27 Top-Rated Day Trips From Cork (in 2025)
If you’re looking for some inspiration for a day trip from Cork, look no further! Cork and the surrounding area are full of interesting and fun places to explore, and I’ve put together a list of my top 27 picks. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing nature walk or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, there’s something for everyone.
Cork is the second biggest city in Ireland and is full of history, culture, and natural beauty. I loved visiting Cork and the surrounding region while living in Ireland!
For history buffs, there are plenty of museums and art galleries to explore. Nature lovers can enjoy the numerous parks and gardens, as well as the nearby Killarney National Park. And foodies will find no shortage of restaurants and cafes serving up traditional Irish fare.
Best of all, Cork is just a short drive from some of the country’s most popular attractions, including Blarney Castle and the Cliffs of Moher. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a week-long vacation, Cork is an ideal destination.
Jump to…
• Best Day Trips From Cork
• Top Sites to See On a Day Trip From Cork
• Unique Sites to See From Cork
• Cities to Tour in a Day From Cork
• Beach Day Trips
• Island Day Trips
• Best Day Tours From Cork
• • •
• Cork FAQs
• What to Do in Cork
• Where to Stay in Cork
Best Day Trips From Cork
Many people who come to Cork are looking to explore Blarney Castle and kiss the famous Blarney Stone! The Ring of Kerry, as well as the Dingle Peninsula, are also popular day trips from Cork and what most people are looking forward to visiting when they tour the southern coast of Ireland.
The absolute best day trips from Cork are:
#1 – Blarney Castle and Stone
Blarney Castle is a 13th-century medieval stronghold and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The castle is most famous for the Blarney Stone, a stone located at the top of the castle that is said to bestow the “gift of eloquence and persuasiveness” for those who kiss it upside down.
The castle is open to the public for tours, and visitors can also explore the surrounding gardens. It’s just over a 10-minute drive or 25-minute bus ride away from Cork, making it the number one most popular day trip excursion. You can book a ticket directly to tour the castle and kiss the stone or take a tour to include a few more stops.
The top-rated Blarney Castle tour is this tour that includes Blarney Castle and grounds entrance, plus some time exploring the city of Kinsale and the Cobh Cathedral.
➡️ CLICK HERE to learn more and reserve your seat!
#2 – Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is famous for having some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland. The Ring of Kerry is a 170km-long circular route that runs through the counties of Kerry and Cork. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland, and for good reason!
The route winds its way through dramatic mountain passes, along the beautiful coastline, and past ancient castles and monasteries. It includes popular locations such as the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney National Park, Torc Waterfall, Muckross House, and much more.
Renting a Car in Ireland?
My go-to car rental service in Ireland is Discover Cars. They compare prices across the leading car rental services to find you the lowest prices and best deals.
🚗 CLICK HERE TO SEARCH FOR YOUR RENTAL CAR
The drive to Killarney (the typical start of the Ring of Kerry) is just over an hour from Cork and unless you’re taking a tour that’s really the best way to get to and explore the Ring of Kerry.
You can take a train to Killarney and explore on foot from there, but it really is a driving route so you will be limited to what you can see. A public bus is not very practical as it will take over 4 hours.
I highly recommend taking a day trip tour of the Ring of Kerry from Cork, as there are just so many stops and things to see, many of which are hard to know about if you’re not from Ireland or doing extensive research on the area. The easiest and most hassle-free way to explore the Ring of Kerry from Cork is through one of these tours:
Option #1 – Small Group Tour of the Ring of Kerry Day Trip From Cork
This is a full-day tour of the Ring of Kerry departing from Cork. You will hit all of the most popular stops including views of Dingle Bay, the Skellig rocks, and gorgeous beaches, as well as Killarney Town, Torc Waterfall, Kerry Mountains, and Killarney National Park.
The tour is only about €50 and well worth it to bundle your transportation with a guided tour of the best of the Ring of Kerry.
➡️ CLICK HERE to learn more and reserve your seat!
Option #2 – Private Tour of the Ring of Kerry
If you have it in your budget, a private tour of the Ring of Kerry is well worth the extra money so you can customize the stops and how long you spend exploring each area. Especially if you have certain sites you would rather see over others, a private tour is an incredible way to tour the region.
The tour typically stops at the popular Moll’s Gap, Ladies’ View, and Torc Waterfall along with other wonderful locations. The knowledgeable local guide shares captivating local history and traditions along the way.
