The ‘Real Capital’, as the locals regard it, Cork sits mostly on an island in the middle of the River Lee. The second-largest city in Ireland is compact and cheerful, luring in tourists with that famous Irish charm.
But in a city of such small proportions, and so largely residential, it’s not easy working out exactly where to stay in Cork to make the most of your trip.
To help you out, we’ve done the research for you and figured out the five best places to stay in Cork. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or are backpacking on a shoestring budget, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s get started!
If you’re more interested in the best of the best and the location isn’t a concern, have a look at our picks for the best accommodation in Cork as a whole!
Bru Bar and Hostel | Best Hostel in Cork
Fall in love with Cork while staying at this epic hostel in the city’s Victorian Quarter! Enjoy Irish hospitality at the pub on the ground floor, and immerse yourself in the vibrant student life. Stay here to make the most of Cork’s historical sites, famous tourist attractions, and some of the best weather in Ireland.
Hayfield Manor | Best Hotel in Cork
Complete with ultra-comfortable orthopedic beds, the luxurious rooms at this hotel include marble bathrooms stocked with designer products. There are two restaurants on-site, and plenty more in the surrounding area! If you want to experience something slightly more luxurious, then this is the place for you.
Elegant and Spacious House in Vibrant Area | Best Airbnb in Cork
Situated in one of the most vibrant and coolest areas in Cork, this elegant three-bedroom Airbnb in Ireland provides comfortable family accommodation. Its perfect location means that it’s set up perfectly for exploring the city. The apartment has been recently refurbished and sleeps up to seven guests.
Cork’s Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Cork
Victorian Quarter
The Victorian Quarter isn’t actually in the very centre of Cork City, but instead is located right on the northern bank of the river, between the 18th century St Patrick’s Bridge and Kent Station.
St Luke’s
Saint Luke’s is a little back and over to the east of the Victorian Quarter. It’s a more residential area than the others, home to a number of schools and colleges.
City Centre
Those staying in this section are a bit spoilt, as this is encompassing almost the entire island in the river.
Clarke’s Bridge
Clarke’s Bridge is on the north and south side of the river, to the west of the centre. It’s the name of one of the bridges spanning the Lee, obviously, but is also the area just around that.
Shandon
Our last pick, and the best place to stay in Cork if you’re travelling with kids is the Shandon neighbourhood.
Cork is in the southwest corner of Ireland, a seaport just tucked back from the coast in a series of inlets and bays.
It started out as an island settlement but has since spread to cover more of the surrounding areas. Today, this eclectic city is bustling with various neighborhoods and districts. Some are more suited to travelers than others, and each offers something unique.
If it’s your first time in Cork, we recommend staying in the Victorian Quarter. Here, you’ll find bright, colorful buildings and plenty to explore. The area is situated right by the city center, making it an ideal base for getting out and exploring.
St Luke’s is our top recommendation for those backpacking Ireland on a budget. It’s a more residential area that sits slightly further out from the centre, offering cheaper accommodation as a result.
Cork is Ireland’s nightlife capital, and staying in the City Centre is the best way to make the most of it! There’s so much to do here no matter what time of day. At night, you’ll be spoilt for choice by the number of pubs, bars, and clubs to choose from.
Clarke’s Bridge is where to stay in Cork if you want to go slightly off the beaten path. This quirky neighborhood is full of trendy cafes, classy bars, and unique architecture.
Finally, Shandon is the best area to stay in Cork with family. It’s slightly quieter than other areas, but still boasts plenty of things to see and do.
If you’re still unsure where to stay in Cork – don’t stress! We’ve got more information on each of these areas below.
Cork’s Five Best Neighborhoods To Stay in
Read on for more detailed guides on each area below. We’ve included our top accommodation and activity picks in each, so you know exactly what you’re getting!
1. Victorian Quarter – Where to Stay in Cork Your First Visit
The Victorian Quarter is located right on the northern bank of the river, between the 18th Century St Patrick’s Bridge and Kent Station. It has a friendly feeling, like that of a village, despite its proximity to the middle of town.
Both hip and historic, the Victorian Quarter is our pick for the best place to stay on your first visit to Cork. It’s right by the main rail and bus station, and taxis are easy to find. This makes it an ideal base from which to discover Cork.
