bad one in the house – wherever you are, you always feel close to the action. And acoustically it’s beautiful. I used to love standing in the room after a show, when the atmosphere was still hanging in the air.

Morning coffee

The Sounds from a Safe Harbour festival was created in the Soma and Filter coffee shops; I didn’t have an office when I started, so I used to settle myself in one of them each day, put my headphones in and work. Filter is the long-established coffee house in Cork and stocks coffee from roasters such as 3fe in Dublin and Square Mile in London. Soma roasts its own coffee: it also has a wine licence and serves lunch, brunch and evening tapas. Filter, 19 George’s Quay, on Facebook . Soma, 23 Tuckey St, somacoffeecompany.ie

Michelin-star Japanese

Chef Takashi Miyazaki started with a tiny Japanese takeaway, Miyazaki , in 2015 before he opened the more upscale Ichigo Ichie , and within months he had won himself a Michelin star . He’s always there, cooking in front of everybody. Originally from Fukuoka in southern Japan, he trained in fusion teppanyaki cooking and moved to Ireland in 2008. The original takeaway is on a residential street and daily specials might include lemon ramen, hake hotpot and sweet and sour cod nanban don (from €13.50). Ichigo Ichie seats 25 and offers a set 12-course kaiseiki menu (€120 a head), where dishes might include pistachio tofu with beetroot miso, apple blossom and gold leaf; Bantry Bay sea urchin; and Asian pear with sanshō in rosé wine and nasturtium with “shiso fluff”. Miyazaki has also won a string of awards and participated in food festivals across Cork. I used to programme the Mitchelstown Cave concerts, about an hour outside of Cork, and he cooked at a pop-up there. Miyazaki, 1A Evergreen St, on Facebook . Ichigo Ichie, 5 Fenns Quay, ichigoichie.ie

River and park walk

A beautiful walk follows the northern arm of the River Lee from town to Fitzgerald’s Park . It’s a special place for me – we used to live in a house right on the park, and there’s a massive big old tree there that my mother used to say was a fairy tree (she used to run ahead and put presents in it for us kids to find). There’s a stage in the park now that’s used throughout the summer. I did one event there where we used GPS to install Music for Wood and Strings, by Bryce Dessner, the American composer and guitarist with rock band the National – as you walked through the park the music would evolve.

Famous food market

The covered English Market in the city centre has been trading since 1788. It was given this name to distinguish it from the St Peter’s Market, which once stood nearby. We go here every single day – I pick the kids up from school and we go and get stuff for dinner. There’s a different stall for everything: red meat here, chicken there, fish from the other end. You can buy “duck” loaves (tapered at both ends), local raw milk and fresh oysters. I recommend the cured, spiced joints of beef from Tom Durcan – they are really good for slicing up at Christmas. englishmarket.ie

Veggie paradise

Cafe Paradiso is one of Europe’s best vegetarian restaurants, founded by chef Denis Cotter. He used to be a banker, set up the restaurant in 1993, and is now the author of several cookbooks including Wild Garlic, Gooseberries and Me . Cafe Paradiso is known for using seasonal, local produce and cheeses, working closely with Gort-Na-Nain Farm, near the coast south of the city, and the current menu includes celeriac and crozier blue dauphinoise, and rosemary set custard with figs and damson port (three courses €46.50, starter and main €38.50). In 2017, the festival put on a secret gig: audiences had to follow signs written in chalk along the pavement to reach the venue, where there were performances by Lisa Hannigan and David Kitt, and dancers led by Jessica Dessner, followed by Denis Cotter serving you a plate of food. 16 Lancaster Quay, paradiso.restaurant

Happy hour … any time

Visit the River Lee Hotel for a pre-anything cocktail. Before breakfast even. This year they made us a Safe Harbour cocktail for the festival. I can’t remember exactly what went into it – things that shouldn’t go well together, like rum, Guinness and lime. It was a dirty brown colour. But I tried it on the Thursday night with Jon Hopkins and it tasted fantastic. Western Road, doylecollection.com

Classic clothing

My wardrobe’s full of Miss Daisy Blue , an incredible vintage shop off one of the market arcades, curated by Breda Casey. It’s small, but has two floors – upstairs is more evening wear. We once did a fashion show in the market called Fable and all the clothes were from Miss Daisy Blue. Irene Buckley composed the music, there was poetry from Doireann Ni Ghriofa, and we brought dancers instead of models. They finished with a performance by the dancer Stephanie Dufresne around the market fountain. Unit 12-14, Market Parade, on Facebook

Cork hosts festivals aplenty, and as it’s a relatively small place, the whole city buzzes when one hits town. Just three of the highlights are the Cork Harbour Festival (5-24 May 2020), a celebration of Ireland’s maritime heritage in the second largest natural harbour in the world; the Cork Jazz Festival (22-26 October 2020); and the Cork Film Festival in mid-November.

Where to stay The historic Metropole Hotel (doubles from €98 room-only), on trendy McCurtain Street, has had a tasty makeover. The city’s newest hotel is The Clayton (doubles from €98 room-only). The Vienna Woods Hotel (doubles from €98 room-only) on the outskirts of town has plenty of old-world charm and is in a lovely woodland setting.

Further information at purecork.ie

Mary Hickson is the director of Sounds From a Safe Harbour festival

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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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• Where To Stay 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.

RELATED READ :

• 10 Best Restaurants In Cork City, Ireland
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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

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Kinlay House Cork (@kinlayhousecork)

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

• Cork City Gaol: History And All The Things You Need To Know
• Cork Butter Museum: History And All You Need To Know
• 14 Best Day Trips From Cork City (Cost, Transport and Tips For 2023)
• Dublin To Cork: How To Travel To Cork From Dublin

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

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Stein Halvorsen (@attevar)

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

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Farmgate Cafe Cork (@farmgatecafe)

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

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Costigan’s Pub Cork (@costigans.pub)

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.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Sin É (@sin_ebarcork)

“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 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. 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.

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What to do in cork: 34 of the best things to do.

Getting to Cork City

Where to Stay in Cork City

What to do in Cork at a Glance

• Stroll the English Market
• Mardyke Walk
• Stroll through the University College Cork (UCC) Campus
• Take a Photowalk in Cork City
• Go on a Cork Doors Scavenger Hunt
• Explore the Gardens at Nano Nagle Place
• Lock Yourself Up at Cork City Gaol
• Cork Butter Museum
• Blackrock Castle Observatory
• Crawford Art Gallery
• Be Everyman and Catch a Show
• Check out the Cork Film Festival
• Brunch at Bookshelf
• Lunch al Fresco at ORSO Cork
• Marina Market Cork
• Grab Brunch at Good Day Deli at Cork's Nano Nagle Place
• Dine in Style at Cafe Paradiso, A Cork Institution
• Spitjack for the Meatatarians
• Join the Craft Brew Revolution at Cork's Franciscan Well Microbrewery
• Eat an Early Dinner at Castle Cafe
• Early Dinner at Market Lane
• Three Fools Coffee
• Take an Afternoon Break at Cork Coffee
• Pay Tribute to Depeche Mode at Cork City's Cafe Depeche
• Guji Coffee Bar at Marina Market
• Coffee at Boru
• Shop Mahers
• Get Treated to a Pint by a Local in Cork City
• The Oliver Plunkett
• The Castle Inn
• Abbott's Ale House
• Rising Sons Brewery
• Take a Titanic Adventure to Cobh
• Get the Gift of Gab at Blarney Castle

Free Things to Do in Cork City

1. stroll the english market.

2. Mardyke Walk

Take a quick hike on mardyke walk in cork. the trail along the river is very serene. join the path near franciscan well and pop out near university college cork., 3. stroll through the university college cork (ucc) campus.

4. Take a Photowalk in Cork City

5. Go on a Cork Doors Scavenger Hunt

6. Explore the Gardens at Nano Nagle Place

Cork City's Unusual Museums

7. lock yourself up at cork city gaol, we trekked up a hill above cork city for a visit to cork gaol. wax figures stood guard and videos cast upon the wall told stories of what life was like in the prison where hardened criminals met with debtors.  even some irish revolutionaries spent time in cork gaol. it was fascinating to stroll around and take in a bit of history from around cork. if these walls could talk..., 8. the cork butter museum.

9. Blackrock Castle Observatory

What to Do in Cork: Find A Bit of Culture

10. crawford art gallery.

11. Be Everyman and Catch a Show

12. Check out the Cork Film Festival

Where to Eat in Cork City

13. brunch at bookshelf.

14. Lunch al Fresco at ORSO Cork

15. Marina Market Cork

16. Grab Brunch at Good Day Deli at Cork's Nano Nagle Place

Based on a recommendation from a local who i met at university college cork, i made the trek up a small hill from cork city centre to nano nagle place.  situated in the upper terrace garden, you'll find good day deli. serving vegetarian dishes plus scrumptious coffee and sweets, good day deli is a fantastic place to start the day.  go early though. good day deli attracts a crowd of cork city residents on the lookout for a great meal. i went right when they opened at 10 am on a sunday and was seated immediately without any issue.  the tables soon began to fill up around me. to get to good day deli, walk into nano nagle place through the gift shop and you'll see signs leading to the cafe. , 17. dine in style at cafe paradiso, a cork institution.

18. Spitjack for the Meatatarians

19. Join the Craft Brew Revolution at Cork's Franciscan Well Microbrewery

20. Eat an Early Dinner at Castle Cafe

21. Early Dinner at Market Lane

Where to Go for Coffee in Cork City?

22. three fools coffee.

23. Take an Afternoon Break at Cork Coffee

24. Pay Tribute to Depeche Mode at Cork City's Cafe Depeche

Down near university college cork is a small coffee house with a singular theme. it's all about depeche mode.   their music plays all day and their album covers grace the walls. i'm not sure if the barista was even alive when the band got together but no bother, we love depeche mode, 25. guji coffee bar at marina market, nab an americano at guji coffee bar marina market. guji coffee is located in an adorable powder pink container , i was super tempted by the chocolate covered marshmallow. the sweet treats looked top notch..

