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Ireland has long been my favorite, with great many sights to see. Jam-packed with amazing sights to see, Cork would make it difficult for those with little time to decide.
Amble along with me as my Cork blog will help you find some of the top things to do in Cork.
An itinerary of 4 days is good to see the most popular tourist attractions in Cork. But if you can add 2-3 days more you’d be able to experience rather than ‘see’ that an ordinary tourist does. Let me share with you the best things to do in Cork and tips to make the most out of your trip.
1. Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle are the ruins of a fort perched on a cliff top.
Quick Facts:
- This construction of this 27 m meters tall structure began in 1446.
- The castle ruins houses the beautiful gardens.
Address: Monacnapa, Blarney, Co. Cork, Ireland
2. The English Market
It is here that you will be able to taste the local specialties. The sheer choice of food on offer is tantalizing, no matter what your eating preference is.
Quick Facts:
- The food market was built somewhere around 18th-century.
An incredible sight, The English Market scores high in the list of the best things to do in Cork.
Address: Princes St, Centre, Cork, Ireland
3. Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral
Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral is a charming old Cathedral located in the city of Cork, Ireland.
The cathedral’s importance is further underscored by the presence of the tomb of the patron saint. Classical music concerts and organ recitals are held on a regular basis within the Basilica.
Quick Facts:
- Brought to life by the architect William Burges, cathedral is a classic example of fine Victorian Gothic.
- The cathedral was opened on 1865.
Address: Bishop St, The Lough, Cork, Ireland
4. Blackrock Castle Observatory
An important center for astronomical studies, Blackrock Castle Observatory is one of the top observatories in the region.
A visit to Blackrock Castle Observatory is truly a treat for the amateur astronomers.
Quick Facts:
- Blackrock Castle Observatory is housed in a 16th-century castle.
- Also worth seeing here include the science centre.
Without a doubt this wonderful observatory is one amongst the top things to do in Cork.
Address: Castle Rd, Blackrock, Cork, Ireland
5. Fota Island
Fota Island is a serene island, known for its scenic beauty, located out in the open sea.
You will get to see some of the fantastic views of the sea.
And to top it off, the boat trip to Fota Island itself is really enjoyable. Visitors to this place also like to engage in snorkeling.
Quick Facts:
- The small island houses a great wildlife park.
6. Spike Island
Spike Island is a small island lying off the city’s coast, only a short distance from the Cork city.
You will get to see some of the fantastic views of the sea.
Snorkeling is a particularly popular activity here. You can also enjoy the soft sand on the pristine beach.
Quick Facts:
- Spread over a total area of 41 ha, it stretches for around 0.8 km (0.5 mi) on the longer side.
- Some of the things Spike Island features include a star-shaped fort from 19th-century and monastic ruins.
A natural crowd puller, Spike Island is right up there in the list of best things to do in Cork.
7. Cork City Gaol
Cork City Gaol is a historical prison of a great political significance.
The cells of the prison have stories to tell, some good, some not so good, of escape attempts and of broken hopes. This old, out-of-use jail now provides guided tours of its reconstructed cells.
Quick Facts:
- The historical prison was built somewhere around 19th-century.
- The historical prison was opened on 1824.
Address: Convent Ave, Sunday’s Well, Cork, Ireland
8. Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne’s Church
A beautiful addition to city’s architecture, Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne’s Church is a house of christian worship located in Cork.
As this is a sacred location, anyone who want to enter are advised to cover their knees and shoulders. It is well worth to pay a small donation, as it goes towards supporting the ongoing upkeep of this piece of history.
Quick Facts:
- Some of the things Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne’s Church features include a landmark tower offering sweeping views of the city.
- It is also the seat of Anglican diocese of Cork.
- The church was built somewhere around 18th-century.
- The church was opened on 1722.
Add it to your Cork trip if you have time.
Address: Church St, Shandon, Cork, Ireland
9. Crawford Art Gallery
Crawford Art Gallery is an art gallery with an impressive set of collection.
Address: Emmett Pl, Centre, Cork, Ireland
10. Fitzgerald Park
Fitzgerald Park is a beautifully landscaped park spread over a large area in Cork.
It will not be wrong to say that Fitzgerald Park is truly an icon of landscape architecture.
The Fitzgerald Park is a hub of leisure activities, walk, jog, bike, swim or boat – choose your own adventure. It is one of the favourite spots of the Cork’s residents to hang out and relax.
Quick Facts:
- The park houses a nice xmuseum.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Cork trip.
Address: Mardyke, Cork, Ireland
11. The Butter Museum
The Butter Museum is a museum with unique collection situated in Cork.
Quick Facts:
- Founded in 1997, the niche museum is dedicated to the origin and history of Irish butter.
Address: O’Connell Square, Shandon, Cork, Ireland
12. Saint Patrick’s Street
Saint Patrick’s Street is the city’s most exclusive shopping and fashion destination.
. For those who aren’t up for a long shopping spree, you may rest your legs in a cafe and marvel at the crowds as you sip your coffee.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Cork trip.
13. Fota House & Gardens
Quick Facts:
- The manor house is located on the Fota island.
- The manor house was built somewhere around 19th-century.
14. Cork Public Museum
For anybody interested in learning more about Cork’s history, the Cork Public Museum is the ideal place to go.
Quick Facts:
- It was in 1910 when it was established.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Cork trip.
Address: Mardyke, Cork, Ireland
Thanks for reading this travel blog, hope now you know plenty of must see places in Cork. In this Cork travel blog post, I have listed not just what to see in Cork but also what to do.
And if you plan it well, these popular tourist attractions in Cork can be easily covered in a short itinerary. So what are Cork sights to see or you have already been here? Let me know in the comments along with your tips and experiences.
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