County Cork Travel Guide

Discover Ireland's scenic Southwest with our County Cork travel guide. From hiking to cultural attractions, we've got you covered.


County Cork, situated in the Southwest of Ireland, is a tourist’s paradise and a region known for its stunning scenery, rich history, and hospitable locals. The county’s landscapes, from rugged mountains to charming villages, make it a must-visit destination in Ireland. In this County Cork travel guide, we will explore everything you need to know, from where to eat, what to see, and how to get around.

Introduction to County Cork

County Cork is the largest county in Ireland, boasting 2,880 sq miles of stunning landscapes, from the Atlantic coastline, rolling hills, valleys, and mountains, making it a perfect destination for scenic drives, hiking, and biking. The region has a rich history, with sites ranging from prehistoric to Viking and medieval, with plenty of castles and abbeys to keep you busy.

List of Places to Visit in County Cork

County Cork has so many attractions that it can be daunting to decide what to see. Here is our list of the top places to visit in Cork.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Blarney Castle: Famous for the Blarney Stone, which reportedly gives you the gift of eloquence when kissed.
  • Cork City Gaol: A well-preserved 19th-century prison that gives you a glimpse into Ireland’s darker past.
  • Cobh Heritage Centre: Explore the history of emigration from Ireland and visit the last port of call for the Titanic.
  • Michael Collins Centre: Learn about the life of Michael Collins, one of Ireland’s most prominent revolutionary figures.
  • Jameson Distillery Midleton: Uncover the history of Irish whiskey and sample some of the finest spirits in the country.

Natural Attractions of County Cork: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Beara Peninsula: Take a scenic drive through the stunning landscapes of the Beara Peninsula and stop at picturesque fishing villages along the way.
  • Mizen Head: Take in the rugged coastline and spectacular views from the Mizen Head lighthouse.
  • Gougane Barra Forest Park: Explore the park’s walking trails and enjoy the view of the beautiful Gougane Barra Lake.
  • Fota Wildlife Park: Get up close and personal with exotic and endangered animals from around the world.

Hiking/Biking Routes of County Cork

For outdoor enthusiasts, County Cork is a paradise, full of hiking and biking opportunities. Here are some of the best routes to explore.

  • Sheep’s Head Way: A stunning 12-mile walking trail along the wild and rugged Sheep’s Head peninsula.
  • The Ballycotton Cliff Walk: An easy 4-mile walk with incredible views of the coast and Ballycotton Island.
  • The Old Head of Kinsale: A beautiful and challenging 7.5-mile hiking trail that leads to the Old Head of Kinsale lighthouse.

Best Things to Do in County Cork: Activities and Tours

There is no shortage of things to do in County Cork, from tours of historical sites to outdoor adventures.

  • Cork City Tour: Explore the bustling city of Cork and visit notable sights like Shandon Bells and St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral.
  • Whale Watching Tour: Take a boat tour from Baltimore, Skibbereen, or Bantry and spot dolphins, whales, and porpoises.
  • Kinsale Outdoor Education Centre: Try your hand at kayaking, paddleboarding, and other watersports at this adventurous venue.
  • Blackwater Outdoor Activities: Go zip-lining or try your hand at archery at this outdoor adventure center in Fermoy.

Week-Long Itinerary for County Cork

For those who have a week or more to explore, here is a recommended itinerary for County Cork.

Day Activities
1 Explore Cork City, visit famous sights, enjoy a stroll in Fitzgerald Park
2 Visit Blarney Castle, Cobh Heritage Centre, and Fota Wildlife Park
3 Travel to Beara Peninsula and explore its villages, take a boat tour to Skellig Michael
4 Hike Sheep’s Head Way, explore Bantry House and Gardens
5 Take a whale-watching tour from Baltimore, have lunch in Kinsale
6 Visit Mizen Head, Gougane Barra Forest Park
7 Take a bike ride in the Old Head of Kinsale, visit the Jameson Distillery Midleton

Food and Drink Scene of County Cork

Visitors to County Cork can expect to find delicious authentic Irish cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Irish Stew: Tender lamb cooked with onions, carrots, and potatoes, simmered in a rich broth.
  • Cork Butter: Known for its creaminess and rich taste, Cork butter is a favorite of visitors to the region.
  • Fish and Chips: Freshly caught fish, fried in beer batter and served with chips and tartar sauce.
  • Boxty: A traditional Irish potato pancake served with various fillings, like sausage, bacon, and eggs.

Local Beverages

County Cork has a thriving drinks scene, with a wide variety of local beers, spirits, and cider that visitors can try.

