Cork City is sometimes known as the second city in Ireland because it is the largest city in the Republic after Dublin. Separated by the River Lee and crossed by piers and bridges, the waterfront city has been established since pre-Viking times and its residents sometimes consider their hometown to be the ‘true capital of Ireland’.
Capital rivalries aside, Cork is a wonderful city to visit for its unique museums, incredible food, beautiful parks, and impressive churches. As well as a walkable urban center full of activities and attractions, the city is the gateway to discovering the rest of County Cork, with some of Ireland’s most famous landmarks and most charming cities.
Ready to explore? Here are the best things to do in Cork City, Ireland.
Eat in the english market
Direction
Princes St, Center, Cork, IrelandGet directions
Telephone
+353 1 871 5439
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Cork has a well-deserved reputation as a top dining destination in Ireland and its shining star is the English market. There has been a market at this site in the heart of central Cork since the 1780s. The beautifully restored Victorian building is still full of merchants, selling everything from fresh local fish to imported gourmet olives. The atmospheric food market is the perfect stop for shopping, or you can dine in one of the cafes and restaurants on the second floor.
Ring the Shandon bells at St. Anne’s Church
Direction
St Church, Shandon, Cork, IrelandGet directions
Telephone
+353 21 450 5906
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St Anne’s Church is one of the few 18th century churches in Ireland that still retains its original bells. The tower is one of Cork’s best known landmarks and you can easily see it from various parts of the city by keeping an eye out for the golden salmon weather vane on top of its roof. Climbing the 132 steps of the bell tower is one of the most popular things when visiting Cork. Once on the balcony, 100 feet above the ground, you can help ring the Shandon bells, which were first launched in 1750. The eight bells were made famous by the 19th century song “The Bells of Shandon” and Its tower house has become a symbol of the city. There is a clock on each side of the tower, which has earned the local nickname “The Four-Faced Liar.” thanks to each side showing a slightly different time until everyone reaches the time together. After ringing the bells, be sure to enter the quiet Victorian church and admire the stained glass windows and vaulted ceiling.
Stroll through Fitzgerald Park
Direction
Mardyke , Cork , IrelandGet directions
Telephone
+353 21 492 4333
Stroll through the formal gardens or watch swans along the water while enjoying a lazy afternoon in Cork’s favorite park. Fitzgerald Park is named after Edward Fitzgerald, the former mayor of Cork and the man responsible for organizing the Cork International Exposition. Signs for this Exhibition are still visible in the pavilion and fountain, which were built for the fair, but there are also many other activities to enjoy in the park, including a visit to the Cork Museum or a tea at the charming Riverview Cafe.
Experience life inside Cork City Gaol
Direction
Convent Ave , Sunday’s Well , Cork , IrlandaGet directions
Telephone
+353 21 430 5022
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It may not be apparent from the beautiful exterior, but this castle-like building is Cork’s most famous former prison. The old jail once had repeat offenders committing crimes within city limits, and some unfortunate prisoners were even sent from Cork to the distant shores of Australia. The jail was closed after the Irish Civil War and is now a fascinating museum, with wax figure prisoners inside the cells and an audiovisual show about life in Cork a century ago.
Kiss the blarney stone
Direction
Monacnapa, Blarney, Co. Cork, IrelandGet directions
Telephone
+353 21 438 5252
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Cork’s most famous attraction is just a few minutes drive from the city center. Blarney Castle is one of the best things to see in all of Ireland. The well-preserved 15th century castle built of gray stone and covered in ivy is a romantic sight in its own right, but is best known for the stone that sits on top of its upper level, which can only be seen reach hanging from the side. Every trip to Cork requires a trip here too: kiss the Blarney stone and win the Irish gift of the gab.
Catch a show at the Cork Opera
Direction
Emmett Pl, Center, Cork, IrelandGet directions
Telephone
+353 21 427 0022
Web
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The Cork Opera House was first built in 1855, but tragically burned down the same year it turned 100. Fortunately, the performance hall was rebuilt and today the modern glass-fronted building is one of the best places in the city to see a show. More than classical music, the Opera House is the ideal venue for everything from ballet, spirited marching bands, and children’s performances inspired by popular stories.
Admire the cathedral of Saint Fin Barre
Direction
Bishop St , The Lough , Cork , IrlandaGet directions
Telephone
+353 21 496 3387
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The three Gothic towers of Saint Fin Barre Cathedral are a must-see part of Cork’s skyline south of the river. The Church of Ireland cathedral dates from the late 19th century, but is built on a sacred area that has been a religious site since the 7th century. The beautiful church is dedicated to Finbarr, the patron saint of the city of Cork, who was one of the abbots of a monastery located here. The exterior is decorated with gargoyles and biblical figures, but be sure to step inside to admire the flow of light through the 74 stained glass windows.
