Explore the rich heritage of Cork, located in southwest Ireland. Hire a car to make the most of your visit and see all there is to see in the lush countryside of the Emerald Isle.
Take in all of the hot spots of Cork, like the must-see Blarney Castle, built over 600 years ago and home to the Blarney Stone, and then drive 2500 km along the famous ‘Wild Atlantic Way’. The popular tourist route follows the Atlantic shoreline and is the world's longest, signed, coastal road. Stop along the way and visit other popular destinations such as Galway, Limerick, and Dublin.
Out and about in Cork, kissing the Blarney Stone
Cork city is built on and around River Lee and is best explored on foot around the CBD. The central area is a spectacular mix of centuries-old architecture and modern amenities, making for an easy day spent wandering the sites. Be sure to stop at St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, a towering Neo-Gothic structure dripping in history and culture. The Shandon Church is another favourite as it was built in 1722 and allows visitors to climb the bell tower and ring the mammoth six-tonne bells.
Blarney Castle is a 15-minute drive out of the city in your Cork car rental and is one of Ireland’s most beloved landmarks. The fern garden, grounds, and Rock Close are staples of this 600-year-old castle, but most people come to kiss the Blarney Stone. You’ll sit down and lean backward from the parapet walk, hold onto a railing and kiss the stone - an act which is said to give you the gift of the gab and therefore never be lost for words again!
For harbour views, drive 45 minutes to Ballycotton on Ireland’s coast. The Ballycotton Cliff Walk is a hidden gem of the Emerald Isle, and if you chance upon a fine day, pack yourself a picnic and head out for jaw-droppingly good views and a fantastic day out in the fresh air.
![With a car rental from Cork you can head out to see the spectacular Cliffs of Moher.]()
Renting a car from Cork Airport using Airport Rentals
Take advantage of cheap rental car prices on AirportRentals.com and book a hired car for collection at Cork airport.
Generate a list of available vehicles by simply adding your destination and travel dates to the search box. Compare brands quickly and easily and use the preference filters, such as transmission type, car type, group size and more, to further narrow your search.
Choose the car that best suits your needs and instantly and securely book online, with no booking fees or hidden charges. Should you need help, contact the customer service team 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Cork Airport
With new infrastructure built in 2006, Cork airport is Ireland's newest transport facility. It is one of the three busiest airports in the country, in between Dublin and Shannon. The airport is easily accessible, located only 8 km south of the city centre.
The airport has one terminal building and many amenities and services, including ATMs and currency exchange. Make use of the free WiFi available throughout the airport. Shop for designer fashion, cosmetics, and specialty items at the ‘the Loop', the main shopping outlet in the airport. For something to eat, choose from a variety of dining options.
Make your way to the arrivals hall to find the car rental customer service desks and pick up your airport rental car.
![Cork isn’t a difficult city to navigate - just take care on the narrow country roads outside the city.]()
Driving in Cork
Driving in Cork is easy and enjoyable with a navigable network of roads. Take care driving outside of the city as the country roads are notoriously narrow.
Getting to Cork from the airport
Driving time from the airport to Cork is approximately 15 mins, but can be a little longer during morning and afternoon rush hour. From the airport, take a left onto the N27 which is the airport expressway. Follow this road east and then use the city's ring road to reach the centre.
Tips for driving in Ireland
• Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
• Obey all local road rules, especially speed limits, to keep safe and avoid expensive fines.
• Irish drivers often flash their lights and blinkers or wave to say thank you.
• Drink driving is considered a serious offense and random breath testing checkpoints are common.
Parking at Cork Airport and the city
There is ample parking at Cork airport, with 4300 short term spaces in a multistory building. It is conveniently located directly opposite the terminal and connected by a covered walkway.
Street parking in Cork can be paid two ways, by phone or with a parking Disc. The disc can be purchased from participating retailers around Cork and should be clearly displayed on the inside of your windscreen. Off-street parking is available in many of the multi-storey car parks, throughout the city.
