Located on Ireland’s rugged southwest coast, Cork is the country’s second largest city and is packed with intriguing attractions and a razor-sharp food scene against a backdrop of bucolic countryside.
Cork has inspired poets, writers, and artists for centuries thanks to its warm and wonderful character. The city is small enough to explore on foot and close enough to an array of natural attractions to allow day-trippers quick access to glorious beaches, stunning national parks, and glistening lakes.
Discover some of the best things to do in Cork on your next vacation to Northern Europe.
Tour Cork City Gaol Museum
Cork City Gaol Museum
Housed in a 19th-century castle-like building, Cork City Gaol is now a museum offering an insight into what life was like for Cork’s inmates between 1824 and 1923. Despite its macabre theme, a visit to the city jail is one of the most interesting things to do in Cork.
Pick up an audio guide and wander the clink’s cell wings, hear about some of the former residents—both male and female—and check out the cells, fitted with startlingly lifelike wax figures. One of Cork City Gaol’s most famous former residents was the politician, revolutionary, and suffragist Constance Markievicz, who was imprisoned in October 1919 for making a “seditious speech”.
Admire Cobh’s Candy-Hued Harbor
Cobh Harbor
The colorful houses snaking around Cobh Harbor have put this Cork town on the map. Working back from the waterfront, wander up Spy Hill for a spectacular view of Cobh’s gothic St. Colman’s Cathedral.
Take a sharp right, turning onto West View to admire the steep row of houses known as the “Deck of Cards”, reminiscent of San Francisco’s steep “Row of Ladies”. From vibrant red to pistachio-green, the residences on West View are painted every color of the rainbow and make for pretty photos.
Cobh waterfront is filled with pubs, cafes, and souvenir stores. Treat yourself to a coffee or ice cream and take a seat in the seafront John F. Kennedy Park.
Wander St. Patrick’s Street
St. Patrick’s Street
Crossing the River Lee to discover St. Patrick’s Street, Cork’s main shopping thoroughfare, is one of the best things to do in Cork if you’re a fan of fashion. Curving from Saint Patrick’s Bridge to Daunt Square through the heart of the city, you’ll find everything from popular brands to designer department stores.
Browse Brown Thomas, Corkonians’ go-to for designer labels and chic homewares. Pick up essentials from Marks & Spencer or Boots drug store. Then veer off St. Patrick’s Street onto the pedestrianized French Church Street and Carey’s Lane to explore some of the city’s independent stores and cafés while on the lookout for arts, crafts, knitwear, and books.
Head for the Beach
Myrtleville Beach
Spending the day at the beach is just one of the many fun things to do in Cork. A short drive from the city, on the county’s south shore, you’ll find a string of sandy coves and blissful beaches.
Check out the golden sand of Myrtleville Beach near the mouth of the Cork River. Tall pine trees that flank the beach offer some shelter. You’ll find a couple of restaurants located nearby.
A little further off the beaten path, Ballycroneen Beach is an unspoiled stretch in the town of Cloyne that’s well worth a visit. Wrap up warm; even during the summer months, the North Atlantic whips up a crisp, cool air.
Marvel at Saint Fin Barre Cathedral
Saint Fin Barre Cathedral
A three-spired Anglican church in the center of Cork, Saint Fin Barre Cathedral was designed by English architect William Burges. The building was consecrated in 1870 on the site of a medieval cathedral that was demolished in 1785.
Let the chiming bells draw you inside and marvel at the tall gothic revival arches that line the pews. Join a guided tour to take in the building’s elaborate stone masonry, which includes characterful gargoyles, graceful statues, and remarkable stained-glass windows.
Discover Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle
A 20-minute drive northwest of Cork city center lands you at Blarney Castle, one of the most famous castles in Ireland. The current castle was built in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy, King of Munster and is the third to have been built on the site.