26. Coffee at Boru

Boru is a great place to stop for coffee when you first arrive in cork. walk from cork kent train station to boru in less than 10 minutes.  order a batch brew and power ball to keep your energy levels up for exploring cork city. one of our boru power balls was cookie dough flavored, the other was coconut. i could feel the caffeine and sugar coursing through my veins.

27. Shop Mahers

Looking for some cork coffee to take home there are so many coffees to choose from at mahers in cork city.  we love flavored coffees, but they can be hard to find in ireland so we picked up some irish cream to take home at a cost of less than 7 eur for 200 g of beans., explore cork city's fantastic pubs, 28. get treated to a pint by a local in cork city.

29. The Oliver Plunkett

30. The Castle Inn

31. Abbott's Ale House

32. Rising Sons Brewery

Day trips from cork city, 33. take a titanic adventure to cobh.

34. Get the Gift of Gab at Blarney Castle

Want to know the difference between Blarney and baloney? Baloney is flattery laid on with a trowel.  Blarney is flattery laid on with the lips; that is why you have to kiss a stone to get it  - Monsignor Fulton Sheen 

Is Cork City Ireland Worth Visiting?

Map of cork city ireland things to do.

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cork

Written by Andrew Birbeck and Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Cork is the second largest city in the Republic of Ireland after Dublin. It lies on Ireland's south coast and is connected to the sea by Cork Harbour and a slim channel called Passage West.

Cork and the adjacent coastline have a strong seafaring and trading tradition, some of which is reflected in the cities tourist attractions.

During the 7th century, St. Finbarr (Fin Barre) established a monastery on a small marshy tract, where the cathedral of the same name now stands. Over the coming centuries, the town survived and flourished, despite Viking raids and later occupation by English forces. Today, many of Cork's tourist attractions recall its long history, and you'll find it a vibrant, lively city with plenty of things to do.

Plan your trip with our list of the top tourist attractions in Cork.

See also: Where to Stay in Cork

1. The English Market

2. st. patrick's street, 3. st. fin barre's cathedral, 4. fitzgerald park and cork public museum, 5. shandon bells, st. anne's church, 6. cork city gaol heritage centre, 7. blarney castle and the blarney stone, 8. ballycotton cliff walk, 9. crawford art gallery, 10. blackrock castle observatory, 11. kinsale, 12. fota wildlife park, 14. take a boat to spike island, 15. elizabeth fort, 16. red abbey, where to stay in cork for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in cork, cork, ireland - climate chart, more must-see places to visit near cork.

Located in the heart of Cork City and with an eye-catching fountain at its center, this quirky roofed food market has been trading since 1788. Under the possession of the Cork City Council, it's one of the world's oldest municipal markets. Artisan breads, fruit, and freshly caught seafood are just some of the specialities on offer.

In recent years, the market gained worldwide fame when Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain dropped by on her first ever state visit to the Republic of Ireland in 2011. In addition to a wide range of produce, visitors can grab a coffee here or sample local fare at Farmgate Restaurant, or at any one of the many stalls selling freshly prepared meals and snacks (limited seating available).

Address: Princes Street, Cork (off St. Patrick's Street & Grand Parade)

Official site: www.englishmarket.ie

Initially conceived in the early 18th century by wealthy merchants presumably anxious to part their fellow citizens from their cash, St. Patrick's Street has remained Cork's main shopping hub ever since. An easy couple-of-minute's stroll from The English Market and known locally as "Pana," this broad, curving street boasts many fine shops and is regarded as one of the best places to shop in Ireland. One of the most popular is the upmarket department store Brown Thomas .

Shopping, of course, is one thing. But the citizens of Cork are a sociable bunch and, particularly during fine weather, visitors will see groups of friends and family simply chatting and spending time together.

Various architectural styles reflect change over the past two hundred years or so. Dating from 1786, and rebuilt on several occasions since then, St. Patrick's Bridge abuts the thoroughfare.

Europe is not short on cathedrals, and some impressive ones at that. But St. Fin Barre's Cathedral in Cork is one that will surely take your breath away. A nice walk from St. Patrick's Street will take you to the Anglican Cathedral.

The Gothic Revival building sits on a religious site that has been a place of worship since the seventh century. That original building stood until the 12th century. In the 16th century, a cathedral was erected, but was demolished in the 1800s.

In 1862, architect William Burges' design plans were picked from dozens of entries for a cathedral with a budget of £15,000. By the time it was fully constructed, the total cost exceeded £100,000, but the results were undeniably worth it. The building was made from Cork limestone, while the interior is of Cork marble. Though little remains of the earlier cathedrals, nine carved heads and the Dean's Gate still survive from the medieval building.

The echoey chambers of the cathedral are brilliantly lit through the stained-glass panels. One of the best features of the interior is its elaborate pipe organ. The organ was built in the 19th century with more than 4,500 pipes.

Address: Bishop Street, Cork

Official site: https://corkcathedral.webs.com

Named after Edward Fitzgerald, the city's Lord Mayor who organized Cork's International Exhibition in 1902, Fitzgerald Park is a tranquil oasis on the outskirts of Cork city. It still features the original pavilion and ornamental fountain from the era.

In the gardens here, visitors will find a café , sculptures, a skate park, and a water-lily pond. Picturesque Daly's Bridge , built in 1926 and known locally as the "Shaky Bridge," connects to Sundays Well Road.

The park is also home to Cork Public Museum , located in the former "Shrubbery House." Highlights of this interesting attraction include collections of silver and ceramics, as well as displays relating to the history of Cork.

Address: Mardyke Walk, Cork

Official site: www.corkcity.ie/corkcityco/en/cork-public-museum/

Across the River Lee on the north side of the city, St. Anne's Church (1722) is known for the famous Shandon Bells tower. The church still uses its original 18th-century bells, which have become one of the city's must-see sights.

St. Anne's Tower is a distinctive landmark on the city skyline, with its facing of red sandstone (north & east) and white ashlar limestone (south & west). Visitors get the chance to ring the bells from the first floor, view the internal workings of the clocks, see the bells firsthand, and enjoy spectacular 360-degree views of Cork City and beyond from the balcony; although it's a climb of 132 steps, it's well worth the effort.

In nearby O'Connell Square, the Cork Butter Museum follows the long history of Irish butter making. Housed in the old Cork Butter Market, highlights include an extensive collection of vintage butter wrappers.

Address: Church Street, Shandon, Cork

Official site: www.shandonbells.ie

Not far from St. Anne's is another one of Cork city's attractions, the atmospheric and historic City Gaol, which opened in 1824 and closed in 1923. Originally the prison housed both male and female prisoners who committed crimes within the city's borders. In 1878, the City Gaol became an all-female prison, which it remained until men opposed to the 1920 Anglo-Irish Treaty were incarcerated there in 1922-1923.

The complex then deteriorated until it was restored and opened to the public as a tourist attraction in 1993. For a memorable (and atmospheric) experience, look into the availability of one of the attraction's private evening tours.

Address: Convent Avenue, Sunday's Well, Cork

Official site: http://corkcitygaol.com/

Just northwest of Cork City is one of Ireland's most talked-about attractions: Blarney Castle. This attractive old fortress is best-known as the home of the world-famous Blarney Stone, said to instantly give those who kiss it the Irish "gift of the gab."

Built more than six centuries ago by Irish chieftain Cormac MacCarthy, the castle attracts tourists from around the world. Inside the castle, visitors can climb the battlement to kiss the famed stone and take in the views, and also explore the massive stone building - dungeons included.

You can also wander the castle grounds to find gardens, the Wishing Steps, Badger's Cave, the Witch Stone, and the Witch's Kitchen. Afterwards, shop for Irish sweaters, crystal, and gifts at the adjacent Blarney Woollen Mills .

Address: Monacnapa, Blarney, Co. Cork

Official site: www.blarneycastle.ie

The pretty fishing village of Ballycotton, about a 40-minute drive from Cork, is a favorite escape for its beaches and seafood restaurants. It's also a popular destination thanks to the beautiful Ballycotton Cliff Walk.

This awesome five-mile trail travels along the cliff top track from Ballycotton village to Ballyandreen beach, offering spectacular views along the way. A journey of around five hours, the path leads between rolling meadows of the East Cork countryside and the cliffs with beaches below.

The permanent collections of the Crawford Art Gallery contain paintings, sculpture, and prints as well as crafts, stained glass, and ceramics. The sculpture galleries include Greco-Roman casts by Antonio Canova and Irish and European sculpture dating from the 19th century through modern works.

The museum's collection of paintings is extensive, with works ranging from the 16th century through the present, with a special exhibit dedicated to female artists. The gallery also frequently offers drop-in creative events, including presentations and hands-on experiences. The Crawford Gallery Cafe is a popular spot for a meal or coffee for both tourists and locals alike.

Address: Emmett Place, Centre, Cork

Official site: www.crawfordartgallery.ie/

Set on the shores of the River Lee where it meets Cork Harbour, Blackrock castle's numerous battlements and sturdy fortifications seem to embody the castles of fiction and fantasy. Built in 1828, it is now owned by Cork County Council and houses an observatory and visitor center.

The observatory features a planetarium, a cinema, and several interactive exhibits. The facility also hosts visiting exhibits that explore science, nature, and space, and also sponsors a variety of special events.

Address: Castle Road, Blackrock, Cork

Official site: www.bco.ie

A little under a half hour's southerly drive from Cork, and at the gateway to scenic West Cork , is the quaint deep-sea fishing and yachting town of Kinsale. Once a medieval fishing port, historic Kinsale is one of the most scenic resorts on Ireland's southwest coast.

Visitors will find no shortage of cafés and restaurants to suit every taste, and the surrounding scenery is quite simply breathtaking. In recent years, the town has also become a world-class golf destination. Other activities include heritage town walks, an annual gourmet festival, a wine museum and, in neighbouring Summercove, 17th-century Charles Fort .

