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Book your Cork Vacation
Cork Holiday Guide
Exploring Cork on foot will open out to you interesting waterways, lively traditional bars, modern art centres, historical buildings, fascinating independent shops and some of the best restaurants that Ireland has to offer.
Shopping in Cork
Cork is a shopper’s delight, not least because it still has a number of thriving independent traders that help set its shopping district apart from the interchangeable chains that dominate many other cities. Taking a stroll through the winding alleys around Grand Parade and Patrick Street you will discover many quirky independent retailers offering vintage clothes, handmade crafts and bespoke jewellery. When the shopping becomes too much there are also plenty of atmospheric cafes to relax and discuss your purchases in.
Restaurants in Cork
Cork has the best foodie scene in the country and lovers of fine foods are spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out. It’s not just in restaurants, however, where Cork’s love of gastronomy comes to life: a trip to the English Market on Princes Street is enough to work up a hearty appetite in itself, with beautifully presented local produce (cheeses, ham, salmon, buttered eggs, sausages and artisanal breads) mingling with quality imports like olives and wines.
Views of Cork
Some of the finest views of Cork can be enjoyed from two historic buildings: Elizabeth Fort and Cork City Gaol. On Sundays the Elizabeth Fort Market Festival will reward you with more than stunning views: Irish crafts, gourmet food and entertainment are also hosted within its historic walls. The views of the west of the city, including Cork’s university, from the old Gaol make it well worth the bus or taxi ride out to it.
Sport in Cork
Páirc Uí Chaoimh is a 50,000 capacity stadium in Ballintemple. It is the home of the Cork Gaelic Athletic Association, so you can always catch live football here on match days or enjoy a tour of the grounds every Monday and Wednesday.
Nature in Cork
With the tranquil River Lea never far away Cork provides many chances to get away from it all, whilst never being too far away from the amenities of the city. Fitzgerald Park offers tranquillity and natural beauty in the heart of Cork, whilst Lough Park is set around a freshwater limestone lake teeming with wildlife just one kilometre south-west of the city centre.
Enjoy Cork
With a warm welcome on every corner, modern art galleries, cosy pubs, great restaurants, historic buildings, regular festivals and shops with a difference, Cork has certainly claimed its place as the ‘real capital of Ireland’ in the hearts of its many visitors.
Q: Should I book a car while on holiday in Cork?
A: Experience Cork like a local. Get around the sights of Cobh with ease. Not only will a rental car make things easier, it'll make them more fun too. Sure, you can get around the major cities with public transportation if you need to. But if you're venturing out into the region of Cork or farther afield, take a look at our guide to Cheap Car Hire in Cork.
Q: Which airports can I fly in to for a holiday to Cork?
A: Prepare to fly in to Cork Airport (ORK). You'll most likely be arriving on one of the 885 international flights that operate from this major airport in Cork every month.
Q: What are the most popular types of hotels for a holiday to Cork?
A: From luxury options to those with fewer frills, you have plenty of choice. Many visitors spend their getaway in hotels. Other common sorts of accommodation are bed & breakfasts, apartments and guest houses.
Q: What does a holiday booking with Expedia include?
A: You can choose to plan every detail of your upcoming getaway or let Expedia give you a helping hand with an awesome holiday package. Hotels, flights and cars — we've got them covered. All that's left to do is figure out what activities or experiences you'd like to try.
Q: What is the best way to save money on my holiday to Cork?
A: Book a package with Expedia. It's that simple. Hotels, Flights, Experiences, Rental Cars — work out what you need for your Cork escape and watch your savings grow. It's time to start organising your dream holiday (and save yourself a pretty penny at the same time).
Q: What are the best things to do in Cork?
A: To start with, you could check out Shandon Steeple and National Radio Museum. If you'll be in Cork for another day or two, Elizabeth Fort is another favourite among travellers.
Annie Moore Statue, Lusitania Memorial and Stephen Pearce are well worth taking a look at if Cobh is where you're going to be spending your time.
But if you're only going to be in Mallow, you still won't be left short on options. Mallow The Rebel Trail, Spa House and Ballinamona Golf Course are just the start.
Guide to Exploring Cork
Top Deals on Flights
These prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices quoted are per person, return, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.
Top Hotel Deals
Per night/room
7 Jun-8 Jun
Hotel Isaacs Cork
48 MacCurtain Street, Cork, CorkBusiness, a Show, and Evening Meal. So convenient and Fantastic to have such a facility on the verge of City Centre hence an indubitable 5 stars
The River Lee Hotel
Western Road, Cork, CorkWonderful breakfast, beautiful views, friendly staff, and clean rooms. Would definitely recommend and stay here again.
Per night/room
7 Jun-8 Jun
Clayton Hotel Cork City
Lapps Quay, Cork, CorkStaff were very pleasant and welcoming. However, I was surprised and disappointed to be told that if I wanted a second Cappucino at Breakfast that this was an additional cost of c. €3.75. I don't see this in other hotels, and quite frankly, it's over the top, and unnecessary.
Hayfield Manor
Perrott Avenue, College Road, Cork, CorkUnbelievable service and facilities in a wonderful environment. Catered with ease for dietary restrictions in the restaurants and the spa and it’s staff were delightful. Must give a mention to Frank, the concierge who was a pleasure to meet and so helpful.
Per night/room
1 Jul-2 Jul
Ambassador Hotel & Health Club Cork
Military Hill, Saint Lukes Cross, Cork, CorkVery friendly staff and overall a great stay. Rooms need some maintainance, especially bathrooms.
River's Edge Bed & Breakfast
The Village, Glengarriff, County CorkEverything about this b&b is absolutely perfect. I specially appreciated the well appointed, beautifully devorated immaculate room, and the friendliness of host and staff.
Blarney Castle Hotel
Village Green, Blarney, CorkSuch a quaint little hotel, with a friendly staff and clean, updated amenities! The receptionist went out of her way to give my wife and I local suggestions for food and sites to see. At night we enjoyed traditional Irish music in the hotel's very cool pub!
The Montenotte Hotel
Middle Glanmire Road, Montenotte, Cork, CorkQuick and responsive room service. Front desk was kind enough to extend checkout time.
Top Activities in Cork
#1Rock of Cashel, Blarney Castle (Blarney Stone)& Cork City
Venture out of Dublin for a day spent soaking in the history and scenery of Ireland among the emerald hills of the south. Visit medieval Blarney Castle, expl...
#2Cork, Cobh & Blarney Castle 1-Day Rail Tour
Explore southern Ireland with a day away from Dublin in County Cork. Hear the history of the famous Blarney Castle and partake in the tradition of kissing th...
#3Shore Excursion: Cork (Cobh) Highlights and Blarney Castle
Join a fabulous trip to the famous Blarney Castle as on your way, you’ll enjoy a panoramic drive of Cork city together with some stunning Irish countryside w...
#4Magical Cork Self-Guided Audio Tour
Known as Ireland’s second capital, Cork is rich with old historic churches and houses that have been around for hundreds of years. This audio tour will immer...
