Highlights of Cork: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Cork , Ireland

Highlights of Cork: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Active

(21 reviews)

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the Rebel City at your own pace with this affordable audio tour

• See where a marshy landscape was transformed into the vibrant city that Cork is today and why the city once had the world’s largest butter exchange
• Hear from producer Máirín Ahern, an honorary Corkonian who’s worked as a qualified tour guide in the city since 1999
• Do it all in an hour or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish
• Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it
• Use the virtual tour option at home

Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code.

The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Please note that this is a hilly walk.

Available options

Highlights of Cork: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

What's included

VoiceMap App for Android and iOS

Lifetime access to this tour in English

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

The tour follows a section of the River Lee.

The tour starts on Lapps Quay and follows along the quay for part of the tour.

The tour passes by Parnell Bridge.

The tour passes by South Mall.

The tour passes by The Imperial Hotel.

The tour passes by Peace Park.

The tour passes over Nano Nagle Bridge.

The tour passes over South Gate Bridge.

The tour passes by Beamish cork bam.

The tour passes by The Oval bar.

The tour passes through Bishop Lucey Park.

The tour passes by the Berwick Fountain.

The tour passes along a section of the Grand Parade.

The tour passes by Lavitt's Quay.

The tour passes by the Crawford Art Gallery.

The tour passes by the Comic Vault.

What's not included

Food/Drink

Smartphone and headphones

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
───
Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
───
Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
───
• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
───
For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Cork

Cork is a vibrant city in southwestern Ireland known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and friendly locals. Nestled between rolling hills and a stunning coastline, it offers a mix of urban charm and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

English Market

A historic covered market offering a variety of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts. It's a great place to sample Cork's culinary delights.

Market 1-2 hours Free entry, prices vary for purchases

Blarney Castle

A medieval stronghold and home to the famous Blarney Stone, which is said to grant the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it.

Historical 2-3 hours €20-€25

Cork City Gaol

A former prison that offers a fascinating insight into the lives of inmates and the history of Cork.

Historical 1-2 hours €8-€10

Fitzgerald Park

A beautiful public park with walking paths, a lake, and the Cork Public Museum. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

St. Fin Barre's Cathedral

A stunning Gothic Revival cathedral with intricate stone carvings and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free entry, donations welcome

Must-Try Local Dishes

Coddle

A hearty dish made with sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, slow-cooked in a flavorful broth.

Dinner Contains pork and beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Black Pudding

A type of blood sausage made with pork blood, fat, and oatmeal, often served with breakfast.

Breakfast Contains pork and blood, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Cork Sausage

A spiced sausage made with pork, often served with bread or in a sandwich.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Seafood Chowder

A creamy soup made with fresh seafood like fish, mussels, and prawns, served with crusty bread.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made gluten-free and dairy-free upon request.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Gougane Barra Forest Park Cycling around Fota Island Kayaking in Kinsale Harbour Picnicking in Fitzgerald Park Strolling through the English Market Enjoying a spa day at a local resort Visiting Cork City Gaol Exploring St. Fin Barre's Cathedral

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, longer days, and various festivals. Expect lively streets, outdoor events, and vibrant nightlife.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Irish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (IST: GMT+1 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cork is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's always advisable to take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and agree on a price beforehand

Getting there

By air

Cork Airport • 8 km from city center

By train

Cork Kent Station

By bus

Cork Bus Station (Parnell Place)

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Cork, with frequent services covering the city and suburbs.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Shandon The Lough Ballincollig

Day trips

Kinsale

25 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A charming coastal town known for its colorful buildings, gourmet restaurants, and historical sites.

Blarney Castle and Gardens

8 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A medieval stronghold and home to the famous Blarney Stone, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Cobh

25 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A picturesque seaside town with a rich maritime history, known as the departure point for the Titanic.

Festivals

Cork Jazz Festival • October Cork International Choral Festival • May Cork Film Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit the English Market early in the morning for the freshest produce and a less crowded experience
Kiss the Blarney Stone early in the day to avoid long queues and enjoy the castle and gardens with fewer crowds
Explore the city's hidden gems, such as the Butter Museum and the Shandon Bells, for a unique and authentic experience
Try local specialties like coddle, black pudding, and brown bread ice cream for a taste of Cork's culinary delights
Attend a traditional music session in a local pub to experience the city's vibrant cultural scene and friendly atmosphere