There are plenty of legendary tales that surround Blarney Castle, the most famous is that if you kiss the Blarney Stone—a hulking piece of limestone built into the walls—you’ll be bestowed with the “gift of the gab” (in other words, the skill of great charm and flattery, much admired in Ireland). It’s one of the best things to do with kids in Ireland.
Kiss the stone if you must, although it involves bending precariously over the side of the castle. Otherwise, settle for exploring the medieval grounds and spectacular gardens, the various walking trails festooned with a variety of plant life.
Blarney Lake
The estate contains acres of ancient woodlands with footpaths running alongside the river and around Blarney Lake. The shortest route of three trails takes around 90 minutes. Wear comfortable footwear if you plan on going for a stroll.
Eat Your Way Around the English Market
English Market
A visit to the two-story English Market, which has stood on its Princess Street site since 1788, is one of the best things to do in Cork. The English Market offers a cornucopia of fresh produce, with a bakery, delicatessen, seafood counters, fruit and vegetable vendors, butcher, and wine stalls. Sniff out a selection of regional cheeses and snack on dainty handmade chocolates and cakes.
Save space for a hearty plate of Irish stew at Farmgate Café, a traditional café that sources all of its produce from within the market. Order the home-baked soda bread to mop up the delicious gravy.
Take the Jameson Distillery Tour
Jameson Distillery
An easy drive from the city lies the town of Midleton, home to the Jameson Distillery, known as the Old Midleton Distillery, since 1825. A 60-minute Distillery Experience Tour, which includes a tasting, is one of the best things to do in Cork to get behind the scenes of this historic attraction.
Try whiskey straight from the cask in the Maturation Warehouse and hear about the history of the brand from a Jameson Ambassador, as you’re expertly guided around the Microdistillery, Cooperage, and the Distiller’s Cottage.
If you’re a whiskey connoisseur, choose the Triple-distilled IPA Edition, a silky-smooth drink finished in craft IPA barrels for a hoppy tinge. If you’re in the mood for whiskey-themed snacks, visit Fred’s Food Truck after your tour. The bacon in the BLT is glazed with Jameson, while the slow-cooked pulled pork in Fred’s Load It Up Sub is marinated in whiskey.
Explore Cobh Heritage Centre
Cobh Heritage Centre Photo by William Murphy on Flickr, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Located within the town’s restored Victorian railway station, Cobh Heritage Centre provides a fascinating look into Irish emigration. Trace stories of emigrants here; over three million Irish people passed through the port, many traveling to North America in search of a better life at the time of the Great Famine.
One of the most interesting stories is that of Annie Moore, who left Cobh for the U.S., becoming the first-ever emigrant to be processed through Ellis Island, New York, on January 1, 1892. There’s a statue of Annie and her two brothers outside Cobh Heritage Centre.
Learn about the seafaring past of the region at Cobh Heritage Centre’s permanent exhibition on naval and military history. You can also hear the story of the Titanic, which called at Cobh before making its fateful voyage across the Atlantic.
If you’re keen to trace Irish ancestors, there’s a resident genealogist based at the Heritage Centre. Advanced bookings are required for an appointment.
Uncover Pretty Kinsale
Kinsale
The charming seaside town of Kinsale is a must-visit in Cork. Stroll the town’s winding laneways, including Main Street with its row of brightly painted buildings and independent stores. Stop by The Canvas Works for cute art prints and Granny’s Bottom Drawer for gorgeous homeware and knits.
Step inside the 15th-century Desmond Castle. Built as a customs house around 1500, it’s now home to the International Museum of Wine. Then, enjoy a relaxing harbor cruise on the Spirit of Kinsale. You’ll get a detailed commentary on the coast and the chance to spot seals, otters, herons, and cormorants.
After taking in the sights of Kinsale, try the fresh seafood at Max’s on Market Street, with dishes such as pan-fried scallops, plump and buttery, and delicate, broiled sea bass served with market-fresh vegetables.
