Shandon tower above a row of painted houses and columns of the butter museum.

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Cork City

Ireland's second city is first in every important respect – at least according to the locals, who cheerfully refer to it as the 'real capital of Ireland'. It's a liberal, youthful and cosmopolitan place that was badly hit by economic recession but is now busily reinventing itself with spruced-up streets, revitalised stretches of waterfront, and – seemingly – an artisan coffee bar on every corner. There's a bit of a hipster scene, but the best of the city is still happily traditional – snug pubs with live-music sessions, restaurants dishing up top-quality local produce, and a genuinely proud welcome from the locals.

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Tour the Long Hall and Clock Tower of University College Cork or play a game of chess in downtown Waterford.

Local Voices

Cork vs Waterford: which of Ireland’s southern cities is the best?

Jan 16, 2023 • 6 min read

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