Shore Excursion from Cobh (Cork) to Blarney Castle and Kinsale

Cobh , Ireland

Shore Excursion from Cobh (Cork) to Blarney Castle and Kinsale

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(27 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Your shore tour departs from your ship at the port of Cobh/Cork first heading for Blarney Castle where you will have up to 2 hours free time to Kiss the legendary Blarney stone, explore the amazing gardens, take in some shopping at the famous Blarney Woollen Mills.

simply indulge in the atmosphere in the village of Blarney enjoying some local homemade scones with coffee.

After our visit to Blarney we will enjoy a panoramic driving tour through Cork city centre taking in famous landmarks such as The Shandon Bells and The English Market and learning all about the fearsome Vikings and Anglo Normans in Cork.

The next leg of our trip will be through picturesque rolling Irish countryside as we meander our way to the charming village of Kinsale dubbed "Ireland's Gourmet Capital". Perfect for lunch!

Official guides and Tour Escorts
Guarantee back to ship on time
If your ship does not port, then we offer a 100% refund
** Entrance to Blarney Castle & Gardens is Included in our Price **

Available options

English Guide

German Guide

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Entrance to Blarney Castle and Gardens

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Blarney Castle, located in County Cork, Ireland, is a historic fortress renowned for the Blarney Stone, which is believed to grant the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it. The castle, dating back to the 15th century, stands amidst beautiful gardens, including the famous Poison Garden and a serene rock close. Visitors can explore the castle’s towers and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The gardens offer peaceful walks and stunning scenery, making Blarney Castle a must-visit destination for history and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Blarney Estate, located in County Cork, Ireland, encompasses the historic Blarney Castle and its surrounding lush gardens. Spanning over 60 acres, the estate is a beautiful blend of nature and history, featuring wooded walks, serene lakes, and formal gardens. Highlights include the famous Poison Garden, the tranquil Rock Close, and the meticulously maintained grounds. The estate offers visitors a chance to explore both the cultural significance of Blarney Castle and the natural beauty of its expansive parkland, making it a charming destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Blarney Woollen Mills, located in Blarney, County Cork, Ireland, is a famous retail store known for its high-quality Irish woolen products. Housed in a historic 19th-century building, it offers a wide range of traditional Irish goods, including sweaters, scarves, blankets, and handmade goods crafted from wool and cashmere. The mill is also a popular spot for Irish gifts, jewelry, and souvenirs, with an emphasis on craftsmanship and heritage. It’s a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic Irish products and a taste of Ireland’s rich textile traditions.

Stop 4 Pass by

Cobh Cathedral, formally known as St. Colman's Cathedral, is an impressive Gothic Revival church located in Cobh, County Cork, Ireland. Situated on a hill overlooking the harbor, the cathedral features stunning stained-glass windows, intricate stonework, and a striking 91-meter spire, making it one of Ireland’s tallest and most visually striking cathedrals. Built in the 19th century, it is dedicated to St. Colman and serves as a prominent landmark in Cobh, a town famously associated with the Titanic. The cathedral’s picturesque setting and beautiful architecture make it a popular destination for visitors and a place of significant historical and cultural importance.

What's not included

Snacks

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

20 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please note the Meeting location to Meet your guide, Pat, will be at the “ Annie Moore “ statue just outside the front gates of the Cruise terminal. He will be displaying a sign showing 'YOUR SHORE TIME'

+++++Please note Entrance to Blarney Castle and Gardens is Included within our shore excursion price!+++++

If your ship is porting at RINGASKIDDY, you can join this tour as our coach also departs from this port, it is just a short ride from Cobh.

Meeting point

Important notes

About Cobh

Cobh, a picturesque seaside town in South West Ireland, is known for its vibrant history, colorful architecture, and stunning views of Cork Harbour. This charming town was the final port of call for the ill-fated Titanic and is rich in maritime heritage, offering a unique blend of historical sites, cultural attractions, and scenic beauty.

Top Attractions

Cobh Heritage Centre

This museum provides a comprehensive overview of Cobh's rich history, including its role in the Irish Famine and as the last port of call for the Titanic. The exhibits are well-curated and offer a deep dive into the town's past.

Historical 1.5-2 hours €10-€12

St. Colman's Cathedral

This stunning cathedral is a prominent landmark in Cobh, known for its impressive Gothic Revival architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows. It offers a peaceful retreat and panoramic views of the town and harbor.

Architectural/Religious 30-45 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Cobh Museum

Housed in a former Presbyterian church, this museum focuses on the maritime history of Cobh and its role in emigration. The exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that bring the town's history to life.

Historical 1-1.5 hours Free (donations welcome)

Spike Island

Spike Island, located in Cork Harbour, is a fascinating historical site that has served as a monastery, fortress, and prison. A visit to the island offers a unique glimpse into its tumultuous past through guided tours and interactive exhibits.

Historical/Adventure 2-3 hours €16-€18

Cobh Lifeboat Station

This station is home to the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) and offers a glimpse into the brave work of lifeboat crews. Visitors can learn about the history of the station and the lifesaving missions it has undertaken.

Historical/Cultural 30-45 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Seafood Chowder

A creamy, hearty soup made with fresh local seafood, potatoes, and vegetables. It's a must-try for any visitor to Cobh.

Soup Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free upon request

Cobh Crab

Freshly caught crab, often served with a variety of sauces and sides. It's a local delicacy and a highlight of the town's seafood offerings.

Main Course Contains shellfish

Irish Stew

A traditional Irish dish made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions. It's a comforting and hearty meal, perfect for cooler weather.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free upon request

Popular Activities

Boat tours Hiking Cycling Beach walks Picnicking Spas and wellness Museum visits Historical tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and driest period, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the town's attractions. The weather is generally pleasant, making it the most popular time to visit.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Irish (Gaeilge)
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) in winter, GMT+1 (IST) in summer

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cobh is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid sharing PIN numbers

Getting there

By air

Cork Airport • 20 km from Cobh

By train

Cobh Railway Station

By bus

Cobh Bus Stop (Centre Park Road)

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around Cobh and to nearby towns. The service is reliable and frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Local taxi services

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cobh Town Centre Rushbrooke Cush

Day trips

Cork City

20 km • Half day to full day

Cork City is a vibrant and historic city with a rich cultural scene, offering a variety of attractions, shopping, and dining options.

Kinsale

30 km • Full day

Kinsale is a charming coastal town known for its colorful buildings, gourmet dining, and rich maritime history.

Blarney Castle

40 km • Full day

Blarney Castle is a historic castle and gardens, famous for the Blarney Stone, which is said to grant the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it.

Festivals

Cobh International Famine Commemoration • June (specific dates vary) Cobh Maritime Festival • June (specific dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Cobh Heritage Centre early in the day to avoid crowds
Climb the tower of St. Colman's Cathedral for the best panoramic views of the town and harbor
Take a boat tour of Cork Harbour for a unique perspective on the region's maritime history
Explore the town's colorful streets and alleys for hidden gems and local shops
Try local seafood dishes, such as Cobh crab and seafood chowder, for an authentic culinary experience