Top Things to do in Cork
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10 Tours in Cork That You Shouldn't Miss
Plan to cross many bridges when in Cork. Ireland's third-largest city began life as an island and now spans both banks of the River Lee, with watery channels running beneath some of its main thoroughfares. The best way to experience this hilly southern seaport is on foot, following the signposted walking tour past St. Finn Barre's Cathedral and the riverside quadrangle of University College up the hill to red and white Shandon Church. Along the way, you'll meet plenty of the city's talkative residents.
Restaurants in Cork
1. Cliffs of Moher Private Tour from Cork
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7 reviews
The Cliffs of Moher is Ireland’s most visited natural attraction with a magical vista that captures the hearts of up to 1 million visitors each year. The Cliffs rise up to 214 (700 feet) at the highest point and range for 8km over the Atlantic Ocean on the Western seaboard of Co. Clare.
Inclusions: Local guide, Hotel/port pickup and drop-off, Private tour
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities
Reviewed By XO2travel2
My husband and I have traveled to Europe over a dozen times in the last twenty years. We’ve always traveled independently doing our own research and making our own reservations. We’re very comfortable taking public transportation in Europe and have also driven rental cars. A few years ago, we started purchasing small group or private tours for day trips and museum tours. We find them to be a great value for the personalized experience you receive. The key is doing your research ahead of time and finding the right tour company for you. For our trip to Ireland in August 2019, I found several highly-rated companies that offered day trips in southern Ireland. We ended up selecting MunsterBus Tours and had a fantastic experience. We booked with MunsterBus Tours because of their good customer reviews and excellent customer service in planning the trip – specifically my interactions with Linda Conway. Linda and I emailed back and forth to plan our two day trips for 4 adults. She was very responsive and professional (with a nice sense of humor). She took the time to really think about the information I sent her and then responded with detailed information and personalized itinerary options for us to consider. I also emailed Linda while in Ireland for advice with something not related to our day trips and she responded immediately with very helpful suggestions. Great customer service! We were also delighted to find the actual day trips were very enjoyable. Our driver and guide for both days was Craig. He was knowledgeable, helpful, patient and a very good driver. He did a great job balancing informing us, entertaining us (we had fun singing Irish songs) and giving us quiet time. Craig made our time in southern Ireland even more enjoyable. When we return to continue our exploration, we will definitely use MunsterBus Tours!!
2. 10-Day Ultimate Small-Group Tour of Ireland from Dublin
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 11 reviews
Your Irish Experience begins here. The Ultimate 10 day small group tour (max 15 people) of Ireland covers the length and breadth, north and south of our magical Emerald Isle. Spoil yourself on this ten day tour with unrivaled scenery, a feast of tradition, history, culture, castles and the great outdoors. You will have an unforgettable experience on your tour exploring everything from kayaking with dolphins in Dingle Bay to the magnificent sights on the Ring of Kerry. Prepare to be awestruck by Ireland’s most famous landmark – The Cliffs of Moher, fall in love with the bustling bohemian Galway City and the Aran Islands. Cross the border to Northern Ireland and lose yourself at the Giants Causeway and be blown away at the Titanic Belfast. This is a trip of a lifetime.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, 9 nights local boutique hotel and guesthouse accommodation, carefully selected by our team, Great breakfast (daily) suitable for meet lovers, vegetarians, vegans, gluten free and other needs,, Professional qualified Irish tour guide other local tour guides for the great Irish experience, Transport to all locations by air-conditioned by class leading Mercedes Sprinter busses , Kayak excursion in Dingle Bay, Distillery tour, Rock of Cashel, Kiss The Blarney Stone, Cycling tours (Galway and Aran Islands), Cliffs of Moher, Walking Tour London Derry, Titanic Experience
Exclusions: Lunch and dinner, Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities, Black Cab Tour Belfast
Reviewed By russ2jen
Sadly, in these uncertain days of Coronavirus, I had to cancel my upcoming tour. The team at Overland Ireland were compassionate and understanding in working out the details so as to minimize losses all around. Flexible reschedule options into next year were offered as well. This is the kind of small company to support.
