Best things to do in Cork all the attractions and Cork City

Part of the Wild Atlantic Way on its southwestern coast, Cork is a vibrant city bursting with history, culture, and natural beauty. We loved Cork City from the moment we stepped out of the car. From its charming streets lined with colorful buildings to its bustling markets and lively pubs, Cork is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Cork has plenty of activities to keep you entertained.

Ireland’s second City Cork’s rich heritage can be found at attractions like the iconic Blarney Castle and the historic Elizabeth Fort. Or, immerse yourself in the local culture by sampling some of Cork’s famous artisan foods at the English Market or catching a traditional Irish music session at a local pub. In Corkmusic is everywhere and on every street corner.

For those looking to get out and about, Cork’s surrounding countryside offers endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. With so much to see and do, Cork is a city that will capture your heart and leave you longing to return again and again.

Xyuandbeyond is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. You can read my privacy policy here.

Getting to Cork

Dublin to Cork

To travel from Dublin to Cork, you can choose between renting a car or using public transport. By car, the journey typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train from Dublin Heuston Station to Cork Kent Station, which offers a comfortable and scenic ride of around 2.5 hours. Buses also run between the cities, with services like Bus Éireann providing a direct route that takes about 3 to 4 hours.

Galway to Cork

Taking public transit in Ireland can be trickly the fastest way between Galway and Cork is the express bus service operated by Citylink as it takes only 2.5 hours. Using Citylink you can also travel between Cork and Limerick (1.5hr) using the non-express routes.

Frequently Asked Questions – Things to do in Cork

What are some popular attractions in Cork city?

When visiting Cork city, you have a ton of attractions to explore. Some of the must-visit places include Blarney Castle, the English Market, Cork City Gaol, Kinsale, Cobh, and the Jameson Distillery.

How do I get to Cork if I’m coming from Dublin?

If you are traveling from Dublin to Cork, you have several options. You can take a day tour, opt for a distillery tour, or even plan a day trip around Cork. Additionally, driving through the scenic route is a popular choice for visitors.

What is the best way to experience Cork’s heritage?

To immerse yourself in Cork’s rich heritage, consider visiting landmarks such as St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, Elizabeth Fort, Kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle, and check out the fascinating Butter Museum. Participating in a guided tour or walking tour will give you a great perspective on the city.

What are the top things to do in County Cork?

County Cork offers a diverse range of activities for visitors. You can explore scenic spots like West Cork and Mizen Head, visit Charles Fort for its gothic architecture, and experience the Wild Atlantic Way. Kissing the Blarney Stone and visiting the Titanic Experience are also popular choices.

What are some recommendations for a day trip in Cork during the summer months?

During the summer months, consider taking a day trip to places like Gougane Barra, North Cork, or visiting the Muskerry Estate to see the historic Ballincollig Castle. A visit to Charles Fort near Kinsale gives  history buffs a really interesting look at military history and the views of the harbour are brilliant.

How did Cork get its nickname?

Cork’s nickname, the “Rebel City,” reflects its rich history of defiance and uprisings. Most notably, during Ireland’s War of Independence (1919-1921), Cork city and county were central to significant battles and resistance efforts. This rebellious spirit extends back to the 9th century when Cork locals famously demolished a Viking castle and killed the ruling Norse leader, marking the city’s long tradition of resistance against external control.

Discovering Cork: 29 Top Activities and Attractions

County Cork, the largest county in Ireland, is a captivating blend of vibrant city life, picturesque towns, and breathtaking landscapes. Known as the “Rebel County,” Cork offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. If  you stay in the City Centre most attractions are within walking distance and you get to meet the people of Cork who are incredibly welcoming and friendly.

Best Things to do in Cork

Explore Cork City

Cork City, Ireland’s second-largest city, is a bustling urban center with a unique charm. Start your exploration at the English Market, a historic covered market offering a wide variety of local produce, artisan foods, and traditional Irish fare. St. Patrick’s Street, the main thoroughfare, is perfect for shopping and people-watching. Don’t miss the chance to climb the bell tower of St. Anne’s Church in Shandon for panoramic views of the city.