A few kilometers' drive east of Cork City, the 70-acre wildlife park is home to animals that are - as much as possible - free to roam in their natural environment, where visitors can observe and interact with them. You may be joined at your picnic table by ring-tailed lemurs (although of course they should not be fed), and giraffes wander freely in the central enclosure.

Unlike many safari parks, Fota is not a drive-through experience. On that, a word of warning: it's a lengthy walk around the park, and to get the most from it, at least half a day should be put aside for a visit.

Address: Fota, Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork

Official site: www.fotawildlife.ie/

A 25-minute drive southeast of Cork City takes visitors to the historic port of Cobh (formerly Queenstown). The town is famous as the last port of call of the doomed Titanic on its maiden voyage in 1912. These days, it's still a favorite dock for cruise liners from around the world. Millions of Irish who emigrated to North America and elsewhere during the 1800s and 1900s departed from here, most never to return.

The town is dominated by St. Colman's Cathedral, which dates from 1868. There's a 60-minute Titanic Trail walking tour, and other attractions include the Titanic Experience, the Cobh Museum, and the Queenstown Story Heritage Centre .

In the 6th century, Spike Island was the site of a monastery, and more than a millennium later was fortified as the 24-acre star-shaped fortress of Fort Mitchel. Its main use since then has been as a prison of one sort or another.

Visitors can tour the entire complex, seeing various prison cells used from the mid-1800s to the 1980s, and hear stories of some of the famous prisoners. Inside the fort's deep tunnels are defense guns, and in the Artillery Gun Park are weapons, from cannons to modern military equipment. On the ride over, you'll hear about the history and get views of Cork Harbor and Cobh.

Address: Kennedy Pier, Cobh

Official site: www.spikeislandcork.ie

Step back in time with a visit to the 17th-century Elizabeth Fort. Shaped like a star, this historic structure sits on the River Lee, not far from St. Finbarr Cathedral. Steeped in history, the fort first was in use in 1601 to reinforce the city walls of Cork.

It also played an important role in 1690 during the Siege of Cork, when the city was held by Jacobite forces who were being attacked by Williamite soldiers. Today it is a remarkable look back at the centuries of history in Cork.

Visitors can walk around the walls of the fort on a guided tour or with an audio guide. The best part? Admission is absolutely free, and it offers one of the best views of the city.

One of the most historic structures in Cork is its Red Abbey, located in the city center just off Douglas Street. This Augustinian Red Abbey dates back to the 14th century. A bell looms 20 meters high from the ground and is one of the oldest reminders of the Anglo Norman settlements in Cork.

All that stands of the abbey is the tower, and it has been protected as an Irish National Monument. The original abbey that stood in this location was a monastery that ran through the 17th centuries. It was later transformed into a sugar refinery, which eventually burned down.

Cork is an easy city to travel around, although some of its main tourist attractions are a bit spread out. The English Market is a two-minute walk from the shops on St. Patrick's Street, and Crawford Art Gallery is the same distance away, near North Channel. St. Fin Barre's Cathedral is a few blocks south, across South Channel. There are plenty of things to do within an easy stroll of these highly rated hotels in Cork:

Luxury Hotels :

• Hayfield Manor Hotel is near the university and walking distance from St. Fin Barre's Cathedral and Fitzgerald Park, with an indoor pool, free Wi-Fi and parking, a spa, and superb service.
• On the river, not far from the cathedral and the English Market, The River Lee has comfortable, well-appointed rooms, as well as free Wi-Fi and parking.
• Overlooking the river where the two channels meet and a short walk from the bus station and central attractions, the modern Clayton Hotel Cork City has a pool and secure underground parking.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• On the river, not far from the cathedral, restaurants, and theaters, Lancaster Lodge is on a direct bus line to the train station.
• Ambassador Hotel & Health Club Cork has balconies overlooking the city from its hilltop setting, a 10-minute walk from the center.
• Near the bus station (where airport buses arrive) and central attractions and shops, Jurys Inn Cork is at the meeting point of the two river channels.

Budget Hotels:

• A few minutes' walk from the center and especially handy to the Citylink bus from Dublin, The Metropole Hotel has a pool, gym, and steam room.
• Overlooking the city from across the river but less than 10 minutes' walk from attractions, Maldron Hotel Shandon Cork City has a leisure center with a large pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna.
• Sparkling from recent renovations and with panoramic views over Cork, The Montenotte Hotel is 10 minutes from the center.

Travelers venturing south from Dublin to Cork by train, bus, or car may want to stop in Waterford , about halfway between the two cities and well-connected to both. North of Waterford, Kilkenny is full of old-world charm, with its terraces of elegant Georgian houses. East of Waterford, in Ireland's "sunny southeast" is seaside Wexford . To see more of the beautiful east coast, travel west from Cork into the Lakes of Killarney and on to explore the fabled Ring of Kerry . North of Cork is Limerick , with its museums and 13th-century castle.

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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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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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As Ireland’s largest county, Cork has an incredible amount of sights, attractions, activities and amazing food to offer.

In this article, you will discover why we recommend a visit to Cork on everyone’s bucket list. 

We will also tell you why you should visit Cork and when is the best time to make this trip. 

This article may contain affiliate links. If you click on one of them, we might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Thanks for your support to help us keep this site running!

Cork Ireland

We love the vibe in Cork county and Cork city and highly recommend a visit if you are heading to the south of Ireland!

Cork city on the banks of the River Lee is Ireland’s second city and has quite a different atmosphere to the capital, Dublin.

It is an absolute haven for lovers of music, art and food and was awarded the title of European City of Culture in 2005. 

Things to Do and See in Cork

Music lovers are in for a treat in Cork as the city has a thriving music scene. 

The abundant pubs and arts centers are great venues for live music sessions and gigs. 

You should check out the Old Oak, Triskel Arts Centre, Opera House and more to get involved in Cork’s happening arts scene.

The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival takes place in October each year and marks one of the biggest events of the Irish annual music calendar.

Musicians and jazz fans from all over the world flock to the city during the many great events and concerts that are spread all over the city. 

Take some time to wander about the streets of the city and discover the many fascinating sights.

These include the Cork City Gaol , the Elizabeth Fort and the Cork Butter Museum . 

(Fun Fact: During the 19th century, Cork was the largest export of butter in the world!)

Art and history lovers should add Harry Clarke’s impressive stained glass windows at the Crawford Art Gallery , as well as the Lewis Glucksman Gallery on the University College Cork campus.

Discover a little known Gem! : When visiting the University College Cork, be sure to check out the impressive and large collection of ogham stones !

As you head back to the city from University College Cork you can saunter through Fitzgeralds Park (with the Shakey Bridge or Daly’s Bridge as it is also known.)

You could also stop by Bishop Lucey Park and take a look at St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral (just one of several beautiful churches in the city). 

Another must-see sight in Cork is the English Market , especially for anyone interested in sampling Cork’s excellent local cuisine.

This indoor market dates back to the 18th century and is well known not only for its tasty food, but also unique architecture.

If food is your thing, then search no further than the gourmet capital Kinsale.

There you will be spoilt for choice with sumptuous options, with special emphasis on seafood. 

Discover an observatory with a difference! Blackrock Castle located a little outside the city should be on your list of places to see!

Bonus Tip from a local Corkonian:  

The recently opened Nano Nagel Place is an oasis in the city that you should visit. 

While Cork offers a lot to see and do, it does not have a lot of green spaces close to the city center to relax in. 

We enjoyed a break from the hustle and bustle in the refreshing gardens of the Nano Nagel Place. You can also grab a bite to eat in the cáfe here too. 

As well as the gardens, you can also find out about the life and work of Nano Nagel. 

This 18th century pioneer in the education system is also known for her work with the poor and establishing the Presentation Sisters. 

Cork Highlights

• Blarney Castle and Gardens

One of the most internationally famous sights in County Cork is, of course, Blarney Castle and Gardens .

This popular tourist attraction sees thousands of people each year.

Many visitors take part in the unique tradition of “kissing the Blarney Stone” for lifelong eloquence.

Visiting Blarney Castle is just one of the main sights included in the Get Your Guide Cork Highlights Tour . 

This is well worth checking out if you want to have an overview of the main sights in Blarney, Kinsale and Cobh.

Cobh and Cork Harbour

Cobh in Ireland’s Ancient East is another famous tourist attraction located just a short train ride from Cork city center.

The town is well known for its superb views of Cork Harbour , as well as the imposing cathedral of St. Colman’s perched on a hill.

This emigration port was also the last port of call of the ill-fated Titanic liner. Find out more in our post on things to do in Cobh .

The former prison on Spike Island in Cork Harbour (named Europe’s leading tourist attraction at the World Travel Awards in 2017) is another fascinating sight to visit. 

Jameson Whiskey Distillery in Midleton

Whiskey lovers should visit the nearby market town of Midleton .

This is the home of Jameson Whiskey.

Sign up for a tour where you will be treated to the one of a kind Jameson Whiskey Distillery Experience .

Beaches in Cork

Cork also has many wonderful beaches along its coastline that are well worth checking out!

Find out some of our own favorite beaches in the Cork Beaches Guide .

For those of you near Kinsale, there are also some lovely beaches in the Kinsale area .

Make your trip to the town even more special, by adding one of these to your itinerary.

Day Trips from Cork City

Cork is conveniently located in the south of Ireland so it is an ideal spot to stay in if you want to explore the highlights of the south, east and west coasts.

There are so many fun activities and outings that fit perfectly into a day trip from Cork. 

By joining one of these highly rated guided tours , you can maximize your holiday experience without the need for a car. 

Plus you will benefit from the knowledge of experts, which always help to bring the tours to life and make them more memorable.  

We’ve covered some of the main day excursions from Cork in a detailed article. 

Some of the highlights include: 

• The Cliffs of Moher (where Harry Potter was filmed)
• The Burren (County Clare)
• The Ring of Kerry
• The Wild Atlantic Way
• Killarney National Park 

You should keep in mind that there are lots of other great locations to visit as well. 

