Are you contemplating a vacation to Cork, Ireland? Here is our hand-picked list of the top activities and attractions in Cork, Ireland, so you can make the most of your time there. Scroll down for the best things to do in Cork, Ireland, and the best places to visit in Cork, Ireland. We at Wondrous Drifter, a Web 3.0 travel startup, have big plans to shake things up in the travel business.
Table Of Content
- Blarney Castle
- Charles Fort
- Cork City Gaol
- Crawford Art Gallery
- Elizabeth Fort
- Fitzgerald’s Park
- Fota Wildlife Park
- Gougane Barra National Forest Park
- Jameson Distillery Midleton
- Mizen Head
- O’Sullivans Bar & Restaurant
- Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa
- Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral
- Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne’s Church
- Shandon Sweets
- The Donkey Sanctuary
- The English Market
- The Glucksman
- The SpitJack Cork
- Titanic Experience Cobh
- Explore Europe
Blarney Castle
With the beautiful scenery of the garden, flee from the Castle like a princess escaping from her prince.
This Castle was built 600 years ago, and up until now, it keeps attracting a lot of people day by day. Which makes this one of the landmarks of Ireland.
It is a medieval stronghold that holds a lot of stories of its being destroyed.
Blarney was rebuilt by King Cormac of Munster after it was destroyed. There are still rooms and battlements that are accessible to people.
Take your free time exploring the beautiful landscape and taking in the fresh air and tranquility of the surrounding greenery.
But make sure to double your safety as you walk as this garden houses a collection of poisonous plants.
There are also myths that you should kiss the stone before you leave to get the gift of gab.
Let the mysterious Castle brings you a new discovery!
Address: Monacnapa, Blarney, Co. Cork, Ireland
Charles Fort
Let your eyes see the breathtaking view of a huge star-shaped structure that signifies the happenings in Irish history.
Mr. William Robinson, an architect from Dublin, designed Charles Fort. This is one of the largest military installations in the world, with a 16-meter-tall defense wall.
Going to the fort is already an incredible experience, as the view from the sea will captivate your heart. It is absolutely a perfect location for you to have an instagrammable photo.
If you are on a private tour, your guide will explain how the soldiers risk their lives to protect the town. There are also brochures in various languages that you can read once you arrive at the destination.
Aside from listening to the tragic experiences of people who fought for the country, try to listen to the story of the white lady in Fort.
To summarize, that lady jumped from a parapet on the night of her wedding after her husband was shot dead while sleeping. They claimed that the lady’s wedding gown was seen floating around.
Inhale and exhale as you take in the scenic views, the Fort’s structure, and the exhibit’s information.
Address: Summercove, Kinsale, Co. Cork, Ireland
Cork City Gaol
A brief history allows you to imagine what life was like for prison inmates.
Cork City Gaol is a heritage center that has prison walls. The moment you enter the heritage, the history of Gaol will be revealed.
It was built in the 1800s to replace the old city and was designed by Mr. William Robertson.
This prison was dubbed the finest of three kingdoms when it opened around 1824.
The prison was housed by both genders who committed crimes in the city of Cork. During the war of Irish, the prisoners were held here, but in 1823 they were released, or some of them were relocated to another prison.
You can find graffiti on the cell walls that reveal inmates’ innermost feelings back in time. Some audio-visuals depict Cork’s social history in the nineteenth century.
The museum offers tours with a guidebook or an audio guide, both of which are available in 13 different languages.
Allow history to be revealed!
Address: Convent Ave, Sunday’s Well, Cork, Ireland
Crawford Art Gallery
Explore different works in the museum.
Crawford Art Gallery is a cultural institution that is committed to visual arts, contemporary, and history. It offers you an outstanding heritage structure in the city.
There are 3,000 works that you can discover in the gallery’s collection from the 18th century. You can see the European and Irish paintings and sculptures through video installations.
It is open to everyone, from locals to tourists.
The gallery also hosts exhibits and educational programs to encourage the practice and appreciation of art.
It may be small, but it provides more than you might expect. It provides a wealth of information for you to absorb. This is also an excellent location for educational tours for children!
The artworks from the past are fantastic, with Greek and Roman sculptures, and other collections are beautiful.
You will have a great time, as visiting this place may help you to relax and simply enjoy yourself.
Address: Emmett Pl, Centre, Cork, Ireland
Elizabeth Fort
Let your eyes see the spectacular view of Cork City.
Elizabeth Fort was constructed in 1601 and located south of the walled city. This Fort served as a defense and a military base.
It has served many purposes in the past, including protecting against the danger posed by artillery, and in 1649, Cromwell was also responsible for strengthening the Fort’s defenses.
During the Great Feminine era, it served as a storage facility in addition to its previous function as a detention center for convicts who were transferred to Australia.
