Cork is my favourite Irish city so far.

Think of it as a more colourful Dublin, with a lot more waterways around it. As a local would say, it’s a lovely city.

You might think two days isn’t enough, but trust me, with this itinerary, you’ll see everything you need and more. I would take credit for this amazing schedule, but the truth is I must give credit to my amazing Irish friends who crafted it to perfection.

Let’s get started.

How to get there? You’ve got two solid options: rent a car from GoCar or take the train from Heuston Station to Cork (Kent) Station. Both take about 2.5 hours, but the train is a steal at just €29. Remember to always put the option “Young Adult or Student” when booking the train tickets!!! Being a student or young adult in Ireland gets you so many benefits and discounts, so take advantage of everything.

Where to stay? Got a friend in Cork? Fantastic! If not, no worries. We stayed at the Rezz Hotel, which I highly recommend. It was €60 per person for a double room. Prices can vary, especially on weekends or bank holidays, so plan ahead!

Day 1

• Catch the morning train, no later than 10 AM.
  • It may sound like a nightmare for non-early birds like myself, but sometimes in life, we need to make some sacrifices.
• Drop your bags at the hotel.
• Head to Marina Market for the best rotisserie chicken you’ll ever have at Hansum.
• From amazing winter coats to old polaroids of random people (if you’re into that sort of thing) find them all at Mother Jones Flea Market.
• Visit the Crawford Art Gallery for a dose of art.
• Grab a coffee at Dukes Coffee Company or try bubble tea at Plus and Minus.
• Wander around the beautiful UCC campus.
• Enjoy Fitzgerald Park and the Shakey Bridge (I would highly recommend the bridge for your friends who are afraid of heights specifically).
• Explore Cork City Gaol.
• Have a lovely dinner at Koto.
• Buy some wine and snacks, then head to St. Patrick’s Hill for a breathtaking sunset.
• End the night with some pints in Fionnbarra or Brick Lane.

Day 2:

• Rise & shine around 9am.
• Get an amazing brunch at Perry Street (don’t forget to make a reservation).
• Get the train to Cobh @12.
• Immerse in the Titanic Experience (book in advance). You can even find out if you died or survived at the end of the tour (not gonna lie is a bit dark if you think about it, but it’s very interesting).
• Enjoy a coffee at a local café.

• Walk up to the stunning St. Colman’s Cathedral (which actually won the Most Beautiful Cathedral award or at least that’s what my friend said, but it is truly stunning).
• Wander down the street of the iconic colourful houses and find the little park in front of the yellow and navy blue house for the best pictures.
• Treat yourself at a local ice cream shop.
• Take the train back to Cork, then head home.

We took this trip at the beginning of May on a bank holiday weekend and it was the best decision ever. We had the best weather and the city was super lively.

Just keep in mind that for these quick trips every minute counts, but don’t stress if you miss a few activities. You’ll leave Cork wanting to come back for more!