Cork Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Sightseeing & Activities
What is the “must-see” market in Cork? The English Market; it’s a historic covered food market in the city center.
Can you ring the bells in Cork? Yes, at St. Anne’s Church in Shandon (Shandon Bells).
What is the “Four-Faced Liar”? It’s the Shandon Clock tower; locals call it this because each face often shows a slightly different time.
Is Blarney Castle worth the hype? Most say yes, not just for the stone, but for the extensive and beautiful gardens (poison garden, rock close).
How do I get to Blarney from the city? Take the 215 bus from Bus Éireann; it takes about 30 minutes.
Where can I see “The Shaky Bridge”? It’s Daly’s Bridge, a suspension footbridge connecting Sunday’s Well to Fitzgerald Park.
Is there a prison tour in Cork? Yes, the Cork City Gaol (Jail) offers a fantastic audio tour of the historic prison.
What is Spike Island? Known as “Ireland’s Alcatraz,” it’s a former fortress and prison reachable by ferry from Cobh.
Where can I find modern art? The Glucksman Gallery (UCC grounds) or the Crawford Art Gallery (city center).
What is Nano Nagle Place? A restored convent with beautiful walled gardens, a museum, and a highly-rated cafe (Good Day Deli).
Where can I see Ogham stones? In the North Cloister of University College Cork (UCC).
What’s a quirky museum to visit? The Cork Butter Museum in Shandon—it explains how Cork once ran the world’s butter trade.
Where is the best place for a city walk? Fitzgerald Park and the Marina Walk (along the river toward Blackrock).
Can you visit a castle with a planetarium? Yes, Blackrock Castle Observatory.
What is “The Lough”? A shallow freshwater lake in the city, perfect for a walk and bird watching (don’t feed them bread!).
Is Elizabeth Fort free? Yes, you can walk the ramparts for great views of the city.
What is the most famous church? St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, a stunning example of French Gothic architecture.
Where can I see the Titanic’s last port of call? Cobh (formerly Queenstown); visit the Titanic Experience there.
What is Fota Wildlife Park? A “free-roaming” zoo where animals like lemurs and wallabies often walk among visitors.
Can I visit a whiskey distillery? Yes, the Jameson Distillery is in Midleton, a short train ride away.
Where can I see a stone circle? Drombeg Stone Circle in West Cork is the most famous near the county.
What is the “Rebel County”? This is Cork’s nickname, stemming from its role in the Irish War of Independence.
Are there any “abandoned” spots? Some recommend urban exploring near the old St. Kevin’s Asylum (from a distance).
Where can I go for a hike near the city? The Ballycotton Cliff Walk or the Old Head of Kinsale.
What is the “Deck of Cards”? A famous row of brightly colored houses in Cobh overlooking the cathedral.
Food & Drink
What is the local stout? Beamish or Murphy’s. Don’t just order Guinness; locals are proud of their own.
What is Tanora? A tangerine-flavored soft drink unique to Cork.
Where is the best place for a fancy dinner? Paradiso (vegetarian), Goldie (fish), or Elbow Lane (smokehouse).
What is a “chipper”? A traditional fish and chips shop. Jackie Lennox’s on Bandon Road is legendary.
Where can I find traditional Irish music (trad sessions)? Sin É, The Corner House, or An Spailpín Fánach.
Is the Marina Market good? Yes, it’s a massive indoor shipping-container food hall with tons of variety.
Where should I go for a cozy pint? The Mutton Lane Inn (off Patrick St) or Hi-B Bar (no phones allowed!).
What is a “Beamish and a toastie”? A local staple; a pint of stout and a grilled ham and cheese sandwich (try Castle Inn).
Where is the best coffee? Filter, SOMA, or Cork Coffee Roasters.
Where can I find good seafood? Quinlan’s Seafood Bar or Goldie.
Are there good vegan options? Yes, Liberty Grill and Paradiso are top-tier.
What is “Drisheen”? A traditional Cork blood pudding; you can find it at the English Market.
Where is a good spot for brunch? Good Day Deli or SpitJack.
Is tap water safe to drink? Yes, perfectly safe.
Do I need to tip? It’s not mandatory like in the US, but 10% for good table service is appreciated.
What is a “Murphy’s Ice Cream”? While originally from Dingle, they have a popular shop on Parliament Street.
Where can I get a late-night drink? Crane Lane Theatre or Old Oak.
Is there a local craft beer scene? Yes, Franciscan Well Brewery has a great beer garden and pizza.
What is “The Oval”? A historic, atmospheric pub designed by the same architects as the Titanic.
Best place for a burger? Son of a Bun or West Cork Burger.
Day Trips & Geography
Is Kinsale worth a day trip? Absolutely. It’s the “gourmet capital” of Ireland and very colorful.
