Cork Airport is the 2nd busiest in Ireland and has over 2 million passengers pass through every year. Many flights are seasonal and operated by charter or budget airlines and come from mostly the UK and Ireland. If you have car hire at Cork Airport, it is an easy 8 km drive to the city. Cork is a popular city break destination and known to be cosmopolitan with a unique food culture.
Cork Airport has a new and modern terminal with lots of shopping outlets and places to eat out. There is a bank and facilities for currency exchange. An Executive lounge is available for business class passengers or for a nominal charge, where you can relax, work and have refreshments before your flight. If you need to check your email there is free Wi-Fi for your mobile phone or laptop or there are paid internet access points. Vending machines are available for any last minute snacks. There are two hotels at the airport if you need to stay nearby.
The city of Cork sits on the banks of the River Lee in southern Ireland. Once an ancient walled city it is now a cosmopolitan and vibrant bustling city with added charm. The Elizabeth Fort has good views all over the city and there is a market festival held there every weekend. The gothic St Finbar’s Cathedral dates from the 19th century and has a little gold angel perched on its tower. You can enjoy a tour of Cork City Gaol or take a historic walking tour through the city, which takes you from ancient monastery times up to the present day. Take a stroll through Lough Park and enjoy the scenic lake and wildlife. Blackrock Castle and Observatory is worth a visit too. Cork is known for its foodie culture, so you can find out more at the English Covered Market and sample some of the best restaurants in Ireland. Barrack Street is the place to go after dark for its nightlife and music scene.
Get out of the city with your car hire in Cork and visit Blarney Castle and kiss the famous Blarney Stone, to give you the gift of the gab. Take a drive out to the pretty seaside town of Kinsale, famous for its amazing restaurants and seafood. Don’t miss the colourful old port of Cobh and its heritage centre, known for great ocean liners.