Cork's Romantic Getaway: A Day Trip Guide

Fall in love in the charming city of Cork, Ireland.

22 April 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

Romance in the Rebel City

  • Start the day with a stroll through Fitzgerald Park, a lush oasis in the heart of the city that's perfect for a picnic breakfast.
  • Head to the English Market, a historic indoor market filled with artisanal foods and buzzing with locals. Pick up some cheeses and pastries for later in the day.
  • Take a self-guided walking tour of Cork's colorful streets, admiring the street art and stopping at charming cafes along the way.
  • For lunch, head to the Farmgate Cafe above the English Market for fresh seafood and farm-to-table dishes.
  • In the afternoon, visit the stunning Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, a neo-Gothic masterpiece that's sure to impress.
  • End the day with a romantic dinner at the Ivory Tower restaurant, which boasts stunning views over the city and serves contemporary Irish cuisine with a twist. Don't miss the whiskey-infused desserts!

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

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Cork City on a Budget: 5 Days of Adventure

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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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Cork, Ireland is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway, with its charming scenery and cosy atmosphere. Start your day with a walk around the peaceful Fitzgerald Park followed by a visit to the bustling English Market. Enjoy the breathtaking views at the beautiful Kinsale Harbour and indulge in a romantic dinner at one of the local restaurants.