Why visit Cork? Well, I may be biased as Cork, Ireland is where I grew up. But, I’m of the opinion that Cork has it all! From the best beaches in all of Ireland, to quirky coffee shops that serve an excellent brew, to its colourful local characters who will welcome you with arms wide open.
Read on to find out why you must visit Cork. You will be adding Cork to your Ireland itinerary in no time.
“Maybe you had to leave in order to miss a place, maybe you had to travel to figure out how beloved your starting point was”
9 Best Things to do in Cork, Ireland
Despite, travelling the world for the better part of 6 years Cork still and always will be the place closest to my heart. The quote above is what encouraged me to write this post, even though I’ve been to some of the most beautiful destinations on the planet Cork remains the place I want to be my ‘forever home’. All together now ‘awww’, on that note here’s 9 reasons why you must visit Cork ASAP!
What to do in Cork? Well here are 9 activities I highly recommend.
#1 Cork has the best beaches in Ireland
Boasting the second-largest coastline in the whole country, there’s certain to be a beach that tickles your fancy. The beaches in West Cork are the best in my opinion. My personal favourites are Garrettstown for surfing and The Dock near Kinsale winning the ‘cute factor’ – it’s teeny-tiny. Another very popular beach in West Cork is Inchydoney near Clonakilty, which is a whopping 7 miles long! You can stay the night here at stunning Inchydoney beach hotel which overlooks the beach!
With Cork being the most Southerly county, the weather is typically the warmest in the country. It’s still Ireland though, so please don’t arrive expecting a Mediterranean climate or anything.
If you want to explore some of West Cork’s best beaches from a different angle why not consider this kayaking tour which takes you to hidden beaches and sea caves!
You’re reading this blog because you love Ireland, then, why not read my detailed guide on how to move to Ireland
#2 The sunsets in Cork ain’t bad
I was blown away last month when I spent a couple of weeks back home, I saw three of the most spectacular sunsets I’ve ever seen and I’ve lived in the sunset capital of the world – Australia. The photo below speaks for itself really.
Be sure to head down to West Cork for the best sunsets in my opinion – particularly at Mizen Head, Galley Head Lighthouse outside Rosscarbery or Sheep’s Head along the Beara Peninsula! A great secret sunset spot is Charles Fort in Kinsale, although popular during the day with history lovers its typically quiet at sunset and offers a great vantage point over Kinsale harbor.
In fact, you can book this highly-recommended tour to Mizen Head, which departs from Cork City and includes visits to Clonakilty, Bantry, Gougane Barra and Mizen Head!
#3 Charming colourful Cork towns
Having lived abroad for the better part of 6 years, this is what tourists to Ireland always tell me was their favourite thing about Ireland. And Cork has some of the most charming and most colourful towns in all of Ireland. Just check out this photos of the coastal town of Kinsale. Cobh too, in East Cork is especially colourful. FYI if I had a spare million I’d move home and buy a house in Kinsale.
If you want to explore Kinsale and other colorful Cork towns by don’t fancy driving yourself – then why not consider this luxury guided tour from Cork City that includes stops in Kinsale, Timoleague, Castlemartyr and Cobh.
Read all about our trip to rural and green Ballyhoura in Cork County!
#4 Charming colourful local characters
Oh the Irish people. We’re the best aren’t we? Who doesn’t love us. I’ve travelled a lot, and still for me, the Irish people are the warmest and friendliest people in the whole wide world. I know I’m biased being an Irish gal myself. But even my very British husband agrees
#5 Way too many excellent restaurants
Way too many to mention in just one article, but personal favourites of mine include – the Bulman an award-winning gastro pub in Summercove, Kinsale; Liberty Grill on Washington Street in Cork City for the best breakfast of your life; Bunnyconellan’s in Myrtleville for yummy food and even yummier views. And of course you can’t visit Cork city without stopping at the famous English Market!
In fact, this private walking tour of Cork City will give you an insight into the locals favorite restaurant as well as the history of the city!
#6 Cork’s coffee would impress even the harshest critic
It really would. I love coffee. So much so, that I plan my whole day around how and when I can get a decent coffee. Luckily for me, this wasn’t a problem in Cork City. From the locals favourite of Cork Coffee Roasters to Farmgate above the English Market to Three Fools Coffee for good coffee with a side of ‘cool’, there’s certain to be something to quench your caffeine fix. Also, Starbucks only opened it’s first shop in the city over a year ago, so, that’s a testament to how much we Corkonians support our local coffee shops. Please don’t go to Starbucks, unless you really really need a Caramel Frapuccino, I totally get it.
