Choosing the ideal travel destination in Europe can be challenging, especially with so many incredible cities to consider.

In Ireland, Dublin is frequently hailed as an idyllic city break destination that offers great hospitality and culture. 

However, there is one city that is often overlooked by tourists but adored by its residents. 

Cork, the second largest city in Ireland, is fondly known to locals as “Ireland’s real capital”. 

The city offers history, heritage and awe-inspiring landmarks complemented by artisan food and drink, as well as a vibrant cultural, musical and artistic scene.

Within the city of Cork, there are a myriad of grand gothic and classical architecture such as Cork City Gaol.

While it may look more like a castle than a prison, visitors can experience unique insights into the city’s history and what life was like inside and outside prison walls during the 19th and 20th century with a trip to the Cork City Gaol museum.

Another one of Ireland’s top tourist destinations is the world-famous Blarney Castle, located just ten minutes from Cork City. 

It’s home to the famous Blarney Stone, which, according to legend, holds the power to bless anyone who kisses it with powers of eloquence, flattery and luck. 

There is also Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, a building of international significance and is considered to be one of the most complete examples of French Neo Gothic architecture in Western Europe. Here you can see some of Ireland’s best stained glass windows. 

It is also a site that has been used for Christian worship since Cork’s patron saint Fin Barre established a monastery in the 7th century.

Cork is known as the culinary capital of Ireland, a city where you’re actively encouraged to indulge.

If you are a foodie, do not fear because the foodie scene in Cork is a great deal. 

The English Market, one of the oldest markets in Europe, features artisan stalls offering everything from bread, fish, and cheese to local delicacies like drisheen and pig’s trotters. Chef Rick Stein even praised it as the “best covered market in the UK and Ireland.”

And if you are a fan of butter Cork also honors its more historic tasty traditions at its Cork Butter Museum. 

Located in the historic Shandon area of Cork city, it celebrates one of the great success stories of Ireland, the butter trade. 

To round off your getaway, Cork boasts an array of breweries and craft beer pubs to explore. Among them is the Franciscan Well Brewery, which is tucked away under an archway just outside of the city centre, built on the site of an old Franciscan monastery and well.

The pub embodies the essence of a classic craft beer brewpub, featuring a selection of house-brewed beers, guest taps, a variety of whisky and gin, and a pizzeria in its inviting beer garden.