Cork, situated on the south coast of Ireland, is the country’s second city after Dublin and the largest city in the province of Munster. Most of the city centre is located on an island in the River Lee, so be prepared to cross many bridges from there to the other parts of Cork’s attractions.

Ever since the Viking period, Cork has had a strong reputation for independence, and Corkonions often refer to their city as the true capital of Ireland. Over the last couple of decades the city has changed rapidly as a destination, with heavy investment in the city’s cultural life and infrastructure. Cork was European Capital of Culture in 2005 and proved to the world what locals have known all along: Cork attractions include a unique, diverse and extremely welcoming culture.

Key Cork attractions include Blarney Castle (a short bus ride away from the city), the old English Markets for great shopping especially for food lovers, Whale watching west of Cork cannot guarantee you would spot whales but the ocean is teaming with life, St Finn Barre’s Cathedral a 19th century old church and of course the numerous pubs and cafes all around the city for some true Irish hospitality.

When to travel to Cork

It is said that Cork has 2 seasons – wet and sunny and both can occur on the same day. The warmest and probably the busiest time of year is June and July. November through to February is normally the wettest. Winter can be quite cold and wet but remember some of Cork’s attractions-the warm welcoming fires in the cosy Irish pubs.