  • Murphy’s Stout: A rich, creamy stout similar to Guinness.
  • Perry’s Cider: A crisp and refreshing cider made using locally sourced apples.
  • Irish Coffee: A hot beverage made with strong coffee, Irish whiskey, and whipped cream.

Where to Stay in County Cork: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

County Cork has a wide variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels and guesthouses catering to every budget.

  • The River Lee Hotel: A stylish, luxury hotel in the heart of Cork City.
  • Ballyvolane House: A beautiful country house on a farm, perfect for a peaceful escape.
  • Garnish House: A budget-friendly guesthouse in Cork City, known for its warm hospitality.

What to Buy in County Cork: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to County Cork can bring home various souvenirs, including traditional Irish handicrafts, locally made food, and drink products.

  • Ballycotton Seafood: The village of Ballycotton is known for its fresh and delicious seafood, which visitors can buy and take home.
  • Irish Linen: Beautifully crafted bed linen and tablecloths make perfect gifts for loved ones back home.
  • Irish Whiskey: The region is famous for its whiskey, and visitors can bring home a bottle of the finest whiskies from the Jameson Distillery in Midleton.

Local Culture and Customs of County Cork

Ireland has a rich cultural heritage, from music to literature. It’s important to respect the region’s customs and traditions, which include:

  • Greeting: Irish people are friendly, and it’s common to greet each other with a handshake or a friendly hug.
  • Pubs: Irish pubs are an essential part of the country’s culture, where people gather to socialize, listen to live music, and watch sports.
  • Sports: Gaelic Games, including hurling and Gaelic football, are a significant part of the Irish culture and attract large crowds during the season.

Best Time to Visit County Cork

The best time to visit County Cork is between May and September when the weather is mild, and the attractions and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of County Cork

Do:

  • Bring comfortable shoes: Exploring County Cork requires a lot of walking and comfortable shoes.
  • Try local cuisine and drinks: County Cork has plenty of delicious traditional cuisine, including seafood and whiskey, which visitors should try.
  • Engage with locals: Irish people are friendly and welcoming, and visitors should take the time to chat with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Forget to bring rain gear: The weather in County Cork can be unpredictable, and visitors should bring waterproof clothing.
  • Drink and Drive: Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal in Ireland, and visitors should never drink and drive.
  • Litter: Visitors should respect the natural beauty of the region and dispose of their trash appropriately.

Safety and Health

Safety in County Cork

County Cork is a relatively safe place to visit, and visitors should adopt standard safety measures, such as being aware of their surroundings and keeping an eye on their belongings.

Health in County Cork

Visitors to County Cork should take necessary health precautions, such as staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, and practicing safe sex. Visitors from non-EU countries should have adequate health insurance.

Getting to County Cork: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can get to County Cork by air, ferry, car, or bus, depending on their location and preferences.

Airports Near County Cork

  • Cork Airport: The nearest airport to Cork city, with flights from all over Europe and the UK.

Bus Stations Near County Cork

  • Parnell Place Bus Station: A central bus station in Cork city, with connections to all over Ireland.
  • Cork Kent Train Station: A transportation hub that provides train and bus connections throughout the county and beyond.

Other Options

  • Ferry: Visitors can take a ferry to Cork from Roscoff, France, and Swansea, Wales.
  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car from Cork Airport and various car rental companies in the city.

How to Get Around in County Cork

County Cork has an extensive road network and bus services that make it easy to get around. Visitors can also hire a taxi or rent a car.

Where to Go Next from County Cork: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

County Cork is located in Southwest Ireland, and visitors can explore other stunning destinations nearby, like:

  • Killarney National Park in County Kerry: Famous for its stunning vistas, hiking trails, and pristine lakes.
  • Cliffs of Moher in County Clare: A must-visit destination in Ireland, the cliffs offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Galway City: Known for its lively culture, historic architecture, and fantastic nightlife.

Conclusion

County Cork is a dream destination for anyone who loves stunning scenery, history, and adventure. With so many things to see and do, it’s no surprise that visitors return time and again to explore the region. Plan your trip to County Cork today and discover everything that this amazing region has to offer.

Cork Cork Fastnet Fastnet Clock Gate in Youghal Clock Gate in Youghal You reach Dursey Island by cablecar You reach Dursey Island by cablecar Blarney Castle Blarney Castle Kitchen garden, Ballymaloe Kitchen garden, Ballymaloe


    Baltimore
    Bantry
    Blarney
    Castletownbere
    Cobh
    Cork
    Crosshaven
    Glengarriff
    Kinsale
    Mallow
    Schull
    Sherkin Island
    Skibbereen