Cobh (Cork) to Blarney Castle & Kinsale - Shore Excursion

Cork , Ireland

Cobh (Cork) to Blarney Castle & Kinsale - Shore Excursion

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(502 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Exciting Shore Excursion from Cobh to Blarney Castle, Cork City, Kinsale and Cobh. Bus Tour starts/finishes at your ship and is tailored to suit your docking/sailing times.

Our Bus Tour Includes:
• Admission To The Famous Blarney Castle & Gardens
• Shopping at Blarney Woolen Mills - The Worlds Largest Irish Store
• Driving Tour of Unique Cork City
• Free Time in Picturesque Kinsale for lunch and exploring
• A Visit To The Magnificent St. Coleman's Cathedral

Up to 8 hours Tour day (Tour times are tailored to work with your docking/sailing times)

Our bus tour departs/returns right at your ship in Cobh/Cork

We're based in Cobh and have over 50 years experience.

Our driver/guides are all locals and have lots of interesting facts, fascinating history, fun stories, songs and jokes.

Available options

Cobh (Cork) to Blarney Castle & Kinsale - Shore Excursion

Pickup included

What's included

Live commentary on board from local experienced guides

Storage for wheelchairs, scooters, etc

Air-conditioned vehicle

Admission To Blarney Castle & Gardens

Pick up from your ship and return to same

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Here you will have the opportunity to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, explore the 15th century castle and discover the magnificent gardens. Admission to the castle and gardens is included in your tour price.

Our visit to Blarney will be up to 2 hours in total depending on your ships docking/sailing schedule.

Shopping time at Blarney Woolen Mills is included in your 2 hour visit to Blarney

Take time out to shop at the Worlds largest Irish Store, Indulge in a coffee and delicious scone or even sip on a sumptuous Irish Coffee.

Please note that your 2 hour visit to Blarney includes time to visit the Castle, Gardens and Woolen Mills.

Avail of the free wifi while you are here.

Time spent here is part of your total 2 hour approx. stay in Blarney.

Stop 3 Pass by

Enjoy a panoramic driving tour of Cork city. See the sights like The English Market, Shandon Bells and Murphy's Brewery. Be enthralled by the history of this fascinating rebel city from the the time of Vikings through to The Anglo Norman Invasion and right up to the modern times of the formation of our state.

Stop 4

Stroll around the very charming winding streets of the village of Kinsale and choose from one of the many fine restaurants to enjoy a great lunch or maybe even sample a local beverage.

On your stroll you will get to see the 12th century St. Multose Church, Desmond Castle & International Museum of Wine, The Giants House and Market Square.

Duration here is up to 2 hours depending on your ships docking/sailing time.

Stop 5

We will enjoy a short stop here at this majestic Cathedral with the largest carillon of bells in Europe. Take in the stunning harbour scenery here while you learn about the ill fated Titanic, mass emigration, rich maritime history, the gorgeous gael and much more.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

296 reviews

5★

253

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

206 reviews

5★

190

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Front seats can be reserved if you have mobility issues (let us know after you book)

Good agility is required for the famous Blarney stone which has lots of challenging steps up to it

Our tours are for ships that dock in Cobh/Cork

Live commentary is while on the bus only - Blarney Castle is a self guided tour.

Kissing the Blarney Stone requires good agility

Important notes

Please note: Ticket includes:
• Transport on a luxury air conditioned coach
• Live commentary on the bus by experienced local driver/guides
• Admission to Blarney Castle and Gardens included

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