Search

Cork: Travel Guide

Cork: Authentic Ireland in the heart of nature.

Summary

TAILOR-MADE TOUR FOR IRELAND

You want to use a travel agency to go to Ireland.
Compare the offers from our partners.

General information

Located in the southwest of Ireland, Cork is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city nestled on the shores of magnificent Cork Bay. Known for its charm, rich history and spectacular landscapes, Cork is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking authenticity.

POPULATION

Cork's friendly population is renowned for its friendly welcome and sense of hospitality. The locals, nicknamed “Corkonians”, are proud of their Irish culture and are always ready to share their love for their city with visitors.

CLIMATE

Cork's climate is oceanic, which means mild winters and cool summers. Pack a light jacket for cool evenings, but be prepared to enjoy the area's lush greenery all year round.

CURRENCY

The official currency is the Euro (EUR).

LANGUAGE

English is the main language in Cork, but you will also hear Irish (Gaeilge) spoken occasionally, particularly in rural areas.

A bit of history

Cork's history is rich and fascinating, dating back over a thousand years. The city played a central role in the development of Ireland and witnessed many major historical events.

Cork, formerly known as "Corcaigh" in Irish Gaelic, was founded by the Vikings in the 9th century. The city is built on an island formed by the Rivers Lee and quickly prospered as a strategic seaport. Remnants of the Viking Age can still be admired at the Cork Public Museum, where artifacts bear witness to this period.

During the Middle Ages, Cork became an important city in the Kingdom of Ireland and enjoyed a period of prosperity thanks to its thriving trade. The construction of iconic monuments such as Cork Castle and St Finbarr's Cathedral dates back to this time. The city has also been the scene of conflict, notably during the Irish War of Independence, during which major events took place in Cork.

A key moment in Cork's history was the mass emigration in the 19th century due to the Great Famine in Ireland. Many Cork residents have emigrated to the United States and other countries in search of a better life. This period had a profound impact on the city and its cultural heritage.

Cork also played a significant role in the Irish Civil War that followed Irish independence in 1922. The city was an anti-Treaty stronghold, and heavy fighting broke out between pro- and anti-Treaty forces.

Cork

What to visit in Cork?

Discover the hidden treasures of Cork and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Blarney Castle

Oliver Plunkett Street

English Market

Marina Market

When to visit Cork?

The best time to visit Cork is in spring (April to June) when the weather is mild and the gardens are in full bloom, or in September to avoid the summer crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather.

What to do around Cork?

Explore the natural and cultural treasures of Cork's surrounding area.

Killarney National Park

Ring of Kerry

Cliffs of Moher

Our selection of accommodation in Cork

Booking.com

TAILOR-MADE TOUR FOR IRELAND

You want to use a travel agency to go to Ireland.
Compare the offers from our partners.

Our selection of Restaurant in Cork

Discover Cork's diverse food scene.

Greenes Restaurant

Jacques Restaurant

Isaac's Restaurant

O'Sullivans Bar

ℹ Do you want to highlight your restaurant on this page? Contact us

Events not to be missed in Cork

Immerse yourself in local culture by participating in unique events.

St. Patrick's Day Festival

Cork International Film Festival

The Cork International Film Festival is a world-renowned film event which takes place every year in August. It attracts filmmakers, actors and cinema lovers from all over the world. Festival-goers can attend screenings of independent films, workshops, seminars and meetings with directors. This is the perfect opportunity to discover emerging film talent and delve into the world of cinema.

Bloomsday

Cork Jazz Festival

The Cork Jazz Festival, held every October, is one of the most prestigious jazz festivals in Europe. The city resonates with the rhythm of jazz for several days, with live performances in numerous bars, clubs and music venues. Internationally renowned musicians perform alongside local talent, creating an electric atmosphere. Music lovers can enjoy a wide variety of jazz styles, from traditional to contemporary, throughout the city.

Transport in Cork

Train

Ireland's rail network serves Cork, with regular connections to Dublin and other cities across the country. Kent Station, located in the heart of Cork, is the arrival point for train travelers. Trains offer a comfortable and scenic way to travel around Ireland.

Bus

Cork is well served by local and intercity bus services. The main bus station, Parnell Place Bus Station, is located in the town centre. You can take a bus to explore the city or travel to surrounding areas. Long-distance bus routes also connect Cork to other Irish cities.

Taxi

Taxis are widely available in Cork and are a convenient way to get around the city. You can find them at designated taxi ranks or hail them on the street. Taxis are metered, meaning you will pay the fare based on the distance traveled.

Bike

Cork city center is compact and easy to explore on foot. Additionally, the city offers well-developed bike paths, making it a great option for cyclists. You can rent bikes from several locations around the city to explore Cork at your own pace.