For example, you can visit Ireland’s most southerly point Mizen Head . 

Tip from an Irish person!: While the cliffs in Mizen are not as high as the ones at the Cliffs of Moher, we thought they were far more impressive!

Cork Accommodation

Cork is an excellent place to base yourself, if you are planning on doing some day tours to discover the south of Ireland.

There are plenty of great accommodation options to choose from in the Cork area. 

In the city center, there are many high quality hotels in convenient locations.  

These include the River Lee Hotel located close to University College Cork. 

For those of you who would like a view, then The Montenotte Hotel offers an impressive vista over the city.

If you want to be right in the center, then perhaps The Imperial Hotel with its charm is what you are looking for. 

Bonus Tip: 

Depending on where you want to stay and the time of the year, it might be worth booking a little in advance. 

For example, accommodation can get a little tricky to find around the Jazz Weekend in October. It is best to book ahead if you can.  

Cork Car Rental

Getting around Cork city is possible by foot for many places. There is also a bus service. 

Outside the city, there are public transport links to the main towns. If you want some freedom, then it is worth investing in a rental car. 

This will enable you to be flexible with your itinerary. You can stay longer at places you really enjoy and skip over the other locations. 

A car also comes in useful when it comes to the unpredictable weather in Ireland. 

Check out Discover Cars for great deals in car rental in Ireland. 

Cork Ireland FAQ

What is cork in ireland known for.

Cork is the second largest city in Ireland and the largest county. 

It has gained an international reputation for being the gourmet capital of Ireland. 

The city also has a strong connection with the arts and is a great location to catch live bands.

Is Cork worth visiting?

Definitely include Cork on your itinerary, if you are in the south of Ireland.

Your taste buds will be treated to lots of tasty food and you will revel in the vibrant arts scene. 

Head out of the city and you have plenty of great places to visit that are located nearby, such as Cobh and Kinsale.

When is the best time to visit Cork?

Personally, our favorite time of the year in Cork is probably May. The days are long and there might be a decent chance of good weather. 

It is also just a little early for the main tourist season, so most attractions tend to be a bit quieter. 

September is another good month to visit and if you like Jazz, well then make sure you plan your stay for the Jazz Festival!

Does Cork Ireland have an airport?

Yes, Cork does have an international airport that flies directly to many other European cities. 

It is located a short distance from the main city and is served by public transport. 

There is also a direct ferry connection from Cork to Roscoff in France.

The Best Things to do in Cork, Ireland

Written By: The Planet D

United Kingdom

Updated On: March 10, 2023

It’s no secret that Ireland is one of our favorite countries to visit. We have been all around from north to south and east to west. One of the best places to visit in Ireland is County Cork. Cork is the largest county in Ireland encompassing a huge portion of the southwest of Ireland. It is home to the second-largest city in Ireland, Cork City and it has some of Ireland’s most famous attractions. If you are looking for things to do in Cork read on because we have some amazing ideas to add to your Ireland itinerary.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Cork, Ireland

While many people focus on travel to Dublin , Cork is an amazing city to visit. But visiting Cork city isn’t only thing is the second-largest city in the Republic of Ireland (after Dublin), it is the largest county in Ireland,

1. Visit Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle is located just outside of Ireland’s second-largest city, Cork. Kissing the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle is one of the most popular in Ireland let alone in Cork! But visiting Blarney Castle is worth visiting on its own. The grounds are beautiful and there is a lot to see including the Witches Garden, The Wishing Steps, and the Fairy Glade. Read our full visit to Blarney Castle here.

2. Kiss the Blarney Stone for the Gift of the Gab

When visiting Blarney Castle, you must not miss kissing the Blarney Stone for the Gift of the Gab. It is quite an adventure to kiss the Blarney Stone as you walk up 114 steps to the top of the tower. Once you reach the top, you’ll be taken to the stone where you hang upside down and reach out to kiss this legendary stone. Book your trip to Blarney Castle and Cobh with GetYourGuide The Blarney Stone is open check the website for details.

People do not Pee on the Blarney Stone

Kissing the Blarney Stone gets a bad rap. Now after COVID I can only imagine what people are thinking! When we kissed the Blarney Stone people told us people peed on it, but after visiting it, we know that they have never been there before because there is no way anyone could pee on the Blarney Stone. You see, the Blarney Stone is at the top of a tower with security and staff standing guard. When business hours are over, the castle is locked. The Blarney Stone is disinfected after each kiss and it is regulated. Perhaps a hundred years ago people peed on the Blarney Stone, but that is simply not the case today.

Where to Stay Near Blarney Castle

• Blarney Castle Hotel – Historic hotel dating back to 1837/
• Blarney Woolen Mills Hotel –  Just a short walk from Blarney Castle in Blarney Village, this hotel resides in an old woolen mill originally built in 1823.
• Kingsley Hotel – Four star hotel located on the River Lee in Cork. Close to Cork University, Cork’s City Centre and Saint Fin Barres Cathedral.

3. Mizen Head

Most people know of the Cliffs of Dover when visiting Ireland, but Mizen Head is an extraordinary destination to see the country’s wild sea cliffs. Plus, with a fascinating history, the visitor center at Mizen Head is almost as impressive as the cliffs themselves! Located at the tip of Kilmore Peninsula in County Cork, Mizen Head is a must visit attraction in Cork. You can explore the museum showcasing life in the lighthouse and the Marconi radio room where he made his first Trans Atlantic call. Read all about Mizen Head here at Mizen Head, Ireland – The Extreme Edge of Ireland

4. Lough Hyne – Kayaking at Night

One of the most unique things to do in Cork is a night excursion on Lough Hyne with Atlantic Sea Kayaking. It takes kayaking to another level where you launch your kayaks into the beautiful Lough Hyne at dusk. Once it’s pitch dark, you in complete darkness and silence as your eyes adjust letting you discover the beautiful night skies. Book your kayaking at night tour with Atlantic Sea Kayaking or Book this highly rated kayaking tour to Castlehaven Bay.

Where to Stay near Lough Hyne

Stanely Guesthouse – We stayed at the Stanely Guesthouse in West Cork to explore Lough Hyne and Mizen Head. Located in the village of Schull, it has beautiful views of the sea.

5. Cork City

No visit to Cork would be complete without spending time in Cork City. And there are plenty of things to do in Cork City. Book your Cork City Walking Tour where you’ll see many of Cork’s top attractions including the English Market, Shandon, University College Cork and Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral.

6. Ring Bells of Shandon – St. Annes Church

One of the most surprising things to do in Cork is to visit the Church of St. Anne and ring the Bells of Shandon. Visitors are given headphones to climb into the bell tower as people ring the bells following along with sheet music telling them what strings to pull to play musical bells like Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head and Mama Mia.

Even if you don’t ring the Bells of Shandon, a visit to St. Annes Church is a must. From the top of the church, you are treated to beautiful panoramic views of Cork City.

7. Butter Museum

It’s not at the top of most people’s things to do in Cork list, but a visit to the Butter Museum was a lot of fun! Take a tour to see how butter was historically made from the milk to the cream to the butter on the bread. We even had the chance to churn butter and taste our hard work on fresh bread at the end. I can now say that I have churned butter once or twice Living in an Amish Paradice! Check out The Butter Museum for opening times.

8. Blackrock Castle Observatory

Blackrock Castle is one of Cork’s oldest surviving structures that is still in use today. Dating back to 1582 it is also one of the best attractions in Cork. Throughout the centuries it has been used as a lighthouse, a signaling station, and a gun battery. Today, it is used for many things including an observatory, and planetarium. If you want to dig into the stars a little deeper than just looking at them from a kayak, The Blackrock Castle Observatory located on the River Lee is the place to be. See the Daily Schedule for Blackrock Castle here.

Check out more interesting things to do in Ireland

• Newgrange – Visit Ireland’s Ancient Passage Tomb
• Kylemore Abbey – The History of Ireland’s Lavish Castle
• Poulnabrone Dolmen: The Eerie Marvel of Ireland’s Biggest Portal Tomb
• 4X4 Off Road Driving in Ireland – An Adrenaline Fueled Day Trip

9. English Market

Located in the center of Cork City, The English Market is a must-visit. The market has been continuously running since the 1780s. It is one of the best places for shopping in Cork or to grab a quick bite to eat.

10. St. Patrick’s Street

Speaking of shopping, St. Patrick’s Street is the main shopping street in Cork. In fact, St. Patrick’s Street is often considered the best shopping street in all of Ireland.

11. Cork City Gaol Heritage

Cork City Gaol is a former 19th prison in the city of Cork. Take a tour of the museum that shows the harsh realities of prison life. On the outside the prison looks like a castle and was touted as one of the finest in 3 kingdoms. The doors to the jail closed in 1923 and in 1927, Corks’ first radio station began broadcasting from there until the 1950s. It underwent a restoration and was opened to the public as one of Cork’s most popular attractions in 1993. Visit the Cork City Gaol website for opening hours and information.

Where to Stay in Cork City

• Mayborough Hotel and Spa – Historic hotel with parking, pool and 300 year old gardens.
• Hayfield Manor – Located near the historic University College Cork with two award-winning restaurants and The Beautique Spa
• River Lee Hotel – Chic hotel on the river with popular River Club Bar, Terrace & The Grill Room, in-house health and fitness club with a 20m swimming pool.

12. Elizabeth Fort

Located in the original walled city of Cork, Elizabeth Fort dates back to 1601 at the time of Queen Elizabeth I. At the end of 1500, Queen Elizabeth ordered forts to protect port towns with Cork being one of them. (hence the name). It was demolished in 1603, but rebuilt in 1624 stronger and mightier. Throughout the years it has been used as a fort, army barracks, female prison, and for the Cork City Artillery Militia. The star-shaped fort has seen the city grow around it and today it is partially open to the public to explore.

13. St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral

From St. Patrick’s Street, take a walk to St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, a grand Anglican Church that is made of Cork limestone, and Cork marble.

