This Irish County Is One of National Geographic’s Best Places to Visit

It’s official: County Cork has been crowned one of the best places to visit by none other than National Geographic. And, if you’ve ever stepped foot in Cork, you’ll know they’re absolutely right.

Proudly known as the Rebel County, Cork earned its nickname from its fierce spirit during the Irish War of Independence. Even today, you’ll hear Corkonians joke that their city should be the real capital of Ireland. And, after you spend a few days here, you just might agree.

Cork isn’t a place you visit; it’s a place you feel. Let’s read a little bit more about what National Gepgraphic had to say about it. Then, we’ll run down ten reasons why we agree and why County Cork deserves a spot at the very top of your travel wishlist.

National Geographic’s Celebration of Cork

At the end of last year, National Geographic gave Cork a special nod for its urban revival plans, spotlighting a sweeping transformation in the works. 

Thanks to the $128 billion Project Ireland initiative, Cork City is undergoing a huge glow-up that includes the redevelopment of the port and docklands, a major refresh of the beloved Crawford Art Gallery, and an expanded Cork Event Centre that’s set to host even more concerts, festivals, and exhibitions. 

Mark your calendar for September of this year. The city will buzz with life during Sounds from a Safe Harbour, a festival brimming with music, dance, and conversation. (Fun fact: the festival was cofounded by none other than Cillian Murphy, Cork’s own Oscar-winning star of Oppenheimer.)

Not long after, there’s also the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival. Each year, it features a variety of swing, bebop, fusion, and other genres spread across over 70 venues in the city. You won’t want to miss this if you’re in town in October. 

But, Cork’s magic isn’t just in its bright future. It’s woven into every corner of its fascinating past. You’ll see, hear, and feel nods to that past in each of these ten locales. 

1. Cork City

At the heart of County Cork beats the vibrant energy of Cork City itself. With its winding waterways, colorful streets, and buzzing markets like the famous English Market (serving locals since 1788), Cork is a dream for anyone who loves history mixed with a modern spirit. 

Take a stroll down Oliver Plunkett Street, pop into the Crawford Art Gallery, and grab a bite at one of the city’s ever-growing number of cafés and restaurants. It’s a city small enough to feel cozy, but big enough to keep you endlessly entertained.

2. The English Market

It’s so noteworthy, it deserves its own spot, separate from the Cork City section. Even if you’re not a foodie, you’ll fall in love with the English Market. 

This historic covered market has been feeding the people of Cork for centuries and is packed with local produce, artisan cheeses, handmade chocolates, and piping-hot pies. It’s a feast for the senses – and a great spot to pick up a picnic before heading out to explore any of the locales we’re about to get into.

3. Clonakilty

If you like your towns colorful, friendly, and filled with music, Clonakilty is your spot. Known for its brightly painted shopfronts and lively trad music scene, Clon (as the locals call it) is also the birthplace of Michael Collins, a key leader in Ireland’s fight for independence. 

Whatever you do, don’t leave without sampling the famous Clonakilty black pudding or visiting nearby beaches like Inchydoney. The way the winds of the Atlantic embrace you while you’re here isn’t something you’ll soon forget.