Board the Ferry to Spike Island
Spike Island
Jump on a ferry at Cobh’s Kennedy pier to reach Spike Island in Cork harbor. Spike Island has a storied history; it was once home to a seventh century monastery and multiple prisons, including a 17th-century Cromwellian prison and a particularly brutal 1800s penitentiary. In fact, Spike Island’s last prison only closed its cell doors for the final time in 2004.
Dominating Spike Island is the 24-acre, star-shaped Fort Mitchel, considered to be the largest fortress of its kind in the world. Take in the museum and exhibition that charts the island’s history. There are several walking trails to explore, too. The Ring of Spike route hugs the coastline and takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes to complete.
Visit Killarney National Park
Killarney National Park
Ancient oak trees, grazing red deer, inky lakes, and thundering waterfalls are just some of the remarkable sights you might spot in Killarney National Park. The park is also known for its oceanic climate, enabling an exciting array of flora and fauna to flourish.
Choose to tour the Lakes of Killarney—Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper Lake—or hike the majestic Purple Mountains. Take off on one of six guided walk trails. Ranging from one to four miles. If you plan on challenging yourself to a ramble, wear good quality walking shoes and waterproofs; Ireland is known for being the Emerald Isle for good reason.
Muckross House
Visit Muckross House, lying in the center of the park near Muckross Lake, and one of the best things to do on a day trip from Cork. Take a self-guided tour of the 19th-century country pile and the elaborate gardens. Stop by Muckross Garden Restaurant for the views of the Victorian Walled Garden, Torc, and Mangerton Mountains.
Stop by Fitzgerald’s Park
Fitzgerald’s Park
Spending time in Fitzgerald Park is another of the best things to do in Cork. Lying next to the River Lee, on the east side of the city, this leafy park is made up of manicured gardens, a serene pond, and various sculptures set out on a walking route. You’ll see the statue of Irish revolutionary and politician Michael Collins, who was assassinated in County Cork in 1922.
Stop by Cork Public Museum within Fitzgerald Park to learn about the city’s political, cultural, and social landscape. Among the items on display is a collection of Michael Collins’ personal possessions, including roughly 300 letters and telegrams that were exchanged between Collins and his fiancée, Kitty Kiernan.
Once you’ve taken in the exhibitions, make your way to the park’s café, The Natural Foods Bakery, for delicious baked goods and wholesome soups.
Tick Off Cork’s More Offbeat Museums
Glucksman Gallery, University College Cork Photo by Lewis Glucksman Gallery on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Ticking off the city’s offbeat museums is one of the most fun things to do in Cork. Housed in the
former Cork Butter Exchange, at one time the largest butter market in the world, The Butter Museum details the history of butter production in County Cork. Time your visit right and you may catch a butter-making demonstration.
Add the Glucksman Gallery, located within the picturesque campus of University College Cork, to your itinerary. The building is a modern masterpiece of limestone, steel, and timber, with three floors dedicated to national and international contemporary art and installations. Listen to artists’ talks, attend workshops, and pick up arty souvenirs at the gallery’s gift store.
The Old Cork Waterworks, a former waterworks overlooking the River Lee, completes a tour of the city’s more unusual museums, set in attractive red sandstone and limestone buildings with a lofty chimney. Here, you’ll discover an important part of Cork’s industrial heritage at the visitor center.
Stroll Around Charles Fort
Charles Fort
Overlooking Kinsale Harbor, around a 35-minute drive south of Cork city, the star-shaped Charles Fort is one of Ireland’s largest military fortresses. A trip here is one of the best things to do in Cork.
Built in the late 17th century on the site of an earlier fortress, this marvelous coastal stronghold has 52-foot-high defensive walls, ramparts, turrets, barracks, and a moat that has seen plenty of action, from civil wars to sieges.
Charles Fort
Immerse yourself in the history of the fort, including its role in the Williamite War that began in 1689, shortly after the fort’s completion, and lasted for one and a half years. Learn about the fort’s ghostly goings on, including the legend of the White Lady of Charles Fort, a ghostly figure that has apparently been seen wearing a wedding dress, said to walk the battlements.