You can choose from a vehicle that accommodates 1 person up to 16 people to suit your group size, so this is a great option if you are traveling to Ireland with a large group and want a special experience for just you and your friends/family.
➡️ CLICK HERE to learn more and reserve your seat!
#3 – Dingle Peninsula
The Dingle Peninsula is home to some of Ireland’s most beautiful scenery, with its rolling hills, cliffs, and beaches. It’s also a great place for wildlife watching, as there are often dolphins offshore.
The Dingle Peninsula is also home to some of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland, such as Inch Beach, Gallarus Oratory, the Slea Head Drive, and Dingle Bay.
Dingle Peninsula is a bit further from Cork than the Ring of Kerry, just over a 2-hour drive. The public bus and train will take quite a while, so this is another day trip that is best to do by driving or taking a tour.
This day tour is one of the best from Cork and will take you through Killarney and Dingle as well as along the Slea Head Drive and to Inch Beach.
➡️ CLICK HERE to learn more and reserve your seat!
Top Sites to See On a Day Trip From Cork
There are quite a few incredible sites located within a day trip’s distance from Cork. Some of them are more popular, such as the ones above, but some of them are lesser-known gems in the south of Ireland. Taking road trips from Cork will allow you to see some of Ireland’s most popular attractions.
Here are a few top sites to see during your day trip from Cork:
#4 – Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are arguably one of the top sites to see in Ireland. They are incredibly beautiful, dramatic sea cliffs above the North Atlantic Ocean. They are located in the west of the Republic of Ireland in County Clare, about a 2.5-hour drive away from Cork.
The Cliffs of Moher are famous for their beauty and stunning scenery. They run for about 14km (9mi) and reach 214m (702ft) in height at their highest point. You can see them from above or below, by boat.
You do not technically need a ticket just to see the Cliffs of Moher. A ticket to the cliffs will get you parking, entrance to the visitors center, and access to O’Brien’s Tower. To see the cliffs for free, you can do the Doolin Cliff walk (or walk from Hag’s Head).
Both the train and public bus will take over 5 hours from Cork, so it’s best to drive yourself or take a tour. I really enjoyed my tour of the Cliffs of Moher, I felt it saved me money to bundle the transportation, and I really appreciated being able to see a few extra sites along the way that I would have never known about.
You can take either a group tour or a private tour of the Cliffs of Moher as a day trip from Cork, whichever works best for you. These are two top-rated options:
Option #1 – Small Group Tour of the Cliffs of Moher From Cork
A draw for this tour is that it stops at the medieval Bunratty Castle, which many tours do not. It also goes through the Burren, a lunar landscape dating back 300 million years with unique scenery and features. Plus, you will also stop in the adorable town of Doolin for lunch.
➡️ CLICK HERE to learn more and reserve your seat!
Option #2 – Private Tour of the Cliffs of Moher Day Trip From Cork
For far more flexibility and personalization, take a private tour to the Cliffs of Moher. You will see the sites listed above, but can also make additional stops along the way that suits your interest.
➡️ CLICK HERE to learn more and reserve your seat!
#5 – Killarney National Park
Killarney National Park is part of the Ring of Kerry, but there is plenty to explore and see all on its own. It’s 26,000 acres of lush greenery, lakes, spectacular waterfalls and mountains, as well as the renowned Lady’s View, and the Muckross House and Gardens. It’s also home to an array of wildlife that you will likely see while out exploring all the incredible scenery.
There’s no shortage of things to do in Killarney National Park! For starters, the park is home to Ireland’s tallest mountain, Carrauntoohil, as well as numerous other peaks that are popular with hikers and climbers. Killarney National Park also includes several picturesque lakes, such as Lough Leane, which is perfect for a peaceful paddle.
There are plenty of walking and cycling trails to explore, and if you’re looking for something a little more unique, you can even take a jaunting car ride (pony-drawn carriage) through the park!
You can get to the park by starting in Killarney. Just like you would for the Ring of Kerry you can drive, take a bus, or the train.
#6 – Copper Coast Geopark
A Geopark is a UNESCO-designated area that contains one or more sites of geological importance. The Copper Coast Geopark in Ireland is a great place to visit for its stunning natural beauty and fascinating geological history.
This coastline is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, rocky shores, and turquoise waters. It’s also home to a wealth of biodiversity, with over 1,000 plant species and 200 bird species.
The Copper Coast Geopark is also of great geological interest, as it contains some of the oldest rocks in Ireland. These rocks provide a fascinating window into the country’s geological past and are a popular destination for geologists, nature enthusiasts, and rock climbers alike.