The neighborhood gets its name from the architecture of the buildings, laid out in that elegant Victorian style. The shopfronts, once where merchants and traders resided, still bear testament to their roots in style and appearance.
The Quarter has done battle with the river island of late, for the liveliest and best entertainment district of Cork.
While you’re here, make sure to check out the western corner of MacCurtain Street, where the bars, restaurants and cafes are clustered!
Bru Bar and Hostel | Best Hostel in Victorian Quarter
Book a few days in Bru and see what Cork has to offer. Great pubs (they have one on the ground floor!), restaurants, festivals, and 50,000 students always looking for a good time. Here, you’ll find historical sites, popular tourist attractions, and the best weather in Ireland.
The Metropole Hotel Cork | Best Hotel in Victorian Quarter
Situated less than a 10-minute walk from Kent Train Station, The Metropole Hotel provides guests with a convenient place to stay in Cork. It has a gym, a sauna, an indoor pool, and a Jacuzzi. It’s family-friendly and offers modern and comfortable rooms.
Hotel Isaac’s Cork | Best Hotel in Victorian Quarter
Set in an old-style Victorian building, this boutique hotel offers stylish rooms with exquisite furnishings. On-site, you’ll also find an inhouse restaurant, a cocktail bar, and a courtyard with a floodlit waterfall. From here, the city centre, English Market, and Shandon Steeple are just a five-minute walk away.
Urban Chic in the Heart of the Victorian Quarter | Best Apartment in Cork
This gorgeous apartment provides comfortable living for up to seven guests in the centre of the Victorian Quarter. The flat is fully furnished and includes a spacious living area, free wifi, and laundry facilities. It’s surrounded by bars, restaurants, shops, and some of the best places to visit in Cork. If you’re looking for a home-away-from-home with an unbeatable location, then you’ll love it.
Things to See and Do in Victorian Quarter:
- Have a flutter at either of the two casinos that make their home here on the riverfront.
- Check out the bars on MacCurtain Street. Keep an eye out, as they’re not all on the maps!
- Catch live music every night at the Bru Bar and Hostel, one of our picks for the area.
- Chill yourself out with a session at the Himalaya Yoga Centre. Some grounding needed after an evening of Irish jigs on MacCurtain Street, perhaps!
- Visit St Patrick’s Bridge, the symbolic ‘crossing of the Lee’ and a beautiful bridge in its own right.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. St Luke’s – Where to Stay in Cork on a Budget
Saint Luke’s is a little back and over to the east of the Victorian Quarter. It’s a more residential area than the others, home to a number of schools and colleges. Never fear though, as it’s also the site of more than a few pubs and restaurants.
It’s the best place to stay in Cork if you’re traveling on a budget, as the accommodation prices reflect its location. In saying that, the size of Cork still means that within a 10-15 minute walk, you’re smack in the centre of town anyway.
Saint Luke’s is home to a very cool church too. Oxymoron, you say? Not quite. Live at St. Luke’s is a range of concerts that utilize the acoustics of the building to put on soaring performances. Largely sold out months in advance, shows include pop, rock, and country groups. You can even BYO beverage, as long as it’s not in glass. Now that’s unique!
Room in a Victorian Terraced House | Best Private Room in St Luke’s
If a hostel doesn’t quite cut it, then check out this vacation rental in Cork. The private room is cosy and is situated in a charming Victorian house. Breakfast is provided by the host each morning, and guests have access to the shared kitchen. There are bus stops right outside which will get you into the city centre in minutes.
Sheilas Cork Hostel | Best Hostel in St Luke’s
Sheilas Cork Hostel is close to bars, cafes and restaurants. It’s also within walking distance of all the top attractions including The English Market, Cork City Gao,l and Shandon Steeple. Dorms and private rooms are available.
The Dean Cork | Best Hotel in St Luke’s
Nestled between St Luke’s and the Victorian Quarter, The Dean offers stylish and comfortable accommodation. Rooms are decorated in a rustic and industrial style, and each comes with a private bathroom and flat-screen TV. There are wellness facilities on-site, as well as a fantastic restaurant and bar.
