Experience the Best of Cork in Two Days

Experience the charm of Ireland's rebel city in Cork.

22 April 2023

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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Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Cork

  • Check into the centrally located Imperial Hotel, a grand old dame of a building with classic decor and plenty of charm.
  • Begin your day with a visit to the iconic St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, a stunning display of Gothic architecture and history.
  • Wander through the bustling English Market, flanked by colorful stalls and local vendors peddling all kinds of fresh produce and goods.
  • Head to the Crawford Art Gallery for a cultural fix, showcasing Irish and international art collections.
  • Take a break with a pint of local brew at the legendary pub, The Oliver Plunkett, known for its traditional Irish music sessions.
  • End the day with dinner at Farmgate Cafe, featuring locally sourced ingredients and a warm, rustic atmosphere.
Day 2

Island Hopping & Coastal Splendors

  • Catch the ferry from the port to the nearby Spike Island, a former military stronghold turned fascinating historical site.
  • Enjoy a scenic coastal drive out to the charming town of Kinsale, with its colorful harbor, boutiques, and gourmet cafes.
  • Have lunch at Fishy Fishy, hailed as one of the best seafood restaurants in Ireland, specializing in fresh, sustainable catches.
  • Continue along the coast to the beautiful town of Cobh, famous for being the Titanic's last port of call, and visit the Titanic Experience museum.
  • Take a walk along the seaside promenade and visit the stunning St. Colman's Cathedral, perched atop a hill with stunning views of the harbor.
  • Finish the day with a meal at The Quays Bar & Restaurant, serving delicious, hearty Irish fare with nightly live music.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Cork

Looking for a city that's more than just a place to store your wine bottles? Then Cork is your kind of town! Don't let the name fool you, this Irish gem has more to offer than just corkscrews.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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.

Céad Míle Fáilte to Cork: A Family Adventure

Cork, Ireland offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip, blending rich cultural heritage with scenic beauty. Explore the city center's charming streets, filled with colorful buildings and lively markets, where kids can relish in the vibrant atmosphere. Venture out to discover beautiful coastal landscapes, including the stunning Cliffs of Moher, while immersing in authentic Irish traditions and folklore along the way.

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: Family Fun, Food, and Adventure!

A family-friendly trip to Cork, Ireland offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Visit the renowned Blarney Castle where kids can engage in the thrilling tradition of kissing the Blarney Stone for the "gift of gab", explore the fascinating Cork City Gaol to learn about Ireland's history in an interactive way, and take a relaxing stroll in the picturesque Fitzgerald Park with its beautiful gardens and playgrounds. With its welcoming locals, charming atmosphere, and kid-friendly attractions, Cork promises to be a memorable destination for the whole family.