From Cork, the Copper Coast Geopark is an hour and 20-minute drive or a 2-hour and 45-minute bus drive to the north.
#7 – Mizen Head
Mizen Head is one of Cork’s most incredible nearby attractions. It’s a headland in southwest Ireland and is the second most southerly point of mainland Ireland. The area around Mizen Head is noted for its rugged cliffs, rocky shores, and accessible walks.
Visitors can take in sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean from the Mizen Head Signal Station or by taking a walk along with one of the many cliff-top trails. For those looking for a more challenging adventure, there are also a number of sea-level walkways that lead to small caves and inlets.
The Mizen Head Bridge is one of the incredible sites to see while exploring. It was built about 150ft above sea level and completed in 1910. It’s since been demolished and rebuilt and is open to the public, offering stunning ocean views from above.
Cork to Mizen Head will take an hour and 45 minutes by car, and close to three hours by bus. If you don’t have a car, you can try out this tour of Mizen Head from Cork. It guides you through the top sites at Mizen Head and passes by some incredible scenery and unique villages along the way.
➡️ CLICK HERE to learn more and reserve your seat!
#8 – The Rock of Cashel
The Rock of Cashel, also known as Cashel of the Kings, is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations. The site, which is located in County Tipperary, features a number of well-preserved medieval buildings, including a round tower, a high cross, and a Gothic cathedral.
In addition to its architectural significance, the Rock of Cashel is also steeped in history. According to legend, the site was the seat of the Kings of Munster for centuries, and it was here that Saint Patrick is said to have converted the King of Munster to Christianity. Today, the Rock of Cashel attracts visitors from all over the world who come to admire its beauty and learn about its rich heritage.
The Rock of Cashel is about an hour’s drive away from Cork, and tickets range from about €4 to €8.
Unique Sites to See in a Day Trip From Cork
If you are looking for a unique day trip to Cork to see a few hidden gems, here are three interesting options to check out!
#9 – Bridgetown Abbey (or Priory)
Bridgetown Abbey (also known as Bridgetown Priory) was founded as a monastery for Augustinian monks in the 13th century. It’s a beautiful and peaceful place located along the River Blackwater.
You can wander through the gorgeous stone building’s restored remains along with the beautiful surrounding landscape. It’s a great historical site for visitors to spend a few hours at.
The Abbey is free to visit and there are not often crowds there. Bridgetown Abbey is a 40-minute drive as a day trip from Cork, and there is a small parking lot on site. Or, you can take the bus to Castletownroche or train to Mallow, followed by a taxi to the site itself.
#10 – Mullinhassig Wood & Waterfalls
Mullinghassig Wood & Waterfalls is a great day trip from Cork if you’re looking to get away from the city and experience some of Ireland’s natural beauty. The waterfall in the northwest is the highlight of the property, but there are also plenty of hiking trails to explore, as well as a picnic area where you can relax and take in the scenic views.
Mullinghassig is also home to a variety of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for deer, rabbits, and birds as you wander through the woods. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature hike or a refreshing swim in a river, this is a unique site nearby Cork.
To reach the woods, it’s a 28-minute drive from Cork or a bus ride to Macroom and another 13-minute taxi.
#11 – Glenview Gardens & Fairy Trails
This hidden gem in County Cork is a ton of fun for families and young children! It’s a 4-acre garden that features beautiful gardens including Japanese, Chinese, Tropical, a walled vegetable garden, Wildflower Meadow, and Bog Garden.
The highlight of Glenview, however, is its Woodland Fairy Trail where kids love searching for fairy forts! There’s also a Bird Aviary with exotic birds and a self-service Tea Room and picnic areas.
Tickets start at €6 for adults and €3 for children (age 3-16, under 3 is free).
Glenview Gardens is a 38-minute drive from Cork or a bus to Murragh and a 20-minute walk.
#12 – Gougane Barra
The scenic valley and heritage site of Gougane Barra (located in the Shehy Mountains of County Cork, Ireland) is a place where nature lovers can enjoy the outdoors in the forest park and River Lee. This includes an oratory built on top of the water, which creates serene views for those who visit this area!
* * *
Need to rent a car?
⬇️ CHECK BELOW for availability at the best rental company in Ireland ⬇️
Cities to Tour in a Day From Cork
Cork is an incredible city to tour and explore on its own, but it’s also within a day trip distance from many of southern Ireland’s most popular cities.
