Where to Book a Stay in Cork, Ireland

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Lancaster Lodge is five minutes on foot from the city centre – and there are lots of incredible sights to explore in the surrounding area. There are 48 bedrooms: 46 twins and doubles and, if you’re looking for more space, two suites (with super king-sized beds). Breakfast is served every morning, but there are options nearby for lunch and dinner. Try Japanese restaurant Ichigo Ichie and innovative vegetarian outlet Paradiso for starters.

You’re a bit further out from the city centre here, but there’s easy access to public transport, meaning Cork city isn’t too far away. And the hotel will keep you happy, even if you don’t leave your room. These range from the classic guest space (ideal for couples) to the family guest room. If you’re after something a little different, they also offer self-catering villas – meaning you’ll have your own private hideaway. There’s a trophy-garnering restaurant, while the hotel is near some of the best golf courses in the county. It’s also just a 10-minute drive to Fota Wildlife Park.

Just 10 minutes’ walk from the train station, the Address is a great spot to base yourself for adventures in Cork. Accommodation is cosy and soothing, and many of the premier and club rooms overlook the city, providing lovely views. Also, sound out details of special wine and beer tastings, as well as cocktail-making workshops. During the warmer months, make sure you snap up one of their picnics. The Opera Lane shopping district and the Cork Opera House are all within easy reach on foot, and you can hop on public transport to take in the Jameson Heritage Centre or Fota Wildlife Park.

The Kingsley is a spacious, luxurious four-star. It’s very cosy, too – the ideal place to stay if you want a mix of vibrant city life and scenic landscapes. Each room is decorated in soothing shades, but the accents – pops of burgundy, mustard and lime – add a dash of exuberance. There are plenty of dining options, whether you want afternoon tea or monkfish tempura in the Fairbanks Restaurant. A mini food market highlighting local produce takes place every Saturday and Sunday.

If history is your thing, stay at the Imperial – the first hotel in Cork. Rooms at this 200-year-old stay are opulently decorated, giving you the feeling you’re living in a period film. If you fancy something more modern, consider the penthouse. The well-loved English Market is just five minutes away on foot – boasting an Instagrammable array of fresh produce – and the main shopping district is nearby, too. Rent a bike right outside the hotel and pedal to the sights, including the Cork Public Museum or Cork City Gaol, both of which are under 15 minutes’ cycle away.

This luxury five-star option, close to the city centre, has individually designed rooms of elegant wing-backs and pale fabrics, sash windows and patterned wallpapers. Interconnecting rooms are just the ticket for families or big groups. Perrotts Garden Bistro has winning ways with sole, halibut, duck and chicken; or hold out for afternoon tea, a full-on affair. Top tip: the Beautique Spa goes all out with indulgent treatments performed by Elemis-trained therapists and facilities that include a heated indoor pool and outdoor jacuzzi.

With a tranquil feel, this city-centre hotel is perfect if you’re looking for something extra-relaxing. Accommodation options range from the cosy room (perfect for solo adventurers) to the family room and, stepping it up further, the deluxe. Muted tones give the place a soothing and homely vibe. Take in the views, and the delicious meals, at the River Club – the roast rack of East Cork lamb is a winner. Or settle in for drinks at the Cocktail Club. Meanwhile, Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, Cork Public Museum and Elizabeth Fort are nearby – so you’re sorted for sightseeing.

Here’s a lovely hideaway a few kilometres from the city centre, with 18 acres (7ha) of woodlands and gardens. There are 93 rooms, from deluxe to full-blown master suites, most of them with balconies and verandas overlooking the gardens. The art deco-informed Bellini’s restaurant is the place for elegant dining, on seafood chowder and dover sole. Other highlights include the luxurious spa and the fitness centre. But if you fancy swinging into town, easy access to public transport will have you there in 20 minutes.

It’s business meets pleasure at the Clayton Hotel in the commercial centre of Cork, equally ideal for a family staycation or business trip. Views of the River Lee can be enjoyed from the al fresco dining area where the menu features dishes using whole plants and animals so nothing’s wasted. Take a dip in the indoor heated-floor swimming pool, it’s as inviting as it sounds, and there’s a fully equipped gym that’s free to use for guests.

Set within a gorgeous 1900s period guesthouse, Gabriel House promises a comfortable and cosy stay just moments from Cork city centre. Breakfast fans will love it here; a daily traditional Irish breakfast uses eggs freshly laid by the resident hens. Most of the rooms spoil you with views of the pretty garden, with some even featuring Cork’s cathedral spires and harbour.
Still unsure? Cork has many hotels and hostels for every type of traveller, now bookable via Culture Trip. With a place to stay sorted, you’ll be able to discover the wonders of southern Ireland, including the plethora of islands and lighthouses dotted along the coast.

This is a rewrite of an article originally by Ieva Matiejunaite.