Cork
Ireland
Backpacking Cork
Information on Cork, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.
Cork is the Republic of Ireland’s second city, and is often considered the “real” Ireland compared to Dublin. Cork sees less backpackers than Dublin and Galway. However, it really shouldn’t, as it’s absolutely full of life, music and history. Cork has a diverse population and is reinventing itself with improved infrastructure and a boom in trendy small businesses. However, the city retains its tradition and is great for going out, with music around every corner and streets full of people. In the Victorian Quarter there’s bars, which serve a huge selection of whiskies, gins and beers, as well as having traditional music sessions every night. Budget travelers looking for free things to do can take a wander around the Campus of University College Cork. Here, you can enjoy the parkland, visit the exhibitions at the Glucksman Institute, and admire the beautiful stained-glass windows of the Great Hall. The English Market is also great to check out, it’s situated in a building that dates back to 1786 and is full of stalls selling fresh meat, fish, vegetables and fresh local baked goods, as well as craft products. You are bound to receive a warm welcome from locals and travelers alike on a backpacking trip to Cork. Enjoy local beers, hilarious banter from the locals and old school alleyways in this popular destination in Ireland.
Must See
Blarney Castle - One of Ireland’s most famous attractions is Blarney Castle. Built 600 years ago and now mostly in ruins, it is home to the Stone of Eloquence or more commonly referred to as the Blarney Stone. A mystical stone where visitors hang upside down to kiss it for good luck. Visitors can explore the many rooms, passageways and dungeons of the castle at their own pace, and eventually climb the battlement to kiss the famed stone and take in the views. The castle grounds are also beautiful and worth exploring, having many interesting things to see.
St Fin Barre’s Cathedral - Dating back to the 1870s and dedicated to the city’s 6th-century patron saint, Finbarr of Cork. The cathedral was built on the site where Cork began, using Cork limestone for the structure, and Cork Marble for the interior walls. There are few remains of the site’s earlier cathedrals, although nine carved heads and the Dean’s Gate still stand from the medieval building.
Elizabeth Fort - Close to St Fin Barre’s Cathedral, on the banks of the River Lee is the 17th century Elizabeth Fort. It was originally built outside the city’s walls to reinforce defenses against artillery attacks on the city. Visitors are free to explore the ramparts, with information boards detailing the evolution of the fort.
Must Do
The Mizen Head - Positioned as Ireland’s southernmost point, the peninsula is located beside small fishing villages. Climb the 99 steps and walk the suspension bridge to enjoy the Atlantic as it smashes against the rocks and enjoy the stunning views.
Tour Bantry House - Dating back to 1730, the house is best known for its art collection and tapestries. One of the best parts about it, is the great view over Bantry Bay.
Nightlife
Cork is great fun and definitely a drinking town. Cork nightlife consists largely of pubs with live music, singing, drinking beer on tap and Irish whiskey as well. There are also a few nightclubs scattered around if you’re looking to really turn up. Washington Street is one of the main streets for a good night out in Cork. This street is known for its lively nightlife atmosphere, and is lined with a wide range of pubs and bars serving a diverse range of people. You’ll find a festive atmosphere almost every day of the week here.
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