3. 8-Day Adventure Tour on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 12 reviews
The tour travels along the Wild Atlantic way as far as Westport in County Mayo. During the tour travellers will be immersed in the Irish landscape, where they will hike, cycle and experience Ireland’s rugged beauty. On each day of the tour there is a guided hike or cycle in a spectacular location. The tour visits the signature discovery points along the Wild Atlantic Way route. BEYOND THE GLASS ADVENTURE TOURS specialise in small group adventure tours on Ireland’s WILD ATLANTIC WAY. Taking you off the beaten track to experience adventure, culture and history all while being immersed in Ireland’s stunning natural landscape - the ultimate adventure travel experience. Tour departs from a central Cork city location.
Inclusions: 7 nights accommodation, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Small-group tour with full attention of your knowledgeable and experienced guide, All activities, Bike tours and Hiking Tours, Local Driver/guide with Live commentary on board, All required equipment (bicycle and helmet) outside of your required gear listed.
Exclusions: Meals and snacks (outside of your breakfast) are not included in your tour price.
Reviewed By trishcrowe
James is as efficient as he is easy-going. It took him no time to get us set up properly on our bikes and on our way. Like so many of the Irish people we met, he not only knows his history, he knows how to tell a story. We hope someday to sign up for one of his longer adventures.
4. 6-Day All Ireland Rail Tour from Dublin
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
This tour covers a large part of the Wild Atlantic Way and Causeway coast. We head South to visit Cork, Blarney Castle & the Ring of Kerry, West to the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, the Aran Islands in Galway Bay and North to the Giants Causeway.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Return Rail Tickets , Reserved Seats on the Train, Railtours Ireland Host Throughout, Visitor Attraction Admissions, Escorted Coach, Transfer to Inis Mor, Aran Island, Accommodation
Exclusions: Gratuities, Meals
Reviewed By JarveC
As a party of four we have just had an amazing 3 night 4 day experience on the Emerald Pullman First Class Train Trip. The journey took in many of Ireland's most scenic & spectacular locations including Waterford Crystal, Killarney, The Ring of Kerry , Cliffs of Moher & Galway Bay to name just a few .. We experienced first class service from the time we left Connolly Station. The whole experience was completely relaxing and hassle free as everything was organised for us every step of the way, from the lovely hotels we stayed in to the wonderful tours of our beautiful country. Would highly recommend Railtours Ireland if planning a staycation and a huge thanks & appreciation to Jim Deegan and his very professional team for a great holiday in Ireland.
5. 5-Day Magical Southern Explorer Small Group Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
Sure, have you never heard of an Irish half hour? It can stretch out for days and 5 days is what you’ve got to experience this memorable, expertly guided road trip, over ever-changing landscape, along The Wild Atlantic Way. From shucking Clarinbridge oysters and downing creamy stout in Galway, to the jaw dropping sights of the Ring of Kerry, with only the Atlantic separating the 40 shades from the 50 U.S. states. Cool down with Fungie, Dingle’s resident dolphin who came for the fish in 1984 and stayed for the craic or feel like you’re at the edge of the world, at the dramatic Cliffs of Moher. And how about a spot of kissing at the Blarney Stone where you’ll come away with the gift of the ‘gab’ (talk); handy for ‘having the craic’ with your small tour group. And in between the heritage and culture, bohemian Galway and dinky Doolin, there’ll be ceol agus craic (music and boldness), seafood and banter and an epic road-trip you’ll never forget.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Air-conditioned vehicle, All Fees and Taxes
Exclusions: Lunches and Dinners, Optional activities
Reviewed By russ2jen
Sadly, in these uncertain days of Coronavirus, I had to cancel my upcoming tour. The team at Overland Ireland were compassionate and understanding in working out the details so as to minimize losses all around. Flexible reschedule options into next year were offered as well. This is the kind of small company to support.
