Cork - All Things Ireland

In this Cork Guide, it's time to explore this Irish gem! With its historic attractions, world-renowned pubs, cosy restaurants and vibrant nightlife, this is the place to let your Irish heritage (or ambitious side) shine. From Blarney Castle to St Patrick's Street, there are plenty of things to see and do, for culture seekers. There are lots of outdoor activities for those that are seeking the best things to do in Cork. And when you're done for the day, what better way to unwind than checking out one of the city's famous pubs or restaurants? With their traditional Irish charm combined with modern decor and upbeat vibes, it'll be hard to not have a great time. So get planning and get ready for a fun experience! Brief History Of Cork Ah, the beautiful island of Cork, Ireland, was home to many adventuring Vikings, inspiring poets and painters, and a brief history that's anything but boring! The area of ancient Cork was once renowned for its wine production, long before it became popular as a port town in the early 1100s. It was around this time that the first Viking settlers put down roots, with their presence leaving a lasting impact on Cork's culture from then onward. Over time, the port city became even more diverse when the Normans conquered it in the 1200s, resulting in years of civil unrest. Throughout these centuries of strife and transition, Cork remained a strong cultural hub, thanks largely to its picturesque coastline naturally inspiring a wealth of creativity and artistic expression. It is a vibrant area of Ireland and it's a fact there are heaps of things to do in Cork, that will keep you busy when you visit the area. Why You Need To Visit Cork If you're looking for Cork tourist information, the aim of this article is to give you lots of it. Cork is the place to be if you're looking for unique experiences and stunning views. From its vibrant culture to its historic architecture, Cork has something to offer all age groups! Plus, with so much spectacular scenery o the Wild Atlantic Way route, it's no wonder that Cork is one of the most popular destinations in Ireland. Cork is known as the "Rebel County". If you're feeling adventurous, why not explore Cork's coastal activities including kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding? Whether you prefer trying traditional Irish favourites like bangers and mash or exploring world-class botanical gardens, with so many things to do in Cork, it is one of the most popular places to visit! A Few Things You Need To Know When visiting Cork can be a lot of fun and a unique experience, but you must keep certain things in mind. Leave extra room in your suitcase (and your stomach!) for some great food, locals love all types of delicious foods! And don't forget about Cork's famous festivals, these festivals are some of the best things to do in Cork. You can celebrate culture and get down with the locals or join thousands of people from across the island for Midsummer Festival with some spontaneous dancing in the streets. Whatever else happens during your stay in Cork? Have fun, relax and make friends along the way! Where Is Cork Location of Cork in Map of Ireland You can see here Cork is located on the map of Ireland above. Useful Map Of Cork Map of The different parts of Cork What Is The Wild Atlantic Way Cork The Wild Atlantic Way in Cork is an adventure like no other and arguably one of the best things to do in Cork. This glorious coastal route will take you on a journey like never before, with stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and charming towns at every turn. In this Cork travel guide, you'll discover why people love the dramatic scenery of the rebel county, all while having a proper pint of Guinness along the way. The whole route of the Wild Atlantic Way is 2,500 km around some of the coast of Ireland The Cork section starts from Kinsale and covers a load of amazing areas around the rebel county. There's something for you on this breathtaking stretch of the Irish coastline. It's not just one of the most scenic things to do in Cork, it's an experience that will stay with you long after your trip has ended! Cultural Significance Of Cork Cork in Ireland has got to be one of the most culturally significant places in Ireland. From its Viking heritage to its beautiful natural landscapes, to the fact that some people actually put corks into wine bottles!!! There are so many things to do in Cork it is full of culture, and of course, has plenty going for it! Plus, if you ever want to start a conversation with an Irish person, simply bring up Cork (which as we all know is also used to make hats!) and you won't struggle with topics! The cultural significance of Cork is vast, with its use is deeply rooted in Irish history and folklore. Budgeting Info Here's an estimate of the cost of some common expenses: Hotels You can expect to pay anywhere from €50 to €200 or more per night for a hotel room. Budget-friendly options include hostels, bed and breakfast accommodations, and some Airbnb rentals. Renting A Car The cost of renting a car in