Stop by the tearoom for a thick slice of homemade cake and a warming Irish tea. There’s a lovely walk from Charles Fort to pretty Kinsale village. With its colorful houses, independent shops, and charming pubs, it’s well worth tagging on a visit after exploring Charles Fort.
Read: Best Places to Visit in Ireland
Try the Titanic Experience in Cobh
Titanic Experience Photo by Ed Webster on Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0
Cobh, pronounced “Cove,” was often the last port of call for ships on transatlantic voyages between Europe and North America. It was here, on April 11, 1912, that the White Star liner, the Titanic, made its first call on its maiden voyage before embarking across the Atlantic.
One hundred and twenty-three passengers boarded the Titanic in Cobh—then called Queenstown—with only 44 of them surviving after the ship sank just three days later, on April 14, in the North Atlantic Ocean.
The Titanic Experience at Cobh’s former White Star Line ticket office on the waterfront is one the best things to do in Cork. A fascinating one-hour guided tour begins with visitors being issued with a “boarding card” containing the details of one of the 123 passengers who embarked the Titanic in Cobh.
Hear stories about the Titanic, including an audio interview given by a survivor, and learn about the role RMS Carpathia—the ship that came to the Titanic’s rescue—played. Letters written by survivors, dinnerware from the Titanic, model ships, and black-and-white photographs of Queenstown Ticket Office are on display.
Marvel at St. Colman’s Cathedral
St. Colman’s Cathedral
St. Colman’s Cathedral, also known as Cobh Cathedral, sits on a hill overlooking Cobh Harbor with a spectacular 300-foot steeple that towers above the town. This Roman Catholic Gothic Revival church was completed in 1919 and is the tallest church in Ireland.
St. Colman’s is spectacular from every angle and it’s worth strolling around the grounds to admire the imposing rose and stained-glass windows, smaller spires, and turrets.
Inside, a magnificent single nave is flanked by chapels beneath an imposing vaulted ceiling, while the soaring spire features a 49-bell carillon, the largest in Ireland.
Visitors can attend St. Colman’s daily mass at 10 a.m. or join a pre-booked tour of the church, which can be arranged by contacting the parish office. You may even get to visit the crypt, the resting place of six former bishops, beneath the church.
Sail to Garinish Island
Garinish Island
A small island in the sheltered Bantry Bay, close to the Cork-Kerry border, Garinish is a whimsical garden paradise that’s also home to the elegant Bryce House.
Garinish’s gardens were established in the early 20th century by Annan and Violet Bryce, who owned and lived on the island. The couple worked with renowned landscape architect Harold Peto, who took advantage of the island’s unique microclimate to establish verdant Italian gardens and woodland trails filled with palm, pine, bamboo, and manuka trees.
To reach Garinish Island, take the Harbour Queen Ferry from Glengarriff Pier, which is around 90 minutes from Cork. The short boat ride takes 15 minutes and you’ll be given the opportunity to spot languid seals on nearby Seal Island.
Garinish Island
Follow Garinish’s scented trail to the beautiful Italian Garden and Grecian Temple overlooking the sea. The island opens between March and early November, and depending on the timing of your visit, you might see flourishing azaleas, rhododendrons, vibrant roses, magnolias, heather, and various climbing plants.
Wander the idyllic Walled Garden with its central pond and climb the island’s 1805-built Martello Tower. Originally constructed as a defensive tower in case of a Napoleonic invasion, the tower offers wonderful views across Bantry Bay. Keen eyes might also spot a white-tailed eagle in the sky, with two residing on Garinish Island.
Stop by St. Anne’s Church Shandon Bells & Tower
St. Anne’s Church Shandon Bells & Tower
This early 18th-century Cork city church, just steps from the Butter Exchange, sits on a hill close to the River Lee. It’s the oldest, continually-in-use church in the city, with a weekly service and congregation taking place since 1722, while the church’s bell tower is one of Cork’s most famous landmarks.
