Cork calls itself the Rebel County, so you might expect things to be a little different in this south-west corner of Ireland. You won’t be disappointed. Here are some of our favourite attractions in and around Cork city and county:
The English Market
Located right in the heart of the city centre,
the English Market is one of the oldest covered markets in the world. Take a step off the busy main streets of either Grand Parade or Princes Street to enter a world where seasonal, regional foods take pride of place. Sample a tempting selection of the best seasonal foods, carefully crafted by local artisan producers.
Titanic Trail 
The Titanic Trail in Cobh (14km from Cork City) is a one-hour, guided tour of the final port of call of RMS Titanic. Ramble through the historic streets of a town that has changed little in the last century. The tour brings the story of the ill-fated ship to life, outlining the events in Cobh on the day Titanic embarked on what was to be the final leg of her doomed maiden voyage. .
Blarney Castle
Everyone’s heard of the Irish “gift of the gab,” and
Blarney Castle is where you go to receive it. A magnet for millions of visitors from across the globe, the 600-year-old Blarney Castle is home to the infamous Blarney Stone, which allegedly grants eloquence to those who kiss it. Whether or not you believe in its power, you could discover that the castle’s superb architecture and fine gardens will leave you lost for words. Blarney Castle is situated in Blarney Village, 8 km northwest of Cork city.
Beara Peninsula
The Beara Peninsula in west Cork is the image that springs to mind when many people think of Ireland - a heavenly corner of rock-strewn mountains, lush valleys, and spectacular Atlantic views, sprinkled with charming villages and friendly locals. A road trip around the peninsula offers such delights as a thrilling cable-car ride to Dursey Island, beautiful Inchydoney Beach near Clonakilty, the wild beauty of
Cape Clear, and the stunning semi-tropical gardens of Garnish Island.
West Cork
For a drive you will never forget, take a trip around the stunning coastal roads of West Cork. You can also look forward to some of the best food you will ever eat in towns like Kinsale, where winding streets, pretty shopfronts, and bobbing boats set the scene. The bustling market town of Clonakilty is a few hours southeast, and the stretch from Clonakilty to Skibbereen is scattered with charming villages. You are also within easy reach of the Gougane Barra Forest Park with its magnificent views of forested mountains.
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