Shop at Cork’s English Market

So why is a Market in Ireland called The English Market Cork? Well, it has to do with the fact that since 1788 the market was created by an “English” (or Protestant) Corporation, with reform in Ireland around 1840 the corporation was taken over by the Irish (Catholic) majority but the English Market had become known as its own entity so an “Irish Market” was established near St. Peter’s.

To this day, even among the “foodie” trends of the middle class the Market still supplies old-school favourites like crubeens, drisheen and tripe to its customers.  For those who don’t know crubeens are boiled, battered and fried pig’s feet, drisheen is a type of black pudding made from a variety of animal blood, black pudding is sausages made from pigs’ blood and white sausages are made from the fat from pigs. Tripe is from a cow’s stomach when I was a kid my grandfather used to boil it on the stovetop for hours (yes, it was disgusting).

This is also a great place to grab a bite to eat and just sit down and take in the Cork experience.

Cork Culinary Tour

To experience the culinary scene in Cork, don’t miss this foodie-friendly guided tour designed for travelers to embrace the city’s burgeoning culinary world. The highlight of your tour is a visit to the famed English Market where you can chat with local traders (or have the craic, as locals might say), while feasting on local treats like fish and bread, as well as tasty sweets. Wrap up your gastronic outing with a light pub lunch, included in the price.

University College Cork

Visiting University College Cork(UCC), situated along the scenic River Lee, offers a blend of academic excellence and historical charm. Established in 1845, UCC’s picturesque campus features stunning Gothic Revival architecture, beautiful green spaces, and the iconic Quad.

Visitors can explore the university’s rich heritage through guided tours, which highlight notable landmarks like the Crawford Observatory and the Glucksman Gallery. Nestled in the heart of Cork City, UCC provides a tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-see destination for those interested in history, education, and natural beauty.

Shandon Bells and Tower

The Shandon Bells and Tower, located at St. Anne’s Church in Cork City, is an iconic landmark renowned for its distinctive red sandstone and white limestone façade. Visitors can climb the 132 steps to the top, where they can ring the famous Shandon Bells, each inscribed with biblical verses. The ascent offers a unique interactive experience and culminates in breathtaking panoramic views of Cork City and its surroundings, making it a must-visit for both history enthusiasts and those seeking a picturesque vantage point over the city.

Cork City Gaol

Cork City Gaol, located in the Sunday’s Well area of Cork City, Ireland, is a striking historical site that once functioned as a prison from 1824 until 1923. Renowned for its distinctive Gothic Revival architecture, the Gaol’s imposing structure housed both male and female prisoners, including those detained for political reasons during Ireland’s turbulent early 20th century.

Today, it operates as a museum, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into 19th-century prison life through meticulously restored cells, lifelike wax figures, and informative exhibitions. The museum also features an audio-visual presentation detailing the gaol’s history and the broader social context of the era, making it a compelling destination for those interested in Ireland’s penal history and architectural heritage.

St Fin Barre’s Cathedral

St Fin Barre’s Cathedral, is a magnificent Gothic Revival church designed by architect William Burges and completed in 1879. Built on the site of a 7th-century monastic settlement founded by the Patron Saint of Cork Fin Barre, the cathedral is renowned for its intricate sculptures, marble mosaics, stained glass, ornate sculptures, and a cannonball from the 17th-century Siege of Cork.

Cork Butter Museum

The Cork Butter Museum is located in Cork City, Ireland, and is dedicated to the history of the butter industry in Ireland, particularly in the Cork region.

The Butter Museum in Cork City, Ireland, is dedicated to showcasing the rich history of Ireland’s butter industry. Located in the historic Shandon area, the museum is housed in a former butter market building. It offers visitors a fascinating look at the traditional butter-making process, the rise of the Cork Butter Exchange, and the economic and cultural significance of butter in Ireland.

With exhibits that include vintage butter churns, molds, and interactive displays, the museum provides a unique and educational experience for all ages, celebrating a vital aspect of Ireland’s agricultural heritage.