14. University College Cork

I don’t know what it is about Ireland that makes us want to tour university grounds, but like Trinity College in Dublin, the University College Cork campus is a great places to spend a couple of hours. Dating back to the mid 1800s its a lovely campus. Places not to miss are the Crawford Observatory, Lewis Glucksman Gallery.

15. Crawford Art Gallery

The Crawford Art Gallery is a National Cultural Institution and is an excellent thing to do in Cork on a rainy day. The public art gallery and museum displays paintings from European artists dating back to the 16th century as well as Greek and Roman sculptures.

Have a Short Time in Cork?

Book this Hop-on-hop-off Cork Hopper tour to many of the best things to do in Cork in one day including:

• Blarney Castle and Gardens
• Visit the town of Cobh, the famous departure point of millions of Irish emigrants
• Fota Wildlife Park, one of Ireland’s top attractions
• And Irish whiskey experience at the Jameson Distillery
• Get tickets and more information here. (easy cancellation within 24 hours of activity for full refund)

16. Fitzgerald Park

If you want to escape a bit of the city, Fitzgerald Park is a quiet oasis with lakes, fountains, and pathways wandering through green space. The Cork Public Museum is also located here.

17. Barleycove Beach

If you are looking for a beach in Cork, Barleycove Beach on the Wild Atlantic Way is one of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland. Located near Mizen Head, a boardwalk leads down to the Sand Dunes of Barleycove Beach on the Mizen Peninsula. It is one of Ireland’s hidden gems.

18. Spike Island

Hop on a ferry from the City of Cobh to Spike Island. This is a great place to visit in Cork in conjunction with touring the Cork City Gaol. Spike Island was used as a prison and was known as Ireland’s answer to Alcatraz.

Throughout its 1,300 year history, it has also been used as a monastery in the 6th century before being turned into the star-shaped Fort Mitchel. Its seclusion was exactly what monks were looking for in the 6th century (similar to the beehive monastery of Skellig Michae l) and the offshore island made for the perfect prison at the time. Today, Spike Island is a heritage tourist attraction and one of the top things to do in Cork.

19. Glengarriff Nature Reserve

If you want to do some hiking, Glengarriff Nature Reserve is a good place to get outdoors to explore. This rugged glen encompasses 100 hectares that were once on Lord Bantry’s estate. There are several hiking trails to explore. The 1km riverwalk is an easy hike through the forest, Lady Bantry’s Lookout takes you up to see panoramic views over Glengarriff and Garinish Island and the waterfall walk takes you out to a waterfall located on the Canrooska River.

20. Drombeg Stone Circle

Ireland is filled with ancient monuments and the Drombeg Stone Circle near Skibereen recumbent stone circle consisting of 17 mysterious pillar stones. Artifacts found in excavations date back from 153 BCE and 127 CE.

21. Tour of the Jameson Distillery

No trip to Ireland would be complete without tasting some Irish Whiskey. Located in Midleton, Cork, the Old Midleton Distillery tour takes you on a journey through the restored 19th-century warehouse to see the kilns, mills and casks and to sample a taste of the finished product. Book your Jameson Whiskey Experience

22. Titanic Experience

When thinking of the Titanic in Ireland, Belfast comes to mind since it was where the Titanic was made. But the town of Cobh in County Cork has very close ties to the Titanic. The Titanic Experience in Casement Square is located at the White Star Line Ticket Office. The Titanic was part of the White Star Line. On Thursday, April 11, 1912, 123 passengers boarded the Titanic in Cobh (formerly Queenstown) at its final port of call before leaving for America. This exhibit takes you through what life was like on board, tells stories of the survivors and victims of that fatal night. Check out the website

23. Other Things to do in Cobh

When visiting Cobh, other must-see attractions are the Cobh Museum, The Titanic Trail, (great to go with the Titanic Experience, St. Colman’s Cathedral, and the Queenstown Story Heritage Centre. (Cobh was once called Queenstown)

24. Fota Wildlife Park

If you are looking for something different to do in Cork, the Fota Wildlife Park is a 100-acre wildlife park located on Fota Island, is a great place to visit. Animals are free to roam in their natural environments.

25. Take a Drive from Kinsale

It’s no doubt that the Wild Atlantic Way of Ireland is one of the greatest drives on earth and this mammoth road trip begins in Kinsale. Kinsale is 30 minutes from Cork City and is known for its tasty seafood. Before setting off on your Irish Road Trip, take a stroll through the town to marvel at its colorful buildings and take a walk to Charles Fort along the Scilly Walk.

26. Gougane Barra

For that perfect Instagram shot, you may want to make your way to Gougane Barra. St. Finbarr’s Oratory is a tiny church sitting on an island waiting to be photographed. It’s so picturesque that it is a popular spot for Irish weddings.

27. Whale Watching and Foraging Tour

Cork is one of the best places in Ireland to go whale watching. You can book whale watching tours, but you can also see whales from the coast. We took a whale watching and foraging tour from the Cliff House Hotel. It was wonderful to explore the coast in search of fin, humpback, and minke whales while foraging for plants. Keeping our eyes on the sea, we walked out to Ram’s Head as we searched for food and past sites like the Christian St Declan’s Well, Ardmore Round Tower, Sampson Wreck, and the old Coastguard Station. It was truly a spectacular 5km hike.

Cliff House Hotel  – We stayed at this 5-star luxury oceanside hotel and it was heaven. Just 1 hour from Cork and Waterford.  Check out Availability & Prices  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

Bailey’s Hotel Cashel  – We stayed at this 4 star luxury historic building located in downtown Cashel between Dublin and Cork.  Check out Availability & Prices   Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

Things to do in Cork Ireland Map

Get your map of all the things to do in Cork to have each Cork attraction at your fingertips.

And there you have it folks, these are some of the very best things to do in Cork, Ireland. Cork is often overlooked by likes of Dublin, but there are so many amazing thigns to do here. Some of the best attractions in all of Ireland are located in County Cork. So what are you waiting for, make your way to Cork, Ireland right now!

Check out more Ireland Travel Guides

• 23 of The Very Best Things to do in Ireland
• 16 Fun Facts About Ireland To Prepare For Your Next Journey Abroad
• Wild Atlantic Way – Tips for Driving Ireland’s Coastal Route
• Images of Ireland – 27 Photos to Ignite Your Imagination
• 10 Best Scenic Views on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way
• Facts About St. Patrick’s Day

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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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.

Book ticket and tours in Cork

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Ireland, created by local experts

11 days  / from 1926 USD

Fascinating Ireland & North Ireland

Ireland is one of the most popular destinations for tourists: its rich cultural heritage, the beautiful landscapes and the laid-back lifestyle attract many travelers. Visit the famous Giant's causeway, fascinating Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry and many more highlights.

8 days  / from 725 USD

Spectacular Ireland

This itinerary will give you a chance to discover the most spectacular places in Ireland within eight days. Visit the Killarney National Park and the South West Coast of Ireland. Travel back in time during your visit on the Aran Islands and cross the region of Connemara.

6 days  / from 486 USD

Game of Thrones – Northern Ireland

The Seven Kingdoms await you in this Game of Thrones adventure. The incredible landscapes of Northern Ireland make up an enchanting array of fortresses, heart-stopping cliffs and countless small villages steeped in history. A trip to the universe of Game of Thrones is about to begin!

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.

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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10 Good Reasons To Visit Cork

Jam-packed with buzzing pubs, fantastic galleries, thought-provoking museums and arguably the best restaurant scene in Ireland, Cork is the perfect city break destination. Check out these 10 good reasons to pay the ‘rebel county’ a visit…

1. It’s Ireland’s Foodie Capital

Loose clothing is advised – Cork is known as the culinary capital of Ireland, a city where you’re actively encouraged to gorge.  And there’s no better introduction to Cork’s foodie scene than the fantastic English Market. It’s the oldest market of its kind in Europe and even got the royal seal of approval in 2011 when Queen Elizabeth II went on a walkabout of its artisan stalls. Feast on local cheeses, fresh seafood and chunks of handmade chocolate before rolling your way to the quirky Butter Museum where you’ll discover a surprisingly interesting take on one of Cork’s most historic industries.

2. They’ll Let You Take Centre Stage

Don your ear defenders, climb the bell tower at St Anne’s Church in the historic Shandon area of Cork and give the ropes a good old tug.  You’re free to choose your own signature tune. Whether it’s Amazing Grace or Waltzing Matilda, make it a showstopper – the bells ring out from Shandon throughout Cork city, letting you become part of a centuries-old tradition.

3. Epic Lock-Ins

Experience life in the city in the 19th and early 20th century with a trip to Cork City Gaol, a museum that offers a unique insight into Cork’s history, both inside and outside of the prison walls. The exhibition features amazingly lifelike figures, restored cells and sound effects that will transport you back to a day in the life of previous occupants and gaolers. Take an evening tour if you dare, and mingle with the ghosts of inmates past.

4. Art for All

Located just off Patrick’s Street lies the Crawford Gallery, home of the famous Canova Casts, a series of plaster casts donated by the Vatican Museum to the Cork Society of Arts in 1818. The Belvedere Torso, The Laocoon and The Disc Thrower are among the casts on display. And the cherry on top? Admission is free.

5. Awesome Local Tours

Cork is a compact city that can be explored without much difficulty, but if you want to find out what really makes Ireland’s second city tick (and hear more of that lovely lilting accent), it’s worth checking out one of the excellent, locally led tours. For an in-depth look at the city’s history and folklore, pre-arrange a walking tour with a local guide such as Kieran McCarthy. Or you could always take the weight off your feet. Cork City Tours operates open-top double-decker buses, which run regularly during the day.

6. All That Jazz

Every October, hundreds of jazz musicians and thousands of music fans flock to Cork from all over the world for Ireland’s biggest jazz festival. The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival is Ireland’s flagship international Jazz Festival, showcasing the best of Irish and overseas musicians in an eclectic four-day programme of jazz and jazz-inspired music in over 70 venues citywide. Best of all, over 90% of the performances are completely free.

