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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The heart wants what it wants, and right now it wants to take a vacation. Now's the time to pack your suitcase and take off to one of these top vacation rentals in or near Cork:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Cork vacation rental for you.
Your Monday to Friday will be much easier to endure if you've got something wonderful lined up for the weekend. Give yourself something fun to look forward to by locking in one of these top weekend getaways in or near Cork:
Studio apartments are hard to match when it comes to location, convenience and affordability. Take a look at these studio apartments for rent in or near Cork and experience a taste of the buzzing local vibe:
When you're ready to step foot outside your studio apartment and go exploring, there's lots to keep you on the move around Cork. Interested in culture? Visit St. Colman's Cathedral and Labbacallee Wedge Tomb.
Just because you only have a couple of days up your sleeve doesn't mean you have to spend it in a dull hotel room. Head off on vacation but still have the comforts of home at one of these short-term rentals in or around Cork:
Vacation with others and boost your odds of having fun. Whether you're planning an action-packed escape with buddies for a family get-together, you'll have your choice of large group vacation rentals in and near Cork:
Nothing says fun and frivolity like a pool does. Grab your inflatable swan and check out these houses in or near Cork that feature this vacation must-have:
Cork has an oceanic climate, with average summertime temperatures fluctuating between 50 ºF and 65 ºF. But you don't have to wait until summertime to visit. Take a look at the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the perfect Cork vacation rental and organize your getaway for any time of year.
Every get-together with the family should be a memorable one. Whether you're planning some time off with the kids or a reunion with relatives, our large family vacation rentals in or near Cork offer a home away from home with plenty of space for everyone:
When it's time to step outside your front door, there are loads of family-friendly attractions in the area to keep everyone entertained. West Cork Model Railway Village, Fota Wildlife Park and Cork City Gaol should be top of your agenda.
Absolutely. There are plenty of one-bedroom vacation rentals in or near Cork. If you don't need a lot of space, one of these properties might be just the ticket:
Yes, you can. From swish apartments to comfy cabins, Vrbo offers a selection of rental places. Small families will love these two-bedroom options in or near Cork:
If you love the idea of snuggling up beside a campfire but aren't super into the "camping" part, a vacation rental with a fire pit is a great way to go. Enjoy the conveniences of home at one of these properties in or near Cork that come with this nice little perk: