Holiday homes & rentals in Cork

When locals claim that Cork is the 'real capital of Ireland', you'd better believe it. Young at heart, and cosmopolitan in nature, Cork enchants with its artisan coffee bars, stylish waterfront and fabulous pub scene. Set upon the banks of the River Lee, there's much to see and do here that a cosy holiday cottage is the perfect way to explore it all.

The Cork Kitchen

Kick start your day with a full Irish breakfast comprising of sausages, black pudding, rashers of bacon, eggs and mushrooms. An old Cork favourite is pigs' feet, better known as 'crubeens', and eaten by hand. Drisheen black pudding made from milk, salt, fat, breadcrumbs and the blood of a cow, pig or sheep is a local delight.

Cork's English Market beckons for its cheese, meats, crubeens and fresh produce. The ornate ceilings and columns are a bonus! A Cork City Pub Crawl is another must for those looking for typically Irish night on the town.

Cultural Cork

St. Fin Barre's Cathedral is an ode to the city's 7th-century patron saint, Fin. It sports a French Gothic and medieval design where gargoyles and towering spires reign supreme. Cork's Butter Museum reveals the town's long tradition of butter manufacturing and export. The 16th century Blackrock Castle is a favourite for kids, owing to the on-site observatory and science centre.

The slightly dreary Cork City Gaol former prison conducts atmospheric and moving tours where visitors can learn about the brutality of the 19th-century penal system. Housed in an award-winning building of limestone, steel and timber, Lewis Glucksman Gallery displays interesting contemporary art and installations.

A fun cultural calendar

Named 'European Capital of Culture for 2005', Cork's cultural credentials are sealed. The month long Midsummer Festival is a party of theatre, music, art and poetry. October's Jazz Festival has top performers in attendance, while November's Film Festival features a range of Irish and international films.

Your vacation in a vacation apartment in Cork: these are the top sightseeings

The English Market

The English Market or the English Market is the perfect place to learn about Irish cuisine while on vacation with vacation rental in Cork. The stalls inside the Victorian building offer everything from home cooking to fusion. Try local specialties like spiced beef, Drisheen blood pudding and Irish buttered eggs.

St Patrick's Street

This street is the main place to store in Cork. Also known as "Pana," the boulevard is lined with numerous sops where you can stock up on trendy fashions. Department stores such as Marks & Spencer, Penneys, Dunnes Stores and Brown Thomas have branches here.

Cathedral of St. Mary and St. Anne

Ireland is a predominantly Catholic country and prides itself on its imposing churches. The 19th-century Cathedral of St Mary and St Anne has been the bishop's seat ever since. Its neo-Gothic architectural style is typical of the period. Brick, sandstone and limestone were used as building materials.

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