Head southwest with a trip to bustling Cork City. From its rich history to its contemporary features, Cork ticks all the boxes when it comes to having a good time. Although it's a busy modern city with a selection of top-class eateries and arts venues to match, you’ll find that the best of the city is still very traditional – with warm local welcomes and snug pubs that boast live music sessions throughout the week.
The city centre is compact, and situated on an island in the River Lee. Hour upon hour can be spent exploring the quaint cobbled streets. You’ll stumble upon markets, churches, unique family-owned businesses and relaxing waterfront areas. Outside the city, you can enjoy a supper caught fresh from the sea in the delightful town of Kinsale.
You're sure to fall in love with this perfectly picturesque city – a place referred to locally as “Ireland’s real capital”. Whether you’re thinking of a weekend break in Cork or a short-but-sweet day trip, plan ahead to make the most of your time.
Book your ferry trip to Ireland today, and start planning your visit to Cork using this handy city guide.
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Brown Thomas is Ireland’s premier department store and based on Cork’s main shopping street. It sells the world’s most famous and luxurious brands. From Fendi and Versace to Armani and Hugo Boss, Brown Thomas provides an unrivalled selection of luxury products for both men and women.
Patrick Street, Co. Cork
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Mahon Point offers a wide selection of stores and a huge array of dining options. Located on the outskirts of Cork City centre, it’s home to a whole host of global fashion brands, including Zara, Bershka and Tommy Hilfiger.
Mahon, Cork.
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Patrick Street, or Pa’ Na as it’s known locally, is the main street running through the heart of Cork. This enchanting spot is home to some of Ireland’s best-known independent retailers, perfect for those who are after something a little bit different. Patrick Street also offers a great selection of nearby bars and restaurants.
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Located in Carbery, Mizen Head is Ireland’s southern-most point. You will be blown away by its sheer beauty. Renowned for its gorgeous cliff faces and stunning bridge, Mizen Head is also noted for being on the most southerly point of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
Carbery
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Blarney Castle is the home of the incredible Blarney Stone, famously known as the “Stone of Eloquence”. Legend says that those who kiss the Blarney Stone will have “the gift of the gab” bestowed upon them, giving them the ability to chat to anybody.
Blarney
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Fota Wildlife Park is a must-see. With a selection of over thirty bird species and fifty mammals calling the park home, you will be absolutely dazzled. Just 20 minutes away from Cork, the park's entry prices are affordable, making this attraction a great day out for the whole family.
Check out the park video >
Carrigtwohill
From literary festivals to adventure activities, there's something in Cork for everyone.
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Get inspired by Tourism Ireland’s recommendations for places waiting to be discovered in Cork.
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Scoozi Restaurant
With a marvellous selection of dishes ranging from tasty chicken wings and chargrilled burgers to salads and vegetarian dishes, Scoozi’s offers delicious food at phenomenal prices.
2-5 Wintroop Lane Cork
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Market Lane
With a superb menu that uses locally sourced and artisan ingredients, Market Lane also boasts great prices and even better service (it won Best Customer Service award at the 2014 Irish Restaurant Awards). Don’t miss out during your trip to Cork.
5 Oliver Plunkett Street
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Lennox's
In search of the perfect fish and chips to eat while strolling along the waterfront? You can’t go wrong with Lennox’s. This restaurant is widely considered to offer the best fish supper in Cork.
137 Bandon Road, Cork
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Reardon's
Reardon’s is a pub that will interest people of all ages. It’s located in the centre of Cork City, within a stone’s throw of some of Cork’s best nightclubs. Order a Guinness and pull up a pew.
26 Washington Street
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The Bodega
The Bodega is a gastro bar located in St. Peters Market, Cornmarket Street. It offers a great selection of food and drink and has its own nightclub for night owls.
St. Peter’s Market, Cork
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De Barras
De Barras is one of Cork’s best-known traditional Irish music pubs. Based in Clonakilty (home of Ireland’s famous pudding), De Barras provides lively Irish music at its best.
55 Pearse Street, Clonakilty