7. Road Trip Heaven

Cork is the perfect starting point if you’re planning to follow Ireland’s spectacular Wild Atlantic Way route. Travel along the coast, taking in the Old Head of Kinsale, Mizen Head and if you really want to get away from it all take a cable car to Dursey Island. En route you’ll discover rugged headlands, jutting peninsulas, secret islands, and if you’re very lucky, you might even spot marine life such as dolphins and humpback whales.

8. Colourful Seaside Towns

Some of Ireland’s prettiest seaside towns can be found in West Cork. King of these is Kinsale, famous throughout Ireland for its seafood and award-winning restaurants. For the perfect day in Kinsale, enjoy lunch in the Fishy Fishy Café, walk out to the 17th century Charles Fort or play a round of golf at the stunning Old Head Golf Links.

9. Titanic Tales

One of the most popular day trips from Cork city is Cobh, a beautiful seaport town with a bittersweet history. Once the main port of emigration from Ireland, Cobh was the last port of call for Titanic and the story is magnificently told at the Titanic Experience located in the old White Star Line offices.

10. Myths and Magic

The world-famous Blarney Castle is one of Ireland’s top tourist destinations and is located just ten minutes from Cork City. It’s home to the famous Blarney Stone, which, according to legend, holds the power to bless anyone who kisses it with the ‘gift of the gab’.  After you’ve paid lip service, take a stroll around Blarney Castle Gardens. Check out the tropical looking Fern Garden and its mysterious neighbour, Poison Garden.  Located just beside the battlements, it houses a fascinating collection of deadly and dangerous plants from around the world, including caged specimens of deadly nightshade, wolfsbane and poison ivy.

Nearby, you’ll find Rock Close, a mystical place where majestic yew and oak trees grow around an ancient druidic settlement. Follow the trail through giant gunnera leaves and bamboo to uncover a giant dolmen stone, a set of ‘wishing steps’ and a witch’s kitchen. Snap happy? The water garden and waterfalls provide a magical backdrop for Instagram pics.

This post was written in partnership with Tourism Ireland

Flights to Cork

-Fiona Hilliard

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Cork, Ireland

Whether your interests lie in irish history, architecture, astronomy or just good food and drink, we've got 10 compelling reasons to visit cork city..

With the same vibrant spirit as Dublin wrapped up in a welcoming small-city vibe, Cork and its warrens of narrow streets promise some of the most enjoyable experiences to be had anywhere in the country. Read on to discover a few reasons why Ireland’s second city should be your next port of call.

Cork deserves its reputation as Ireland’s food capital, thanks to a perfect combination of an abundance of high quality local producers and a profusion of creative and passionate chefs. Whether you’re browsing the overflowing stalls at the centuries-old English Market or sampling dishes at the best of the city’s many cafes and restaurants, an appreciation for good food is evident pretty much everywhere you go in Cork.

If food is Cork’s first love, coffee is fast becoming a close second. Some of Ireland’s best native coffee roasters are based in the county, and Cork City is chock-full of fantastic cafes where you can try them. There’s even an annual showcase of its best independent coffee houses – Cork Coffee Weekend takes place in January. If you’re more of a hot chocolate person, local favourite O’Conaill’s hot chocolate and coffee shop is widely credited as having the best in the entire country.

Founded in 1978 and sponsored by Guinness, Cork Jazz Festival attracts tens of thousands of music fans to Cork every October and is one of the most successful festivals of its kind. Having hosted such jazz greats as Ella Fitzgerald , Oscar Peterson and Mel Tormé throughout its long history, the festival still attracts major headliners. In 2016, Grammy-winner Robert Glasper and acoustic guitar duo Rodrigo y Gabriela were among the main acts. Acts outside the jazz realm also perform during the festival, with events taking place in pubs and venues all across the city. Other Cork festivals of note include Live at the Marquee and Cork Midsummer Festival .

If you have an interest in Irish history, you might consider staying at Cork’s Imperial Hotel onSouth Mall, where the famous Irish revolutionary leader Michael Collins spent his last night. Having set out from here for a tour of West Cork on August 22, 1922, Collins was killed in the village of Béal na Bláth, in an ambush by Irish Republicans who opposed the Anglo-Irish Treaty he had helped to negotiate.

To learn more about the key role that Cork, known as ‘the rebel city ’ – although this nickname relates to events that came much earlier – played in the Irish War of Independence, you can also visit sites like the city’s Military Museum at Collins Barracks, the Cork City Gaol , where revolutionary nationalist Constance Markievicz and other rebels were once jailed, or the prison at Spike Island , also known as ‘Ireland’s Alcatraz’.

Cork was once an entirely walled city – with fortified gates at what are now known as North and South Gate Bridges – though only small sections of the original fortifications still exist. It is believed the old walls and their defensive towers were either demolished or left to decay after suffering extensive damage during the 1690 Siege of Cork. In the 1980s, during construction of the Bishop Lucey Park – situated at the former medieval centre of the city – a section of the city wall dating from the 17th century was discovered, along with artefacts from the period, now on display at Cork Public Museum .

St. Anne’s Church has stood on its current site in Cork’s Shandon district since 1722, when it replaced another church ruined during the Siege of Cork. The oldest church in continuous use in the city, it has become a well-loved landmark. Its clock tower is affectionately referred to locally as ‘The Four Faced Liar’ because each clock tells a slightly different time. But St. Anne’s is most famous for its bells, which inspired the famous song ‘The Bells of Shandon’. Visitors to the church can climb 132 steps to the belfry to ring the six-tonne set of eight bells – among the last remaining original 18th century church bells in the country – for themselves, and take in panoramic views of the city.

Designed by Irish architects O’Donnell + Tuomey, the Lewis Glucksman Gallery has won multiple awards, including being named the Best Public Building in Ireland by the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland in 2005. An art museum said to be the ‘cultural and artistic centre’ of the University College Cork campus, the gallery’s architecture was also given a UK Civic Trust award and a RIBA award.

In 2007, a 16th-century castle just outside Cork City became the home of CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory , whose interactive Cosmos at the Castle exhibition has been internationally recognised as an outstanding themed attraction. The self-guided experience gives visitors the chance to do things like explore how the universe was formed and take a closer look at the night sky. It was recently announced that the Observatory will begin developing an outreach programme as part of the launch of Ireland’s first-ever satellite.

People from Cork are said to possess one of Ireland’s most unique accents, a lilting brand of Hiberno‐English that is often described as musical – check out an interview with Olympic medal-winning rowers Paul and Gary O’Donovan (from Skibbereen) for an example. Comedians such as Tommy Tiernan have poked fun at the Cork accent , but at least one survey has named it among the best Irish accents.

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No trip to Ireland is complete without a visit to Cork. Corcaigh (in Irish) The largest county of Ireland, Cork is tucked away in the south western corner of Ireland along with county Kerry . It is bordered by Co. Waterford to its east and by counties Tipperary and Limerick to the north.

• North Cork is a mix of rolling green hills and mountains but also has some of Ireland's richest pastures in the Golden Vale
• East Cork is a region with gentle hills and beautiful beaches
• To the south and west of the county the region known as West Cork , boasts a wild and rugged coastline of rocky headlands, great bays and secret coves warmed by the Gulf Stream.

Like many counties in Ireland Cork's main industries are farming, fishing and tourism. The remote westerly region of West Cork has become a popular destination for those wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle to enjoy a slower pace of life around small, rural fishing villages and towns, amid some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in Ireland. West Cork is popular with the yachting crowd who gather each summer in the tiny harbours of Baltimore, Schull and Kinsale, the historic port renowned as the culinary capital of Ireland. In this region of the country, you'll also find Ireland's most southerly point; Mizen Head.

Towns to visit in County Cork

The county capital; Cork Citya> is the second city of the Republic of Ireland and in 2005 was named the European Capital of Culture. During the 10th Century Cork was the Gaelic capital of the province of Munster, a fact the locals remember when they call Cork the real capital of Ireland. Other important towns include

• The town of Cobh just outside Cork City was once Ireland's main port and was the embarkation point for some 2.3 million people who left Ireland for new lives in the United States, Canada, Australia and the UK.
• Midleton in East Cork
• Youghal of Moby Dick fame
• Clonakilty - were you can sample the local delicacy Black Pudding
• Skibbereen - Ireland's most southerly town
• Bantry - at the head of one of the finest harbours in Europe

Things to do when you visit Cork

The county includes some of Ireland's most popular attractions such as Blarney Castle with its Blarney Stone, which is said to bestow the gift of eloquence to all who kiss it. Other top attractions include

• Charles Fort - a near Kinsale is a classic example of a star-shaped fort
• Mizen Head - Ireland's most southerly point
• Bantry House - ancestral home of the White family
• Skibbereen Heritage Centre

Understanding Corkonians

Cork is also known as the Rebel County , a title stemming from its opposition to British rule throughout history. This rebel character is as much alive in the untamed aspect of the landscape and seems to attract people in search of an alternative style of life. Indeed West Cork is home to a number of artists, musicians and celebrities from film and theatre.

The Rebels also have a rich sporting heritage in the Gaelic games of Hurling and Football. Indeed the all Ireland football trophy; the Sam Maguire Cup is named after a Corkman.

Other famous Corkmen include,

• Irish Nationalists Michael Collins , from Clonakilty
• Fenian leader Jeremiah O'Donovan Rossa from near Rosscarbery
• Former Taoiseach Jack Lynch
• Writer Frank O'Connor
• Manchester United football legends Roy Keane and Denis Irwin
• UK TV presenter Graham Norton
• Actor Cillian Murphy

while the parents of Henry Ford, the famous American industrialist, emigrated from Ballinascarthy.

County Cork and the surrounding region is easily accessible via Cork Airport which has connections to all major European hubs facilitating one-stop flights to Ireland from most major North American International Airports

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A Full Guide to Spending ONE Day in Cork, Ireland

Cork is one of Ireland’s biggest cities – meaning it always has a lot going on! It’s an excellent place to visit if you’re looking for an alternative to Dublin. And it has plenty of things to see and do. If you are wondering what you can do with just one day in Cork, use this guide to get the most out of your experience.

