Welcome in Cork!

Cork is an inspiring city that warmly welcomes visitors from around the world. Nestled in the heart of Ireland's picturesque south, it blends a rich history with modern vibrancy, offering a unique and dynamic experience for all. Voted one of the world's friendliest cities, Cork invites you to immerse yourself in its charm, history, and warm embrace.

The compact city center is brimming with attractions, from the iconic English Market, a haven for food lovers, to the historic Shandon Bells and the tranquil River Lee. Cork's locals, known for their warmth and hospitality, are proud to share their city's culinary and cultural delights.

Beyond the city, Cork's stunning coastline stretches over 1,100 kilometers, with charming towns like Cobh and Kinsale, breathtaking islands, and championship golf courses. Nature lovers will find plenty of adventures among the lakes, rivers, and mountains, while those seeking relaxation can enjoy world-class accommodations and wellness retreats.

Cork is widely celebrated as Ireland's Food Capital, with Michelin-starred restaurants, a vibrant café scene, and fresh, local ingredients that delight every palate. The English Market, recognized as one of the best indoor markets in the UK and Ireland, is a must-visit for its rich heritage and passionate traders.

How to travel to Cork?

By air

Cork Airport is the international gateway to the South of Ireland, perfectly positioned at the start of Ireland's Ancient East and the Wild Atlantic Way. It is Ireland's second busiest airport, offering over 60 routes to destinations across the UK and Europe, including major cities like London, Paris, Amsterdam, Madrid, and Zurich. With excellent connections and stopover options, Cork is well-connected to the rest of Europe and the world.

Dublin airport is located outside of the capital of Ireland, and is serviced by many major airline operators. There are two main ways to get from Dublin Airport to Cork. The first is to get the direct bus run by Aircoach, which takes 3 hours and 30 minutes. The second way is to get the 782 bus from Dublin Airport to Heuston train station, followed by a train directly from Heuston to Kent Train Station. This takes roughly 3 hours and 15 minutes in total, depending on the timing of the bus/train connection.

By train

Cork's Kent Station provides rail connections to Dublin, Limerick, Waterford, and Tralee. A train ride from Cork to Dublin takes just 2 hours and 15 minutes. Conveniently located near Parnell Place Bus Station, Kent Station also features bike docks for those exploring the city by bicycle.

By car

Cork is easily accessible by road, with a direct motorway linking it to Dublin in under three hours. Drivers heading to Dublin Airport can bypass the city center via the M50, adding just 25 minutes to their journey.

How to get to Cork City Center from the Cork airport?

Cork Airport is easily accessible with a good road network and regular bus and taxi services available outside the airport terminal building. A Car Hire service is also available at Cork International Airport. Choose from 6 different car hire companies: Avis, Budget/Payless, Enterprise, Europcar, Hertz or Sixt.

You can also book your vehicle prior to your arrival, simply visit Cork Airport Page.

For Bus Éireann services, you can purchase bus tickets from the bus driver (cash only), or at the ticket machine located inside the building, or online using the TFI (Transport for Ireland) website. You can also use a TFI Leap Card to pay the fare - more on this below.

Buses from Cork Airport to Cork City Centre

From Cork Airport bus stop A, you can take Bus Éireann services 225 or 226 to Cork city centre, with stops at Parnell Place Bus Station and Kent Train Station.

Buses to Cork Airport from Cork City Centre

Bus Éireann services 225 and 226 both depart from Kent Train Station, with stops at Clontarf Street (opposite Parnell Place Bus Station) and Anglesea Street (outside Cork City Hall) to Cork Airport. For more information visit this page.

TFI Leap Card

Tickets on buses in Ireland can be purchased onboard using cash only. You can also pay for tickets by using a TFI Leap card.

TFI Leap Cards can be purchased and topped up at various locations in Ireland (WHSmith in Cork Airport, Dublin Heuston Station, Cork Kent Station). A TFI Leap Card is a prepaid travel card which is the easiest way to pay your fare on public transport around Ireland. It is valid on most TFI services and commercial bus operators throughout Ireland. It's more convenient because you don't have to carry cash or queue at ticket machines, and it saves you money because fares are usually up to 30% less than cash single tickets. You can also top up your card using the Leap Top Up App. For more information, visit this page.

Travel Around Cork

The most convenient way to travel around Cork City is to use the public bus network. Bus timetables can be viewed on this page.

There is also a public bike share scheme operated by Transport for Ireland. The full details can be found here. Note that you can buy a 3 day pass that gives you full access to the service, and that any bike ride less than 30 minutes in duration is free after purchasing the pass.

Information of interest

Fáilte Ireland, the National Tourism Development Authority, plays a vital role in promoting and supporting tourism in Ireland. They bring people from overseas to experience the beauty, culture, and hospitality of Ireland.

We encourage you to explore more about Ireland and plan your trip with the help of Fáilte Ireland. Their resources are invaluable for discovering top attractions, travel tips, and hidden gems throughout the country.

To make your travel planning seamless, visit Fáilte Ireland's official website to Discover Ireland and explore everything this incredible destination has to offer.

European Astronomical Society