The Fort will give you a lot of historical information, but aside from its downside, people visit this place to explore how beautiful the view is from above.
It is open to everyone where you can see the beautiful panorama.
Prepare your camera to record this unforgettable moment in its entirety. Visit now!
Address: Barrack St, The Lough, Cork, T12 C8A0, Ireland
Fitzgerald’s Park
Allow nature to provide you with peace of mind.
Fitzgerald Park is just a short walk from UCC. It was named after Mr. Edward Fitzgerald.
It has a 78-acre property with many amenities; you can enjoy nature while hiking or riding a horse. While you are playing disc golf, your children can play in the playground.
This is the kind of location you should go to if you have a lot of spare time. Get away from the hustle life of the city and take in the stunning scenery of the park by looking at the rose garden, the tree-lined avenue, the sculptures, the fountains, and other features.
It is also a perfect place for a picnic in nice weather! Many restaurants and cafes are nearby if you get hungry after spending time in the park.
Allow this to be your respite from the stresses of everyday life.
Address: Mardyke, Cork, Ireland
Fota Wildlife Park
Get your chance to take a photo close enough to some animals.
This park provides a variety of entertaining and educational activities for you to enjoy. You can learn about the animals, their habitats, and the environment.
The 100-acre Fota Wildlife Safari Park is located on the scenic Fota Island Zoo in Cork Harbour. It is a must-see that you can spend on your vacation.
It is a one-of-a-kind location where you can spend time interacting with free-roaming animals and birds from around the globe. Every visit will undoubtedly be a memorable one.
The Asian Sanctuary in the park houses Asian lions, Indian rhinos, and more. There are also giraffes, cheetahs, and tropical houses that you can view.
Aside from the animals as its main attraction, there are also several play areas for your kids, cafe shops, picnic areas, and even souvenir shops.
Make your vacation more enjoyable and interactive in Fota!
Address: Fota Wildlife Park, Fota, Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork, T45 CD93, Ireland
Gougane Barra National Forest Park
Make your heart ready to reconnect with nature.
The Irish Forestry Service established this 350-acre forest park in 1938. It is surrounded by a variety of recreational activities such as walking, jogging, having picnics, and more.
This is a great spot to connect with nature because it greets you with beautiful scenery, making it the best place to walk and enjoy the fresh air.
There are six walking trails to choose from, including the delight trails Sli na Laoi and Sl Dhoire na Coise. Cycling is also available for those who want to ride their bike or motorcycle here.
You can enjoy the magnificent River Lee, which flows about fifty kilometers before reaching Cork Harbour.
This park has been filled with evergreens, making it a great place for people who love nature. You can also find three mountain ranges and interesting slopes with great views of the mountains surrounded by the lake on your walk.
This location will remind you of how valuable and charming nature is. Take a photo for you to keep.
Address: Coomroe, Co. Cork, Ireland
Jameson Distillery Midleton
Discover one of Ireland’s well-known distilleries!
In 1780, Jameson invented a whiskey-making strategy. It deals with a lot of effort to produce the perfect blend of Irish whiskey, which has been enjoyed for centuries.
Midleton consists of two Whiskey distilleries. One for column stills and another for single pot stills. Due to increased demand, their annual production capacity was increased by 64 million liters of alcohol.
Midleton Whiskey is aged in both American and European oak barrels. To keep the casks in good condition and to keep them from drying out, they are not disassembled for shipping until they arrive in their original state.
Visit one of Cork’s largest stills, which can hold up to 31,648 gallons of liquid. It is a one-of-a-kind venue with tours of the original distillery and whiskey tastings, and don’t leave without trying their signature drink.
You will not walk away empty-handed. Entering with curiosity, leaving with knowledge of one of the popular distilleries’ histories and how Irish whiskey is made.
Address: Old Midleton Distillery, Distillery Walk, Midleton, Co. Cork, P25 Y394, Ireland
Mizen Head
The famous 99 steps in Mizen Head.
One of the most dramatic peninsulas in the country, competing for the title of the most scenic spot.
You must first complete the 99 steps in order to reach the area. If you are afraid of heights, it is best not to look down while crossing the bridge for your own safety.
This place has a lot of things to offer. Once you visit the Visitor Centre, you will get the chance to learn about geology, navigational aids simulator, rescue tide clock, and more.
Aside from its famous 99 steps, it is also rich in the panoramic view of the sea, the impressive facilities, and the villages that are near the place.
Mizen Head can also feature a range of wildlife, such as birds. You might get lucky if you can spot some seals and dolphins from the sea.
Learn from the historically significant maritime site, which includes lighthouses, weather stations, and signal stations that are open to the public.
Visit now!
