48 Hours in Cork
Your Itinerary for Top Things to See & Do in Cork
Staying for two nights or more? Here’s how to spend 48 hours in Cork
Its staycation time!! We’re all excited to break out of the house and finally others are doing the cooking and cleaning. Well, Cork International Hotel is the perfect base for your big Cork Adventure. If you’re lucky enough to get a whole two days with us, our team have put together this handy travel guide with everything you need for a whistle-stop tour of the self proclaimed ‘Real Irish Capital’. With highlights including Fota Wildlife Park and the famous English Market, this is quintessential Cork in 48 hours with, or without kids (social distancing applied).
Your Family Concierge
When you book direct with us, we will put you in touch with our Family Concierge Edel Kavanagh. Edel is in the know with all things for families in Cork. She can answer any questions you have about attractions that are open/available for booking sand she can assist you with an reservations or ticket bookings to make sure you are making the most of your holiday!
Day One:
Relax as you start your day, there is no rush, Cork is waiting for you. Start with some light lunch when you arrive and get checked in. Take the car or the bus from right outside to the city centre.
-MORNING-
Serenity and Food Heaven to Start
Nothing says ‘holiday’ more than switching off with good food and a sense of calm, so turn off your phone and head straight to the the famous English Market, as one of the main Cork attractions, this isn’t somewhere to miss! Packed with local suppliers and quirky finds and boutiques, this really is a food lover’s paradise. From the ‘Grand Parade’, head over to the Nano Nagle Centre, a new heritage centre and small haven in the heart of the city. Once a Presentation Sisters convent, you can now enjoys tours and trips to their interactive museum. You can also peruse local crafts in the design shop, meander their peaceful gardens with views of Ireland’s tallest building – The Elysian or stop for a coffee and some delicious hand-made treats at their cafe Good Day Deli.
-LUNCH-
Slice of Ireland’s Ancient East
Your walking shoes are definitely necessary for this part! Make your way up to UCC and walk through the stunning campus, stopping off for a photo of the famous quad and a glance at the ancient, yet perfectly preserved and translated ogham stones.
The head straight for the wonderful Fitzgerald’s park. If you’re with the kids, they’ll love the playground here and if it’s an ‘adults only’ affair, the gardens here are certainly something to behold. Sample Studios have also just announced a partnership with the council to take over the Pavilion there, so we can expect some wonderful exhibitions coming up soon!
There’s also the Natural Foods Bakery in the park so you can grab a bite to eat.
-AFTERNOON-
Go Behind Bars
The last stop on your tour has to be Cork City Gaol, just ten minutes away from the park, you will be so glad you made the trip. A prison turned heritage centre, the tour here is full of history and interesting stories you can take back home with you.
-EVENING-
Unwind with our Pure Cork Drinks Menu
Taste the city on your return to the hotel, with some pre-dinner cocktails. Ask our team for their favourite recommendations from our Pure Cork drinks menu (we haven’t reached a general consensus yet – they are all so delicious!) or enjoy a nice bottle of wine with a late evening meal. We’ll be here waiting to ensure you have the best end to your day and we can of course also facilitate rooms service should you prefer it!
Day Two:
-MORNING-
Fuel up for your next adventure
After yesterday’s hectic schedule you’re more than likely wanting to sleep in for a bit! Wake up to a fantastic full Irish breakfast at our hotel, with your choice of eggs and pancakes cooked to order by our chef before jetting off to your next destination. We have a fun-filled day planned for you!
Wild Atlantic Up Next
Cork’s favourite small town, Kinsale is just twenty minutes away, right on our doorstep! Start your journey by visiting Charles Fort. Your first few hours can be spent exploring the ruins of one of the biggest military forts in Ireland. The 17th Century Fort which also has some of the most stunning views on the Cork Coast.
-LUNCH-
Cork Classic for Lunch
After this, head to the main town to fill up on some lunch at the famous Dinos Fish and Chip Shop. The wall across the road is the most popular of places to sit and enjoy your bag of chips while admiring the boats and watching the world go by.
-AFTERNOON-
Sea Salt in Your Hair
Get out of your comfort zone and visit Atlantic Offshore Adventure Centre. Choose from activities such as Surfing, Kayaking, Paddle-boarding and more! We can help with bookings and get you on track for your best day yet.
-EVENING-
Unwind with a Movie Night
Your belly will be rumbling after the sea air of Kinsale! Once you get back to the hotel, enjoy your dinner in our New Yorker Restaurant (may be served in the Atlantic Room next door for comfort and social distancin) enjoying all the best of local produce. That’s not the end of your weekend. Bring your glass of wine with you and watch a film of your choice in our private cinema. Whether it’s a classic Rom-Com or the movie you keep meaning to watch, now is your chance. Curl up with some treats chocolate and popcorn and enjoy total relaxation.
Homeward Bound?
-MORNING-
If you are headed home after two nights, don’t forget that Fota Wildlife Park is open and it’s the perfect place to visit before you head home to face the office and chores again!
