Cork Transport

Getting around Cork is fairly easy and visitors should find the public transport adequate for the size of the city. The best way to see many of the attractions is on foot, as they are based in a small and compact area. There’s even a specially designed walking tour and accompanying booklet which signposts all the major tourist attractions. Also, you will find a choice of open-top bus tours, which are ideal if you are only visiting for a short time and want to see as much as possible during your stay.

By train

The train station in Cork is designed solely for connections to other parts of the country and not cross-city transport.

By bus

If you need to use public transport, then buses are perhaps the best option for getting around in terms of cost and destinations covered. Bus Eireann operates 19 different bus routes around the city, most of which run from early in the morning until midnight, except on Sundays, when there is a reduced timetable. Services to surrounding villages and the wider south west region are also offered.

The company offers a number of travel pass options for tourists. All of the buses run from the main station on Parnell Place, alongside Merchant's Quay, and most buses also pick up from the more central St Patrick's street.

Taxis

For comfort and convenience, taxis provide a better but more expensive option. You will find taxi ranks along St Patrick’s street, the South Mall and outside the bigger hotels in the city. Some of the popular companies are: Cork Taxi Co-op (tel: +353 21 4272222); ABC Cabs (tel: +353 21 4961961); Tele-Cabs (tel: +353 21 4505050); and Shandon Cabs (tel: +353 21450 2255).

Tourist services

A good choice for those short on time are the open-top bus tours. Guide Friday departs from near the tourist office to take in the city centre as well as Cork City Gaol and the public museum (May to September), and Bus Eireann covers the city centre and Blarney (June to Sept). Both tours can be booked at the tourist office. Bus Eireann also runs a number of coach tours from Cork to nearby attractions during the summer months. Hiring a bicycle is another good way to explore the city. Rothar Cycles at 55 Barrack street has a selection of bicycles for hire (www.rotharcycletours.com).

From the airport

Passengers arriving at the airport requiring ground transportation can choose between buses and taxis. A regular bus service provides a quick and convenient connection to the city. Car hire companies are also on hand and you can book online to ensure your reservation.