Cork can range from €50 to €150 per day, depending on the type of vehicle you choose and the length of the rental period. Keep in mind that you'll also need to pay for fuel and parking. Attractions Admission fees for attractions can vary widely, but many popular sites such as the Cork City Gaol and the Cork Museum charge around €10 to €15 per person. Some attractions, such as the Lewis Glucksman Gallery, offer FREE admission. Food And Drink You can expect to pay anywhere from €10 to €30 or more for a meal in a restaurant, depending on the type of cuisine and the level of service. Pubs and cafes typically offer less expensive options, such as sandwiches, salads, and drinks. When To Visit? When it comes to the best time to visit, there's no wrong time to visit! From the scenic green countryside to the many things to do in Cork on the Wild Atlantic Way, the region won't disappoint. You'll find that it's always a good time to make your way here. You could plan a winter trip and enjoy some warm whiskey by a cosy fireplace, or pack up and come during springtime when wildflowers are blooming and all kinds of wildlife are out and about. Of course, if you're craving longer summer days and festival vibes, then the summer months are for your best time to visit the area! The Best Things to Do in Cork Take A Look Around Blarney Castle Blarney Castle and the Blarney stone is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Ireland. this castle tour is a really fun thing to do. The castle was built in the 15th Century, people visit this enchanting castle to kiss the Blarney stone and receive 'the Gift of the Gab' after kissing the stone. You can enjoy wandering around the grounds, with its interesting gardens and mature trees, as well as exploring the majestic Tudor-style castle itself. Kissing the Blarney stone has to be one of the best things to do in Cork for sure! Get Some Food AT The English Market The English Market is undoubtedly one of the best foodie things to do in Cork, with origins that date back centuries. This bustling city market has an atmosphere unlike anywhere else, with countless stalls selling fresh local produce and goods. People come to savour the culinary delights, explore the vibrant atmosphere, and even meet the local traders, in what is regarded as being akin to a theatrical performance on a daily basis. Pop Into St. Finbarre’s Cathedral Any Cork guide wouldn't be good unless we included a church! Just off the city’s main streets lies the iconic St. Finbarre’s Cathedral, with its dazzling Gothic architecture, a sign of its immense historical importance to the city. Tourists visit this beautiful building in admiration, of its biblical imagery and statues, as well as its well-preserved stained glass windows and ornamental details. Having been rebuilt following an intense fire in the 1800s, this impressive structure stands at the epicentre of Cork city today, a must-see attraction on any visitor’s itinerary. Take A Tour Of Cork City Gaol Cork City Gaol is a former prison located in Cork City. A tour of this old prison is definitely one of the best things to do in Cork. The prison was in operation from 1824 until 1923 and was used to house prisoners from all over Ireland. The prison was known for its harsh conditions, and many inmates were subjected to hard labour and inadequate living conditions, it is one of the most interesting things to do in Cork. Explore Fitzgerald Park & Cork Public Museum Fitzgerald Park is a beautiful park. It is one of the city's largest public parks and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The park is named after Edward Fitzgerald, who was the Lord Mayor of Cork in the early 1900s and was responsible for creating the park. One of the highlights of Fitzgerald Park is the Cork Public Museum, which is located in a beautiful Georgian house at the park's entrance. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of Cork City and features a wide range of exhibits and artefacts. Take A Wander Around The Titanic Experience Cobh The Titanic Experience Cobh is a museum located in the harbour town of Cobh. The museum is dedicated to the tragic story of the Titanic, which famously made its last port of call in Cobh before setting out on its ill-fated voyage in 1912. The museum is one of the top things to do in Cork. It is housed in the original White Star Line ticket office, which is located on the waterfront in Cobh. Visitors to the museum can explore the history of the Titanic and learn about the experiences of its passengers and crew. The museum features interactive exhibits, personal stories, and artefacts, including replica cabins and lifeboats. Take A Look At Charles Fort If you are thinking is Cork for history buffs???, the answer is yes. Charles Fort is one of the coolest things to do in Cork if you like old military buildings. It is a 17th-century star fort located in Kinsale. The fort was built in 1682. Charles Fort is an earlier fortification and was named after King Charles II of England. The fort played an important role in the defence of the town of Kinsale and the surrounding