How do I get to Kinsale? The 226 bus from the city center.
What is Charles Fort? A massive star-shaped fort in Kinsale with incredible harbor views.
What is West Cork? The coastal region west of the city, known for wild scenery and “The Wild Atlantic Way.”
Should I stay in the city or West Cork? Use the city as a base for 2-3 days, then move to Clonakilty or Bantry for the coast.
What is Mizen Head? Ireland’s most southwesterly point; famous for its high bridge and lighthouse.
How do I get to Cobh? A 25-minute commuter train from Kent Station.
What is the “Ring of Beara”? A less-crowded alternative to the Ring of Kerry, located in West Cork.
Can I visit an island with a cable car? Yes, Dursey Island has Ireland’s only cable car.
What is Gougane Barra? A stunning lake-side oratory and forest park; very peaceful and photogenic.
Is Clonakilty famous for anything? Its black pudding and being a very tidy, colorful town.
Where can I see whales/dolphins? Tours go out from Baltimore or Courtmacsherry.
What is Garnish Island? An island garden in Glengarriff with a microclimate that grows tropical plants.
Can I drive to the Cliffs of Moher from Cork? Yes, it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours one way.
Is there a beach near the city? Fountainstown and Myrtleville are the closest.
What is Inchydoney? One of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Ireland, near Clonakilty.
How is the drive to Killarney? Easy; about 1 hour and 15 minutes by car or bus.
What is the “Healy Pass”? A famous, winding mountain road on the Beara Peninsula.
Can I see seals in Cork? Yes, often in Glengarriff or on the ferry to Garnish Island.
Is there a “Wild Atlantic Way” sign in Cork? Yes, it starts (or ends) in Kinsale.
Logistics & Transport
Does Cork have an airport? Yes, Cork Airport (ORK) is about 15 minutes from the city.
How do I get from the airport to the city? Use the 225 or 226 bus, or a taxi (approx €20).
Is there Uber in Cork? Yes, but it only calls licensed taxis. There are no private Uber cars.
What is the “Leap Card”? A prepaid travel card that makes bus and train fares significantly cheaper.
Do I need a car in Cork City? No, the city is very walkable.
Do I need a car for West Cork? Yes, public transport is sparse there; a car is highly recommended.
What is the main train station? Kent Station.
What is the main bus station? Parnell Place Bus Station.
Is there a bike-share scheme? Yes, Coca-Cola Zero Bikes has stations all over the city.
Are taxis expensive? Generally moderate. Use the “Free Now” app to book them.
How do I pay for the bus? You can use a Leap Card or contactless payment (on most routes now).
Is Cork hilly? The north side (Shandon/Montenotte) is very steep; the city center (the island) is flat.
What is the “Red Zone” for buses? It’s the city bus zone where flat fares apply.
Is parking difficult? Yes, in the city center. Use the “Q-Park” garages or the Blackrock “Park and Ride.”
Can I take a train to Dublin? Yes, it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours from Kent Station.
Practical Tips & Culture
What is the weather like? Unpredictable. “Four seasons in one day” is common; bring a raincoat.
Is Cork safe? Generally very safe, but like any city, avoid poorly lit alleys at night.
What does “Like” mean at the end of every sentence? It’s a common Cork filler word, similar to “you know.”
What is a “Langer”? A local (usually) affectionate term for a foolish person.
Why do people call Cork the “Real Capital”? It’s a long-standing local joke/pride that Cork is better than Dublin.
Is the city center an island? Yes, it’s situated between two channels of the River Lee.
What time do shops close? Usually 6:00 PM, though some stay open until 9:00 PM on Thursdays/Fridays.
What is a “Bazaar”? Usually refers to a charity sale or Mother Jones Flea Market.
Are people friendly? Corkonians are known as the “chattiest” people in Ireland.
What should I wear? Layers and waterproof shoes. Umbrellas often break in the wind.
Is there free Wi-Fi? Many cafes and “Cork City Free Wi-Fi” in the center.
Where can I buy a SIM card? Three, Vodafone, or Eir shops on Patrick Street.
What are the “Pana” and “Nash”? Local slang for St. Patrick’s Street and the Grand Parade.
Is there a lot of graffiti? There is a lot of sanctioned street art; look for the “Rebel City” murals.
When is the Jazz Festival? Every October bank holiday weekend; the city gets very crowded and lively.
Do I need to carry cash? Most places take cards, but small pubs might prefer cash for small rounds.
What is the emergency number? 999 or 112.
Are there public toilets? Limited; your best bet is the English Market or department stores like Brown Thomas.
Is it okay to drive on the left? Yes, but roads in West Cork are very narrow—take it slow!
What’s the best way to start a conversation? Talk about the weather or ask for a local stout recommendation.