Top attractions in Cork
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Top 10 Things to Do in Cork
Cork is known for the beautiful hills that preserve pockets of Irish history in their valleys. A town meant for the meanderer, Cork's hilly landscapes are topped by many a scenic bridge, allowing visitors to savor the big charm of this small city no matter where in Cork they visit.
1. Cork City Gaol
The Cork City Gaol is a former prison and present day museum. The prison was famous for a big breakout in the 1920s and today there are mannequins recreating the prison's past.
2. Church of St. Anne
The Church of St. Anne sits on a large hill, with a view of the River Lee. Be sure to take in the bells, which you can ring yourself. They were made famous by Francis Sylvester Mahony's song "The Bells of Shandon"
3. Blackrock Castle
The Blackrock Castle is a 16th century castle that now houses an observatory and visitors center. Cork's castle even hosts a restaurant with many diverse options, including meals suitable for vegetarians.
4. English Market
Covered markets in the United Kingdom are something of a tradition. Look no further than Cork's English Market to taste local fare from family run stalls, and to sample some of the regions organic products.
5. Blarney Castle
Built by the one and only Cormac Macarthy, Blarney Castle is one of Ireland's national treasures. Legend has it that if you kiss the Blarney stone, also called the stone of eloquence, you'll never be lost for words again.
6. Blarney Stone
The famous Blarney stone is found at the top of Blarney Castle. The stone itself is Carboniferous limestone and is said to give the gift of gab to whoever kisses it.
7. Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral
Built in a Victorian style by William Burges in 1863, Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral is done in the French style that the architect favored. Sunday services occur twice in the morning and once in the evening.
8. Spike Island, County Cork
Accessible by boat, Spike Island was going to house a new prison and was instead turned into a historical site. The island is well located and was often used for defense. Today it is possible to take a guided tour of the island.
9. St. Patrick's Street
Two time winner of 'Ireland's Best Shopping Street', St. Patrick's street was just redeveloped in 2004 and has heaps of Irish labels. Known affectionately as Pana, the high street dates back to the 18th century.
10. Fitzgerald Park
After a long day of sightseeing and touring, nothing is better than a picnic in Fitzgerald Park. You can also enjoy a skatepark, sculpture garden, and pond filled with water lilies.
Planning Your Visit
When to go?
The summer is the most popular time to visit Ireland. In the fall and spring it tends to rain often, but you get to see the landscape in a state of flux. The winters can be cold, but prices are often best.
Where to stay?
We recommend staying near Fitzgerald park. The park borders Cork Museum and Riverview Café, and you can enjoy the Cork nightlife as well as a night stroll through grassy Fitzgerald park.
How to get around?
Getting into Cork from other cities in Ireland is done easily and quickly via the motorways. Getting around the city itself can be done on foot, by bus, or by taxi. Public transportation in Cork is generally run by Irish Rail.
Good to know
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- Language
- English
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- Currency
- Euro (€)
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- Time Zone
- UTC (+01:00)
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- Country Code
- +353
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- Best time to visit
- April-May the weather is warming up and popular Cork Choral Festival takes place with visitors attending from all over the world. Summer is ideal for warmer days and less rain.
Top Attractions in Cork
Things to Do in Cork
Cities in Ireland
Other Sightseeing Options in Cork
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What people are saying about Cork
From the minute we walked in the door, we were greeted by a lovely lady who made us feel at home straight away. After been shown to the lovely atmospheric bar , we relaxed and enjoyed a discounted cocktail (old fashioned) before our tour began. Only did the 75 minute tour and the time flew by with our very witty tour guide. A little bit jealous of those who paid that little bit extra for the longer tour. All in all a great tour and I'd highly recommend it. Thank you people of Jameson
The trip was wonderful! The driver was really nice and funny. He made sure we understood everything that was happening. He also made sure we laughed and had fun. He informed us what was the best things to do. The ride was really relaxing and informative.
This was a really unique experience, and a great value for the cost. Our guide was very friendly and funny, and the Cliffs were absolutely stunning. The rest of western Ireland that we were able to see was also quite impressive!
The tour was absolutely Perfect! The driver was the best! He was extremely nice, provided such great information on sites we passed/visited, and he implemented some jokes along the way making this experience absolutely perfect!
Full of information with giving you an overload! Our guide was 10/10 ... possibly an improvement would be a resource to help a more visual learner understand the process because it’s not straightforward
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