Overview
Take a trip to Cork on your Ireland Vacation
When on an Ireland vacation, take in Cork southern Ireland’s second-largest city located a little inland from the coast. The city centre is compact and is set on an island in the River Lee. It is surrounded by interesting waterways and is crisscrossed by Georgian avenues, 17th-century alleyways and modern masterpieces such as the opera house. The best way to see Cork is to walk. There is a signposted Walking Tour available. St Patrick's Street runs from St Patrick's Bridge, through the city's main shopping and commercial area, to the Georgian Grand Parade.
To the north and south of St Patrick's St are the city's most entertaining quarters which consist of narrow streets, full of pubs, shops, cafes and restaurants to be enjoyed on Ireland trips. The English Market, dating back to the 17th Century, is an ornate covered market selling some of the region's very best local produce, meats and cheeses. Some of the other outstanding landmarks include St. Finnbarre’s Cathedral, a really splendid triple-spired French Gothic building, St Mary's Cathedral, the Catholic cathedral of the city dating back to 1808 with a distinctive tower, the Cork Opera House, originally built in 1855, burnt down and now a modern edifice, Blackrock Castle, a restored 16th Century castle that now houses a science centre and observatory, the church tower of Shandon which dominates the North side of the city and is regarded as the symbol of the city and Cork City Hall.
The eye-catching Lewis Glucksman Gallery houses mainly modern art and the Crawford Street Gallery, one of the city’s oldest at over 200 years old, houses a permanent collection of classic works. Cork is an excellent centre for visiting surrounding attractions while on Ireland tours such as Blarney Castle (of Blarney Stone fame) and the beautiful port and resort of Kinsale.
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St. Patrick’s Day (March 17th) is always a great time to experience Irish culture at its most festive. And for something unique, visit during Halloween, or as we call it, Oíche Shamhna. Halloween actually originated in Ireland as a pagan festival, and many towns still celebrate with local traditions and festivals
There are plenty of castle stays in Ireland, along with many unique and memorable accommodations. You can sleep under the stars in the Finn Lough Bubble Domes in County Fermanagh, stay in a converted lighthouse, or unwind at the Ice House Hotel & Spa in Ballina, County Mayo just to name a few
Two tips for first time visitors: The weather is famously unpredictable so always pack layers and a rain jacket, no matter the season, and Ireland runs on a relaxed pace, so don’t be surprised if things are a bit slower than you're used to especially in rural areas
If you're visiting Ireland between February and September, you must experience a local hurling or Gaelic football match. It's our national sports and a true reflection of Irish passion and pride!
St Patrick's Quay, Lee River, Cork, Ireland
Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, Cork, Ireland
Carrigadrohid, Cork, Ireland
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