Kinsale v. Cobh

A friend and I are heading down to Co. Cork in a few weeks. She'd like to spend some time on the coast (no time to get out to Kerry) so I'm thinking Cobh or Kinsale. We'll most likely spend a night there. Thoughts?

Cobh to Kinsale is not that far, about 40 minutes.
In Cobh visit the heritage centre
you can take the train see IRISHRAIL .IE /
take the bus 249 or 252 to Kinsale.
see.....BUSEIREANN.IE /

If you want a rural coastal experience, you should go a bit further west. Kinsale is nice enough but relatively speaking quite built-up.

I'd go Kinsale over Cobh.

Cobh is a really beautiful town, even in the autumn and has lots of things to see and do. It is steeped in history - mostly related to shipping disasters and emigration. Do go to see the Heritage Centre and the Cathedral and perhaps take the Titanic Trail walking tour. Cobh is also a great base to stay in as you can hop on the hourly train to Cork city. Although aimed at Cruise passengers this website has lots of relevant information on Cobh and Cork http://visitcobh.com/index.php/2011/05/18/cruise-passengers-your-window-on-cobh/

Both are nice, Cobh has quite a lot of history, but its not the nicest place to stay overnight, it doesn't have a great variety of options for restaurants and hotels. Its only really worth visiting for the Heritage Centre and attractions specific to the Titanic, etc. Kinsale has great options, and some wonderful (but pricey) restaurants. Architecturally, Kinsale is far the more interesting town. If you want to see some wild coastline, I'd suggest going further along to Baltimore.

Been to both. In my opinion, unless you're a huge Titanic fan there is not much to see in Cobh. Kinsale is a nice town, and Charle's fort is a real gem not mention nice eateries in the town

Another vote for Kinsale. Really good restaurants serving local produce, fish etc prepared continental style. The hotels etc, have nice painted architecture good for photography. Kinsale is a sailing centre if that is of interest. Dingle peninsula is great to drive for sea views but not for a short trip.

Yet another vote for Kinsale! It beats Cobh hands down. Architecture, food and bars. Medieval buildings on every street, Charles Fort, Old Kinsale Head and ye got to drop in to the "Greyhound Bar", full of character and charm. Marina and a nice weekend market too. Clonakilty is not far either? Can be a fun place to hang out.

Well I would go for Cobh because I love the old buildings there & because there are so many trains to Cork City too, as well as to Fota Wildlife Park. But that's just me!

Kinsale: been there for an hour or two. I promised to stay a couple of days at that place when I go back to Ireland.
Cobh: been there for an hour or two and that was just enough