#7 It’s home to the famous Blarney Castle
You’ve heard of the famous Blarney Castle right? The legendary stone that gives anyone who kisses it ‘the gift of the gab’. American tourists LOVE it. Believe me, I grew up in Blarney and the hundreds even thousands of American tourists who descend on the castle every day is insanity. Especially in the summer. But, despite the crowds, the castle is well-worth a visit. The grounds are outstandingly lush and green, you could easily spend a full day getting lost here. Be sure to bring a camera, because there will be lots of instagram-worthy photo opportunities.
You can book on a guided tour of Blarney Castle that departs from Cork City, it’s highly recommended!
#8 There’s good reason why Cork City is referred to as the ‘real capital’ of Ireland
Corkonians are notoriously patriotic, I don’t even know if that’s the right word, basically we think we’re better than everyone else. We have very unique phrases, that ‘outsiders’ struggle to understand. Even our neighbours in Kerry or Limerick don’t have a clue what we’re saying most of the time. You can even buy a Dictionary of Cork Slang in most bookshops in the city. There’s also, an online Peoples Republic of Cork store where you can buy all sorts of merchandise to express your love for this glorious county.
#9 Visit one of Cork cities’ amazing parks
Fitzgerald’s Park on the outskirts of the City is a favourite of mine, home to the ‘shaky bridge’, with a great little coffee shop, and lots of great photo opportunities. The park also hosts lots of cool free events during the summer.
Other great local parks in Cork include the Regional Park in Ballincollig, Farran Woods a short drive from Ballincollig and The Lough a short drive from the CBD. Visiting a local park is one of the best free things to do in Cork City!
While you’re here, why not book your Ireland airbnb –
I’ve done days of research and come up with a detailed list of the most insane places to stay in Ireland! Here are the absolute best airbnb’s in Ireland!!!!!
Where to stay in Cork City
Cork City Center Self Catering Apartment – Located near Cork City Hall and Saint Finbarres Cathedral this modern apartment is very centrally located. The one-bedroom apartment is 26m2 and has a kitchen (including fridge, microwave and oven), dining room and separate bedroom. Free WiFi is also included in the rate.
River View Apartment – A luxurious apartment with river views and a terrace just a few minutes walk from the city center. It comes with a fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities. This is a quiet part of town.
Hayfield Manor – this super-luxurious hotel is one of the best in Cork City and is definitely one for the bucket-list. It is located a few minutes drive from the CBD.
Montenotte Hotel – this super-cool and quirky hotel has been recently renovated. It has lovely gardens and a cinema!
River Lee Hotel – with prime views over the River Lee, large bedrooms and a fantastic on-site restaurant this is one of the most popular hotels in Cork!
Thanks for reading my blog!
And, that’s it folks. If you’ve visited Cork previously or are a legendary Corkonian like myself is there anything else you would include that I’ve missed? If so, please leave a comment below.
P.S if you’re planning a move to Cork I’ve written a detailed blog post about renting in Cork that you may find helpful!
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I missed Cork when I visited Ireland because I thought it was too touristy but this post sets me straight. Have to see it next time.
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My friend just moved to Cork so I had to come and check out your blog! You’ve got me all excited about what I’ll be seeing when I visit her – love it, thanks!
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I live the colors! I have never heard of Cork but when I feel safe enough to travel again, I’m definitely going to add it to the list!
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Love this post! You have convinced me I need to visit Cork. Over the past year I’ve been seeing more and more about Ireland that makes me want to go! I can see why you love Cork as it looks so charming and a beautiful place. I’d definitely want to see Blarney Castle too for sure. Hoping to go next summer if possible! 😁
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I really need to go here on my next trip to Ireland!
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These colourful houses are beautiful and the beach looks amazing. Might have to take a trip over the water soon!
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I haven’t been to Ireland yet, but so wanna go! Cork seems like the perfect place to add to my itinerary, though. Thanks for showing off your beautiful home town. I’ll definitely go there one day!
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This city looks so charming! I would love to visit it!
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Cork look amazing! Thanks for sharing 🙂 I love the colorful houses.
