Cork Delights: A 3 Day Family Adventure

Discover unforgettable family adventures in the enchanting heart of Cork, Ireland.

19 July 2023

Cork, Ireland, offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes. Explore the iconic Blarney Castle, where kids can kiss the Blarney Stone for the "gift of gab," or visit the renowned Cork City Gaol to learn about Ireland's fascinating past. Enjoy leisurely walks along the scenic River Lee or take a short drive to Fota Wildlife Park, a thrilling adventure for young animal lovers.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Cork's Quirky Side

  • Start with a hearty breakfast at Liberty Grill, a vibrant spot offering scrumptious pancakes and avocado toast to fuel your adventures.
  • Take a stroll along the vibrant lanes of Shandon, where colorful houses and street art make for an Instagrammer's dream.
  • Ring the famous Shandon Bells at St. Anne's Church, but be warned, if your rhythm is off, the locals might mistake you for a wandering cat!
  • Discover the whimsical world of the Cork Butter Museum, where you'll learn about the history of butter-making and how it's connected Cork to the Milky Way.
  • Indulge your taste buds at Market Lane, a cozy restaurant that serves delicious local dishes made from ingredients sourced at the nearby English Market.
  • End your day with a pint (or two) at the quirky Franciscan Well Brewery, where you can sample unique craft beers, or even take part in their "Pimp My Pint" challenge!
Day 2

Coastal Charm and Culinary Delights

  • Begin your day with a scenic drive along the breath-taking coastline of West Cork, stopping for a picnic at the enchanting Clonakilty Beach.
  • Immerse yourself in wildlife wonders at Fota Wildlife Park, where you can meet cheeky monkeys, majestic cheetahs, and even cuddly wallabies just remember, no monkey business!
  • Sample traditional Irish dishes with a twist at The Fish Wife restaurant, where you can savor mouthwatering seafood chowder and crispy fish tacos.
  • Explore the vibrant English Market, where friendly vendors will entice you with flavorsome cheese, succulent meats, and freshly baked scones. Just don't leave without trying the famous spiced beef!
  • Unwind with a leisurely boat trip along the River Lee, taking in the scenic views and enjoying a traditional Irish music session aboard the traditional "Shandon Shanty."
Day 3

History, Culture, and a Tasty Farewell

  • Immerse yourself in history at the beautifully preserved Cork City Gaol, where interactive exhibits will transport you back in time to the days of convicts and daring escapes.
  • Take a break at The Farmgate Café, located in the unique setting of the English Market, and indulge in their famous Irish stew, made with love and locally sourced ingredients.
  • Delve into the cultural heartbeat of Cork at the Crawford Art Gallery, housing an eclectic collection that will leave you marveling at artistic masterpieces and scratching your head at contemporary installations.
  • Discover the intriguing world of whiskey at the Jameson Distillery Midleton, where you'll learn the art of distilling and sample the smooth golden nectar.
  • Bid farewell to Cork with a memorable dinner at Jacques Restaurant, where the menu showcases the finest Irish ingredients transformed into culinary works of art. Don't be surprised if your taste buds do a little Riverdance!

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.

More travel plans

Discover the Magic of Cork: 2-Day Budget Guide

Cork, Ireland offers budget-conscious travelers an array of activities that won't break the bank. Take a stroll through the colorful streets to explore the lively local culture and history, or visit nearby attractions such as the Blarney Castle or the Ballycotton Cliff Walk for a small fee. Finish the day with a pint of Guinness at one of the city's many pubs, some of which have live traditional music performances.

Experience the Best of Cork in Two Days

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.

Cork on a Budget: Eat, Explore & Enjoy

A visit to Cork, Ireland is the perfect choice for travelers on a limited budget. With its stunning coastal scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, this charming city offers a range of affordable activities and accommodations. From exploring historic landmarks and museums to sampling delicious local cuisine and enjoying traditional Irish music in cozy pubs, Cork has something to offer every budget-conscious traveler.

Cork Delights: A 3 Day Family Adventure

Cork, Ireland, offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes. Explore the iconic Blarney Castle, where kids can kiss the Blarney Stone for the "gift of gab," or visit the renowned Cork City Gaol to learn about Ireland's fascinating past. Enjoy leisurely walks along the scenic River Lee or take a short drive to Fota Wildlife Park, a thrilling adventure for young animal lovers.