Are there flights from Cork Airport to Dublin Airport?
As of 2024, you cannot fly from Cork Airport to Dublin Airport. Companies ceased the connection in 2011 due to the development of the M8 highway, which decreased the travel time between the cities and reduced the demand to fly. Indirect flights through London are possible but not recommended due to the hassle and prices.
Which is nicer, Cork or Dublin?
Cork is considered a nicer town due to its charm and welcoming personality. The compact downtown means there's no avoidable neighborhood, and you can easily navigate its historical paths on foot. However, Dublin is livelier, with more grandeur than Cork, especially in its photogenic, red-brick Georgian architecture.
Is Cork, Ireland, worth seeing?
Cork is one of Europe's most underrated cities and is worth visiting. The city caters to everyone, whether you enjoy bar hopping, exploring historical landmarks, visiting museums, or indulging in a mouthwatering food scene. Cork also receives fewer visitors. So you can immerse yourself in the authentic Irish culture unaffected by overtourism.
How do I get from Cork, Ireland, to Dublin?
As of 2024, three travel options are available between Cork and Dublin, each with advantages depending on your preferences. The bus is best if you're traveling on a budget; a train is ideal if you prioritize speed; and Daytrip's private door-to-door service is the most comfortable and convenient mode of transportation.
How long is the drive from Cork to Dublin?
The shortest road distance from Cork to Dublin is 158 miles, which can take only 3 hours when driving safely. However, arriving in Dublin during rush hour traffic can drastically increase the duration. Travel outside the peak period of 7:30-9:30 AM and 4:00-7:00 PM so you don't cut your vacation time short.
Is there a direct train from Cork to Dublin?
The Cork to Dublin train line has an average of 15 direct daily trains. All services depart from Cork Kent Station and arrive at Dublin Heuston Station. The ride operated by Irish Rail takes between 2 hours, 14 minutes, and 2 hours, 45 minutes.
The Land of a Thousand Welcomes warmly greets you into its sea of green with a thrilling road trip from Cork to Dublin. From the locals' self-proclaimed "real capital" to the government's official headquarters, lush greenery and medieval relics litter this exhilarating 158-mile voyage!
But every journey begins with a single step. Yours starts with postcard views of the banks of the Lee, nestled along the Marina Way and sandwiched between leafy elm tree walkways and the glimmering blue waterways. It's not long before city life is a thing of the past as the forests clutching to rolling hills begin to appear in the distance, and towering medieval forts standing upon the rugged terrain pepper the unspoiled meadows.
Once you cross the midway point, Cashel Castle, the pick of the bunch, is just a short detour from the smooth A1 highway. From this point onwards, the flattening landscape propels your vehicle along the road, still flanked by sprawling farmyards, until the famous Guinness Factory marks the end of the trip and whets your appetite for adventure.
The Republic of Ireland's historic and rural geography makes for a picturesque journey. Steering while keeping your eyes on the road will prove to be impossible. So, uncover how you can enjoy the vistas while someone else handles the driving in our Cork to Dublin local travel guide!
About Dublin
After your Cork to Dublin transfer, you'll arrive in vibrant surroundings in the Republic of Ireland's capital and most populous city. The area built along the Liffey houses 590,000 friendly locals.
Residents can enjoy golden beaches along the Irish Sea and craggy slopes in the Dublin Mountain Range. Its location along the nation's east coast is one of Ireland's closest points to the United Kingdom, a vital reason for its turbulent past.
### History of Dublin
The first Viking tribes arrived in Dublin in 841 AD. This civilization established and ruled a permanent town on the south side of the river until the Normans invaded in the 1160s. Around four centuries later, the English built Dublin Castle and established one of the world's most extensive slave trades.
Throughout the Middle Ages, living conditions for the wealthy rose, while the general public experienced unsanitized streets. As a result, the Black Plague killed 14,000 Irishmen, the majority from Dublin. Fortunately, several hospitals and modern facilities, including Trinity College, helped improve the public's mood during this period.
The 20th century was Dublin's most stormy period. In Easter 1916, Padraig Pearse led a revolt to end London's rule in Ireland. The superior number of British soldiers crushed and executed 15 rebels, ultimately leading to the War of Independence, which helped form the Irish Free State in December 1922.