#13 – Cobh
Cobh is a charming seaside town in Ireland located just a 21-minute drive outside of Cork, making it one of the top day trip destinations from Cork. It’s home to a number of interesting attractions including the Cobh Museum, St. Colman’s Cathedral, and the Titanic Experience Cobh.
Cobh is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors, with a number of scenic parks and walks to enjoy. If you would like to explore any tours while in Cobh to squeeze more out of your day and make the most of your time, I recommend taking the Titanic Trail guided walking tour of historic sites.
The city of Cobh is best known as an early stop and last port of call on the RMS Titanic’s fateful voyage in 1912. The city holds plenty of history related to the Titanic and beyond that is fascinating to learn on your walking tour with the help of your guide, a local historian.
#14 – Kinsale
Located on the south coast of Ireland, about 25km (a 26-minute drive) southwest of Cork City. Kinsale is a popular tourist destination for its picturesque scenery and its many historical landmarks.
The town is also known for its excellent restaurants and for its lively nightlife. There are plenty of things to do in Kinsale, from exploring its historic buildings to enjoying the local seafood. Kinsale is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the best of what Ireland has to offer.
A quirky, unique thing to do in Kinsale is a bushcraft and survival adventure day (my dad works on Naked and Afraid, so this one is because I know how many people love survival-type challenges!). You’ll learn foraging and survival hunting, herbalism and wild medicine, shelter building, and more – a fun way to see Ireland’s countryside in a way that not many other people get the chance to!
#15 – Clonakilty
Clonakilty is a small town in southwest Ireland that’s known for its music scene. Every summer, the town hosts a number of music festivals, including the Clonakilty International Guitar Festival.
The town is a 42-minute drive away from Cork and home to a whiskey distillery and several live music venues. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the Clonakilty Bay coastline or explore the town’s shops and restaurants.
There are also a number of historical sights in the area, such as the Clonakilty REME Museum and the Clonakilty War Memorial Gardens. Whether you’re looking for a festive atmosphere or a tranquil escape, Clonakilty is an ideal day trip.
#16 – Limerick
If you have a day to visit Limerick (about an hour and 17 minutes drive from Cork), there are a few things you can do to pass the time. For starters, you can visit one of the many historical landmarks scattered throughout the city.
The Limerick City Gallery of Art is also worth a visit, especially if you’re a fan of art history. Of course, no day trip to Limerick would be complete without stopping by King John’s Castle. Built in 1200, this castle is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.
Many people visit Bunratty Castle as well, another 15 minutes north of Limerick. It’s the most complete and authentic castle in Ireland, and very popular to visit. You can even act like medieval royalty for the day with a 4-course banquet with live entertainment in the castle!
(PSST… Skip the line for the Bunratty Castle entrance by clicking HERE.)
If you’re looking for something to do on a rainy day, you can always head to one of Limerick’s museums, like the Hunt Museum or the Limerick Transport Museum. So whether you’re interested in history or art or just want to take a stroll through a medieval castle, Limerick has something for everyone.
#17 – Dingle
The Dingle Peninsula is home to some of Ireland’s most beautiful scenery, with its rolling hills, cliffs, and beaches. It’s also a great place for wildlife watching, as there are often dolphins offshore.
Dingle is just over a 2-hour drive from Cork, and well worth a visit. It’s a small town well known for its scenic beauty, as it’s situated on the shores of Dingle Bay. Dingle is also a popular tourist destination due to its many amenities and attractions.
Visitors to Dingle can enjoy walking and hiking in the surrounding countryside or take a boat trip to see the Dingle sealife. The town also has several excellent restaurants and pubs, as well as a number of interesting shops. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Dingle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland.
Check out…
👉 Blasket Islands Sea Life and Sea Caves Tour
👉 Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Drive Group Tour
👉 4-Hour Private Tour of Dingle Penninsula
👉 Dingle Food and Drink Tasting
#18 – Dublin
Last but not least, the famous capital city of Dublin is only 2.5 hours away from Cork by car and is worth a day trip if you want to experience the history and culture without staying in the busy city.
Some of the most popular things to do in a day are to visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about the history of Ireland’s most famous export (my FAVORITE tour in Dublin), take a stroll through St. Stephen’s Green, explore Dublin Castle, have a pint at the Temple Bar, and view the famous Book of Kells.
⭐ Fast-track Book of Kells + Dublin Castle
For easy access to the popular sites, take Dublin’s Hop-on Hop-off bus around the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike up to Howth Head for sweeping views of the coast. Or out to the Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough.