The Address Cork | Best Hotel in St Luke’s
The Address Cork is one of the best places to stay for couples. Guests can enjoy contemporary furnishings and lots of extras, including a fitness centre, onsite bar, and breakfast included in the price of most rooms. The city centre is a 15 minute walk from the hotel, which is ideally located for exploring tourist attractions including Blarney Castle and the Cork City Opera House.
Things to See and Do in St Luke’s:
- Check out the group of bars and restaurants on the intersection of Old Youghal and Military roads.
- Catch a show at St Luke’s. Just don’t get it confused with the other church of the same name further south!
- Wander down by the water, on the other side of the train tracks.
- Have a pint at John Henchy and Sons pub, and see the Cork of years ago.
- Watch a game of local rugby at the CBC complex.
3. City Centre – Best Area to Stay in Cork For Nightlife
The city centre is a lively, bustling part of town, easily accessible both to and from all sides via no less than 27 bridges.
The best way to see this part of town is just to walk, either circumnavigating or cutting right through. There are walking tours that you can join as well, to take the guesswork out of it for you. Keep an eye out as you walk around and you’ll find stone monuments or fountains, each with a historical significance to the city.
Thanks to its abundance of lively bars and pubs, this is the best place to come for nightlife or if you’re visiting Cork for the weekend.
Start at the Port of Cork City in daylight, on the eastern corner, and work your way up Oliver Plunkett Street, being sure to check down and side alleys. This will take you past such gems as The Poor Relation and Arthur Mayne’s Pharmacy. End your trek at the SUAS Rooftop Bar, for the nighttime views over the area. Finger’s crossed it’s not raining!
Jurys Inn Cork | Best Hotel in City Centre
Jurys Inn Cork is situated in the city’s well-known tourism and shopping district. Just 10 minutes’ walk from Kent Train Station, the 3-star hotel offers guests an ideal base when in Cork. Welcoming and helpful staff are available 24 hours a day.
Imperial Hotel Cork City | Best Hotel in City Centre
Imperial Hotel Cork City offers stylish, 4-star accommodation close to St. Patrick’s Street. It also features a spa area with a Jacuzzi and sauna. The hotel features contemporary furnishings an an onsite restaurant serving traditional Irish cuisine.
Clayton Hotel Cork City | Best Hotel in City Centre
Clayton Hotel Cork City offers an indoor pool, free Wi-Fi and a Jacuzzi. Just a stone’s throw from nearby bars and clubs, this 4-star hotel allows guests to easily explore what the local nightlife has to offer.
Spacious Private Room | Best Private Room in City Centre
Situated in a quiet area just a ten minute walk from the city centre, this private room provides the best of both worlds. The room comes with a shared bathroom and tea/coffee making facilities, and guests can enjoy views of the city from the sunny garden. Wifi is available throughout the property, and the workspace is perfect for digital nomads or anyone looking to get some work done.
Things to See and Do in the City Centre:
- Catch a local performance at the Crane Lane Theatre.
- Eat your fill at the English Market food hall.
- Visit the National Monument, on the southside.
- Grab a coffee in the Huguenot Quarter on the northside.
- See a show at the Cork Opera House, home to more than what’s in the name!
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!4. Clarke’s Bridge – Coolest Place To Stay in Cork
Clarke’s Bridge is the coolest area to stay in Cork because of its location. It’s just off the very center of the city, tucked in a little curve of the river. It’s surrounded by historic monuments and a handful of classy bars. The coffee over here isn’t bad either!
On the south of Clarke’s Bridge area is the magnificent St Fin Barre’s Cathedral. French gothic in style, its architecture is worth a visit for that alone. It also regularly puts on symphonic performances. These Corkonians don’t waste a good music venue space!
Closer to the river you can find the Lavit Gallery too, which houses an ever-changing exhibit of local and international artists.
Private Flat with Cathedral View | Best Apartment in Clarke’s Bridge
This managed apartment comes with open-plan living and gorgeous views of Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral. The city centre is just a couple of minutes walk from the property, but the property is offset from the streets so you’ll be undisturbed. When you’re not out exploring, there’s a private garden and a deck to kick back on.