Is It Worth Visiting Cork for Just One Day?

Absolutely! One day in Cork will give you the chance to experience all the great things the city has to offer, even if you are short on time.

Visitors to Cork can explore the city’s medieval lanes and cobbled streets, visit its numerous museums and art galleries, or simply enjoy eating and drinking your way through the food capital of Ireland. It’s definitely still worth visiting Cork, even for just one day!

What Can You Do in Cork for One Day?

Cork is an excellent city for a day-trip adventure! For the cultural enthusiast, take in the history of Cork by visiting its iconic churches, galleries, and even some lovely parks. If you’re in the mood for something more exciting, try some water activities or biking along scenic nature trails.

With so much to do and see, there are plenty of options to keep the entire family entertained – from shopping at one of Cork’s many craft shops and boutiques to sampling the delicious local cuisine. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy during a day in Cork!

Cork is home to so much that it would take days to get it all in. But if a day is all you have (for example, maybe you’re thinking of a quick day trip from Killarney ), you will want to prioritize the very best things to do. This list will leave you feeling really accomplished and ready for the best day.

TIP: When I have limited time in a new city, I always try to start my day with a walking tour to quickly familiarize myself with the layout and some basic history/information on the city.

There are a few guided tour options around Cork, OR you can take a self-guided walking tour offered on the VoiceMap app.

✔️ Guided Walking Tour (More comprehensive) ✔️ Self-guided Walking Tour (More affordable)

Top 7 Things to Do With One Day in Cork

1. discover cork’s history, blarney castle:.

There are so many spots to visit in order to get a sense of Cork’s history. You can visit Blarney Castle to view a great historical castle, but it will take you out of the city.

Many people come to visit the castle to kiss the Blarney Stone upside down to receive “the gift of eloquence and persuasiveness.” You can also explore the 60 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens.

I recommend looking into this HALF-day tour of Blarney Castle to leave enough time for exploring Cork city as well. 👉🏽 Check it out HERE

However, if you only have one day in Cork, there’s so much history you can experience within city limits.

Cork City Gaol:

One of which is Cork City Gaol . It’s a castle-like building that was once a 19th-century prison. This is definitely one to visit for any history lovers out there and is but a short walk from the city center. (Also a great rainy day activity).

You can take a guided tour to really get the sense and history of the place, or wander around on your own to soak it all up.

👉🏽 Reserve your entry ticket HERE

Simply wandering around town and taking in the buildings and street art will give you a taste of Cork’s fascinating history as well.

Cork Public Museum:

Another place to check out history and heritage is Cork Public Museum . It’s the city’s oldest local heritage museum and offers a great history of the city itself. You’ll find pieces of archeology dating back to ancient times all the way to pieces about Cork’s civic and political history.

And then there are some stunning churches! Whether you’re religious or not, churches and cathedrals never fail to offer exquisite insights into a city’s history.

2. Visit St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral

St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral is one of Ireland’s many beautiful cathedrals worth touring. 

It was built in the 1870s on a site where Christian worship had been happening since the 600s. Therefore, it’s teeming with historical and religious significance. Perfect for those interested in religious history.

But, you don’t have to be religious to appreciate the gothic revival architecture, stained glass windows, and mosaics – or simply the history of the building. Whether you care to visit as a pilgrim or tourist, it’s a stunning spot. 

There are Sunday and weekday services , and it is open to tourists every day as well.

3. Enjoy a Walk in Fitzgerald’s Park

Fitzgerald’s Park is a really lovely space located right on the River Lee. The park has some great walking and cycling trails that you can explore if you want to get active in your day. 

There’s a large fountain in the center and many statues and sculptures throughout that will pique your interest. Also if you’re visiting in the spring and summer months, you’ll be treated to loads of beautiful flowers throughout.

But it’s also a wonderful space to find a bench, relax and people-watch if you want to take a break from your city trek for a moment.

The park is home to the Cork Public Museum, and it’s a pretty short walk from the city center and the University College Cork (which has a stunning campus if you care to wander there too).

And it’s a completely free activity! So if you’re a budget traveler, this one is a no-brainer. And if you’re traveling with children, there’s a playground to keep them interested and occupied while you take a breather.

4. Check Out the Food Scene

Cork has quickly become a foodie destination. There are so many great restaurants and cafes to try, you’ll wish you were hanging out for longer than one day.

In the morning, you need to stop at the Bodega on Cornmarket St . They offer everything from a full Irish breakfast to a simple fruit and yogurt parfait. If you really want something special, get the brioche french toast. You won’t be disappointed!

Next up, visit Sketch on Pembroke St . The menu changes regularly, but they stress farm-fresh, locally sourced ingredients and it shows in the quality of the dishes for sure. 

You can also opt for afternoon tea at the Queen of Hearts in Sketch . You’ll be treated to divine little sandwiches and sweets. And you can choose to have your afternoon “tea” with tea or with prosecco. 

If you’re going to be in Cork city for dinner, then check out The Spitjack on Washington St . This is an excellent, highly-rated brasserie that has a huge menu to choose from. Think rotisserie chicken, duck confit, pan-roasted Hake – a local fish in Ireland – and an extensive vegetarian selection.

There are many hotels with excellent restaurants as well, open for lunch, dinner, and tea times. The River Lee Hotel has an amazing locally-produced menu. They have amazing cocktails and a gorgeous view of the river as well.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

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5. Climb to the Top of Shandon Tower

The Shandon Tower is an 18th-century bell tower at the Church of St. Anne’s that stands at the heart of the city. It’s easy to get to. You can see it from much of the city! 

The climb up is steep – 132 steps! The steps of the tower are built into the 7ft thick walls. It’s truly an architectural marvel, and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views over Cork city when you reach the top. 

Also keep an eye out for the weather vane. It’s in the shape of a salmon and is known by the locals as “de goldie fish” because it’s painted in gold leaf. The symbolism is reflective of Cork’s history in the fishing industry as well as the fish being a symbol of Christianity.

Also while you’re visiting the Church of St. Anne’s, you can actually ring the bells! This is one of the few churches in existence that allows tourists to do this. So it’s truly a special activity.

6. Wander the English Market

The English Market in Cork city is not to be missed, especially since Cork touts itself as being the food capital of Ireland!

Having been in operation since 1788, it’s one of Europe’s oldest covered food markets. Although it’s not just food! You’ll also find a variety of crafts and trinkets that make excellent souvenirs for your loved ones back home. 

But in its essence, it is a food market and is considered an important part of Cork’s culture. Definitely take the time to wander around and marvel at the various stalls of fresh meats, produce, and sweets.

It’s open every day (except Sunday) from 8AM to 6PM. On Saturdays or during the summer tourist season it’s best to go early before the crowds arrive. 

If you’re a true foodie – consider taking a Cork Culinary Tour. You will taste your way through the English Market and Cork’s Coal Quay Market with your local guide sharing history and food facts along the way.

👉🏽 LEARN MORE HERE

7. Grab a Cocktail

There are also a multitude of bars and pubs to check out while visiting Cork for the day! When it comes to pubs, you can’t go wrong here. Find a pub that looks inviting and wander in; you’ll be greeted by friendly faces and the Guinness will be flowing!

If Guinness (or even beer for that matter) isn’t your thing, there are loads of bars that offer a slew of cocktails that are trendy and tasty.

Check out The Liberty on Main St . It’s newly renovated and the upstairs has a luxurious speakeasy feel to it. This may be one of the best things for couples to do in Cork as well, it has quite a romantic atmosphere.

Another one to visit is the Courtyard on Sober Lane (the irony!). This has an excellent vibe both indoors and out! And there’s a canopy outside to actually enjoy the courtyard in all types of weather. This is a great social spot to meet some people and make new friends, for sure!

On Oliver Plunkett St. is JJ Walsh’s . The back bar has a jazzy piano lounge vibe to it, and the front bar has a more traditional Irish pub feel to it.

What’s great about many of these bars is that many offer non-alcoholic cocktails as well. So even if you’re not a drinker, you can still enjoy the trendy spaces and meet some locals.

For those who are interested in learning more about the history of Irish whiskey… a must-visit is the Jameson Whiskey Experience (with a whiskey tasting of course!). You will tour the old Midleton distillery and a 19th-century warehouse to learn all about the distillation process.

FAQs on Spending One Day in Cork

How long should you ideally spend in cork.

For those wishing to experience all that Cork has to offer, ideally spending 4-5 days here is recommended. This is the perfect amount of time to take in some of the city’s many attractions without feeling rushed on exploring Cork’s unique history and charming atmosphere.

There are quite a few incredible day trips to take from Cork , so you may want to stay in the city longer and use it as a base for exploring all of what southern Ireland has to offer. With its stunning coastal scenery and nearby popular attractions to keep you busy, there’s never a shortage of things to do here!

Plus, Cork has an excellent nightlife that is worth sticking around to experience. With its incredible sights and delicious dining choices, you won’t soon forget the beautiful moments spent in Cork.

RELATED POSTS: 27 Top-Rated Day Trips From Cork Top 25 Best Things to Do in Cork at Night

Closest Major Cities to Cork

The two closest bigger cities to Cork would be Killarney (1.5 hours away) and Waterford (1 hour and 45 minutes away).

If you are already in Killarney (perhaps to visit the Ring of Kerry ) it might make sense to take a day trip from Killarney over to Cork.

Otherwise, you can stop into Cork for the day while doing an Ireland road trip.

Renting a Car in Ireland? My go-to car rental service in Ireland is Discover Cars . They compare prices across the leading car rental services to find you the lowest prices and best deals. 🚗 CLICK HERE TO SEARCH FOR YOUR RENTAL CAR

Getting From Dublin to Cork

It takes about 3 hours to get from Dublin to Cork, so it’s not the most ideal to spend just one day in Cork if you’re coming from that far away.

