Going to Cork

What to do in Cork

by Andrea Minarcek

Most people come to Cork because it’s the last stop before kissing the Blarney Stone, but this city deserves more than a pause en route to superstitious recreation. Ireland's second-largest city is a waterfront beauty, with the River Lee flowing around 17th-century walkways, 18th-century Georgian mansions, and picturesque bridges. It’s also become a foodie destination; Ballymaloe House kick-started Ireland's farm-to-table movement, culling ingredients from its on-site orchards, gardens, and 100-plus-acre farms. Restaurants like Cafe Paradiso and Fishy Fishy have followed suit, proving that the country has improved its culinary game. The popular dry stout breweries, Murphy's and Beamish, also call Cork home. They're not as famous as Dublin’s Guinness brewery—or the Blarney Stone—but they're cozier and authentic, much like the city itself.

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