See the masterpieces at Crawford Municipal Art Gallery
Direction
Emmett Pl, Center, Cork, IrelandGet directions
Telephone
+353 21 480 5042
Web
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Known to the locals simply as Crawford, this Cork art museum features an extensive collection of works ranging from Greek and Roman sculpture to 20th century stained glass and paintings by local artists. Located inside the old Cork Customs House, the art museum offers free tours on Sundays and has a regular program of events for creatives.
Walk the ramparts at Elizabeth Fort
Direction
Barrack St , The Lough , Cork , IrlandaGet directions
Telephone
+353 21 497 5947
Web
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Elizabeth Fort was first built to defend the city of Cork in 1601. Although the five-point star fort changed hands over the years, it has been in continuous use for four hundred years. It has been a barracks, a food depot and, more recently, a police station, before becoming a free historical monument. Its high walls offer panoramic views of the city and the River Lee, so be sure to take the time to walk the ramparts after learning about life inside the fort four centuries ago. There are also fort tours every day at 1pm, but you can walk the ramparts during any visit.
Remember the rebels at the National Monument
Direction
48 Grand Parade , Center , Cork , Co. Cork , T12 PY86 , IrelandGet directions
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Ireland has a long history of rebellion and these various uprisings have been immortalized with a memorial at the Grand Parade in central Cork. Covered with Gothic spiers, the gray stone monument pays tribute to the Irish rebellions of 1798, 1803, 1848 and 1867. The idea for the monument arose in the run-up to the 100th anniversary celebration of the 1798 rebellion, but It was only unveiled on St. Patrick’s Day in 1906. Cork’s important landmark is 48 feet tall, and circling its base you will find Irish patriots from centuries past, including Wolfe Tone and Michael Dwyer.
Stop for a specialty coffee
Direction
2 Bridge St, Victorian Quarter, Cork, IrelandGet directions
Telephone
+353 21 731 9158
Web
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In Ireland, “black stuff” usually refers to a pint of Guinness, but Cork is actually one of the best cities in the country for a great cup of coffee. There are several coffee shops that roast their own beans, and even more coffee shops that take caffeine seriously, offering artisan coffee, spills, velvety flat whites, espresso with creamer, and homemade goodies. Two of the best places to stop for your morning pickup are Cork Coffee Roasters (2 Bridge St) and Filter Coffee (19 George’s Quay).
Have an astronomy experience at the Blackrock Castle Observatory
Direction
Castle Rd , Blackrock , Cork , IrlandaGet directions
Telephone
+353 21 432 6120
Web
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Strategically built on the banks of the River Lee, Blackrock Castle was first built in 1582 to help protect Cork from pirate attacks. The fortified building and round tower may have been intended as a point of defense, but these days Blackrock contributes to scientific research. While many of Ireland’s castles have been turned into medieval hotels or banquet venues, Blackrock Castle has been turned into an observatory with a cosmic-focused visitor center. There are also historical displays detailing the castle’s past, but children in particular will love the Planetarium Show which runs every 1-2 hours. After touring the castle and climbing to the observation deck of the round tower, you can warm up with tea and scones in the hotel cafeteria.
Explore Fota Wildlife Park
Direction
Fota, Carrigtohill, Co. Cork , IrelandGet directions
Telephone
+353 21 481 2678
Web
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There is a lot to do in Cork city center, but one of the best animal encounters in Ireland is also tempting. Fota Wildlife Park is a conservation project located on 100 acres just six miles from downtown. The sprawling park is home to a wide variety of species, including lemurs, rhinos, monkeys, tigers, and reptiles, and has one of the most successful cheetah breeding programs in the world. Many of the animals roam free, but don’t worry, although you can get up close to see predators, the majestic big cats are safe behind the barriers.
Take a day trip to Kinsale
Direction
Kinsale, Co. Cork , IrlandaGet directions
Escape the quiet hustle and bustle of the city with a quick trip to the port city of Kinsale, 15 miles south of Cork. The brightly painted houses at the water’s edge look almost made for a postcard, and are a beautiful backdrop for a walk on a sunny day. The city is also famous for its restaurants and the annual gourmet food festival, so you can also take a quick trip south for a dreamy seafood lunch. After strolling through the city, head to Charles Fort for stunning views of the water and a bit of haunted history.
