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Looking for the best things to do in Cork? Start right here!
We’ve spent plenty of time exploring this charming riverside city and can confidently say—it’s so much more than just a gateway to the countryside. Between its cozy pubs, colorful markets, sea-swept coastlines, and world-famous whiskey, Cork manages to feel both vibrant and laid-back in all the best ways.
Whether you’re here for the food, the folklore, or the Wild Atlantic air, this list will take you beyond the guidebook to the most fun, flavorful, and memorable experiences Cork has to offer. These are the seven tours and activities we’d recommend to any traveler, especially if it’s your first time here. Let’s explore!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this food tour of Cork! Visit famous markets and taste Irish classic fare, like fish, soda bread, a pub lunch, and Irish Coffee, all while seeing city sights.
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Cork, Ireland
- 1. Drive along the Ring of Kerry and visit Killarney National Park
- 2. Taste your way around Cork
- 3. Hike the Toe Head Clifftop with a guide
- 4. Discover Cork’s history and sweet treats on a donut tour
- 5. Enjoy a boat tour of Kinsale Harbour and Bandon River
- 6. Take a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher
- 7. Learn how to make cocktails, taste whiskey, and tour the Cork Midleton Distillery
- Where to Stay in Cork, Ireland
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in Europe
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Things to do in Cork, Ireland
1. Drive along the Ring of Kerry and visit Killarney National Park
- Duration: 11 hours
- Time: 8:30 am
- Highlights: Ring of Kerry full-day tour, visit highlights including Killarney National Park, Killarney Town, Waterville Beach, Sneem, and Torc Waterfall
- Inclusions: Driver/guide, air-conditioned vehicle, live commentary and WiFi on board, USB ports, all taxes, fees, and handling charges
- Rating: 4.4 stars (check 530+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
I’ll be honest—driving Ireland’s narrow country roads sounds romantic until you’re face-to-face with a tour bus around a blind bend. That’s why we left the navigating to the pros and joined this full-day Ring of Kerry tour from Cork, and it was the best decision we made.
From the moment we met our group in the city, our guide, Kevin, set the tone with a mix of wit and storytelling that made the entire day fly by. We rolled through the Cork and Kerry Mountains, stopped for coffee in Killarney, and coasted past scenic spots like Dingle Bay and Inch Beach.
The cool morning air, the hum of Irish chatter in the café, and the buzz of anticipation set the perfect pace for what was ahead.
Sneem was a standout stop – tiny, colorful, and packed with charm, and we had time to stretch our legs and explore the riverfront. Lunch wasn’t included, but we stopped at The Lobster Bar in Waterville, and the seafood chowder was worth every cent.
The landscapes were ever-changing and absolutely magnetic. But what really elevated the trip was Kevin’s insight. He made local traditions like the Puck Fair come alive. We ended the day strolling past Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park before cruising back to Cork, with our camera rolls full and stress levels low.
It was the kind of day that reminded us why guided tours can be such a smart move—easy, enriching, and totally enjoyable from start to finish. If you want to see the best of the Ring of Kerry without the hassle, this is the way to do it!
Secure your spot on this popular tour here and get FREE cancellation before you go!
2. Taste your way around Cork
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 11 am
- Highlights: Visit to the famed English Market, chat with local traders, feast on local treats
- Inclusions: Snacks, sharing platter, beverages
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 150+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Eating your way through a new city sounds easy, until you’re wandering aimlessly, not sure what’s worth trying and what’s just there for the tourists. That’s exactly why we booked this small-group foodie tour, and thank goodness we did, because we’d never have found half these places on our own.
Our guide, Frances, was everything you’d hope for in a local host—warm, hilarious, and clearly adored by the vendors we met. She had us sampling smoked fish, oysters, crumbly cheese, and handmade chocolates in the English Market before most tourists had even figured out where the entrance was.
At Coal Quay, she brought the old market to life with stories of the “shawlies” who once traded here in headscarves and aprons. It was easy to picture the bustle of their stalls, the clang of coins, and the smell of fresh produce in the air.
We popped into St. Peter and Paul’s Church for a quick look at its carved angels and stained glass before wrapping up with lunch and a drink at the cozy Long Valley Bar. By the time we finished, we were full, happy, and already planning where to go next—thanks to Frances’ post-tour recs.
This was hands-down our favorite experience in Cork. And we’re clearly not alone, just check out the five-star reviews here to see why this is a top-rated food tour!
Reserve our FAVORITE tour here and taste the best of Cork!
3. Hike the Toe Head Clifftop with a guide
- Duration: 2 hours and 45 minutes
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Small-group 4-mile (7-km) hike exploring the Toe Head clifftop area of the Wild Atlantic Way
- Inclusions: Guide, bottled water, snacks
- Rating: 5 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Hiking the Wild Atlantic Way can sound like a dream—until you realize just how crowded and over-trafficked some of the main trailheads have become. That’s why we made a beeline for West Cork’s Toe Head on this small-group guided hike and found ourselves in a totally different world.