History buffs will enjoy peeking inside this red sandstone and limestone building, with a Victorian timber-barrel vaulted ceiling and five stained-glass windows. The walls are decorated with memorials to past parishioners, including the Wise family, founders of the Cork Distillery.
Notice the church’s font, a relic from St. Mary’s Church, which stood on this site before it was destroyed by fire in the 1690 Siege of Cork. The 900-pipe organ, replacing an older version in 1901, was built by T.W. Magahy & Sons of Cork, and still plays out every Sunday.
St. Anne’s Church Shandon Bells & Tower
Climb the 123 winding steps to reach the viewing platform of St. Anne’s Church Tower, crowned by a weather vane in the shape of a gold salmon. The tower’s eight bells, weighing a combined six tonnes, were cast by Rudhall of Gloucester of England in 1750. A highlight for visitors is getting to ring the Bells of Shandon on the way up or down the tower.
Hike Ballycotton Cliff Walk
Ballycotton Cliff Walk
Ballycotton Cliff Walk, around 25 miles east of Cork city, is one of the most magical strolls in Ireland. This grassy coastal walk, where wild meadows meet the endless ocean, offers fantastic sea views.
Start at Ballyandreen Beach, walking east to Ballycotton, tracing the undulating coastline and breathing in Ireland’s fresh, salty sea air.
Soak in the thick gorse, which blossoms a vibrant yellow in the summertime. Pack binoculars and look out to sea and you might spot whales and dolphins splashing off the coast. Look out for bird life, too, including herons, oystercatchers, and sandhoppers.
Ballycotton Cliff Walk
Ballycotton is a charming fishing village, dotted with whitewashed and pastel-hued houses, fishing boats bobbing in the harbor. Spy Ballycotton Lighthouse on Ballycotton Island or join a boat trip from the harbor to the island after finishing the easy walk.
There are a handful of places to eat in Ballycotton village, with this East Cork hamlet a haven for foodies. Blackbird is a traditional Irish pub serving a delicious seafood menu of battered fish and chips, breaded shrimp, and seafood chowder. Cush is another gastro pub with a more high-brow seasonal menu that features dishes such as dill-cured salmon, crab croquettes, and sole on the bone in a seaweed butter sauce.
Tour the Home of Waterford Crystal
Waterford Crystal
A scenic two-hour drive east of Cork, along Ireland’s south coast, will lead you to the home of Waterford Crystal. Located in the center of Waterford, the House of Waterford’s existing building was opened in 2010, though the origins of Waterford Glassworks, as the brand was originally known, dates back to 1783.
Join a 90-minute tour that traces the brand’s history, from its creation by brothers George and William Penrose to the present day. You’ll see how the glass is molded, blown, carved, and etched to create beautiful glassware, from wine glasses and tumblers to vases and candle holders.
Browse the retail store to pick up an elegant souvenir to take home. It contains the largest collection of Waterford Crystal in the world and worldwide shipping is offered for shoppers who prefer not to carry their purchases.
Reginald’s Tower, Waterford
Make the most of your time in Waterford by tagging on a visit to the city’s circular, stone-built Reginald’s Tower, just steps from Waterford Crystal.
Reginald’s Tower is Ireland’s oldest civic building and has been in use for over 800 years. The tower was built on the site of a Viking-era tower that was built in 914 on a settlement in the center of the city that’s still known as the Viking Triangle.
Visit Quaint Clonakilty
Clonakilty
The small size of this West Cork village belies its big personality, with rows of colorful buildings on its main strip, filled with buzzy pubs, cafés, and shops. It’s located around 30 miles from Cork city, with a regular bus connecting the two.
Stop by the Michael Collins House Museum at 7 Emmet Square for a history lesson on the former Irish revolutionary leader and politician, and learn about his role in Ireland’s War of Independence. Though there is no evidence to suggest Collins lived at number 7, it is known that he lived in the square.
