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| Cork Travel Guide for backpackers |
| Cork city, a major port on the estuary of the River Lee and the self-proclaimed cultural capital, manages to be both a relaxed and a spirited place. It is one of Ireland's most pleasurable and accessable cities. The rich maritime history of Cork is found in the small ports of Cobh, Yougal and most of all Kinsale. On the other side there are the riches of the Anglo-Irish legacy. Cork is the perfect lpace to gently ease yourself into exhilarations of Ireland's west coast. |
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 DAILY BUDGET in CORK - It is possible to get by on a daily budget of US$45, by staying in one of the youth hostels and eating at the budget cafes. If you want to sample more of what the city of Cork has to offer, a daily budget of US$95 is what you should work with. |
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Blarney Castle - Blarney Castle is famous for its stone, The Stone of Eloquence, which is traditionally believed to have the power to bestow the gift of eloquence on all those who kiss it. Much of that, which remains standing today, was built by Dermot McCarthy, King of Munster in 1446.
St Finbarr's Cathedral - Overlooking river Lee, St Finbarr’s Cathedral is one of the most prominent features of Cork City whose fabulous architecture can easily be detected from all over town. It was named after St Finbarr who had spent most of his early life in solitary contemplation inGougane Barra before he accepted the invitation of two local chieftains and around the year 606 settled in the area of what is now St Finbarr’s Cathedral.
Cork City Gaol - Located 2km from Cork's main thoroughfare in the area known as Sundays Well, this castle like prison once housed 19th century prisoners. Wandering through the wings of Cork City Gaol, the atmosphere suggests you are accompanied by the shuffling feet of inmates, each representing their particular period in Irish history from pre-famine times to the foundation of the State.
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The Farm Gate Cafe - Found upstairs in the English Market, Princess street. This cafe is great for affordable lunches and teas. On the menu are lots of salads; savoury tarts; pastas and plenty of seafood, with the emphasis on using fresh, local produce; in line with tradition.
The Gingerbread House - This large, efficient but laid-back self-service cafe, is great for soaking up the atmosphere of the Paul Street scene. They serve cheap, filling and tasty pizza slices, tartlettes, doorstep sandwiches, soups and coffees.
Wild Ways - Located at 21 Princess street, this friendly, organic sandwich and coffee bar, offers good breakfasts and delicious wraps, rolls and soups for lunch. The prices are low and the service is great.
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Bodega - This is Cork's most stylish bar, with a bold barn-like interior that attracts a friendly, mixed and unpretentious crowd. DJs get the party going on Fridays and Saturdays, with dancing in the upstairs room and rotating art exhibitions.
The Douglas Hide - Located at 63 Douglas street, this laid-back bar with a refreshingly modest contemporary interior and a friendly atmosphere, has open-mic sessions and resident accoustic band on Monday nights.
Fred Zeppelin's - Found at 8 Parliament street, this live gig and DJ venue caters for all styles of music. It has a touch of the bikers' hangout about it, but attracts a mixed clientele. Tuesday is open-mic night for singer-songwriters.
Gallagher's - Traditional Irish Pub. Good atmosphere and very welcoming. Served good pints of Murphy's and Guiness. We visited on a Friday (21st July 06) and there was a live band on. Excellent evening.
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