Welcome to the "real capital of Ireland"
Liberal and on-trend, Cork is one of Ireland's most captivating cities. In fact, ask the locals and they'll insist that Cork is the "real capital of Ireland". The city well and truly lives up to its reputation, with boutique shopping, cosmopolitan dining and a flourishing live music scene. Spend your time strolling along grand Georgian avenues, exploring the revitalized waterfront district and ticking off a string of urban attractions. Sound like your kind of city? From elegant townhouses to country estates, Cork vacation rentals make it easy to explore Ireland's 3rd-largest city.
Get behind bars at Cork City Gaol
Once used as a grisly prison, today Cork City Gaol is one of Ireland's top attractions. Visitors can peer into the cells, stroll around the courtyard and discover what life was like for the inmates who were often imprisoned for little more than stealing a loaf of bread. From soaring spires and grim gargoyles to gleaming marble floors and a grand bishop's throne, St Fin Barre's Cathedral was built to impress. Set in the heart of the downtown district, Cork vacation rentals put you within walking distance of the gaol, the cathedral and more.
Eat your way through Cork
It's hard to argue with the claim that Cork boasts Ireland's best foodie scene. The city is brimming with fine-dining restaurants serving up "paddock-to-plate" cuisine. You can also get lost in the English Market, where vendors hawk artisan produce under a soaring vaulted ceiling. On a sunny day, there's nothing better than stocking up on gourmet treats, then enjoying a leisurely picnic lunch at nearby Bishop Lucey Park. For a quintessential experience, you can always bunk down with a pint of Guinness and a bowl of Irish stew at a cozy pub.
Explore Cork come rain or shine
Like the rest of Ireland, summer brings high season to Cork. Visit from June to August and you'll maximize your chances of clear skies and warm temperatures. Cork County is known for its rolling green hillsides, though the lush countryside is largely thanks to year-round rainfall. Don't forget to pack an umbrella, even if you're visiting over the summer. The good news is that Cork is loaded with indoor attractions. This means that even in the midst of winter, it's still a top city break destination.
Discover postcard-perfect County Cork
While the city was once confined to a compact island, Cork now sprawls across both banks of the River Lee. As well as an ideal destination for city breaks, Cork is also a gateway to Ireland's southwest coast. It anchors County Cork, a picturesque region known for its rugged coastlines, rolling hillsides and quaint fishing villages. Rambling is a popular pastime, so don't forget to pack your walking shoes. As well as scenery, Cork also serves up a host of wildlife-watching opportunities, from whale-watching cruises to puffin encounters.
Transportation to and around Cork
Fly into Cork Airport (ORK), the closest airport, located 3.5 mi (5.6 km) from the city center.
If you're traveling by train, make your way to Cork Kent Station or Glounthaune Station to see more of the city.
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