6. Cork City Cycle Tour - Experience the beautiful and historic City by bike
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 19 reviews
On this cycle tour, James Foley, a Cork native, will peel back the layers of time to reveal all of Cork’s charms. Cork boasts over 30 bridges and over 20 church spires. See how many you can count as you explore the city. Through the ages, Cork has produced many notable individuals. Hear of Cork’s most intriguing characters as you pedal around the city. Cycle through colourful streets, city parks, and riverside pathways and discover the evolution of Cork from its beginnings as a Christian settlement to its time as a Viking stronghold and then as the centre of trade for an Empire.
Inclusions: Local guide, Use of bicycle, Use of helmet
Exclusions: Food and drinks
Reviewed By mar14ssa
This was my second time visiting western Ireland, having been hooked the previous year by a more mainstream tour company - and James offered the deeper level of physicality, adventure, exploration, and intimacy to nature that I was looking for! I had a great group of people traveling with me, some of whom I still keep up with today, over a year later (I actually traveled in June of 2019, not December!) - and, despite being a solo traveler, I always felt considered and included in the group's activities and after-hours excursions. The tour covered a lot of ground and was strenuous at times, but I always felt in control and supported when it came to my level of fitness; James provided lots of options for different levels of activity. A highlight for me was biking down the Gap of Dunloe, but we saw - and walked and hiked and biked and sailed - so many beautiful places. James is a great guide, you can tell he's really doing what he loves. He's got a ton of knowledge and resources for the inquiring mind; I really enjoyed our conversations together, and I came home with a list of new music, movies, and books to delve into. The Wild Atlantic Way is a truly unique part of the world; it feels distinctly mystical and it looks like something out a textbook on prehistoric times. I feel like there is still so much to see and do there; it remains a dream destination for me and someplace I'll continue to visit throughout my lifetime (as long as James has a spot for me!)
7. Ring of Kerry Private Tour from Cork
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 16 reviews
The Ring of Kerry (or Iveragh Peninsula) is the Kerry tourist trail and part of the mystical and unspoilt region of Ireland that has attracted visitors for hundreds of years. Its spectacular beauty is beyond question, part of the Wild Atlantic Way in the Southwest region a 112 mile drive out into the Atlantic on a peninsula.
Inclusions: Transport by private vehicle, Private tour, Driver/guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off
Exclusions: Lunch, Gratuities
Reviewed By XO2travel2
My husband and I have traveled to Europe over a dozen times in the last twenty years. We’ve always traveled independently doing our own research and making our own reservations. We’re very comfortable taking public transportation in Europe and have also driven rental cars. A few years ago, we started purchasing small group or private tours for day trips and museum tours. We find them to be a great value for the personalized experience you receive. The key is doing your research ahead of time and finding the right tour company for you. For our trip to Ireland in August 2019, I found several highly-rated companies that offered day trips in southern Ireland. We ended up selecting MunsterBus Tours and had a fantastic experience. We booked with MunsterBus Tours because of their good customer reviews and excellent customer service in planning the trip – specifically my interactions with Linda Conway. Linda and I emailed back and forth to plan our two day trips for 4 adults. She was very responsive and professional (with a nice sense of humor). She took the time to really think about the information I sent her and then responded with detailed information and personalized itinerary options for us to consider. I also emailed Linda while in Ireland for advice with something not related to our day trips and she responded immediately with very helpful suggestions. Great customer service! We were also delighted to find the actual day trips were very enjoyable. Our driver and guide for both days was Craig. He was knowledgeable, helpful, patient and a very good driver. He did a great job balancing informing us, entertaining us (we had fun singing Irish songs) and giving us quiet time. Craig made our time in southern Ireland even more enjoyable. When we return to continue our exploration, we will definitely use MunsterBus Tours!!
