Best of Cork

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around 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.
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A loving couple look out at sunset over the Cliffs of Moher
Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon in Ireland

Ireland makes the ideal choice for a holiday with your true love: beautiful, mystery-steeped, constantly surprising and delighting, and one of the most warmly welcoming places on the planet. The enchanting Emerald Isle is country singer Johnny Cash's '40 Shades of Green', after all. Yes, you risk trading sunshine for far-wilder weather, but with some of the most dazzling coastline around, several millennia of poignant history and world-famous traditional music at its best when starting impromptu in a cosy traditional pub, this is a land highly charged with romance. Here are the best destinations for a honeymoon in Ireland.

Ireland
Map of Discover Ireland - 8 Days
Discover Ireland - 8 Days

Ireland has a reputation for conviviality, hospitality, and natural beauty. You need only visit charming seaside villages like Kinsale, the emerald green countryside of Cork County, and the lively pubs of Dublin to get a sense of this. On a custom tour, you'll experience these highlights plus many more in just eight days.

The colorful town of Cobh, the Titanic's last port of call
Map of Ireland's Beautiful Cities: Dublin, Galway & Cork - 8 Days
Ireland's Beautiful Cities: Dublin, Galway & Cork - 8 Days

Experience Ireland's legendary "craic" (good times) in and around three of the country's best-loved cities. This round-trip self-drive from Dublin takes you to arts-loving Galway and the breathtaking hills of Connemara, then on to cosmopolitan Cork and the myth-shrouded Blarney Castle. There's plenty of time to stroll character-packed streets, admire historic landmarks, and check out traditional bars; perfect for independent travelers looking for a mix of sightseeing and downtime with the locals.

The Cliffs of Moher on Ireland's wild western coast
Map of Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 5 Days
Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 5 Days

Hit the road and see the best of the Emerald Isle on this 5-day self-driving jaunt through Ireland. Walk the ancient streets of Dublin, kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork, visit the famous heritage town of Killarney, take in breathtaking views of the Cliffs of Moher, and revel in the energy of bohemian Galway. From windswept Atlantic coastlines to bustling city streets, this itinerary is perfect for independent travelers looking to pack some of Ireland's most iconic sights into a short space of time.

Outside Temple Bar, Dublin
Map of Highlights of Irish Cities - 7 Days
Highlights of Irish Cities - 7 Days

Experience the unique character of Irish cities on this self-drive tour around the county's urban centers. This weeklong trip takes you to the capital city of Dublin as well as colorful Cork, Limerick, and Galway. You'll dine in corner pubs, explore farmer's markets, tour medieval castles, and even escape to Blarney Castle—a short side trip from Cork—to kiss the famous Blarney Stone.

Sunset over the Claddagh in Galway
Map of Adventure in Southern Ireland: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 11 Days
Adventure in Southern Ireland: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 11 Days

On this 11-day journey through southern Ireland, you'll eat, drink, and travel like a local. In Dublin, you'll see highlight landmarks on walking tours plus imbibe at the famous Jameson Distillery and Guinness Storehouse. Then hit the road and enjoy the stunning scenery of counties Cork, Kerry, and Galway as you take boat trips, visit the Cliffs of Moher, embark on nature hikes, tour historic villages, and much more.

The medieval ruins of Ross Castle, Killarney National Park.
Map of Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Dingle & Galway - 7 Days
Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Dingle & Galway - 7 Days

Experience the best of Ireland's coastal scenery, historic sites, and vibrant cities on this week-long self-drive adventure. Starting in Dublin, this circular route takes you south to the Rock of Cashel and Ireland's second city of Cork, before heading into the wilds of Killarney National Park and along the spectacularly scenic Ring of Kerry. After a day spent exploring the Slea Peninsula and the seaside village of Dingle, you'll head up the west coast to hike along the Cliffs of Moher and spend a final night in Galway, enjoying the music, arts, and "craic" of the European cultural capital.

