Best of Cork

In the far south of Ireland, Cork is a vibrant city that effortlessly straddles the past and present. Vestiges of earlier days live on amid Gothic cathedral spires and centuries-old buildings given new life - like imposing Blackrock Castle, which today houses a hands-on science museum for kids. Ireland’s second-largest city after Dublin has a renowned food scene, with eclectic restaurants showcasing the region’s famous produce. It’s easy to spend a few days here exploring atmospheric neighborhoods like the Victorian Quarter, historic Shandon and the Huguenot Quarter.  

Take in the whirl of city life at the English Market, an architecturally striking food emporium that’s been around since 1788. You can assemble a picnic, have a coffee or a meal or pick up jams, teas and local honey for the trip home. For the best view in town, climb the 130-odd steps to the top of St Anne’s, a 300-year-old church with a 360-degree panorama from its belltower. In Midleton, a quick train ride from Cork, you can learn the ins and outs of Irish whiskey on a tour through the Jameson Midleton Distillery. You can also take a boat trip to Spike Island, which over the centuries served as a coastal fortress and a penal colony.