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Cork is a college town in the southwest of Ireland, sitting on an island in the middle of the River Lee—and it’s much more than just a gateway city to the natural beauty of coastal County Cork. It is compact and easy to navigate on foot, offering a cosmopolitan vibe in its hip coffee shops, art galleries, and traditional pubs. Of all the things to do in Cork, don’t miss top landmarks like the English Market and Cork City Gaol.
The most popular time of year to visit Cork City (and Ireland in general) is the summer months. The days are long, with sunsets late in the evening, and the season provides the chance for warmth and sunshine. Locals also look forward to the holidays in December, when Cork City feels very festive with decorations and celebrations. Annual events include the Cork Midsummer Festival, the Cork Film Festival in November, and the Cork Jazz Festival in October.
Cork has a compact city center that is ideal for exploring on foot. A local bus service is available, but most visitors find that walking between landmarks is an easy option. Bike rentals are also a good option for people looking to cover ground quickly. Renting a car makes sense for those looking to explore beyond Cork City and out into County Cork.
Cocktail fans may want to check out Cask, a cocktail bar known for pushing boundaries and featuring unique, native Irish ingredients. Cork City also offers food and drink walking tours for visitors who want to explore the many flavors of the city.
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Yes, Cork City is worth visiting. Some people skip Cork City in favor of the capital city of Dublin or Galway, but this thriving city on the River Lee has plenty to offer. Check out museums, galleries, historic sites, and a growing food and cocktail scene during a visit.
...MoreCork City is famous as a college town; it is home to University College Cork. It is also known for historic sites like the Cork City Gaol, Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, and the English Market. Art galleries, parks, and an opera house round out landmarks in Cork.
...MoreIn one day, you can explore Cork City on foot. Taste artisan food at the English Market, learn about history at the Cork City Gaol, and marvel at the Gothic architecture of Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral during a visit to Cork. Check out local restaurants or gastropubs to complete the experience.
...MoreYes, Cork is nicer than Dublin—according to people from Cork, that is. People from Dublin would say the capital city is nicer than Cork. Regional pride aside, both are traditional Irish cities with a range of historic sites and galleries plus a developing food and cocktail scene.
...MoreYes, Cork is a walkable city. It has a compact city center that is easy to navigate on foot. Admire views from the many bridges across the River Lee, check out street art, and visit top landmarks such as the English Market, Cork City Gaol, and Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral.
...MoreGalway and Cork are both gateway cities to the natural beauty of their surrounding counties. Many travelers choose to visit Galway City and also visit the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren. Visitors to Cork often explore the coast of County Cork, including fishing villages like Kinsale and whiskey distilleries in Midleton.
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