In our Irish county guide series, we share our top tips, tricks and picks when visiting each Irish county. This time, we’re taking on Cork county.
County Cork, known as the “Rebel County”, is Ireland’s largest county, boasting some of the most striking and spectacular scenery the island has to offer.
Also often referred to as the food capital of Ireland, the county has a deep-rooted identity in culinary heritage and local produce. Whether you are planning to wander through the historic streets of Cork City or explore the west Cork coastlines of the Wild Atlantic Way, Cork offers a blend of rural tranquillity and cosmopolitan energy.
Where to stay
Just a short stroll from Cork city centre, this five-star independent hotel, located within 2 acres of beautiful gardens, is an oasis of luxury. Featuring 87 uniquely designed bedrooms, completed with antique furnishings, Hayfield Manor is perfect for anyone who is planning on exploring the city’s plethora of historical sites. The manor. Guests can spend their time enjoying their indoor pool, the beautique spa, or an evening of fine dining at Orchards Restaurant.
For those who are looking for a coastal escape, this family-run hotel overlooking Clonakilty Bay is the way to go. Known for its spectacular coastal setting and warm hospitality, the hotel is also home to the Michelin-star restaurant – Adrift. It’s a perfect base for those wanting to explore the beaches of the South Coast.
Situated just on the banks of the River Lee, this luxury boutique hotel is the is an ideal for a city break. Known for its modern look and social atmosphere, the hotel offers a variety of spacious rooms and light-filled interiors. The hotel’s warm and attentive service makes visiting the city’s cultural attractions easy.
Inchydoney Island Lodge sits on the rugged coastline just outside the town of Clonakilty. Named Ireland’s leading hotel in 2025 by the World Travel Awards, it offers a tranquil escape overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The lodge features a range of guest rooms, including self-catering apartments for those wanting a bit more independence. It’s the ideal spot for those looking for a peaceful coastal experience in Cork.
Other accommodation includes:
The Maldron (Cork City)
The Kingsley Hotel (Cork City)
Actons Hotel (Kinsale)
Castlemartyr Resort (Castlemartyr)
Ballymaloe House Hotel (Shanagarry)
The Montenotte Hotel (Cork City)
Ballyvolane House (Fermoy)
Where to eat
Restaurants
Elbow lane brew and smoke house (Cork City)
Goldie (Cork City)
The Fish Basket (Long Stand)
The Crawford restaurant (Bandon)
Liberty Grill (Cork City)
The Black Pig (Kinsale)
Wild Garlic (Bantry)
Ichigo Ichie (Cork City)
Saint Francis Provisions (Kinsale)
Titanic Bar and Grill (Cobh)
The Elm Tree (Glounthaune)
Coffee/Bunch
Wildflower Cork (Innishannon)
Jo’s café (Kinsale)
Found Out Cafe (Innishannon)
Farmgate Café (Cork City)
Good Day Deli (Cork City)
Pubs
Dam Lowerys (Cork City)
The Spaniard (Kinsale)
Franciscan Well Microbrewery (Cork City)
Levis Corner House (Ballydehob)
MacCarthy’s Bar (Castletownbere)
O’Sullivan’s Bar (Crookhaven)
What to do?
Fota island
Located in Cork Harbour east of Cork City, Fota Island is one of Ireland’s distinct landscapes where wildlife, woodland and luxury sit alongside each other. Home to Fota Wildlife Park, the perfect family destination to see animals in an open-range environment. There is also Fota House and gardens for those who want to explore the history of the island, with a variety of attractions allowing something for everyone on your trip.
English market
First opening its doors in 1788, the English Market in Cork is one of the oldest of its kind in the world, and it is at the very centre of the city’s food scene. Divided into three sections on Prince Street, the Grand Parade Hall and Oliver Plunkett Street, it offers a variety of experiences whether you’re looking for something to grab and go or shop like a local; the English Market has you covered.
Ballymaloe cooking school
Established by Darina Allen in 1983, the world-famous Ballymaloe cookery school is the hub of culinary and horticultural excellence. Where guests are welcome to participate in a range of different specialised workshops, browse the on-site store or experience farm-to-fork dining upon their visit.
Other activities include:
- Spike island
- Titanic Experience Cobh
- Mizen Head
Anything else I should know?
Bus Éireann runs a range of different routes to get you around the county, with Cork’s Main bus station located in Parnell Place, Cork City. Local Link, West Cork Connect, and Cobh Connect are also bus services that connect various parts of the county and nearby towns.
Renting a car can often be a more practical option for those who are planning on visiting remote beaches or smaller villages where public transport is not readily available.
Read next: Irish Country Magazine’s guide to: Dublin.
Written by Jessica Francis.
