Experience the Best of Cork in Two Days

Experience the charm of Ireland's rebel city in Cork.

22 April 2023

A trip to Cork, Ireland as a tourist would start with a stroll through the charming English Market, followed by a visit to the historic Cork City Gaol. Next, a jaunt to the impressive St. Fin Barre's Cathedral and picturesque Blarney Castle to kiss the Blarney Stone is a must-do. The trip would end with sipping Irish coffee in one of the city's cozy pubs and taking in the vibrant nightlife.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Cork

  • Check into the centrally located Imperial Hotel, a grand old dame of a building with classic decor and plenty of charm.
  • Begin your day with a visit to the iconic St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, a stunning display of Gothic architecture and history.
  • Wander through the bustling English Market, flanked by colorful stalls and local vendors peddling all kinds of fresh produce and goods.
  • Head to the Crawford Art Gallery for a cultural fix, showcasing Irish and international art collections.
  • Take a break with a pint of local brew at the legendary pub, The Oliver Plunkett, known for its traditional Irish music sessions.
  • End the day with dinner at Farmgate Cafe, featuring locally sourced ingredients and a warm, rustic atmosphere.
Day 2

Island Hopping & Coastal Splendors

  • Catch the ferry from the port to the nearby Spike Island, a former military stronghold turned fascinating historical site.
  • Enjoy a scenic coastal drive out to the charming town of Kinsale, with its colorful harbor, boutiques, and gourmet cafes.
  • Have lunch at Fishy Fishy, hailed as one of the best seafood restaurants in Ireland, specializing in fresh, sustainable catches.
  • Continue along the coast to the beautiful town of Cobh, famous for being the Titanic's last port of call, and visit the Titanic Experience museum.
  • Take a walk along the seaside promenade and visit the stunning St. Colman's Cathedral, perched atop a hill with stunning views of the harbor.
  • Finish the day with a meal at The Quays Bar & Restaurant, serving delicious, hearty Irish fare with nightly live music.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Cork by plane is to fly into Cork Airport, which has direct flights from many major cities in the UK, Europe, and the US.

Car

The best way to get to Cork by car is to drive on the M8 motorway from Dublin, which takes around 3 hours. Alternatively, you can take the N71 coastal road from Killarney or the N20 from Limerick.

Train

There is a train station in Cork, but the best way to get there by train is to take a train to Dublin and then transfer to a train that goes to Cork.

Boat

The best way to get to Cork by boat is to take a ferry from Roscoff or Cherbourg in France to the nearby port of Ringaskiddy, which is just a short drive from Cork City.

Bus

The best way to get to Cork by bus is to take a bus from Dublin or another major city in Ireland. There are many bus companies that offer routes to Cork, including Bus Éireann and Citylink.

Destination

Cork

Looking for a city that's more than just a place to store your wine bottles? Then Cork is your kind of town! Don't let the name fool you, this Irish gem has more to offer than just corkscrews.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Cork, Ireland: A Day of Culture & Craic

Cork, Ireland is a city filled with lively culture and stunning scenery. A trip to Cork as a tourist means exploring the vibrant streets, historic landmarks, and charming pubs. Be sure to visit the famous English Market, kiss the Blarney Stone, and take a stroll along the picturesque River Lee.

Indulge in Romantic Cork: A 3-Day Getaway

A romantic trip to Cork, Ireland would involve exploring the charming town's historic architecture, cozy pubs, and lush greenery. Couples can stroll hand in hand along the River Lee or take a scenic ferry ride to nearby Cobh. For a truly unforgettable experience, they can cozy up in one of Cork's luxurious hotels and indulge in delicious local cuisine and wine.

Cork's Romantic Getaway: A Day Trip Guide

Cork offers the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway, with charming cobblestone streets, traditional pubs, and stunning views of the River Lee. Explore the vibrant city center, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and take a romantic stroll through the picturesque English Market. After a day of adventures, unwind in a cozy bed and breakfast or luxurious hotel, ready to do it all again the next day.

Cork City on a Budget: 5 Days of Adventure

Explore the vibrant city of Cork on a limited budget with a range of free walking tours and attractions. Discover the rich cultural heritage with a visit to Cork City Gaol and the famous Blarney Castle. Experience a night out in one of the city's many traditional Irish pubs for a true taste of Ireland.