Be Safe in Cork

Cork is a relatively small town and is safer than most European cities, but normal precautions should be followed. You're unlikely to feel threatened or intimidated when walking the streets during the day or in the evening and most tourists should have a problem-free visit. The city still has its fair share of criminals, so extra caution should be taken to ensure that you don’t fall victim to them.

Safety

Bag-snatchers and pickpockets are the most common problem faced by visitors to the city. Be vigilant and take care to safeguard passports and wallets. Pickpockets tend to operate in crowded places such as the tourist sites and on public transport. Keep expensive watches and jewellery out of sight and purses and wallets in front pockets. If you have a rucksack it is advisable to wear it with the straps over both shoulders, and those with handbags should have the strap on the opposite shoulder to the hip it sits on.

Theft from cars is also quite common, so again, keep possessions out of sight and don't leave any valuables unattended. Take care when visiting nightclubs and bars, and women should be particularly careful late at night in any of the dark and quiet streets. Serious crime involving tourists is rare and terrorism is no more a threat here than in other Western countries.

Roads are more dangerous during the summer months due to an increase in traffic. The smaller country lanes can be narrow, uneven and winding, so take extra care and drive slowly.

Police:  999

Health

There are no special vaccinations required for travel to Ireland, nor any particular health hazards beyond those of taking care when visiting an unknown place. Tap water is officially classed as safe to drink, but many people choose to drink bottled mineral water. Food hygiene standards in restaurants are high and closely monitored.

If you do fall ill or have an accident, there are modern medical facilities available and treatment is good. Make sure you have appropriate travel insurance to cover medical costs.

Ambulance: 999