Visit the Cliffs of Moher from Doolin in County Clare
Map of Self-Drive Ireland: Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher - 7 Days
Self-Drive Ireland: Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher - 7 Days

Explore the magic of Ireland on this week-long self-drive adventure, starting with a pint of Guinness in Dublin. You'll dive into the Emerald Isle's kingly past with a visit to the Rock of Cashel, spend two nights in the famous heritage village of Killarney, and drive along the Wild Atlantic Way to explore the Dingle Peninsula. Cap off your trip with a trek to the majestic Cliffs of Moher before returning to the capital.

Brightly painted houses in the seaside town of Cobh
Map of Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Galway & Belfast - 14 Days
Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Galway & Belfast - 14 Days

Get ready to immerse yourself in Irish culture, history, and landscapes with this two-week, self-drive adventure. Starting in Dublin, you'll head south to explore highlights like the Rock of Cashel, the Ring of Kerry, and Killarney National Park. Continue up the wild west coast to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, and make a quick detour to the windswept Aran Islands. Revel in the culture and traditional music of Doolin, Westport, and Galway before crossing into Northern Ireland, where you'll discover the otherworldly geology of the Giant's Causeway and end your journey in the bustling streets of Belfast.

Take a drive through the Irish countryside
Map of South Ireland Scenic Road Trip - 8 Days
South Ireland Scenic Road Trip - 8 Days

A great choice for families or travelers who prefer a little independence, this itinerary will take you on a leisurely road trip through some of Ireland's most scenic cities and natural sites. Experience the allure of Ireland as you drive along the coast and over verdant hills between stop at the medieval Rock of Cashel, Killarney National Park, and the Cliffs of Moher.

Ring of Kerry
Map of Highlights of Ireland Road Trip - 10 Days
Highlights of Ireland Road Trip - 10 Days

Explore the magic of Ireland independently with this self-drive itinerary. You'll go from the ancient streets of Dublin to the rebel city of Cork, the quaint village of Killarney, and the breathtaking Ring of Kerry. Keep going to the spectacular views of the Cliffs of Moher and the buzzing cultural scene of Galway before you ultimately return to Dublin.

See Northern Ireland's natural wonder, the Giant's Causeway
Map of Emerald Isle Self-Drive Adventure - 15 Days
Emerald Isle Self-Drive Adventure - 15 Days

This epic 15-day road trip covers the best of Ireland, from the cities to the countryside. It begins with walking tours of Dublin, then you'll hop in a car and drive south to the castles and colorful towns of gorgeous County Cork. Among the other highlights of this unforgettable trip, you'll drive the Wild Atlantic Way, visit the Cliffs of Moher, tour whiskey distilleries, and cross over to Northern Ireland to discover vibrant Belfast and explore the scenic Antrim Coast.

Slea Head
Map of Ireland's Scenic Hikes & Drives - 9 Days
Ireland's Scenic Hikes & Drives - 9 Days

This road trip is the perfect introduction to some of Ireland's best-known sights and hikes, with a few off-the-beaten-path gems featured along the way. Over nine days, you'll explore the Emerald Isle's wild landscapes on breathtaking drives and fresh-air walks. Big names include the Cliffs of Moher, the Wicklow Way, and the Ring of Kerry, but there's equal joy to be found in strolling quaint towns or settling down in a traditional pub for an evening of folk music.

the sea cliffs at Downpatrick Head on the coastline of County Mayo, Ireland
Wild Atlantic Way Self Drive Adventure - 14 Days

Get ready for mile after mile of unforgettable memories. On this road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way— the longest defined coastal route in the world—you'll enjoy rugged scenery, gorgeous coastline, and off-the-beaten-path adventures from County Donegal’s remote Northern Headlands down to the picturesque southern peninsulas.

Cliffs of Moher
Map of Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Doolin, Westport & More - 14 Days
Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Doolin, Westport & More - 14 Days

This ultimate self-driving tour of Ireland is filled with adventures in historic towns and along scenic coastlines. Start in Dublin before exploring the villages of Laragh, the medieval Rock of Cashel in Cork, and the hiking trails in Kinsale. Then, tour Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, and Inch Beach off the Dingle Peninsula. The final leg of the road trip takes you to the must-see Cliffs of Moher, bohemian Galway, and two historic national parks before a final night in Derry.

