Ireland’s southwest coastal town of Cork is a popular destination with visitors from around the world coming to see notable landmarks such as Blarney Castle, the English Market, St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral and University College Cork. While these sights are not to be missed during your travels, there are many other off-the-beaten-path things to do, see, hear and eat in the historic city.
Visit The Triskel Arts Centre, a beautifully restored Neoclassical church in the city center transformed into a bespoke cinema, concert hall, art gallery and café. Historical tours are also available.
One of the best ways to experience genuine Irish culture is to listen to it. Lee Sessions are a series of traditional Irish music featuring world-class musicians who perform at pubs throughout the city center. Enjoy music composed from a variety of traditional instruments including piano accordions, tin whistles, fiddles, Uilleann pipes, Irish bouzoukis and bodhráns.
For fascinating scientific and historical experiences, visit the Blackrock Castle Observatory , located in a stunning 16th-century castle, situated in the River Lee Harbor.
If you’re a sports fan, catch a Cork City FC match, offering a lively atmosphere and passionate fans, or a hurling match with dozens of small local clubs that play regularly at the city’s two main pitches, Páirc Ui Chaoimh and Páirc Ui Rinn.
Cork City Gaol is a relatively well-known attraction, but well worth the visit. The castle-like building was constructed in the 1800s to house prisoners and features reenactments, life-like wax constructions and well-preserved architecture. The Cork City Gaol is a testament to the city’s deep appreciation of history.
Shandon Bells and Tower at St. Anne’s Church is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, though it remains relatively unknown to tourists. Climb the 132 steps to the top of the tower for stunning 360-degree views of the city, and ring the famous church bells for only a few euros.
After a busy day of sightseeing, stop in to Irish fast food restaurant Jackie Lennox Chip Shop in The Lough suburb of Cork for some of the best chips (fries) and curry and battered sausages you’ll ever have.
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