Elizabeth Fort

Elizabeth Fort, located in Cork City, Ireland, is a star-shaped fort originally built in 1601 during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Initially constructed to defend the city and assert English control, the fort has served various purposes over the centuries, including as a military barracks and a police station. Today, Elizabeth Fort stands as a well-preserved historical site offering panoramic views of Cork City and providing insight into the region’s turbulent past through informative exhibits and guided tours. Its robust walls and strategic location make it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and visitors exploring Cork’s rich heritage.

Distillery Tour

Distillery tours in Cork offer a captivating journey into the world of Irish whiskey and gin, providing an immersive experience for enthusiasts and visitors alike. Notable distilleries, such as the Jameson Distillery in Midleton, invite guests to explore the intricate processes of distillation, maturation, and bottling. These tours often include guided walks through historic facilities, tastings of various spirits, and insights into the craft of whiskey-making. With Cork’s rich distilling heritage and the opportunity to sample some of Ireland’s finest spirits, distillery tours are a popular and enlightening attraction in the region.

Dursey Island

Dursey Island, located off the southwestern coast of County Cork, is renowned for its rugged beauty and remote charm. Accessible by Ireland’s only cable car, which departs from the mainland at the village of Beara, the journey offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding landscape. The cable car provides a unique and scenic way to reach the island, where visitors can explore its dramatic cliffs, diverse wildlife, and picturesque walking trails. Dursey Island is a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and a touch of adventure in Ireland’s natural landscape.

Visit Blarney Castle and Kiss the Blarney Stone

No visit to Cork is complete without a trip to Blarney Castle. The castle, set in lush gardens, is famous for the Blarney Stone. Legend has it that kissing the stone bestows the gift of eloquence. After your climb to the top, take time to explore the extensive gardens, including the Poison Garden and the enchanting Rock Close.

Discover Kinsale

The picturesque town of Kinsale, located on the coast, is known for its colorful buildings, gourmet restaurants, and maritime heritage. Stroll along the harbor, visit the 17th-century Charles Fort, and enjoy a meal at one of the town’s renowned seafood restaurants. Kinsale is also the starting point of the Wild Atlantic Way, offering stunning coastal views.

Drive the Ring of Beara and the Beara Peninsula

One of the best things to do in County Cork is to drive the Peninsula offers breathtaking landscapes, including rugged coastlines, mountains, and quaint villages. Highlights include the scenic drive and the Dursey Island cable car.

Driving The Ring of Beara you will find an absolutely stunning route that rivals the Ring of Kerry with dramatic coastal scenery, ancient ruins and charming villages.

Private Tour of Beara Peninsula

Private car tour of the Beara Peninsula with a local experienced driver/guide/genealogist. Very narrow roads off the beaten path! Incredible scenery. Tour is conducted with a genealogist, who will take you to the seat of the O’Sullivan clan and to the copper mines museum in Allies from where many Irish emigrated to Bute, Montana.

Gougane Barra and St. Finbarr’s Oratory

A serene and beautiful spot in the foothills of the Sheehy Mountains, known for its picturesque lake and the historic St. Finbarr’s Oratory.

Wander through Cobh

Cobh is steeped in history. It was the last port of call for the RMS Titanic in 1912. Here you can visit the Cobh Heritage Centre to learn about the town’s maritime history and emigration. The stunning St. Colman’s Cathedral, with its impressive spire, dominates the town’s skyline. And don’t forget to climb the hill to take photos of the The “Deck of Cards” Houses. These are a row of 23 homes on West View, Kilgarvan they “stack” up the hill like a deck of cards. The homes, built in 1850, are one of Cobh’s most recognizable features and the place of many an Instagram post.  

Visit the Cobh Heritage Centre

The Cobh Heritage Centre, located in the picturesque town of Cobh, County Cork, offers a poignant glimpse into Ireland’s maritime history. Situated in the former White Star Line offices, the center focuses on the dramatic stories of emigration, including the experiences of those who left Ireland for new beginnings and the Titanic’s final port of call. Through engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and detailed historical accounts, visitors gain insight into the lives of emigrants and the town’s significant role in maritime history. 

