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.
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| Most popular time to visit | October–December |
| Cheapest time to visit | January–March |
| Local currency | € 10 = £8.56 |
| Language | English |
| Average weekend price | £138 per night |
| Average weekday price | £132 per night |
| Typical stay | 1 night |
Points of interest in Cork
Stay near the top sightseeing spots in Cork
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Fota Wildlife Park
7 miles from city centre
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Cork City Hall
0.3 miles from city centre
Cork reviews
What other travellers say about Cork
Cork itself does not offer much, but can be a good starting...
13 April 2024
Cork itself does not offer much, but can be a good starting point for the Wild Atlantic Way adventures. IF you are traveling with a car. Traveling by train & public busses does not bring you to the coast etc. The City Gaol is nice to visit, good shopping options including the English market. Skipped the Blarney Castle due to high cost. So next time probably driving with a rental car, but then a stay outside a city is also an option. Very good variety of restaurants.
Great genealogy and family history day was held at the Cork...
12 April 2024
Great genealogy and family history day was held at the Cork County Archives. Very friendly staff and excellent speakers. I did not know this was an annual event that they held there and I would recommend it to anyone interested in genealogy. It was well attended and I understand it will be repeated next Thursday 18th April such was the demand for seats. I hope to return to the archives for research and to attend their annual family history day.
The city was great.
6 April 2024
The city was great. Lots of shops and places to visit nearby. There are many hills so bear in mind if your about travelling. The Old City Goal is up a huge hill so Taxi there and walk back (downhill) Taxis are cheap enough to use but some of them are cheeky with the prices. The weather was good for our stay but remember to take an umbrella as it often rains unexpectedly.
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
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.
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!!
Popular places to stay in Cork
Stay in some of the best accommodation Cork has to offer
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Ocean Breeze Cork, Ireland
From £193 per night
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The Carton Store Loft Apt Cork, Ireland
From £108 per night
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Radharc Na Greine Cork, Ireland
From £107 per night
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The Grasslands Holiday Home, Cork, Ireland
From £188 per night
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