If you are looking for things to do in Cork Ireland around the city center rather than around the whole county, this post is for you! Here we detail the best attractions and places to see around the city itself and within a short drive.
Is Cork really the best place in the world? Well, the locals seem to think so – and several of its visitors would probably also agree with this statement too. This breezy spot located along Ireland’s south-western coast inspires a sense of pride in all of its residents that very few other places can hope to rival – and it’s not very hard to see why.
Sitting pretty atop the River Lee, Cork is definitely a vibe with its buzzing art galleries, hip coffee shops and stunning scenery, the feelgood factor is definitely something that can’t be ignored.
Even though Cork is actually a large city, there’s definitely more of a town feel going on here, with a laidback lifestyle approach to things. Large enough to immerse yourself yet small enough to get around easily, Cork is known for doing things its own way, and invites you to join its free spirit for a holiday that’s totally unique.
Try LOTS of Food at the English Market
In times of flood, famine, and recession, the English market has served the people of Cork by offering the ultimate food market bursting with fresh, local produce. Established in 1788, the English Market is a municipal food market right in the center that stretches all the way from Princes Street all the way to the Grand Parade Market.
Regarded for its mid 19th century architecture and locally produced artisanal food items, this little culinary gem is an absolute must-try next time you’re in Cork. Wander across the various food stalls, sample local fare, or get comfortable with a hot brew in the food court and enjoy a couple of spins on gonzos quest slot while watching the world go by.
Relax in Fitzgerald Park + Visit the Cork Public Museum
Home to the Cork Public Museum, Fitzgerald Park is located a short walk along the Mardyke from Cork City Centre. Over here, locals and visitors are both known to enjoy relaxing walks and glorious picnics along the beautiful banks of River Lee.
Named after Edward Fitzgerald, who happened to be the Lord Mayor of Cork back in 1901, this luscious spot offers a quiet haven away from the buzzing city centre, with its bountiful flower beds, noteworthy sculptures and statues, its rose garden, a central fountain, as well as its breath-taking landscaped avenues, spread across 18 acres.
Experience Local + Foreign Animals at Fota Wildlife Park
No need to travel to Australia to see a kangaroo if you happen to be in Cork, thanks to the Fota Wildlife park that’s literally Ireland’s wildest attraction. Spread across 100 acres, visitors are able to discover more about the 135 species of living creatures found here, all residing within specifically designed habitats.
Home to thousands of animals since opening its gates, the Fota Wildlife Park is committed to delivering a high standard of care and housing to all of its species, which happen to be both native as well as exotic in its capacity as a registered conservation charity.
Visit Cork City Gaol Heritage Center – a Historic Jail
No trip to Cork is ever complete without a stop at the Cork City Gaol Heritage Centre that invites you to relive days gone by both inside and outside these iconic prison walls. Located close to the popular church bells of Shandon, this immersive experience allows you to experience prison life through a series of audio-visual effects, as well as allowing you to walk through furnished cells and life-like figures.
The Radio Museum Experience is also housed here, allowing visitors to browse through a number of artifacts dating back to the early days of Irish radio. Cork City Gaol Heritage Centre is located a pleasant 35-minute walk from the city center.
Marvel at St Fin Barre’s Cathedral
If you happen to have more free time while you’re in the Cork city center, one of the most popular things to do in Cork is check out St Fin Barre’s Cathedral. It was designed by William Burges and consecrated back in 1870. Nevertheless, the grounds where the actual cathedral is built have been known as Christian worship grounds as far back as the seventh century.
Apart from offering a stunning viewpoint, and some pretty impressive architecture, visitors are able to attend weekday masses every day at noon, on Friday at 6:15 pm, as well as Sunday services at 11:15 am and 3:30 pm.
Visit St Anne’s Church + Climb Shandon Bell Tower
If you’re feeling particularly sporty, Cork invites you to climb 132 steps to take in the breathtaking 360-degree views atop one of the oldest churches that dates back to 1722. Measuring 120 feet high, this chapel was built to replace the former St Mary’s Church Shandon, which was destroyed in the Siege of Cork of 1690.
The Tower is probably its most striking landmark, which may be seen from various points within the city and is made of two materials: white ashlar limestone on its South and West walls, and red sandstone on its North and East walls. It is believed that these colours gave rise to the current colours that represent the city of Cork.
After enjoying the view you can’t miss out on ringing the famous Shandon bells to commemorate your climb to the top.
