Cork is a bustling, diverse and richly cultural city with some absolutely fantastic scenery and we have picked out for you 5 things the locals love to do in Cork city.
From visiting the Titanic hub of Cork at Cobh Town, to driving the windy scenic roads of West Cork, there are many things that tourists love to do when they visit Cork. But what about the locals? You can visit some of these locations on a Cork walking tour!
As with most parts of the world, there are touristy places and there are local hidden gems, some of which are only known by people local to that region. But we are here to spill the beans on 5 things locals love to do in Cork City, so next time you visit, you can have a real Corkonian experience.
5. Visit the Triskel Arts Centre – the art centre of the city
Whether its live music, cinema or festivals, the Cork locals are proud of the arts in their city. If you’re looking for one of the best things to do in Cork, locals love to head to the Triskal Arts Centre where they can enjoy live jazz or classical music concerts, various art exhibits and cultural events including cultural cinema. It’s a great evening out in the heart of Cork City.
Address: Triskel Arts Centre, Tobin St, Cork, Ireland
4. Take a stroll down Ollie P – a former winner of the Great Street Award
Oliver Plunket Street is a fully pedestrianised street in the heart of the city. You’ll catch locals window shopping, enjoying street music or chilling at one of Corks many up and coming hip cafes.
The locals may also love hanging out here because of the variety of great restaurants and of course the streets vibrant atmosphere. It attracts locals from all parts of the city and it is so popular that in 2016 it even won the ‘Great Street Award’.
Address: Centre, Cork, Ireland
3. See the Fota Wildlife Park – a day out for the family
Okay, we may be cheating slightly with this one but it’s just a stone’s throw away from the city. This park may be famous nationwide but it doesn’t mean it’s only enjoyed by tourists. Fota is one of the most visited places in Cork and with it being home to animals from all over the world, some roaming freely among the visitors.
It’s not hard to see why this is the place to be for all ages and, having been around since the 80s, this is a very popular spot for Cork locals to go on family days out, especially with it being so close to the city.
Address: Fota Wildlife Park, Fota, Carrigtohill, Co. Cork, Ireland
2. Go to the Opera House – one of the best activities locals love to do in Cork city
Dating back to the 1800s, this building has so much history as well as being a popular place to attend incredible operas, plays, musicals, children’s shows and even comedy sketch shows.
The architecturally stunning structure is a venue much loved by the natives of the town and catching a show here is one of the best activities locals love to do in Cork city.
Address: Emmett Pl, Centre, Cork, T12 DW6P, Ireland
1. Browse local produce at the English Market – shop ‘till you drop, Cork style
This gem in Cork city is the best place for locals to go to get their fresh fish, meat, fruit and veg. It dates back to the 1700s and has been serving the city in style, with all the vendors displaying their own produce in various ways, certainly making it an Instagram friendly spot!
The locals love the hustle and bustle of the vendors and the customers interacting and some like to go just to browse when they have some free time. You may find the locals over at Bishop Lucey Park, eating their fresh food alfresco, on a sunny day in Cork. Yes, they do exist occasionally!
Address: Princes St, Centre, Cork, Ireland
So there you have it, five things locals love to do in Cork City. Ireland may have various big cities but each one has it’s own vibe and Cork certainly does too. It is quickly becoming one of the places to be in Europe with its bustling personality, fine dining options and dozens of pubs, and it is also known as Ireland’s foodie capital which means you will be inundated with options here.
There’s no doubt that by the end of the day, whether it be a work day or a day of shopping, you’ll find some of the locals drinking a pint of the black stuff or a local craft beer at one of the many pubs in town. Why not join them?
