Cork Travel Guide

Overview

Located about 140 mi/225 km by road southwest of Dublin, Cork is Ireland's second largest city—but that doesn't mean it plays second fiddle. The city has gained a reputation for its burgeoning craft brewing scene, plus its proximity to the sweeping Atlantic coastline and picturesque maritime towns—not to mention its Titanic-related history—make it a worthy stop on any traveler's agenda.

The best way to see Ireland's 800-year-old city on the River Lee is on a walking tour, booked through the Cork Tourist Office. Or, if you're hoofing it on your own, begin with an overall view of Cork from Patrick's Hill.

Geography

History

Sightseeing

As Ireland's second-largest city, the incredible selection of things to do and see in Cork reflects that perfectly. From centuries-old cathedrals and castles to modern high streets, artisan markets and attractions that introduce you to Cork's troubled past, there is something for everyone in Ireland's second city.

Home to one of Ireland's most famous attractions, Blarney Castle, known for giving visitors and locals the gift of the gab, as well as the Blackrock Castle and Observatory, which is now one of Ireland's foremost spots for stargazing, the city is rich in historic sites and attractions.

Nightlife

Despite being Ireland's second-biggest city, Cork feels more small town than big city lights, especially compared to Dublin. The city is most famous for its live music sessions, be it traditional Irish music or up-and-coming Cork musicians hoping to catapult themselves onto an international stage.

The epicenter of nightlife in Cork centers around two main streets: Washington Street and Oliver Plunkett Street, where nearly every second building is a pub or a club. Other areas include McCurtain Street and Barrack Street, which is home to Cork's oldest pub.

Dining

Ireland offers a variety of wholesome foods for every budget. Do try grilled or roast beef, cured hams, breads, fish, oysters, mussels, eel (some of the restaurants have viewing tanks) and very hearty local meals (not fine dining, but they're delicious).

Irish food is traditionally meat-based, so vegetarian choices sometimes are a bit lackluster. However, nobody can do more with a potato than the Irish. Don't leave without trying the simple and delicious potato cake—a flour-and-potato concoction sauteed in butter. Other delicacies include brack, a fruity bread that is delicious fresh from the oven and spread with butter; soda bread made from flour, salt, baking soda and buttermilk, the traditional daily bread of most Irish families from the mid-19th century; and colcannon, a creamy, delicious potato dish made with milk, leeks, and kale or cabbage.

Cork is also blessed with plentiful salmon. Served in a variety of ways, it can be found in the finest restaurants and in the humblest of pubs. And though it may sound redundant, the Irish (unsurprisingly) make the best Irish stew (mutton, onions and potatoes).

Whether you stay at a bed-and-breakfast or a hotel, your room is likely to come with a morning meal. If you've the stomach capacity for it, you can usually have a huge bowl of cereal, a basket of bread and scones, and a plateful of eggs, bacon and sausage. Although it used to be difficult to find lighter fare, almost every property now has healthier options such as fresh fruit and yogurt.

Cork is well-known all over Ireland for the high quality of its food and local produce. It plays host to many food festivals throughout the year and is home to some of the country's best restaurants. Ingredients are often sourced from local farmers, which means everything is served fresh, be it from the fields or the sea. No stay in Cork would be complete without trying some of the local cheeses produced as well as Clonakilty Blackpudding and various other pork products.

Expect to pay within these general guidelines, based on the cost of a basic dinner entree for one, not including drinks, but including tax and tip: $ = less than 15 euros; $$ = 15 euros-25 euros; $$$ = 26 euros-40 euros; and $$$$ = more than 40 euros.