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Top things to do in Cork

Attractions, tours and activities in Cork

About Cork

Including tips for the best time to visit Cork

As Ireland's second-largest city, Cork encapsulates quintessential Irish charm through its cheerfully snug pubs, friendly locals and quaint narrow streets.

The city centre is situated on an arrow-shaped island, with a network of waterways fed by the River Lee meandering through it. Pretty much everything is within walking distance so it's easy to explore the main attractions without relying on public transport. However, some attractions are worth venturing slightly outside the centre for, such as Cork City Gaol – an imposing former prison portraying what life was life for the inmates a century ago. Another is the Fota Wildlife Park and Arboretum, which allows its animals to roam in a free-range environment. If time allows, take the cliff walk from Ballycotton village to Ballyandreen beach, offering beautiful views best captured in good weather.

No visit to Cork is complete without a walk over the iconic Daly's bridge (also known as the 'Shaky Bridge'). This pedestrian bridge spans the entire River Lee and offers some scenic views. Make sure you've marked up your map with a few popular nightlife spots as well, such as Sin é for live performances of traditional Irish music and plenty of cool bars and clubs dotted around the centre.

The city also plays host to some important cultural events, such as the Midsummer Festival, a film festival and a jazz festival attracting top acts from all over the world.

Tonight

From £76 per night

This weekend

From £204 per night

Next weekend

From £283 per night

Most popular time to visit October–December
Cheapest time to visit January–March
Local currency € 10 = £8.57
Language English
Average weekend price £143 per night
Average weekday price £129 per night
Typical stay 1 night

Points of interest in Cork

Stay near the top sightseeing spots in Cork

Cork reviews

What other travellers say about Cork

10

Staff very friendly.

11 March 2024

Staff very friendly.. really good atmosphere in bar, had a Dj playing music.. room was great lots of towels, big shower, tv, minibar and fridge which was stocked also.. gym and pool there also overall really good no complaints

James
James Ireland
8.0

we stayed at little island and visited cobh, and spike...

10 February 2024

we stayed at little island and visited cobh, and spike island, did not spend too much time in cork city, just walked about a bit in the centre which was interesting, lots of culture and many shops too.

Eva
Eva South Africa
8.0

First of all the buses are shocking , waited over an hour at...

31 January 2024

First of all the buses are shocking , waited over an hour at the airport for a bus to cork city and returning found out they only run every hour !!! But the city is wonderful , every type of shop you would want , lovely walks along the river and the people are so friendly , will definitely be returning!!

jenny
jenny United Kingdom
8.0

I was there primarily for a convention at the University,...

30 January 2024

I was there primarily for a convention at the University, Cork itself is a picturesque city with a river flowing through it and many bars and restaurants - however - you do need to accept that food and drink will cost more (although this is a more universal feature of Ireland in general) and that accommodation, even in a guest house, can be pricey.

Hugh Adams
Hugh Adams United Kingdom
10

Always great staying in cork as accommodation is for every...

27 January 2024

Always great staying in cork as accommodation is for every budget! Plenty of activities, experiences & shopping on offer that is walkable or plenty of public transportation available. Love heading to Musgrave Park (Virgin Media Park) for rugby 1st but been to a few music concerts too!! Plenty of choices for food lovers of all tastes too!!

geraldine
geraldine Ireland
10

The good weather helped lot to walk around the city with a...

8 January 2024

The good weather helped lot to walk around the city with a baby and we enjoyed pretty much all around. If you go there on weekend remember that on Sunday almost everything open very late and some attractions are completely closed (English market is closed on Sunday).

Gianpier
Gianpier Ireland

Popular places to stay in Cork

Stay in some of the best accommodation Cork has to offer

Other attractions and activities in Cork

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