Take the Ferry to Spike Island and Explore the Fortress
Book the morning off and take a trip to a remote monastery that has stood the test of time along the shores of the Celtic Sea. Spike Island is very close to Cork city but feels miles from anything! It includes a fortress that was built to defend the Empire, along with a prison that detained the nation.
Visitors are invited to explore 1,300 years of history while walking across the world’s former largest prison, browsing several museums and exhibitions, enjoying scenic island walks and parks. After exploring the island, you can go to a café before taking a look at the gift shop.
Should you be interested, you’re able to get there by ferry that’s also included in the price. This is a very adventurous thing to do in Cork – Ireland is’t one of the best adventure destinations in Europe for nothing!
Have a Pint or 5 at a Historic Cork Pub
Cork’s historic city center is known for having plenty of proper traditional Irish pubs, and it would be a shame not to top off a day of adventure with some drinks at one of them.
For the most traditional-feeling pubs that might take you back in time, check out The Shelbourne Bar, Costigan’s Pub (one of the oldest pubs in the city est 1849!), the Long Valley Bar, the Mutton Lane Inn (try and sit in the laneway) and Coughlan’s for live music.
They’re known to throw quite the party here in Cork, so if you are up for it it’s a great place to let your hair down and have a good dance and bar-hop through the old cobblestone streets.
Walk Down St. Patrick’s Street and SHOP!
Around since 1786, St Patrick’s Street has long been the best shopping street in Cork and one of the best in Ireland. It’s easy to walk down this bustling avenue between any of the above things to do in Cork, and pop into some shops if you feel inclined.
St Patrick’s street is not only a place people come to get their shopping done, but also a place that locals come to gather. You can find some of the city’s best pubs and restaurants off streets coming from St Patrick’s street, and plant of people enjoying their days.
Visit the Blarney Castle and Kiss the Blarney Stone
The Blarney Stone is one of the Irish legends that seems to have made it around the entire world, and it happens to be a mere 15 minutes out of Cork city! If you’re out of the loop, legend has it that if you kiss the Blarney Stone, you are bestowed with the ‘gift of gab,’ or flattery/eloquence to impress anyone!
Many people travel far and wide to kiss the Blarney stone and to visit the Blarney castle, and you’re a lucky 15 minutes away if you’ll be visiting Cork. The countryside is beautiful, too, and the historic 1440’s castle has lots more to explore and learn. But does kissing the Blarney stone work? There’s only one way to find out!
Appreciate Some Art at the Crawford Art Gallery
The Crawford Art Gallery is one of the most popular places in Cork to stop in and appreciate various forms of art. From painting to sculpture to ceramics, this gallery has art pieces from the last 400+ years ranging from Irish to Greek and Roman casts too.
You could really spend a lot of time in here as they have over 3500 pieces to admire – but if nothing else it’s worth a quick stop-in as admission to Crawford Art Gallery is free!
Learn History + Astronomy at Blackrock Castle Observatory
Just down the river from Cork city center is the incredible Blackrock Castle, which also houses an observatory inside. What used to be one of the city’s main fortifications is now an incredible interactive observatory, cinema, and interactive exhibit area.
Come here to learn the history of the 1820’s castle and also to learn about space, astronomy, and science. How’s that for a fascinating combination?
Get City Views and History at Elizabeth Fort
Elizabeth Fort is an incredible star-shaped fortress (can you spot it in the photo above?) that used to flank the city walls until the city expanded around it. It’s right in the city center of Cork, so it would be a shame to miss this easily accessible attraction in Cork city center.
It’s a 17th-century fortress that offers historical exhibits on how and when it was built. But my favorite thing about Elizabeth fort is definitely the incredible city views that you can get from the top walls. Make sure to bring your camera!
Visit Cobh Town just East of Cork City
I couldn’t leave this out on my list of things to do in Cork around the city because Cobh town just might be one of the most famous (and DEFINITELY most photographed) parts of Cork at all. Cobh is famous for its “Deck of Cards” houses with a opulent view of St Colman’s Cathedral right behind them, making for a picture-perfect colorful scene.
You can get to Cobh in just about 30 minuted from Cork city, so it’s quite close (or you can take public transport easily if you don’t have a car – the 200 bus goes straight there). It’s worth spending an afternoon exploring Cobh and having a delicious lunch in one of the cafes or pubs there.
Things to Do in Cork City Center Conclusion
From romantic castles to former prison cells and the height of Irish gastronomy, Cork definitely has it all. Offering beautiful landscapes and scenery along with that genuine Irish heartiness, there’s a little bit happening for everyone in Cork – all you’ve got to do is discover it, one incredibly beautiful location at a time.
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