Our guide, Conor, grew up in the area and brought the trail to life with legends, history, and the kind of insider stories you just don’t get on your own. We wandered past blooming heathland dotted with wild orchids, through a long-deserted famine village, and stopped at a promontory fort that came with a jaw-dropping view!
The pace was relaxed, the stories were constant, and the silence between stops was pure gold. There was plenty of time to pause, breathe in the sea air, and just take it all in without ever feeling rushed.
One of the most surreal moments came at Tráigh Liceach, where we ended the hike on a quiet beach that once saw wartime submarine action. There, we tucked into a local treat and listened to Conor’s final tale as the waves rolled in.
This is the Wild Atlantic Way at its most peaceful and personal—unspoiled views, local stories, and the kind of stillness that’s hard to come by.
Don’t miss out – reserve this tour now and pay later when you book it here!
4. Discover Cork’s history and sweet treats on a donut tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 10:30 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 2:30 pm
- Highlights: Walking donut tour including sweet treats, rich history, and local culture
- Inclusions: Guide, donuts
- Rating: 5 stars (check 160+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
It’s easy to overlook walking tours when you’re short on time or craving something more exciting than facts and plaques. That’s why this family-friendly donut tour through Cork was such a win. It was tasty, welcoming, and full of personality from the very first stop.
We started strong at Cameron Bakery with warm, flaky pastries, then followed our guide Chloe (who was an absolute gem) down Oliver Plunkett Street. She had the perfect mix of fun facts and local charm, and she made sure everyone in the group felt included. We were barely twenty minutes in and already wondering if it was too soon to declare this the best tour snack lineup of the trip.
Watching mini donuts sizzle in the fryer and diving into vibrant, candy-stacked creations made each stop more delicious than the last. At the English Market, Chloe’s passion for Cork’s food culture really shone through.
We strolled through Bishop Lucey Park, paused at the National Monument, and even took a quick photo op at the Rory Gallagher statue before finishing with churros and chocolate at Golden Bites. It was the perfect mix of flavor, history, and fun!
It’s no wonder this tour has so many five-star reviews! Join the donut trail and see (and taste!) why it’s one of Cork’s sweetest highlights.
Check availability and book this tour here!
Related Read: If you want help crafting the perfect getaway to Cork, check out our 2-day Cork itinerary for a step-by-step guide!
5. Enjoy a boat tour of Kinsale Harbour and Bandon River
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Time: 10 am, 2 pm, and 6 pm
- Highlights: Kinsale Harbour and Bandon River private boat tour, sightseeing, mackerel and lobster fishing, interaction with wildlife
- Inclusions: Bottled water, narrated tour
- Rating: 5 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Trying to take in Ireland’s coastal beauty from land alone is a rookie move—some of the best views (and stories) are out on the water. That’s precisely why we headed to Kinsale for this harbor boat tour, and we’re so glad we did.
Captain Brian greeted us with a grin, a sea-weathered cap, and his adorable canine first mate by his side. As we cruised past islands, hidden coves, and colorful seaside houses, he shared stories from his 40 years at sea with a mix of humor, history, and pure passion for the coast he calls home. His narration made everything, from old fortifications to seagull behavior, suddenly fascinating.
With the salty breeze, sun on our faces, and the gentle rhythm of the boat, it was one of those experiences that just made you exhale and enjoy the moment.
We spotted wildlife, tried our hand at fishing, and even got to help pull up a lobster pot (gloves provided, thankfully). There was always something happening on board, but never in a rushed way—it struck that perfect balance between laid-back and interactive. The whole thing felt casual and fun, like being out on the water with a friend who just happens to be an expert navigator.
Want the salty breeze in your hair and some laughs with a local legend? Hop aboard and let Captain Brian show you why Kinsale is best explored by boat.
Check out the dozens of 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
6. Take a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher
- Duration: 11 hours
- Time: 7:45 am
- Highlights: Full-day tour of the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren from Cork, visit the Burren, Limerick, and Bunratty Castle
- Inclusions: Driver/guide, all taxes, fees, and handling charges, live commentary and WiFi on board, Cliffs of Moher admission, air-conditioned vehicle
- Rating: 4.2 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Renting a car to visit Ireland’s west coast sounds dreamy until you’re white-knuckling it on a one-lane road, trying not to miss the scenery while navigating unfamiliar roads. That’s why we took the easy route and joined this full-day tour to the Cliffs of Moher, Burren, and Bunratty Castle and had zero regrets.
Our guide, Jammie, made the long drive fly by with just the right mix of history, humor, and “did you know?” facts. We started with a scenic ride through the Golden Vale and a quick spin past Limerick’s King John’s Castle before heading straight for the Cliffs of Moher.