area, and it was occupied by various military forces throughout its history. Have A Nice Creamy Pint With A View Barley Cove Beach Hotel is a charming hotel located near Mizen Head in West Cork. The hotel offers stunning panoramic views of the local coastline and is just a short walk from Barley Cove Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. The view from the bar at Barley Cove Beach Hotel is the perfect place to enjoy a nice creamery pint of Guinness with an amazing scenic view. Visit The Jameson Distillery One of the top things to do in Cork is to visit the Jameson Distillery, which is located in the heart of Cork Middleton County Cork. The distillery is one of the most famous whiskey makers in the world and has been producing high-quality Irish whiskey for over 200 years. A visit to the Jameson Distillery is a must for anyone interested in the distilleries and production of Irish whiskey. You can take a guided tour of the distillery and learn about the entire whiskey-making process, from the selection of the finest grains to the distillation and maturation of the whiskey in oak casks. Take a Few Photos At St. Finbarr's Oratory St. Finbarr's Oratory is a popular tourist attraction located in Gougane Barra, West Cork. It is arguably one of the most picturesque things to do in cork. You can explore the oratory, this small chapel was built in the 19th century and is situated on a small island in the middle of a lake. You can cross the short bridge to reach the oratory and explore the interior. The chapel is beautifully decorated with stained glass windows, religious statues, and Celtic symbols. Check Out The Historic Bantry House Bantry House is a historic mansion located in Bantry. The house is open to the public for tours, and visitors can explore the many rooms and learn about the history of the house and its former residents. The interior of the house is decorated with beautiful antiques and artwork, and the views from the windows are stunning, it is one of the finest things to do in Cork. Take A Walk At Glengarriff Nature Reserve If you're looking for calorie-burning things to do in Cork, a trip to Glengarriff Nature Reserve should be on your list. Glengarriff Nature Reserve offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to all fitness levels. The trails wind through beautiful forests, over streams, and up to stunning viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The nature reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including red deer, and various bird species. Keep your eyes peeled for these fascinating creatures as you explore the reserve. Drive Along The Wild Atlantic Way The Wild Atlantic Way is a scenic coastal driving route that stretches along the western coast of Ireland, and Cork is home to some of the most stunning sections of the route. The Wild Atlantic Way offers visitors the chance to experience the rugged natural beauty of the Irish coastline, and Cork is the perfect starting point for exploring this iconic route. Some highlights of the route include : The Beara Peninsula Mizen Head Skibbereen Kinsale Best Tours To Do In Cork No article as a Cork guide would be complete without a boat ride. You can take a boat ride along the River Lee. Gently winding its way through the city, there are multiple opportunities to explore this picturesque river on board a luxury cruiser or semi-rigid boat, enjoying a Cork boat tour. Try The Cork Harbour Boat Tour This tour takes you on a journey through the second-largest natural harbour in the world, with some interesting things to see and do. Check Out The High-Speed Cork Sea Safari This tour takes you on a high-speed RIB (rigid inflatable boat) along the coastline of the region, with opportunities to see seals, dolphins, and other marine wildlife. Get Active With Atlantic Sea Kayaking For a more active experience, Atlantic Sea Kayaking offers guided kayak tours of County Cork and the coastline of the region, providing a unique perspective on the beauty of the area. Take A Day Tour Of The Ring Of Kerry The Ring of Kerry is a popular day trip destination from Cork City, and there are many ways to explore the area. You can take a guided bus tour, hire a car and drive yourself, or even cycle the route. One of the highlights of the Ring of Kerry is the stunning scenery. you can stop at several lookout points along the way, including Ladies View, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and lakes, and Molls Gap, which offers views of the rugged beauty of Kerry, which is so famous. Try A Cork Walking Tours One of the most popular Cork walking tours in Cork is the Cork City Walking Tour, which covers the city's major attractions and historical sites, including St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, the English Market, and the city's old fortifications. The Cork Ghost Tour takes you through the city's haunted history, while the Cork Food Tour takes you on a culinary journey through the city's best food and drink spots. Other walking tours focus on specific themes, such as the Cork Street Art Tour and the Cork Women's