Cork

Top 10 Things to Do in Cork

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  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.

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  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"

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  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.

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  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.

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  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.

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  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.

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  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.

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  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.

Frequently asked questions about Cork

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.