### Modern Dublin
Today, Dublin is a small capital with a big heart. Last year, the Readers Choice Awards named it Europe's third-friendliest town. The best place to experience the welcoming atmosphere is at the traditional Irish pubs along Temple Bar. Guinness flows like the sound of live folk bands, and the lively atmosphere bubbles like the traditional stews cooking in the kitchens.
But Dublin offers more than dark pubs decorated with rustic wooden furniture. On the one hand, the city has numerous open department stores and wide avenues that'll spark the interest of shopaholics. On the other hand, there are several parks, including Europe's largest urban garden in any capital city, to take a break from the hustle and bustle.
Dublin is a lively city, helped by its 120,000 students. But you can find a quiet slice of heaven, whether along rejuvenated docklands or hidden green spaces.
Language: English, Irish
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Time zone: GMT
Climate: temperate oceanic
Plug type: G
"Not-so" fun fact: Witch burnings used to occur in St. Stephen Green
From Cork to Dublin: travel tips
From helpful tricks to essential travel tips, there are a few to learn if you want a flawless drive from Cork to Dublin. Fortunately, our local experts want to share them with you below!
Prepare for the weather
The Republic of Ireland wouldn't have its lush greenery without the rain. But the problem is that the weather is unpredictable, and you can experience the four seasons from Cork to Dublin. Check the weather forecast before you leave and pack a light bag with a few essentials, such as waterproof jackets and umbrellas, in case of a change in the climate.
### Know the key times
Dublin is Europe's fourth-most traffic-congested city, and if you arrive during the peak hours of 7:30-9:30 AM or 4:00-7:00 PM, you could spend an hour stuck in traffic. Timing is also vital when purchasing a ticket from Cork to Dublin. Studies show that the Republic of Ireland is Europe's fifth-most expensive country for single or return tickets per kilometer bought on the day of travel.
### Explore Ireland's Ancient East
Ireland's Ancient East is a travel region from Cork in the south to Monaghan in the north. It's the home of mythical tales, medieval castles, historical relics, and unique cultures. You can't afford to speed past the enchanting experiences en route, like roaming the Holycross Abbey, kissing the Blarney Stone, or wandering the lesser-known Cahir Castle!
How to get from Cork to Dublin
Fortunately, numerous ways are available for traveling from Cork to Dublin. Each has advantages depending on your needs and budget, so uncover which is best for you before spending your well-earned cash!
Buses from Cork to Dublin
Buses are the most popular way for locals and tourists to travel from Cork to Dublin. It's also a cheap option, ideal when traveling in Europe on a budget.
Aircoach and Citylink are two privately owned coach firms that run from Cork City to Dublin Airport, with one dropoff in Dublin City. Bus Eireann is the national bus provider, with cheap seats from Cork Parnell Place Station to Dublin Busaras Station. But this service stops at several villages en route.
### Trains from Cork to Dublin
The train is a quick and relaxing way to get from Cork to Dublin. Some backpackers utilizing the interrail pass use this route in the summer. However, carriages are mostly empty as locals prefer the more affordable return bus tickets.
All 15 of Irish Rail's direct trains depart from Cork's only station, Cork Kent Station. Onboard, you'll find comfortable seating, quiet carriages, and modern conveniences like wifi, restrooms, and onboard catering services. Although Dublin has two stations, all services arrive at Dublin Heuston Station, 1.5 miles from O'Connell Street.
Cheapest/average fare: $24-$30
Fastest/average train duration: 2 hours, 14 minutes; 2 hours, 34 minutes
First/last departure: 5:40 AM-8:25 PM
### Daytrip private car from Cork to Dublin
Daytrip's private door-to-door service is the most comfortable and convenient way to travel from Cork to Dublin. After a simple booking process, your professional driver will greet you with a smile before whisking you from your hotel to your new one in the capital whenever you please.
Daytrip is also the most adventurous and enriching way to travel. Unlike the bus or train, Daytrip lets you stop to explore Ireland's Ancient East, stepping back in time at the Rock of Cashel, breathing in crisp country air at the Irish National Stud Garden, or soaking up scenery at the ruins of Dunamase. But since you're in Ireland and won't be hopping back into the driver's seat, why not sample whiskey on a Jameson Distillery tour to help fuel your wanderlust?