Tour. Best Things To Do In Cork With Kids There are a few great things to do with kids, and here are a few good ones! Take The Kids To Fota Wildlife Park Fota Wildlife Park is one of Cork's most popular attractions, with a broad range of fascinating animals from giraffes to snow leopards, this park is a favourite destination for all ages. With elephants, cheetahs, penguins and more, visitors can explore the vast wildlife on foot, on a safari bus, or on the stunning Choo Choo train. Not only does Fota provide a great opportunity to learn but there are also multiple donation options, allowing those passionate about animal conservation to pledge their support. Explore The Donkey Sanctuary Mallow This is one of the most family-friendly activities in Cork. The Donkey Sanctuary is a unique and heartwarming destination that is well worth a visit. You can meet the donkeys, the sanctuary is home to over 150 donkeys, all of whom have been rescued and are now living in a safe and caring environment. Kids can pet the donkeys, and learn about their individual stories and personalities. The donkeys are friendly and love human interaction, making it a great place for animal lovers. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Cork with kids Do A Bit Of Whale Watching The region is a great location for whale watching, with many species of whales and dolphins regularly spotted off the coast. One of the best places to go whale watching in Cork is in the west part of the county, particularly the area around Baltimore and the nearby islands. Whale-watching tours are available from Baltimore, which offer the opportunity to see some humpback whales, as well as dolphins. Another popular location for whale watching is off the coast of the Beara Peninsula, where sightings of humpback whales are common. Walking And Hiking Trails If you're looking for outdoor activities and challenging things to do in Cork, consider exploring the area's beautiful walking and hiking trails. Hike The The Bera Way The area is a hiker's paradise, with a wide variety of walking trails to explore. One of the most popular things to do in Cork for outdoor enthusiasts is the Beara Way. The Beara Way is a 196 km long-distance walking trail that takes hikers on a journey through some of the most beautiful and remote parts of West Cork. The trail circles the Beara Peninsula, offering spectacular views of the rugged coastline, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding mountains. Walk Some Of The The Sheeps Head Way The Sheeps Head Way in Cork offers one of the most stunning walks in Ireland. This 88 km long-distance trail takes you on a journey along the rugged coastline, with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The trail begins in the historic town of Bantry and passes through some of the most picturesque villages in West Cork. You can choose to walk the entire route or take on one of the many shorter walks that the trail has to offer. With its breathtaking scenery, The Sheeps Head Way is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for things to do in Cork. Try The The Baltimore Beacon Walk The Baltimore Beacon walk is a scenic hike and one of the most scenic things to do in Cork. The walk offers stunning views of the rugged coastline. This moderately challenging trail takes visitors along a picturesque stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way, leading up to the iconic Baltimore Beacon, a historic stone tower that dates back to 1849. The route is well-marked and features a mix of rugged coastal terrain and peaceful countryside, making it a great option for both nature lovers. The Baltimore Beacon walk is a must-see for anyone visiting the rebel county who wants to experience the beauty of Ireland's stunning coastline. The Best Places To Visit In Cork There is a load of interesting places to visit in Cork, here are some of the best places: Drive Over To Mizen Head One of the most scenic things to do in Cork is to visit Mizen Head, which is located at the southernmost tip of Ireland. Mizen Head is a spectacular natural attraction that offers visitors the chance to explore an iconic lighthouse and take in panoramic views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. You can take a guided tour of the lighthouse and learn about its history and the role it played in helping to guide ships safely through the treacherous waters around Mizen Head. See Colourful Cobh The town of Cobh offers visitors a unique and unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Ireland's southern coast. