Cork City Overview

Heralded as Europe’s 2005 “Capital of Culture,” Cork (pop. 150,000) hosts most of the athletic, musical, and artistic activities of the southwest. The river quays and pub-lined streets display architecture both grand and grimy, evidence of “Rebel Cork’s” history of resistance, ruin, and rebuilding. What few pre-industrial charms smokestacks didn’t blacken, the English blighted. Cork burned down in 1622, Cromwell expelled half its citizens in the 1640s, and the city flamed up again in 1920 during the Irish War for Independence. In true Darwinian form, Cork’s trying past has only caused it to evolve, becoming stronger, prouder, and increasingly diversified. Its economy is booming, trad music fills the streets on a nightly basis, and it has a palpable international flavor. Ireland’s third-largest city, Cork continues to win over the hearts of its visitors with its charm.

Orientation

Cork’s compact city center wasn’t always a single island. Before it was diverted to create the modern moat, the River Lee’s north and south channels ran straight through the city. ...more

Local Transportation

Let’s Go does not recommend hitchhiking, but hitchers headed for West Cork and Co. Kerry walk down Western Rd. past the An Óige hostel and the dog track to the Crow’s Nest Pub, or ...more

Practical Information
Accommodations

Cork’s fine array of hostels should put a smile on any budget traveler’s face, but not if you can’t get a room, so call ahead. For full Irish breakfasts, more privacy, and more cash ...more

Food

Cork is blessed with delicious restaurants and cafes, especially on the lanes connecting Patrick, Paul, and Oliver Plunkett St. The English Market, accessible from Grand Parade, Patrick, and Oliver ...more

Pubs

Cork’s pub scene has the variety of music and atmosphere expected of the Republic’s second-largest city. Pubs crowd along Union Quay, Oliver Plunkett, and South Main St. To guide you on ...more

Clubs

Cork nurtures aspiring young bands, but the turnover rate is high. To keep on top of the scene, check out WhazOn? Cork, a free bi-weekly performance schedule available at local stores. The Thursday ...more

Sights

Cork’s sights are in three areas: the Old City, in the center of town; the Shandon neighborhood north of the river; and around University College Cork in the west.

Entertainment And Festivals

In the lively streets of Cork, amusement is easy to find. Those who tire of the pubs can take advantage of the music venues, dance clubs, theaters, and sports arenas. Theater. Everyman Palace ...more

Daytrip From Cork: Blarney

Bus Éireann runs buses from Cork to Blarney M-F 15 per day, Sa 16 per day, Su 10 per day; €4.80 return. Blarney Castle ☎ 438 5252. Open June-Aug. M-Sa 9am-7pm, Su 9:30am-5:30pm; Sept. M-Sa ...more