Beach Day Trips From Cork
There are many incredible beaches near Cork that offer visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the incredible scenery. The beaches are also great for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. If you are looking for a place to enjoy the sun and the sand, take a day trip to one of these beaches.
#19 – Inchydoney Beach
One of the most popular beaches in southern Ireland.
#20 – Myrtleville Beach
One of the closest beaches to Cork. Beautiful landscapes and colored rocks.
#21 – Fountainstown Beach
Great for swimming, finding interesting fossils, and gorgeous scenery for walks.
#22 – Dunworley Beach
One of the most picturesque beaches in southern Ireland, great for exploring rock formations and caves.
Renting a Car in Ireland?
My go-to car rental service in Ireland is Discover Cars. They compare prices across the leading car rental services to find you the lowest prices and best deals.
🚗 CLICK HERE TO SEARCH FOR YOUR RENTAL CAR
Islands to Explore Near Cork
#23 – Blasket Islands
The Blasket Islands are a group of small, uninhabited islands off the coast of Cork. Visitors to the islands can enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as a variety of activities such as hiking, fishing, and swimming. The islands are also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and whales.
This private Sea Safari is one of the best tours of the Blasket Islands to see incredible scenery and some marine wildlife.
#24 – Garnish Island
Garnish Island is a small island located off the coast of Cork, Ireland. The island is best known for its gardens, which feature a variety of plants from all over the world.
Visitors can also enjoy the island’s many walking trails, which offer views of the surrounding coastline. In addition, Garnish Island is home to a number of unique species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.
Finally, the island’s lighthouse is open to visitors and offers stunning views of the Cork harbor. Whether you’re interested in gardens, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the spectacular views, Garnish Island is definitely worth a day trip.
#25 – Cape Clear Island
If you’re looking for a truly unique island experience, head to Cape Clear Island, a short ferry ride off the coast of Ireland. This beautiful island is home to a variety of landscapes, from rocky cliffs and sandy beaches to lush green hills.
There’s plenty to see and do on the island, from hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing. And don’t forget to check out the island’s famous lighthouse and Cape Clear Heritage Centre. Cape Clear Island is perfect for nature lovers looking for a gorgeous day exploring an island.
To get out to Cape Clear from Cork, you can take an island and lighthouse tour where you will experience the island’s traditional culture, see marine life, and get incredible views along the way.
Best Day Tours From Cork, Ireland
If you want to hop on a day tour to explore as much of the surrounding area as possible, there are a few great options.
#26 – Best Private Wild Atlantic Day Tour from Cork
It’s a customizable trip where you will explore your top sites in comfort with a local guide. This is the perfect experience if you are traveling with your family or friends in a group. Combine seeing the best of southern Ireland’s beaches, monuments, museums, views, and walking trails.
👉 CLICK HERE to learn more and reserve your seat!
#27 – Cycling Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way Tour From Cork
Cycling is a popular way to explore the Wild Atlantic Way, and this tour is one of the best. Cycling tours are guided so you can focus on cruising and enjoying the sites and gorgeous views.
👉 CLICK HERE to learn more and reserve your seat!
Cork FAQs
Is It Worth Visiting Cork, Ireland?
Cork is one of the most popular tourist destinations for visitors in Ireland, especially in the warm summer months when Ireland’s great beauty truly shines. Situated on the south coast, Cork is known for its beautiful scenery, its lively nightlife, and its many day trips.
Visitors to Cork can explore the city’s medieval lanes and cobbled streets, visit its numerous museums and art galleries, or take a day trip to one of the surrounding towns and villages.
There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities in Cork, with numerous walking and cycling trails winding their way through the countryside. Whether you’re looking for culture, history, or simply a chance to relax and enjoy the great outdoors, Cork has something to offer everyone and is absolutely worth the visit.
>>> RELATED POST: A Guide to Getting Around Cork: Tips and Information
How Many Days Do You Need in Cork?
Most visitors to the seafaring city of Cork spend at least a few days exploring the city and its surroundings. Cork is the largest city in Ireland’s south, and it has plenty to offer in terms of history, culture, and food.
At the very least, take a weekend in Cork. If you plan to do some of the many incredible day trips and use Cork as a home base, you will probably want to spend at least a week in Cork.
>>> RELATED POST: Top 25 Things to Do in Cork at Night
How Do I Spend a Day in Cork?
One of the best ways to spend one day in Cork would be to explore some of the top tourist attractions. Be sure to visit the Cork City Gaol, which is a former prison that has been turned into a museum. The Irish Famine Museum is another great option, as it provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about one of the darkest chapters in Irish history.
