Cork
The Republic of Ireland’s second largest city Cork is situated on an estuary that opens onto the Atlantic Ocean, and has been likened to Dublin without the traffic. Crammed with cosy pubs and cultural attractions, it is a charming and popular destination to add to the itinerary.
There is a great rivalry between Cork and Dublin, and the majority of Cork’s residents see themselves as distinctly different from the rest of Ireland. Cork is vibrant and cheerful, with music, theatre and film all playing a major role in city life. World-renowned annual festivals add to the lively atmosphere and, in 2005, it was named the European Capital of Culture.
Cork is also the gastronomic capital of Ireland, with the widest variety of top-class restaurants in the country. Nearby Kinsale, also known for its host of award-winning pubs and restaurants, hosts the annual Gourmet Festival.
County Cork is located in the southwest, and it is the largest county in Ireland. It’s noted for its maritime identity and impressive coastal scenery as well as being the site of Ireland’s most famous attraction, the Blarney Stone. The city is a major seaport and is built around the waterways of the River Lee, connected by numerous bridges. Cork harbour is one of the largest natural harbours in the world.
The hip and historic Victorian Quarter is perhaps the best place to stay for first-time visitors. It’s right by the main rail and bus station, and taxis are easy to find, making it an ideal base from which to discover Cork. The neighborhood gets its name from the architecture of the buildings, which are laid out in an elegant Victorian style. Saint Luke’s is best for those visiting on a budget. Located to the east of the Victorian Quarter, it’s a more residential area, though it’s also the site of a fair number of pubs and restaurants. Shandon is a good choice for those visiting with children, as it’s where a lot of the tourist destinations are. The city centre is perfect for travellers who are interested in the nightlife.
Climate for Cork
Cork has a mild climate with plenty of rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures are never too extreme and Cork often experiences a lot of fog, which is most common during mornings and during the winter months (November to February). Winter temperatures in Cork rarely drop below 32F (0C) and snow is rare in the city. There may be light snowfall occasionally during winter, but it is seldom thick enough to cover the ground. April is the driest month, and December is the wettest, but any visit to Cork may well involve rain.
Cork also experiences a lot of sunshine by Irish standards, and the summer months, between May and August, are the best time of year to visit Cork, just like they are the best time of year to visit any other Irish destination. Average summer temperatures in Cork range between 50F (10C) and 68F (20C). The peak tourist season is a bit more expensive than the off-season in Cork, so budget travellers may want to visit during autumn or winter. Visitors unfamiliar with the Irish climate should be warned that weather in Cork is extremely changeable and at any time of year they may experience four seasons in one day.
Health Notes when travelling to Ireland
There are no special health requirements for visitors, though all eligible travellers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) should be obtained before departing for Ireland. After Brexit, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC allows UK citizens access to state healthcare during visits to the EU. The GHIC is not valid in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, nor is it an alternative to travel insurance. Medical facilities are good and medicines are widely available; if travellers require specific medication, it is always advised that they bring it with them. Travellers should make sure to carry all medications in their original containers, clearly labeled. They should also have a signed, dated letter from their doctor describing all medical conditions and listing all prescribed medications, including generic names.
Safety Notes when travelling to Ireland
Most visitors to Ireland enjoy a fairly high level of personal safety. Ireland has a very low level of violent crime, but there is a high incidence of petty theft in tourist areas and foreigners are targeted by pick-pockets. Travellers should take sensible precautions against petty theft, including duplicating important documents, carrying valuables in separate bags or pockets, and leaving valuables in hotel safes whenever possible. Terrorism is no more a threat in Ireland than in other Western countries and safety in the country has improved significantly with peace in Northern Ireland. Those travelling into Northern Ireland should note that the safety alerts for that country are completely seperate and can be found in the United Kingdom travel guide.
Customs in Ireland
The Irish are warm and welcoming and their conversation is often light hearted and dosed with humour, irreverence and self-depreciation. A handshake is the normal form of greeting, though close friends will hug or kiss each other on the cheek. The pub remains at the centre of many communities, and alcohol may be bought by anyone over 18 years old. Smoking is not allowed in public spaces, including in pubs and restaurants. Visitors should refrain from forcing discussions of political and religious differences and show respect if the topics are brought up. Attitudes towards LGBT people are liberal and same-sex marriage is legal.
Duty Free in Ireland
Travellers over 17 years old arriving from non-EU countries do not have to pay duty on most products. Regulations allow 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars, 250g tobacco; one litre of spirits with more than 22 percent alcohol volume, two litres of dessert wine, port of sherry with a maximum 22 percent alcohol content; and four litres of wine or 16 litres of beer. Other duty free products include perfume up to 50g or 250ml eau de toilette; and other goods for personal consumption to the value of €430 per adult or €215 for children under 15 years.
Doing Business in Ireland
The Irish are very sociable and, although the usual elements of business etiquette apply (punctuality, formal wear, a courteous manner), foreigners can expect good conversation and a rather relaxed air. Handshakes are customary on introduction, and foreigners should take the lead from the host with regards to using first names or surnames. Business hours are usually from 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, with a lunch break from 1pm to 2pm.
Communication in Ireland
The international access code for Ireland is +353. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free WiFi are widely available; purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option than accepting international roaming costs, which can be high.
Tipping in Ireland
A 10 percent tip will be welcomed in restaurants and cafes, and occasionally a service charge will be added to the bill. Tipping is not usual in bars and pubs, or for other services.
Passport/Visa Note
All foreign passengers to Ireland must be able to show proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in the country. Passengers should also hold return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, as immigration officers might demand that they demonstrate proof of their intention to leave Ireland. If the traveller’s passport bears a British inadmissable stamp, unless the immigration officer is convinced that they will not travel on to the United Kingdom, entry may be refused to Ireland. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passport have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa required for 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa is required for 90 days.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Ireland. Passport exemptions apply to holders of proof of nationality issued to nationals of Ireland and British subjects, for travel between Ireland and Great Britain and Northern Ireland only. No visa is required for holders of British passports endorsed British Citizen, British National (Overseas), or British Overseas Territories Citizen.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa is required for 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa is required 90 days.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa is required for 90 days.
Local and regional bus transport is provided by Bus Eireann, with routes covering the city and linking Cork to surrounding suburbs. The main regional bus terminal is at Parnell Place in the city centre, with buses departing to various destinations in Ireland throughout the day. Tickets can be bought online, at booking offices or from the bus driver. It’s a good idea to consider getting a Leap card, which entitles travellers to a discount, and means they don’t need to carry cash.
Kent Station acts as the city’s primary railway hub, with local and regional lines provided by Irish Rail. Three local lines connect Cork with Mallow to the north, Cobh to the southeast and Middleton to the east. Long-distance rail connects Cork to other major Irish cities. Tickets can be purchased online or at station booking offices.
Private taxi services operate throughout the city and cabs can either be booked in advance or hailed at taxi ranks throughout the city. There are several cycle routes within the city and bicycles can be hired from several outlets.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