They were even more dramatic than we imagined—windswept, raw, and towering over the crashing Atlantic. With 90 minutes to explore, we had time to walk, snap photos, and pop into the visitor center. We stood there for a good 10 minutes just watching the waves slam against the cliffs.
We stopped in the tiny village of Doolin for a cozy pub lunch (at our own expense), including seafood chowder and brown bread (yes, please), then rolled through the surreal Burren landscape before ending the day with a photo stop at Bunratty Castle.
It was a full day in every sense, from sweeping coastlines to story-filled ruins, and we never once had to worry about parking or directions. This top-rated tour is the ultimate Irish day trip from Cork!
Secure this unforgettable Cliffs of Moher day trip here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
7. Learn how to make cocktails, taste whiskey, and tour the Cork Midleton Distillery
- Duration: 1 hour
- Time: Multiple times available from 11:10 am–4:30 pm
- Highlights: Hands-on whiskey tasting experience, choose a distillery tour, premium whiskey tasting, or a cocktail masterclass
- Inclusions: Instructor, guided distillery tour (if option selected), premium whiskey tasting or three cocktails (depending on option selected)
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
A simple whiskey tasting? Sure, that’s fun. But we wanted to get closer to the good stuff—literally. So we booked this small-group distillery tour at the Midleton Distillery and dove deep into the world of Irish whiskey, from cooperage to cask.
The experience kicked off with a walk through the distillery grounds, and before long, we were standing inside the Maturation House, surrounded by barrels aging quietly in the dark. The air was thick with the sweet, oaky scent of whiskey. It felt like stepping into a secret chapter of Irish history.
Our guide was sharp, funny, and knew the history inside out. He even walked us through the Distiller’s Cottage, a stop most people never get to see. Sipping premium whiskey just steps from where it’s made? That’s something we won’t forget anytime soon!
We didn’t do the cocktail class this time, but shaking up three different Jameson cocktails in a private mixology room sounds like a blast! It’s a creative, hands-on way to explore Irish whiskey from a whole new angle—perfect if you’re more into sipping than studying.
From the immersive distillery tour to the hands-on cocktail class or a guided tasting, you can pick the experience that matches your vibe! But, if you want the whole story, and a few special moments most visitors miss, we definitely recommend the Behind the Scenes tour!
Book this whiskey tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
Where to Stay in Cork, Ireland
Cork is a lively and charming city with no shortage of great places to stay, whether you’re after luxury, comfort, or something easy on the wallet. From elegant manor houses to stylish city hotels and affordable suburban escapes, there’s a perfect spot here for every type of traveler.
If any of these places still have availability, they’re the ones we’d personally recommend. So, whether you’re visiting for the food, the coast, or the culture, you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying everything this vibrant Irish city has to offer!
Luxury – $$$
Tucked away in a quiet corner just 15 minutes from Cork’s city center, Hayfield Manor is a five-star hotel that blends old-world elegance with modern luxury. Set in a stately ivy-covered manor, this boutique stay offers spacious, classically decorated rooms, a full-service spa, an indoor pool, and two award-winning restaurants. Whether sipping drinks in the drawing room or unwinding in the outdoor hot tub, it feels more like a grand country escape than a city hotel.
Prices vary depending on season and room type, but generally range from €250 to €600 per night. Check availability and book this luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
The Maldron Hotel South Mall is a stylish and comfortable mid-range option located right in the heart of Cork. Just steps from the city’s main shopping streets, restaurants, and cultural attractions, it’s the ideal base for exploring without needing a car. The hotel features modern, air-conditioned rooms with Chromecast TVs, a cozy on-site restaurant, and a relaxed café-bar perfect for a quick bite or nightcap.
Prices typically range from around €170 to €260 per night, depending on the room type and season. Check availability and book your room on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a comfortable and affordable stay just outside the hustle of Cork City, the Talbot Hotel Cork is a fantastic budget-friendly choice. Located in the charming suburb of Ballincollig, this modern hotel offers spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant and bar, and even a full leisure center with a pool, gym, and hot tub. Rooms are clean, well-appointed, and include thoughtful extras like tea and coffee facilities, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.
Room rates typically start at around €120 per night, depending on the season and room choice. Check current deals and reserve your budget stay on Booking.com.
Check out the full list of hotel options in Cork here.
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
Cork was such a fun city to explore – full of historic buildings, natural beauty, and lively energy. I couldn’t get over how stunning it was, and every activity we did boasted just how amazing Cork was. These are just the top 7 things to do, but really, there is so much to see! I am already looking forward to our next visit.
Before you go, check out our other UK blogs! We have traveled all over and put together guides on our favorite places and can’t miss activities. Here are a few related blogs that will help you plan your next getaway – cheers!
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