It’s fairly easy to get from Dublin to Cork either by driving or taking the train or bus.

Is It Easy to Get Around Cork?

Yes, it is fairly easy to get around Cork. Luckily, Cork is a very walkable city. Most places are on average only 10-20 minutes away on foot, and since the city is compact, it’s not too difficult to find your way around the city.

There are also over 30 bike-share dock locations (over 300 bikes) throughout the city as well as public transportation and taxis to help you get around for your day in Cork.

For more information, read my full guide on “Getting Around Cork” HERE.

Cork for One Day Recap

Cork is a city with a lot to offer, and it’s easy to explore. Whether you’re looking for culture or nature, there are many places in Cork that won’t disappoint. 

If you want some adventure on your day trip, climb up the Shandon Tower. If you want something more relaxing then take a walk through Fitzgerald’s Park or eat at one of the many restaurants around town. 

Cork is great for all types of travelers, be they foodies, nature lovers, or history buffs. It’s also a great city for solo travelers, multi-generational families, and group trips.

Related Posts: 15 Best Places to Stay in the Dingle Peninsula Rules For Flying a Drone in Dublin, Ireland A Guide to Moving to Ireland With a Dog

☘️ Ireland FAQs ☘️ ✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to Ireland? 1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible 2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal ❗ Is Travel Insurance Required in Ireland? No, it’s not. However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing . >>> CLICK HERE FOR INFO ☔️  When Is the Best Time to Visit Ireland? Summer (June-August) – is the warmest and rains the least but you will have the most crowds. Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have more rain but you will beat the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers ( spring )/greenery (fall). 🏠 Where Should You Stay in Ireland? Hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and house sitting are all available in Ireland for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are: • Booking.com • Hostelworld • Vrbo (usually better options than Airbnb in Ireland) • Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay) ☘️ Where Can You Find Tours? I found incredible tours in Ireland >>>HERE for private and guided group tours of both the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests. 🚘 Should You Rent a Car in Ireland? I always tell my friends and family to  rent a car  in Ireland so that they don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! However, if you plan to stay only in the cities, then you should be fine getting by with buses and walking. >>> What to know about driving in Ireland >>> The best car rental in Ireland 🍻 Make sure to try out the pubs ! Even if you don’t drink, the atmosphere, live music, and friendly people are very uniquely Irish.

Janelle Axton is a travel consultant and owner of Make the Trip Matter, a service dedicated to helping people create a lifestyle around frequent travel and extended time abroad. She grew up in California and spent time living abroad in Ireland in addition to traveling to over 25 countries.

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Drombeg Stone Circle: Why Visit One Of The Best Ancient Irish Prehistoric Stone Circles Near Cork

• The Drombeg Stone Circle in Ireland is a popular and well-preserved ancient Neolithic site, made up of 13 pillar stones that are over 6 feet high.
• The stone circle was built around 3,000 years ago during the Bronze Age and is aligned with the winter solstice.
• Visitors can easily access the site, which is open year-round and free to visit, and learn more about its significance through informative panels.

England is famous for its ancient Neolithic monuments (most notably Stonehenge on the Salisbury Plain ). One of the most famous ancient stone circles in Ireland is the Drombeg Stone Circle in the county of Cork in the southwestern part of the country. Drombeg is one of the most visited megalithic sites in Ireland and probably the most famous stone circle in the country.

Ancient stone circles older than Drombeg can be found all across the British Isles (including England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland). Ireland is a country with a deep history that stretches to the Neolithic and beyond. Some of the best-preserved ancient Neolithic sites in Ireland were preserved thanks to the famous peat bogs of Ireland , enabling them to be toured today. Here's what to know about Drombeg Stone Circle and how to visit.

The Drombeg Stone Circle Is One Of Ireland's Best Prehistoric Sites

The Drombeg Stone Circle (also called The Druid's Altar) is not very large compared to some of the massive Neolithic sites in Europe, but it is one of the most popular in Ireland.

Drombeg is made up of seventeen pillar stones that were graded from two large portal stones (of these, 13 of them survive today). Each of these stones is two meters (over 6 feet) high.

The pillar stones are built out of sandstone found locally. One of the stones has engravings on them that include what appears to be a phallus. Other engravings include two egg-shaped cup marks.

• Number of Pillar Stones: Originally 17 (Now 13)

The site also includes the ruins of ancient dwellings of the people who lived there. There is still much to learn about the site and the people who used it (and what it was used for at different periods of history).

• Other excellent Neolithic sites in Europe include the thousands of standing stones at Carnac in France and the exceptionally tall megalithic stone circle of the Calanais Standing Stones in Scotland .

Related: Visit The Rock Of Cashel: Ireland's Most Sacred Ancient Site

History Of The Drombeg Stone Circle

Drombeg is believed to have been built around 3,000 years ago during the mid or late Bronze Age. The stone circle is 31 feet or 9.3 meters in diameter.

Like other stone circles, Drombeg is aligned with the solstice. It is aligned with the setting of the sun with the midwinter solstice on the 21st of December. The shortest day of the year was seen as a time of renewal and rebirth.

• Age: Mid to Late Bronze Age
• Diameter: 9.3 Meters or 31 Feet

The stone circle features in Irish mythology and folklore and has long been called 'The Druid's Altar.' A burial urn was found in the center of the pit, this urn has been dated to between 153 BC and 127 AD.

Some 40 meters (yards) from the stone circle are two round stone-walled prehistoric huts as well as a stone-lined pit.

The stone-lined pit (called a fulacht fiadh) was once filled with water. The stones would be heated with fires and then dropped when they were red-hot into the water making the water boil. The purpose of this is still debated by archeologists, although some suggestions include sweathouses, saunas, bathing pools, a cooking place, a brewery, and other suggestions.

It seems the fulacht fiadh was in use until the 5th century AD and was connected to the hut by a causeway.

The Drombeg Stone Circle was excavated in 1958 and is protected under the Irish National Monuments Act. It is considered one of the finest examples of its kind in Ireland.

During excavations in the 1950s, a central pit was found in the circle that contained the remains of an adolescent child wrapped in a thick cloth. A pot was also found close to the center of the circle. These were dated to 1124 to 794 BC.

Related: Taking A Trip To Ireland's Glendalough For History & Adventure

What To Know About Visiting The Drombeg Stone Circle

The Drombeg Stone Circle is open to the public and is found in Ireland's Glandore County Cork. It is open year-round and is free to visit. During the excavations, the stone circle was also restored to the present condition visitors see it today.

• Entrance Fee: Free
• Opening Hours: Always Open
• Address: Drombeg, Glandore, Co. Cork, Ireland
• Facilities: None

Access is via a short gravelly path and then a grassy field (it is easy to walk and takes around five minutes from the car park). The stone circle is well-maintained and there are helpful information panels at the site for visitors to learn more about the significance and history of the ruins.

Drombeg is a great day trip for those staying in the southern Irish city of Cork. Cork is around 70 kilometers or 44 miles drive away (it takes around an hour and twenty minutes to drive).

Ireland is a country with plenty of ancient and prehistoric sites to see and explore. Take the time to also see the six ancient royal Gaelic sites of Ireland while visiting.

A million reasons why Bruce Springsteen keeps coming back to Ireland

By the time he finishes his four shows in belfast, kilkenny, cork and dublin in may, the boss will have sold his millionth ticket in ireland.

Bruce Springsteen: Familiarity breeds not contempt but loyalty for his legions of Irish fans

The Boss is back next month in Ireland, but it feels like he has never been away.

Bruce Springsteen’s concerts in Belfast, Kilkenny, Cork and Dublin will take place almost a year to the day since his three sold-out shows at the RDS, though it had been a six-year hiatus before that, partially caused by Covid-19.

Familiarity breeds not contempt but loyalty for his legions of Irish fans. By the time he finishes his last Irish show, which is at Croke Park on Sunday May 19th, he will have sold his millionth ticket in Ireland, according to promoter Peter Aiken.

His father, Jim, first took a punt on Springsteen almost 40 years ago when, off the back of the success of the Born in the USA album, he invited Springsteen to play his first concert in Ireland. That was in front of 80,000 fans at Slane Castle in 1985.

That storied concert on the one sunny weekend of an atrocious summer was the beginning of a beautiful friendship between Springsteen and his Irish fans.

He has played 28 shows in Ireland to date, never letting his Irish fans down. He still turns up on time and plays for three hours plus. He will have a 10.30pm curfew at Croke Park with a start time at 7pm. There might well be a lottery as to how long he goes over his allotted time.

He is doing all of this at the age of 74 when a little garden weeding is the height of strenuous activity for many of his contemporaries.

“He doesn’t need the money, but this is what he does. He is an insurance man’s dream, he never cancels,” said Aiken.

He begins his Irish tour on May 9th in Boucher Road, Belfast, followed by Kilkenny on May 12th, Páirc Uí Chaoimh on May 16th and Croke Park on May 19th. He will have sold 350,000 tickets in a calendar year in Ireland.

Aiken reckons there is a new audience for Springsteen in Ireland among the children and the grandchildren of those for whom he provided the soundtrack of their lives. “His youngest fan base in the world is in Ireland. If you went to other countries it would all be people like me,” he said.

Springsteen’s first concert at Croke Park was in 2016. According to Aiken, the musician was amazed at the size of the stadium and even more amazed that those who played in it were amateur sportspeople.

[  ‘In tears with his closing number. We hope this isn’t his last tour’: Readers share their Bruce Springsteen concert experiences  ]

Croke Park stadium director Peter McKenna said concert revenue is a large part of its financial plan and 83 per cent of it goes back into the GAA.

Just 22,000 supporters turned up for the Leinster semi-finals in Croke Park on Sunday and there is a clamour for these games to be taken out of the venue and put into provincial locations.

McKenna said the crowds will increase in Croke Park when the “jeopardy games” start to kick in after the provincial championships are ended.

“I wouldn’t take a judgment on one weekend. It certainly isn’t troubling us,” he said.

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