Colorful Dingle High Street
Map of Ireland's Food &  Culture - 11 Days
Ireland's Food & Culture - 11 Days

Fresh farm produce, seafood plucked straight from the Atlantic, and generations-old baking recipes—Irish cuisine is nourishing and comforting in equal measure. On this 11-day self-drive tour, you'll spend each night in a different location, focusing on the knockout food scenes of the southwest and west coast. Browse local markets, dine in a Michelin-starred pub, and tour culinary hotspots such as Galway (which regularly tops lists of foodie destinations) and Ireland's "gourmet capital" of Kinsale.

Explore County Kildare and see idyllic sights like the old ruins of Ballinafagh Church
Map of Self-Drive Southern Loop of Ireland: Dublin to Kildare - 12 Days
Self-Drive Southern Loop of Ireland: Dublin to Kildare - 12 Days

See Ireland's beautiful scenery on this epic 12-day self-drive tour, which will take you on a loop from Dublin to Kildare. Explore Dublin's attractions and Medieval Quarter, hike in Wicklow Mountains National Park, and relax on the Copper Coast Beaches. Then head to Cork for a food tour and castle visit, drive the picturesque Ring of Kerry, and see the Irish-speaking Aran Islands before finishing your journey in Kildare and returning to Dublin.

Soak up innovative cuisine and great craic on a tour of Ireland's best foodie hotspots
Map of Culinary Trip Through Ireland - 12 Days
Culinary Trip Through Ireland - 12 Days

Spend 12 days discovering Ireland's gastronomic highlights on this clockwise self-drive tour of the southwest and west coast. With a combination of independent discovery and guided tours, you'll browse markets, sample homegrown produce, and explore culinary hotspots such as Galway (which regularly tops lists of foodie destinations) and Ireland's "gourmet capital" of Kinsale. There'll also be the chance to sip whiskey and gin at distilleries and dive into Ireland's high-spirited pub culture.

Stay two nights in the charming town of Westport while exploring County Mayo
Map of Ireland's Ultimate Self-Drive Adventure - 15 Days
Ireland's Ultimate Self-Drive Adventure - 15 Days

Take 15 days to loop around the island of Ireland at a relaxed pace. Starting in Dublin, head clockwise to check off several beautiful counties in the south and west, like Wicklow, Cork, Kerry, Clare, Mayo, and Donegal while staying in charming towns along the way. Spend the last few days of the trip exploring Northern Ireland's transformed capital and its coastal gems to complete this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way
Map of Road Trip Adventure on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way - 15 Days
Road Trip Adventure on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way - 15 Days

Explore Ireland's famous Wild Atlantic Way on this adventurous 15-day road trip. Start in Dublin, where you'll walk the River Liffey and visit historic Trinity College. Then, it's off to Cork and Kenmare for a drive of the scenic Sheep's Head Loop and the ancient stone circles of Bonane Heritage Park. Travel via cable car over the ocean to Dursey Island, drive the rugged coastlines of the Ring of Kerry, and hike to the top of the majestic Sliabh Liag before returning to Dublin for museum visits and whiskey tastings.

Discover Galway's thriving culinary scene
Map of Culinary Adventure Through Ireland - 15 Days
Culinary Adventure Through Ireland - 15 Days

Spend 15 days discovering Ireland through your taste buds on this food-themed road trip. Driving clockwise from Dublin, you'll stop at culinary hotspots focused along the south and west coast, where dramatic landscapes lie around every bend. The produce couldn't be more local, from County Kerry beef to seafood on the Aran Islands and edible seaweed you'll forage for yourself. A series of small-group tours means you'll likely meet other keen foodies along the way.

Other popular travel destinations in Ireland
Dublin · County Kerry · Killarney · Galway · Dingle Peninsula · Doolin · Dingle Town · Northern Ireland · Belfast · Killarney National Park · Kenmare · County Cork · Kinsale · Donegal · Westport · Birr · Tralee · Ballycastle · Letterkenny · Clifden · Laragh · Sligo · Limerick · Kilkenny · Aran Islands · Waterford · Donegal town · Portmagee