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Cobh has something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination on any trip to Cork. There are so many interesting things to see in Cobh making it one of the things to do in Cork Drive Along The Beara Peninsula Visiting the Beara Peninsula is one of the best things to do in Cork with a car, offering visitors the chance to explore stunning natural scenery, charming seaside towns, and a rich cultural heritage. Visiting the Beara Peninsula is one of the top things to do in Cork. If you're looking to explore historic towns, take in panoramic ocean views, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk in the countryside, the Beara Peninsula is sure to be a highlight of any trip to the rebel county. Take A Wander Around Colourful Kinsale A trip to Kinsale is one of the coolest things to do in Cork, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable way to experience the amazing beauty and scenic views of Ireland's southern coast. Whether you're interested in history, cuisine, or outdoor activities, Kinsale has something for you, it is one of the best places to visit in Cork. Be Amazed By The Healy Pass Healy Pass is a mountain pass located in the Beara Peninsula of Cork. Take this scenic drive that is one of the most scenic things to do in Cork. The drive along Healy Pass is really amazing of the most enjoyable in Ireland. The road winds through the mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It's a great place for a leisurely drive or a bike ride. Get Out And About At The Gougane Barra Gougane Barra is a beautiful glacial valley in West Cork, and it's a popular destination for visitors to the region. Gougane Barra is surrounded by mountains, which offer visitors a range of hiking trails and scenic walks. The hills are home to a range of wildlife, including deer and birds of prey, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the valley and the nearby lakes., you can pop over to see one of Ireland's coolest chapels, St. Finbarr's Oratory. Get A Ferry To Spike Island Spike Island is a small island located off the coast of Cork and it is a popular tourist destination. You can visit Spike island by boat, the island is home to a former 19th-century British Army Fortress and Prison, which has been converted into a museum. Visitors can explore the old prison and learn about its history, including the stories of the prisoners who were held there. Travel Over To Dursey Island Dursey Island is a small island located off the coast of the region and is accessible via cable car. Take a ride on the cable car: The cable car is the only way to access Dursey Island, and it's an experience in itself. The cable car offers stunning views of the sea and the coastline and is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Cork. Escape To Garnish Island Garnish Island, located in the sheltered harbour of Glengarriff in West Cork, is a popular spot for nature lovers and visitors looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of cities. If you're looking for things to do in Cork, a trip to Garnish Island should be on your list. Check Out Ireland Teardrop (Fastnet Lighthouse) The Fastnet Lighthouse, also known as the "Ireland Teardrop," is a historic lighthouse off the coast of Cork. If you're looking for things to do in Cork, visiting the Fastnet Lighthouse is a unique and memorable experience, and it's one of the top things to do in Cork. Whether you're interested in lighthouses, or just looking for a bit of scenery, the Fastnet Lighthouse is one to check out. The Best Beaches There are loads of nice beaches in the area, and here are a few crackers. Go Swimminng At Youghal Beach Youghal Beach is a popular beach in the East part of the region and possibly one of the best things to do in Cork. It is a must-visit spot for anyone visiting the area. This long, sandy beach is perfect for a leisurely stroll, sunbathing, or swimming in the refreshing waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is well-maintained, with facilities including showers and toilets, and is ideal for families with children as it is a safe beach for swimming. Get Stunned At Courtmacsherry Beach This stunning beach is a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike. With crystal clear waters and breathtaking views, Courtmacsherry Beach is an ideal location for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing with friends and family. Swimming on this beach is arguably of the best things to do in Cork on a nice sunny day. WAlk Along Inchydoney Beach Inchydoney Beach just outside the charming town of Clonakilty in West Cork is a must-see Irish beach for anyone looking for fun things to do in Cork. The beach boasts golden sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing and soaking up the stunning scenery. When you've had your fill of sun and sand, head to Clonakilty for a variety of dining options serving up delicious local food. Inchydoney Beach is the perfect addition to any itinerary of things to do in Cork. The Best Food in Cork Is Cork for foodies???, the answer is yes. Where to eat in Cork? Cork is renowned for its delicious food, and there are plenty of top-rated restaurants to choose from. For traditional Irish dishes, head to the bustling English Market in the middle of the city. You can sample local dishes like black pudding, tripe, and drisheen! Where To Eat In Cork These are some of the best places to eat in Cork Go Veggie At Paradiso A vegetarian restaurant serving innovative, locally-sourced cuisine that has won numerous awards. Get Some Japanese Food At Miyazaki A Japanese