Experience the Wild Atlantic Way

County Cork is home to some of the most scenic stretches of the Wild Atlantic Way. Drive along this iconic coastal route to discover rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and picturesque villages. Highlights include the Beara Peninsula, with its dramatic landscapes, and the Mizen Head, Ireland’s most southwesterly point, featuring a spectacular bridge and visitor center.

Visit the Jameson Distillery in Midleton

Whiskey enthusiasts should not miss the Jameson Distillery in Midleton. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and process of whiskey production, and enjoy a tasting of the world-famous Jameson Irish Whiskey. The distillery grounds are beautifully maintained and offer a glimpse into Ireland’s rich distilling heritage.

Private Cork City Tour, Kinsale and Jameson Distillery

Maximize time in County Cork with a full-day private tour. Begin the exploration in the fishing village of Kinsale. Visit historic Charles Fort and wander through the charming town streets. Continue on to Cork City and check out top landmarks including the English Market and St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral. Complete the experience with a visit to the Jameson Distillery in Midleton and sample whiskey at the source.

Explore Fota Wildlife Park

Fota Wildlife Park, located on Fota Island, is a fantastic destination for families and animal lovers. The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including cheetahs, giraffes, and lemurs, many of which roam freely in large enclosures. The park also features beautiful gardens and walking trails.

Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens Admission Ticket tour

Get an in-depth introduction to one of Ireland’s most stunning estates on a prearranged tour of Fota House, designed by 19th-century architects Richard and William Morris. Discover the daily lives of servants in the well-preserved kitchen and service wing, and see the original Victorian-era nursery. Tours also include visits to the Arboretum and rose garden.

Hike in the Ballyhoura Mountains

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Ballyhoura Mountains offer a range of hiking and mountain biking trails. The scenic landscape of rolling hills, forests, and rivers provides a perfect backdrop for an active day out. The area is also rich in archaeological sites, including ancient ring forts and standing stones. 

Explore West Cork 

Skibbereen

West Cork is renowned for its stunning scenery, charming villages, and artisan food producers. Visit the town of Skibbereen, home to the Skibbereen Heritage Centre, which tells the story of the Great Famine.

Baltimore

The coastal village of Baltimore offers boat trips to nearby islands, such as Sherkin Island and Cape Clear Island. Baltimore is a picturesque fishing village with a strong maritime heritage, Baltimore offers stunning views of the surrounding islands and sea.

Don’t miss the chance to sample local delicacies like Clonakilty black pudding and Gubbeen cheese.

Whale & Dolphin Watching Tour from Baltimore

Get out into the Atlantic Ocean from Baltimore Harbor near Cork for this small group whale-watching and dolphin-spotting tour. Your captain will take you to the best spots to look for sea life, including backing sharks and other birdlife, too. If you’re really lucky, and it’s the right season, you just might see an orca/killer whale, too.

 Goleen

A charming village located near the southwestern tip of Ireland, known for its stunning coastal views and the magnificient Barleycove Beach.

Timoleague

A picturesque village known for its beautiful surroundings and the ruins of Timoleague Abbey. Explore the historic abbey, enjoy walks along the local waterways, and savor the village’s peaceful atmosphere.

Relax in the Gardens of Bantry House

Bantry House, overlooking Bantry Bay, is one of Ireland’s most beautiful historic houses. The house itself is filled with antique furnishings and art, while the terraced gardens are a delight to explore. The views over the bay and surrounding countryside are spectacular.

If you’re looking for things to do in Ireland, you’re definitely in for a treat by visiting County Cork. With its rich history dating back to 1788, Cork is one of the best places to see in Ireland. From the vibrant city of Cork with its bustling streets to the picturesque landscapes of east Cork and the panoramic views from the top of Saint Fin barre’s Cathedral, there’s something for everyone in Cork. 

County Cork is a destination that captivates visitors with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re exploring the lively streets of Cork City, kissing the Blarney Stone, or driving along the Wild Atlantic Way, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting part of Ireland.