Seats from: $104
Door-to-door Duration: 2 hours and 40 minutes
Flexible timetable
Clean, sanitized, smoke-free car
Equipped for pets, kids, groups, or those with limited mobility
24/7 customer support
Free cancellation 24 hours before departing
Things to do when you get to Dublin
Despite having a population of under 600,000, around 9 million tourists flock to Ireland's capital city! The vast museum scene, vibrant nightlife, and historical gems are why millions of people visit with a packed timetable after a Cork to Dublin transfer!
Marvel at Trinity College
Explore and marvel at the historic grounds of Trinity College, Ireland's oldest university, founded in 1592. Today, the Old Library houses the famous Book of Kells, a beautifully illustrated manuscript dating back to the 9th century, showcasing Celtic artworks and religious texts.
You can also stroll through the college's cobbled squares and gardens, soaking in the academic atmosphere. The best part is that you can roam its public spaces for free!
### Soak up the atmosphere at Temple Bar
Temple Bar is the tourist symbol of Dublin. Iconic pubs line the cobbled lanes, where colorful flags mix in with plants hanging from buildings. Students drinking, tourists snapping photos, and street performances create a lively atmosphere before you step inside an establishment.
Don't be surprised to see locals sipping a pint of beer or stout (yes, they're different!) during the day, and prepare for live music and a carnival atmosphere, whether it's 1:00 PM or 1:00 AM. One thing to note is that prices here are higher than average, but the surroundings more than make up for it!
### Visit the Guinness Storehouse
When you think of Ireland, Guinness will be one of the first things that come to mind. No trip to the island is complete without savoring its flavors, and there's no better place to do so than right from where it's brewed.
Not only can you enjoy a crisp drink, but you can also learn the secrets of its creation and how to pour the perfect pint. The self-guided tour takes around 1.5 hours, but you can roam at your own pace.
### Unwind in Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park is the biggest urban park in a European capital city. Less than 2 miles from downtown Dublin, this sprawling garden of Eden spans over 1,700 acres. It's even home to the Dublin Zoo, perfect for family travel.
While here, you can wander the leafy walkways, listening to birds chirping and watching squirrels rustle through fallen leaves. Or you can do as the locals do: pick up some fresh goods at a local market and enjoy a picnic on the open fields.
When is the best time to visit Dublin?
Spring is undoubtedly the best time to organize your Cork to Dublin transfer. You'll avoid the crowds of tourists who come in the summer, creating bottlenecks on its streets and delays with public transport in this small capital city.
The Republic of Ireland doesn't have an endless supply of sunlight. So spring is also one of the liveliest times to visit when locals can finally sit in parks breathing fresh air or enjoying a coffee on the terrace after months of gray winter clouds. The UNESCO-listed national sport, GAA, also kicks off in April, when supporters from across the country come to fill up the bars and cheer their team on in Croke Park.
Traveling in the spring contributes to sustainable travel, as you'll interfere less with local lives. You'll experience Dublin at its most vibrant and save cash as accommodation and transportation businesses offer lower rates to fill spaces before the peak season from the end of June to early September.
For centuries, statesmen, authors, and actors have sought the gift of eloquence by performing a precipitous kiss on this legendary rock.┬аThe Gift of Gab┬а
Midleton Distillery Experience
Home to the worldтАЩs largest pot still, this historic brewery introduces visitors to the past, present, and future of Irish whiskey.┬аWhiskey to the Past┬а
Cahir Castle
This medieval castle exudes history - right down to the cannonball still stuck in its wall.┬аCannonballs to the Wall┬а
Rock of Cashel
The seat of early medieval kings, this partly ruined complex boasts some of the oldest and finest religious art and architecture in Ireland.┬аThe Medieval Peak┬а
Holycross Abbey
With its magnificent medieval architecture, the oldest bell in Ireland, and a relic of the True Cross, this abbey is a historic treasure trove.┬аVirtues Un-tolled┬а
Dunamase
Destroyed multiple times, this once mighty medieval castle is now an atmospheric ruin.┬аA Slightly Rocky History┬а
Irish National Stud and Gardens
Surrounded by serene gardens, the legacy of Irish horse racing lives on at the only stud farm open to the public.┬аHorsiculture┬а