If you’re looking for something more light-hearted, consider taking a stroll through Fitzgerald’s Park or taking a boat ride on the River Lee. The English Food Market is one of the best places to stroll through or stop and try some Irish delicacies.
There are a few tours I would recommend taking to make the most of your time exploring Cork.
⭐ Hop On/Hop Off Cork City Sightseeing Tour
For a simple, affordable way to get around the city and see as many of the top sights as possible, the Hop-on Hop-off bus in Cork will allow you to explore the city and its top sights at your leisure.
>>> CLICK HERE TO SAVE YOUR SPOT
⭐ Cork Culinary Tour
For the foodies looking for a fun tour in Cork, this one is for you! The highlight of the tour is a visit to the popular English Market (dating back to the 18th century) where you can chat with local vendors while feasting on local treats such as fish, bread, and sweet treats. The tour includes a delicious light pub lunch.
>>> CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE + BOOK
⭐ Cork City Bicycle Tour
For the cyclists who prefer to bike instead of walk, this tour explores Cork’s intriguing history, vibrant culture, and some of its hidden secrets while passing popular attractions including Fitzgerald’s Park and St. Finbarr’s Cathedral.
>>> CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE + BOOK
⭐ Skip the Line: Jameson Experience with Whiskey Tasting in Cork
Tasting Irish whiskey is a must while touring Ireland, and the Jameson Experience is a perfect thing to do while visiting Cork. The tour of the distillery is fascinating and you will learn about the whiskey-making process along with how it overlaps with Irish history. And of course… enjoy a glass of a Jameson whiskey drink!
>>> CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE + BOOK
What Is the Nicest Part of Cork?
The nicest parts of Cork to visit and stay in are the City Center (for convenience to attractions) and the Victorian Quarter (for the gorgeous architecture and history). Plus, you will be in a good location to catch the day trip tours leaving from Cork.
Looking for resources to use for your next trip or move abroad?
CLICK HERE for my favorite travel and expat tools!
Where to Stay In Cork
There are great options for accommodation in Cork ranging from hostels to 5-star hotels. My recommendations include:
Budget-Friendly: Bru Bar & Hostel
This is where I stayed during my first solo trip to Cork (actually my first solo trip EVER too!), and I liked it a lot! The facilities were clean, the location was within perfect walking distance to everywhere I wanted to go, and I loved the bar downstairs for meeting other travelers.
Mid-Range: Maldron Hotel South Mall Cork City
This 4-star hotel is decently priced and has all the amenities you might need to be comfortable staying in Cork including a bar/restaurant on-site, breakfast available, a business center, and more. The location is great, situated right near the City Center and Victorian Quarter along the river and Cork Harbour.
High-End: Hayfield Manor
A gorgeous luxury hotel with two restaurants located just outside the City Center. There is a pool, gym, breakfast, spa, and sauna center. The rooms are beautifully designed and the staff is attentive and friendly.
Cork is a fantastic city to explore, but there are also plenty of amazing day trips that can be taken from the city. Whether you are looking for adventure and outdoor exploration, unique towns and Irish villages, or fantastic food and drink, Cork and the surrounding area will have something for you!
Don’t forget to bookmark or pin these day trips from Cork for later!
Related Posts:
Day Trips From Killarney
Is Dublin Safe?
Things to Do in Dublin at Night
☘️ Ireland FAQs ☘️
✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to Ireland?
1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible
2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal
❗Is Travel Insurance Required in Ireland?
No, it’s not.
However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing.
>>>CLICK HERE FOR INFO
☔️ When Is the Best Time to Visit Ireland?
Summer (June-August) – is the warmest and rains the least but you will have the most crowds.
Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have more rain but you will beat the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).
🏠 Where Should You Stay in Ireland?
Hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and house sitting are all available in Ireland for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are:
• Booking.com
• Hostelworld
• Vrbo (usually better options than Airbnb in Ireland)
• Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)
☘️ Where Can You Find Tours?
I found incredible tours in Ireland >>>HERE for private and guided group tours of both the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.
🚘 Should You Rent a Car in Ireland?
I always tell my friends and family to rent a car in Ireland so that they don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! However, if you plan to stay only in the cities, then you should be fine getting by with buses and walking.
>>> What to know about driving in Ireland
>>> The best car rental in Ireland
🍻 Make sure to try out the pubs! Even if you don’t drink, the atmosphere, live music, and friendly people are very uniquely Irish.