restaurant that offers some of the best sushi and ramen in the city. Try Out Greenes Restaurant This super fine-dining restaurant is located in a beautiful Georgian building that offers contemporary Irish cuisine made from locally-sourced ingredients. Pop Over To The Franciscan Well A traditional Irish pub that also houses a microbrewery, offering a wide range of craft beers and delicious pub grub. Relax At Market Lane This popular gastropub offers a wide range of dishes made from local, seasonal ingredients, as well as craft beers and cocktails Try Some Cheese At The English Market A historic covered market that has been operating since 1788, offering a wide range of fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, meats, and fish, this market highlights why people say Cork for foodies! The Nightlife Scene In Cork In this Cork guide, we will cover what is the nightlife scene like in Cork? We will take a look at the vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to explore. If you're looking for a traditional Irish pub experience, the city and county have plenty of great pubs and clubs to check out. Cork is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of options to suit all tastes. Some of the top spots for a night out include The Crane Lane Theatre, where you can enjoy live music and comedy, The Oliver Plunkett, which is popular for its traditional Irish music sessions, and The Oval, a stylish bar with a wide selection of cocktails and drinks. The Best Nightclubs To Shake A Tackie Havana Browns Located in the city, Havana Browns is a popular nightclub that plays a mix of R&B, hip-hop, and chart hits. The Hanover This popular late-night spot offers a mix of live music, DJs, and comedy shows. The Hanover is a lively and energetic venue that is popular with locals and visitors alike. The Savoy One of the largest nightclubs in the city, The Savoy offers three floors of music and entertainment, with different genres of music playing on each floor. Cyprus Avenue A popular live music venue that hosts local and international acts across a range of genres, including rock, indie, and electronic. Dali Cork A super trendy and stylish nightclub that features a mix of electronic and house music. Known for its lively atmosphere and late opening hours, Dali is a popular spot for young club-goers. The Best Pubs For A Few Scoops The Cork beer scene is very good with loads of different types of beers, stouts and ales to try. If you like craft beers, you won't be disappointed. Chill Out At Arthur Mayne's Pharmacy and Wine Bar Arthur Mayne's Pharmacy and Wine Bar is a unique bar and restaurant located in the centre of the city, just off Patrick's Street. The establishment has been beautifully restored, offering a vintage atmosphere with a modern twist, and it's a great spot for food. Try Some Craft Beers At The Franciscan Well This popular brewpub is a great place to try some of the best craft beers in Ireland. They also serve excellent wood-fired pizzas. Winddown At The Oval Bar This classic pub has been serving pints since the 1800s, and it's still going strong today. They offer a wide selection of beers, whiskeys, and live music. Have Some Good Food At The Shelbourne Bar This cosy pub is located in the centre of the city, and it's a great place to relax with a pint and some good company. They also serve delicious pub food. Visit The Historic Pub Coughlan's This historic pub has been a Cork institution since the 1800s, and it's still one of the best places in town for a pint of Guinness. They also have a great selection of whiskeys and traditional Irish music sessions. Go Raibh Maith Agat Please consider making a small donation to help me keep the website running You can donate with Paypal or your credit or debit card Would you like to join my All Things Ireland Facebook group and like my Facebook page!! Check out some more of my articles below! Best Attractions in Cork The Wild Atlantic Way Cork Best Hotels in Cork Getting from Dublin Airport to Cork by BUS (FULL GUIDE) Frequently Asked Questions Q1. What are the top tourist attractions in Cork? Some of the best tourist attractions are Blarney Castle, The English Market and St Fin Barres cathedral. The Cork City Goal and Foat Wildlife Park are really great attractions to check out also. Q2. What are the best places to eat in Cork? The Markey Lane restaurant and Greene's restaurant are very good. Arthur Mayne's Pharmacy and Wine Bar is another great place for a good feed. Q3. What are the best outdoor activities in Cork? Cork is home to some stunning scenery and walking and hiking trails, including the Beara Way, Sheep's Head Way, and the Blackwater Way, these are some of the best activities in the area. Q4. What are the top festivals and events in Cork? The two best festivals are arguably the Cork Midsummer Festival held in June and the Cork Jazz Festival Held in late October. Q5. What is the best time to visit Cork? The best time to visit Cork largely depends on personal preferences and what you plan to do while you're there, but I would say the summer is the best time to visit.