Address: Harbour Road, Goleen, West Cork
The world is a vast and wonderful place, and it would be a waste not to see it. Go travel as there is so much to see in the world. For the full list of countries to visit around the world, visit our travel round the world guide. When you roam around the world, you have to visit the USA. There will always be something in America that could be a great fit for you and your family! Click here for the states to visit in USA.
O’Sullivans Bar & Restaurant
A mouthwatering restaurant that offers fresh ingredients in a modern setting.
O’Sullivan’s Bar & Restaurant is one of the top gastro bars serving breakfast to Dinner. They provide 3E’s, which are excellent food, ambiance, and service.
It is a friendly, old-fashioned fisherman’s bar and pub on a cliff’s edge. This business was also run by the family of Mr. John Sullivan since 1955.
They prepare their food with the best and freshest ingredients at a reasonable price.
Don’t miss out on their spectacular menus for breakfast, such as O Sullivan Irish set, omelets, egg benedicts, and more. You don’t need to worry about your kids as they have a separate menu for them.
You can enjoy your meal inside for a cool ambiance or outside to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful view but make sure to book a reservation ahead of time to ensure that you have a seat.
Eating here is very convenient, the staff also give their best to provide you a better and fast service which makes you more comfortable.
Allow the savory food to melt in your mouth. Grab a bite for a delicious meal.
Address: Church St, Douglas, Cork, Ireland
Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa
You deserve a proper rest on your day off!
The hotel is a unique combination of Old World allure and New World cosmopolitan and refined style.
Experience one of Cork’s most convenient hotels! It is a wonderful place for everyone. It is a multi-award-winning establishment that provides its guests with an unforgettable experience.
The most luxurious hotel in the city, setting new standards for both style and service. It is easily accessible and can be reached by car.
Visit their fitness center or relax in their steam room, saunas, and hydrotherapy pool if you want to exercise. They also have 9 treatment rooms where you can relax your mind, which can be beneficial for a mental break.
The restaurant also provides a separate set menu for children and a swimming pool, an outdoor play area, and game boards that can be rented.
With 126 rooms available, make your reservation now to enjoy your stay in Ireland!
Address: Ditchley House, Castleview, Little Island, Co. Cork, Ireland
Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral
Sharing the outstanding beauty and historical significance of the Cathedral’s architecture.
St. Fin Barre was designed by Mr. William Burges and stands as a place for people to worship since the seventh century. The bishop’s residence is just located across from the Cathedral’s gate.
If you will notice, it is cruciform in shape and has a 13th-century pointed Gothic style.
It was filled with stained glass windows, sculptures, and marble mosaics which visitors are attracted to. You can also discover almost 1,260 sculptures, an ornate pulpit, and a 24-pound cannonball from the 1690 Siege of Cork.
The Cathedral is significant as one of Ireland’s most important examples of Burges and nineteenth-century architecture. It was also the largest Cathedral Organ in the country.
Take a tour guide to learn more about the history of its origin and how it ended up having a magnificent structure.
Make your tour the best out of it!
Address: Bishop St, The Lough, Cork, Ireland
Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne’s Church
Take 132 steps for you to see the unexpected beauty of the city.
St. Anne’s Church has been recognized as the most important ecclesiastical structure that retains the original 18th-century bells.
St. Anne’s Church is one of the popular landmarks, with its spectacular bell tower and distinctive Italianate architecture. It is the oldest and continuously operating up until today.
Admiring the structure’s beauty with red sandstone, ashlar limestone in white, and the famous tower. The colors that you can see from the tower were inspired by the sporting colors of the city.
There are some activities you can do before reaching the tower.
Go to the first floor if you want to ring the Shandon bells. Cork’s soundtrack is provided by these bells, including poems and songs.
You can also go to the balcony on the second floor. Discovering the Pendulum of the Clock and learning about the Urns.
The magnificent and Europe’s largest caged clock can be found on the third floor.
Be prepared to step on your foot until you reach the top.
Address: Church St, Shandon, Cork, Ireland
Shandon Sweets
Make your life sweeter by tasting their delicious candies!
Shandon Sweets is a traditional sweet factory that has won numerous awards. There are sweets made using traditional methods (hands) and machinery from the early 1900s.
It was known before as the Exchange Toffee Works, and it was the only candy factory in Cork that was still operating.
Most candies, including cough drops, clove rock, and others, were still made by hand until recent times.
All of their products have been made with the same pure ingredients since 1928, including syrup water, sucrose, and sugar.
It is ideal for people of all ages with a sweet tooth! Eat a handful of gluten-free sweets with no artificial flavors or colors.
Allow yourself to be enchanted by the factory’s charm. Try their delectable butter nuggets, fudge, marshmallow cups, and other treats.