Cost of living in Cork

0
Average Salary in Cork
High cost of living 75%

Dublin offers a range of options to suit all budgets, but it's good to be aware of the potential costs.

Accommodation

The cost of accommodation in Cork depends on various factors, including location and size. On average, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs between 900 and 1,500 euros per month, while on the outskirts rents range from 700 to 1,200 euros. Student accommodation in university residences ranges from 400 to 800 euros per month. If you are considering buying, house prices range from 250,000 to 600,000 euros or more. Airbnb and vacation rental options are also available at varying rates depending on the season and length of stay.

Food

The cost of food in Cork depends on the type of restaurant you choose. On average, a meal in a budget restaurant costs around 10-20 euros, while a meal in a mid-range restaurant costs around 20-40 euros per person. High-end restaurants can be more expensive, with prices of 50 euros and more per person. Local grocery stores and markets also offer affordable options for home-cooked meals.

Transportation

The cost of transport in Cork varies depending on the mode of transport chosen. Public transport, such as local buses, generally costs between 2 and 3 euros each way. Taxis have a base rate of around 5-6 euros, with an additional cost per kilometer. Car rentals vary depending on the type of vehicle and length of rental.

Activities

The cost of entertainment in Cork depends on the activity. Sightseeing tours can cost on average 10-20 euros per person. The cinema has a price of around 8-12 euros per ticket. Shows and cultural events vary in price, but can range from 20 to 50 euros. Leisure activities, such as bowling or mini golf, generally cost between 10 and 15 euros per person. Prices at bars and clubs vary depending on the drink you order, but a pint of beer generally costs between 4 and 6 euros.

Activities not to be missed in Cork

Practical information

Cork is a generally safe city, but it is recommended that you take the usual security precautions, such as looking after your personal belongings. Medical and emergency services are easily accessible when needed.

Travel insurance for Ireland

Travel insurance is particularly important if you plan to travel to Ireland.

Although the country is relatively safe for tourists, it is always possible to encounter unforeseen situations such as health problems, lost or stolen luggage, or transport delays.

In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications. 

Cash Management

When traveling to Ireland, it is important to consider bank charges in order to manage your financial transactions efficiently. The easiest way and the one we recommend is to open an account Revolution Metal.

Here are the advantages of having a Revolut Metal account for your trips

  1. Currency conversion free of charge Revolut enables instant and transparent currency conversions without hidden fees. You can load your Revolut account with your local currency and convert money to Colombian pesos (COP) at the real exchange rate, thus avoiding the costly commissions charged by traditional currency exchange offices.

  2. Use without borders With Revolut, your account is usable worldwide. You can make online and in-store payments, withdraw cash from ATMs, and even use your Revolut card to pay for public transportation and taxis in Colombia. This saves you from carrying large amounts of cash and facilitates your daily transactions.

  3. Security and Control Revolut offers advanced security options to protect your account. You can easily enable and disable your card in real-time through the app if needed. Additionally, the Revolut app allows you to track your expenses in real-time, set spending limits, and receive instant notifications for each transaction, giving you full control over your finances.

  4. Budget and savings Revolut offers budgeting features that help you track your expenses during your trip. You can create budgets for different spending categories such as accommodation, food, and tourist activities. Additionally, you can round up your purchases to save money automatically in a separate savings account.

  5. 24/7 Support In case of any issues, Revolut's support team is available 24/7 to assist you. You can contact them through the app or the website for any questions or concerns related to your account or transactions.

In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications. 

Frequently asked questions

Absolutely ! Cork is certainly worth a visit. This picturesque Irish town offers rich history, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're passionate about history, music, food or simply looking to relax, Cork has something to offer everyone.

You can stroll around Cork city center, including the St. Patrick's Street shopping district, along the banks of the River Lee and through picturesque parks such as Fitzgerald Park. The narrow lanes of old Cork are also great for wandering and exploring.

To visit Cork, you can fly into Cork Airport if you are coming from abroad, or use trains and buses if you are traveling from other parts of Ireland. Once in Cork, public transport, taxis and walking are convenient ways to get around the city.

Cork is known for its rich history, its major role in the Irish War of Independence, its vibrant music, its historic English Market, its proximity to Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone, and its welcoming atmosphere. and welcoming.

Cork offers various means of transportation, including local buses, taxis, bicycle rentals, and walking to explore the city center. For longer trips, intercity trains and buses are available. Rental cars are also an option if you want to explore the surrounding areas of Cork.

The best time to visit Cork is usually in spring (April to June) or September, when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the tourist sites are less crowded than in summer. However, Cork has its charm all year round, so when you visit depends on your personal preferences for weather and tourist crowds.

Was this Guide useful to you?

Rate us from 1 to 5 for this Guide

Total: 1 Average: 5

Share or send this page

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
WhatsApp
E-mail
en_US