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I realize the this was posted nearly 4 years ago, but I was glad to find it. I am in the very beginning process of planning a trip to Ireland, particularly to Cork. My heritage is Irish from Mallow. All of the above reasons are enough to draw a person in, but I want to explore the area where my family originated. What will there be for a 65 year old couple to enjoy besides the picturesque views, the coffee shops, and general shopping? We are healthy and can hike if needed. I’m asking for your perspective, as you’ve lived there. I know all about all of the “big” attractions, but what do the locals enjoy most? Thanks for a reply. Chere’
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I do love a killer sunset. Guess I’ll have to make my way to Cork when I make it to Ireland.
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I am going to Ireland in April and Cork is 100 percent on my list of places to visit! I have heard wonderful things and this just solidifies it. Love to see they have great coffee too 🙂
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Ireland in general is next on my list to visit. It’s really been too long a time coming. But Cork looks lovely. Such a beautiful place
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I’m not much of a coffee drinker but all the other reasons have resonated with me. Seems like I’ll need to plan a trip over soon! And that’s so funny how you have your own slang dictionary hahaa.
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Travelling has made me appreciate going home so much more, you see it from a totally different point of view! Cork looks lovely, I’d definitely go up to Patrick’s Hill and admire the views!
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I’ve never heard of this city in Ireland and now I’m rethinking of visiting this area when I book my trip. I love coffee and colorful towns. I especially love the photos of the beaches you shared. Usually, I see gloomy photos of the beaches in Ireland, so this gave me a whole new perspective!
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I love Cork, though I only saw one part, in Killarney. You’re right about the Irish people, they’re so warm, friendly, and very funny too! I didn’t get to see any beaches while there, but the landscapes and vistas are incredible. I also didn’t realise you call yourselves ‘Corkonians’! Now I know 🙂
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I will surely be adding Cork to my Ireland itinerary after reading your post. I had no idea that Ireland has so beautiful beaches. The small coastal town of Kinsale seems like photographer’s dream. I love those colors.
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Cork was hands down my favorite place in Ireland! We met a lady before Mass at St Patrick’s who was so charming and invited us to tea in her home. Cobh was gorgeous and had the best scones I’ve ever tasted. I was amazed at how much Blarney Castle had to offer – we could have spent the entire day there. The Jameson Experience in Midleton was also wonderful – the history in those buildings was spectacular and the whiskey Divine. The only problem we encountered in Cork was that we had to leave. I will definitely be returning and will spend the better part of the trip exploring more of this fabulous county.
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I’m so glad to hear! Home is where the heart is, and I’m very proud speaking of my home country when I travel 🙂
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That looks amazing, Cork just became part of my bucket list. I actually would not have expected these colourful houses here, among other things. Well, too many things to explore, so better I go check it out myself 🙂
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Thanks for sharing – I am not yet convinced to visit Cork;
but the country, Ireland, on the other hand, would be on my list. 🙂 @knycx.journeying
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Cork is so charming and your post has bowled me over. The beaches, the natural beauty, the elegant town and to wash it all down Irish Coffee, it can’t get better than this.
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Looks amazing, i never knew Cork had so much to offer. The beaches look great for a swim if the sun ever comes out lol.I really must get to Ireland one day soon we have done most other countries in Europe. Glad to see somewhere in Europe does great coffee, being from Australia great coffee is a way of life here.
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Lovely, lovely Cork. You have captured the beauty and spirit of the place wonderfully. I had a great fish chowder at the covered English Market there a while back and was just thinking about it today
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It really DOES look like a photographers dream! I have yet to go to any part of Europe, but when I do I’ll be sure to get to Ireland (I’m mostly Irish in heritage too) and visit Cork!
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Wow, I didn’t realise that the towns were so colourful! I need to go to Ireland- I’m from Glasgow so I have absolutely no excuse!
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I agree, but the #1 reason I went to Cork was to see the Jameson distillery!!
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Lol, good one. May do a follow-up post on all the great bits I’ve forgotten.
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Love the colorful town of Kinsale – the colors really do draw the eye in. Would it be too expensive to live there?
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Not in terms of day to day living costs, but the property prices are very high for a town so far from the city centre (30-40 minutes).
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Cork definitely looks like a photographer’s dream. The city is so picturesque. I’m not exactly sure about what is the gift of the gab but it sounds interesting to kiss a stone. Hahaha
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Yes! I totally agree Cork is amazing! I loved the beach and watching the sunset from those beaches. The colourful towns and beautiful scenery are definitely a photographer’s dream come true!
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I like your photos 🙂 I’ll be heading out to the UK at the end of the year so will def have to visit Cork 🙂
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