Overload of sweetness! Make sure to visit this charming store before you leave the country!
Address: 37A John Redmond St, Shandon, Cork, T23 PX27, Ireland
The Donkey Sanctuary
The Sanctuary provides a home to the donkeys.
This Sanctuary is a registered charity in Cork dedicated to improving donkey welfare. They believe that people will be better educated on how to protect animals from cruelty and neglect by doing so.
Thousands of donkeys have been rehabilitated, rescued, and given a home at the Sanctuary since 1987, providing proper support.
The Sanctuary is open to the public so that everyone can see how workers do their jobs firsthand. It is also accepting donations for the Sanctuary’s improvement and needs.
With over 5,600 abandoned donkeys, they have been loved and cared for in the country. Many lives of donkeys have been saved as a result of the assistance provided by their center.
There are also foster programs for people who want to adopt them.
Always be aware of what you see and hear, as a simple act can benefit many people and even animals.
Address: Knockardbane, Mallow, Co. Cork, Ireland
The English Market
Europe’s oldest and best markets that you should visit!
The English market is not just a market where you can buy goods. It is also the country’s treasure as it gives a historical significance making it a commercial asset and valuable heritage.
The market has experienced a lot of tragedies such as war, floods, fire, and other happenings in that the environment occurs.
Aside from its historical background, one of the reasons why tourists go here is they want to experience Cork’s food culture!
Focusing on a wide range of international cuisines, local Cork dishes, and fresh ingredients prepared by locals.
Many local food producers and retailers have worked from generation to generation in the market. Since July 1788, many stalls have been rented; you can see stalls for meat, vegetables, and fish.
Fruits and vegetables from the organic shops are also famous as a lot of people are satisfied with how good the quality is.
Allow your hands to be full of fresh ingredients from the market as you enjoy shopping!
Address: Princes St, Centre, Cork, Ireland
The Glucksman
Discover one of the leading museums for creative learning and visual arts around the globe.
The Glucksman’s priority is to produce contemporary art where it is accessible to the public.
It is a visual arts education center dedicated to exploration and creation. The building also received an award for its amenities, including a riverside restaurant, a gallery shop, and lecture facilities.
It was located at University College Cork’s main entrance. Which offers an impressive gallery and also provides workshops, film screenings, and talks.
They host three exhibitions per year, and the gallery offers an exhibition on three levels. There are retrospective shows, and you can also understand the gallery’s history through the post.
Some talks discuss the work of well-known artists such as Fiona Kelly, Suzanne Mooney, and others.
The museum also has a website for you to explore.
Learn more about their architecture and resources, or if you want assistance, you can look for their website for the information you are looking for.
Another day, another piece of information to sort through. Don’t let this opportunity pass! Take it now!
Address: University College, Cork, Ireland
The SpitJack Cork
A return is a must once you have tasted their food!
The SpitJack was opened in mid-2017 on Washington Street. It has quickly become one of Cork’s most popular dining venues for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
It accomplishes all of this while providing excellent value for money, earning them the title of Cork’s most popular restaurant in just two years.
The guests always receive a good experience as the food is delicious at the same time. Their service is fast, and the staff is very hospitable.
The finest local meats and produce are cooked to perfection on this unique upmarket concept on their French rotisserie.
The SpitJack Limerick will undoubtedly make an excellent addition to the Limerick food scene, with two floors, private dining, and a full bar.
Visit this top-rated restaurant in Cork if you are planning to eat. They have a lot of the best food in the city. Don’t pass up this opportunity!
Address: 34 Washington St, Centre, Cork, T12 RY96, Ireland
Titanic Experience Cobh
Allow the story to be retold.
Titanic Adventure Cobh is a visitor center where you can learn about the last 123 passengers who boarded the Titanic.
There are two parts to look at. The first section is an audio-visual tour that retraces the steps of passengers who boarded the Titanic in Queenstown in 1912.
It’s amazing how innovative the technology is as they create a replica of the ship’s interior.
The second section will allow your imagination to run freely, leading you to the tragic moment when the ship sinks. There are also Computer Story Rooms where you can learn about the ships and their passengers.
You can also learn about the RMS Carpathia’s role in rescuing survivors, disaster information, the discovery of the wreckage, and more.
Following your visit to the story room, you can explore some of the interesting artifacts in the area that were preserved in the incident, such as the Odell Family Collection, Carpathia, and some objects from the White Star Line fleet in the early twentieth century.
Check out what happened on the Titanic’s final boarding.
Need more reasons to visit Cork, Ireland? Check out why visit Cork, Ireland, at least once in your lifetime here.
Address: 20 Casement Square, Kilgarvan, Cobh, Co. Cork, P24 DW63, Ireland
