Things to do in County Cork

Activities, attractions and tours

A coastal town with houses, boats, and a prominent cliff.
A stone bridge with ornate metal railings, a historic building with a pointed roof, and lush green trees.
A bustling street lined with shops and colorful flower arrangements.
A historic town with a prominent clock tower, surrounded by residential buildings and lush greenery.
A historic building with red brick and white stone, surrounded by a formal garden with geometric hedges and mature trees.

Things to do


  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. Blarney Castle

Visit Blarney Castle to see dungeons, towers and ramparts of a fortress dating back to the 15th century. Marvel at the colorful flower displays of the perfectly groomed gardens and enjoy picnics on pristine lawns. Climb to the Blarney Stone, said to grant the gift of eloquence to all who kiss it. Today’s Blarney Castle is the third structure on the site and was established in 1446 by the then King of Munster.
Learn more
A historic castle with a tall tower, surrounded by lush greenery and a field of yellow flowers.

2. University College Cork

Cork University College is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland and was founded in 1845 as one of three Queen’s colleges located in Belfast, Galway and Cork. The university won international acclaim when it was named Irish University of the Year by the Sunday Times in 2011.
Learn more
An arched stone corridor with a tiled floor leading to a park.

3. English Market

Visit Cork’s English Market to encounter the infectious sights, sounds and smells of a centuries-old food market. Discover everything from organic fruits and vegetables to artisanal ice cream, fresh seafood and locally produced cheeses. Try typical Cork fare while watching the bustling market activity from the comfort of a café or restaurant. The English Market dates back to 1788. Today its more than 50 traders form an integral part of Cork’s culinary scene.
Learn more
The English Market in Cork, featuring brick architecture and a crowd of people.

4. Blackrock Castle

At Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) Blackrock Castle Observatory, you can step 400 years into the past and see light years into the distant corners of the cosmos.
Learn more
A historic castle by a river with lush greenery and a distant view of a town.

5. Fota Wildlife Park

Fota Wildlife Park is an expansive rural setting where exotic animals roam and interact with one another. It focuses on conservation and improving the quality of life of the animals with vast spaces and unobtrusive barriers. Bring the kids to this picturesque island zoo to see giraffes, wild cats and primates.
Learn more
A group of giraffes standing close together in a fenced enclosure with a grassy area and trees in the background.

6. Cork City Gaol

Visit Cork City Gaol, where prisoners were held in gruesome conditions for almost a century during the 1800s and 1900s. Learn about this historic prison’s famous inmates, their crimes, escapes and executions while walking between the well-preserved cells. Cork City Goal opened in 1824 and became an all-female prison in 1878. It held a mix of well-known prisoners and poor citizens, many convicted of petty crimes such as stealing clothes and food.
Learn more
A multi-level atrium with stone walls, a central staircase, and a chandelier.

What to do in County Cork


Stay near popular County Cork attractions

Where to stay in County Cork

Find the best County Cork areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

Cork City Centre

Cork City Centre is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to St. Patrick's Street and Crawford Art Gallery while you're in town.

South Parish

While visiting South Parish, you might make a stop by sights like Cork City Hall and Elizabeth Fort.

Victorian Quarter

Victorian Quarter is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Everyman Palace Theatre and Leisureplex while you're in town.

Blackrock

You'll enjoy the restaurants and parks in Blackrock. You might want to make time for a stop at Blackrock Castle or Mahon Point Shopping Centre.

Shandon

Shandon is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Bells of Shandon and Butter Museum while in the area.