Cork

Cork is a lively, attractive city, the second-largest in the Republic. It lies on an island between two channels of the River Lee, with many bridges and brightly-painted houses and shops lining the quays. The handsome Georgian buildings with bowfront windows were built by wealthy butter merchants in the 17th-18th centuries, when the Grand Parade and Patrick Street functioned as canals for the thriving seaport. The English Market, a foodie haven, has stood at their intersection for four centuries. Nearby Paul Street runs through the old French Quarter, with interesting shops, cafés and street performers. The finest of Cork's many lovely ...

Cork is a lively, attractive city, the second-largest in the Republic. It lies on an island between two channels of the River Lee, with many bridges and brightly-painted houses and shops lining the quays. The handsome Georgian buildings with bowfront windows were built by wealthy butter merchants in the 17th-18th centuries, when the Grand Parade and Patrick Street functioned as canals for the thriving seaport. The English Market, a foodie haven, has stood at their intersection for four centuries. Nearby Paul Street runs through the old French Quarter, with interesting shops, cafés and street performers. The finest of Cork's many lovely churches are a short walk beyond the center: the French Gothic St. Fin Barre's Cathedral with its three spires, and St. Anne's Church where you can ring the famous Bells of Shandon. The Honan Chapel at University College Cork has magnificent stained-glass windows and decoration. Cork is known for the arts, with an Opera House and several theaters. It holds major film, jazz, folk and international choral festivals each year. The Crawford Municipal Art Gallery and the Lewis Glucksman Gallery have important art collections.

About the Expert

Donna Dailey is the author of Thomas Cook’s Ireland driving guide, coauthor of DK’s Back Roads Ireland and several other titles, as well as the author of Thomas Cook’s HotSpots Costa Blanca and a contributor to AA Publishing’s Key Guide Spain.