Guided tours are available of the museum with artifacts and written materials on display. It’s well worth watching the short documentary about the life of Michael Collins while you’re here.
Black pudding
Clonakilty is also known as the home of black pudding. This tasty blood pudding is embedded into Ireland’s culinary landscape and is typically served as part of an Irish breakfast—a feast that also includes fried eggs, bacon rashers, and sausages.
At the Clonakilty Black Pudding Visitor Centre you can take a self-guided tour to learn how it’s made. Don’t expect to discover the recipe, though; that’s top secret.
West Cork Model Railway Village, Clonakilty
Call into the Clonakilty Distillery, imbibe the local libations of whiskey, gin, and vodka during a tour and tasting. Or you could visit the town’s colorful West Cork Model Railway Village to see the fully scaled handmade model of the old West Cork Railway.
Gaze Up From Blackrock Castle Observatory
Blackrock Castle
Just over a mile from the center of Cork, the fairytale Blackrock Castle features towers, turrets, and battlements. Occupying a strategic spot near the mouth of the River Lee, the castle was built to deter pirates and other potential invaders in the 16th century.
As well as being a wonderful example of medieval architecture, Blackrock Castle is home to an astronomical research center led by the Cork Institute of Technology.
Ireland and Space is a fascinating exhibition that explores the country’s connection to space, from Stone Age moments that tracked the sun’s movement to Irish scientists working at the European Space Agency.
This family-friendly attraction is one of the best things to do in Cork, with a 20-minute astronomy show at the planetarium and guided tours of the castle that explore Blackrock’s 400 years of history.
Kayak on the River Lee
River Lee
Paddling a section of the River Lee is one of the best things to do in Cork for active travelers. The river flows east, from the Shehy Mountains close to the Kerry border, cutting through Ireland’s largest county before reaching Cork Harbour.
Join a local guide at Lapp’s Quay, opposite Cork City Hall, in the city center, and paddle beneath Cork’s many bridges as you listen to tales of the city.
Paddle at a gentle pace as you witness some of Cork’s best sights, such as the show-stealing 1850-built Holy Trinity Friary. Cork Harbour is one of the largest natural harbors in the world and has been a working port for centuries.
Walk Cork City Lough
Cork City Lough
This shallow, carp-filled lough, declared a Public Wildlife Refuge in 1881, is a freshwater limestone lake close to the center of Cork.
Despite its urban location, Cork City Lough is a tranquil spot and draws plenty of wildlife, including a large population of wildfowl, including swans and geese. Gulls, mallard, moorhens, and coots enjoy the island in the center of the lough, and there are eels, perch, rudd, and tench in the lake.
Walk the Cork Lough trail around the perimeter of the lake. It’s lined with ash, birch, hawthorn, and sycamore trees, and runs roughly three-quarters of a mile. There are benches dotted around the lake, a playground, and the cozy Lough Café for delicious coffee, sandwiches, and cake.
Drive to the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark
Copper Coast
Ireland’s spectacular Copper Coast is a 15-mile stretch of shimmering sea cliffs between Tramore and Dungarvan in County Waterford, named after the 19th-century copper mines that once operated here.
This section of Ireland’s south coast, around 90 minutes east of Cork, is magical and unspoilt. You could join an organized tour from Cork, though the best way to explore the Copper Coast is to rent a car and drive the route. Views along the route, passing scalloped beaches, pretty coves, and rugged cliffs, are breathtaking.
Copper Coast
There are walking trails that take in sights such as the ruins of the Tankardstown Copper Mine and beautiful Kilmurrin Beach. Pick up information on walks and learn about the region’s unique geology and how the landscape was shaped at the visitor center in the village of Bunmahon.
Guided walks led by UNESCO Global Geopark guides are also available from the visitor center and take up to three hours. The terrain is fairly easy, though you’ll want to wear reliable walking boots.
Read: Ireland Travel Tips
Watch: Ireland Cruises: Sail to Belfast, Cobh & Dublin
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