Redclyffe Lodge | Best Hostel in Clarke’s Bridge
Redclyffe Lodge provides a comfortable setting when in Cork. It is steps from Lewis Glucksman Gallery, eateries and nightlife options. Those staying at the hostel can enjoy the property’s gardens. Redclyffe Lodge offers 5 comfortable rooms that are ideal for travellers on a budget.
The River Lee Hotel | Best Hotel in Clarke’s Bridge
The River Lee Hotel a member of The Doyle Collection provides contemporary 4-star accommodation in Cork. Guests also have exclusive access to The Urban Escape and NRG Fitness. Guests can enjoy the sun on the terrace or have a drink at the bar.
Lancaster Lodge | Best Hotel in Clarke’s Bridge
This four-star lodge offers luxurious accommodation on the banks of the River Lee. Rooms are spacious and furnished with king-sized beds, and each comes with a private bathroom. Cork’s top attractions are right nearby, including the English Market and St Fin Barre’s Cathedral.
Things to See and Do in Clarke’s Bridge:
- Gape up at the soaring roofs of St Fin Barre’s Cathedral.
- Visit the Lavit Gallery and see what’s on offer.
- Cross the sentimental Clarke’s Bridge, ‘cause you have to while you’re there!
- Soak up some history at the star-shaped Elizabeth Fort and use its vantage point to look out over the city.
- Make your way up Barrack Street where you’ll be spoilt for choice with places to eat, drink and be merry!
5. Shandon – Best Neighborhood in Cork for Families
Last but not least, Shandon is our top pick if you’re deciding where to stay in Cork with children.
Centred around the Shandon Bells at St Anne’s Church, the area is north of the river and on the other side of the main highway out of town from the Victorian Quarter.
It’s great for families because it’s where a lot of the tourist destinations are, it’s close to the main train and bus station, and it’s not in the noisy centre city. Fun, easy transport connections, and a good night’s sleep for all. What more could you want?
The Shandon Bells are an icon of Cork, and you can ring them yourself from the first floor, hearing the peals roll out. Then climb the tower to check out the views of the city, with many of its paths and buildings unchanged for centuries.
Unique Art-filled Flat | Best Apartment in Shandon
This family-friendly accommodation is one of the best places to stay in Cork if you’re bringing the whole clan along. The apartment sleeps six guests across two bedrooms, and comes with a full kitchen and lounge area. Free parking is provided just outside. Ideally situated for exploring Cork’s top attractions, it’s just a short walk from the Butter Museum, Firkin Crane, and Shandon Tower.
Maldron Hotel Shandon | Best Hotel in Shandon
Maldron Hotel Shandon Cork City provides a charming setting while in Cork. Offering complimentary Wi-Fi, a restaurant and an indoor pool, the hotel is within a 10-minute walk of The Everyman, St. Patrick’s Street and Cork English Market.
Elegant and Spacious House in Vibrant Area | Best Airbnb in Shandon
This elegant three-bedroom apartment is perfect for families visiting Cork. Its perfect location means that it is set up perfectly for exploring the city. Recently renovated, it can accommodate up to seven guests with three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms over two floors. It has large windows so you will enjoy a lot of natural light.
Kinlay House Cork | Best Hostel in Shandon
This awesome hostel in Cork is located right under the famous Shandon bells. It’s got comfy common areas including a TV room with brocade lounges to sink into, a big dining room and a self-catering kitchen open until 10pm each night.
Things to See and Do in Shandon:
- Ring the Shandon Bells, of course!
- Climb the tower of St Anne’s Church to get the lay of the land.
- Visit the Cork City Gaol.
- Catch a show at the Firkin Crane.
- Learn about all things buttery at the Butter Museum and find out its importance in the formation and development of Ireland.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Cork
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Cork and where to stay.
What To Pack For Cork
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Cork
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Cork, Ireland
Easy to access and get around, Cork is a budget traveler’s dream. It’s got something to keep everyone entertained, and offers a glimpse into an authentic side of Ireland.
If you’re still unsure where to stay, we highly recommend Bru Bar & Hostel. It’s got everything you need – a perfect location, top amenities, and comfortable beds.
For something more upmarket, we love the Hayfield Manor. This boutique hotel is full of stylish furnishings and comes complete with that Irish charm.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Ireland.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Cork.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Ireland instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