8. 5-Day Escape to the South West Small-Group Tour from Dublin
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 87 reviews
See the highlights of Ireland on a 5-day small-group tour from Dublin! Traveling by luxury minivan, head to Galway and Killarney with an expert guide, checking out everything of interest en route! Tour an Irish whiskey distillery in Kilbeggan, explore the Burren, gaze in awe at the Cliffs of Moher and travel along the famous Ring of Kerry. On the way back to Dublin, visit Blarney Castle and Gardens - home to the famous Blarney Stone! Numbers are limited to 16 people on this small-group Ireland trip, ensuring you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience.
Inclusions: Friendly Driver/Guide, 4 nights en-suite accommodation with breakfast, Transportation by top of the range Mercedes mini-coach, Small Group Tour (16 passengers max)
Exclusions: Meals and refreshments, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Gratuities, Admission fees
Reviewed By veramit11
We just loved everthing about ireland, the friendliness, the fun, the tour guide, the small group travel. The scenery is just breathtaking. The ancient history is just jawdropping i mean these ancient women (queens) had some serious hootspur and gumtion. I mean they went out and did some serious stuff, got involved in wars, sailed ther own ships, left the babies home and got rid of husband who were just superfluous to requirements. I mean kudos to you girls. I know you are not gonna beleive this but we need you back. Northern ireland sad, such a waste of young life. Still feels haunted by the grief. Our hosts were b&b's, they were just delightful, and hilariously funny sometimes. Our tour guide (their were 10 of us) Gabriel was fantastic great sense of humour, very helpfull, fantastic with local knowledge and history. Thoroughly enjoyed every moment.
9. Cobh (Cork) to Blarney Castle Half Day Shore Tour
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 37 reviews
Exciting Shore Excursion from Cobh to Blarney Castle, Cork City, Kinsale and Cobh. Bus Tour starts/finishes at your ship. Our Tour Includes: - Admission To The Famous Blarney Castle & Gardens - Shopping at Blarney Woolen Mills - The Worlds Largest Irish Store - Driving Tour by Cork City Our bus tour departs right from your ship in Cobh and returns back here again at the end of the tour. We are based in Cobh right by the port and have over 50 years experience. Our driver/guides are all locals and have lots of interesting facts, fascinating history, fun stories, songs and jokes.
Inclusions: Live commentary on board from local experienced guides, Pick up from your ship and return to same, Storage for wheelchairs, scooters, etc, Entry To Blarney Castle and Gardens, Free Time To Visit Blarney Woollen Mills, Air-conditioned vehicle
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities
Reviewed By cajungirl44
If you are looking for the best travel company in Ireland, THIS IS IT!!!! Wonderful, accommodating people. Rest assured, they treat everyone like royalty!
10. Small-Group 6-Day Driftwood Ancient Ireland Tour from Dublin
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 5 reviews
Discover eastern Ireland in 6 Days. From the wilderness of the Wicklow Mountains to the perfection of Waterford Crystal and the heritage of ancient Kilkenny; From the gourmet delights of Kinsale, to Cobh’s tragic history of Ireland’s emigration or the grandeur of Ireland’s greatest stately homes, this six day journey through one of Ireland’s most off-the-beaten-track regions is perfect for visitors who want to see a whole new side of Ireland’s ancient east.
Inclusions: Accommodation as per itinerary, 5 nights accommodation, All taxes, fees and handling charges, Breakfast, Driver/guide, Small-group tour (16 Pax Maximum)
Exclusions: Entrance fees (Optional) Blarney Castle - €15 per person Kilkenny Castle - €8 per person Queenstown Experience - €9.50 per person The Ross Tapestry - €6 per person, Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities
Reviewed By jenniger
Well I am like most of the others in recent reviews as I have not yet gone on my trip. I want to emphasize how marvelous Ciara was when I had to cancel and I have now rebooked the 11 day driftwood tour September 7. Would love to hear from anyone else booking that tour. One of the reasons I rebooked was the low deposit as even though did get my deposit back with no trouble last year I was uncomfortable at my age and who knows what’s gonna happen with Covid putting a large deposit down again. Marvelous communication and service and I’m sure my tour will be marvelous and I can write a great review when I have been
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