Looking for great deals on car hire in Cork? Our comparison tool makes it easy! No trip to Ireland’s southern capital is complete without a scenic road trip. With a rental car, you’ll have the freedom to explore the breathtaking Irish countryside at your own pace. The city is perfectly situated near some fantastic attractions, all just a short drive away.
Ready to kick off your trip in Cork with your rental car? If you’re flying into the Cork Airport, you’ll find all the car rental desks in the Arrivals Hall, making it super convenient to start your adventure. One thing to keep in mind while driving around the city and nearby roads: you’ll need to yield to vehicles on your right. It may take a little time to adjust if you’re new to driving on the left, but you’ll get used to it quickly.
If you’re planning to hit the road during rush hour, be aware that mornings (6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.) and afternoons (3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.) tend to get busy. The South Ring Road and the M8 Highway can be particularly congested, so it’s best to avoid them during peak times. Pro tip: booking your rental car at least a day in advance may help you score a better price.
Planning to explore beyond the city? Check out our great Dublin car hire options or Ireland car hire deals to compare prices nationwide.
Visit this stunning triple spire Anglican cathedral located in the heart of the city. The cathedral offers guided tours that showcase its mesmerising stained glass windows, marble mosaics, the 3012-piped organ, and over 1,200 sculptures!
The English Market is a feast for the eyes and taste buds. This vibrant fish, fruit, meat and vegetable market dates back to 1786, and foods from all over the world can be discovered under its roof, including spices, olives, speciality cheeses and pig feet.
This castle-like prison, dating back to the 19th Century, is located just 2 kilometres from the centre. Guided tours are available day and night, where you can mingle with the spirits of dead prisoners! You can also have a written time in 12 languages or an audio tour in English, French and Spanish. Facilities include a souvenir shop, parking, toilets and a picnic area.
Only twenty minutes from the hustle and bustle of the city is a complete contrast to Fota Wildlife Park. Of particular interest is the park’s objective to care for several different animals in danger of extinction, including the Cheetah, European Bison, Lechwe and Scimitar-Horned Oryx. On-site facilities include The Oasis Café, The Savannah Café and The Serengeti Gift Store.
What type of car is best for driving in Cork? For most people, mid-sized or smaller cars like sedans, SUVs, and compacts are great options for driving around Cork. The city’s roads and parking spots are generally spacious, so these vehicles should be fine. However, some of the older streets and alleys can be narrower, so renting a smaller car is a good idea if you plan to explore those areas.
What’s the speed limit in Cork? Speed limits across the city and surrounding areas can vary depending on the location. In built-up areas, the limit is usually 50 km/h (31 mph). On regional and local roads within the city, you’ll typically find a limit of 80 km/h (50 mph). Larger roads in rural areas can go up to 100 km/h (62 mph), and on motorways, the limit is 120 km/h (75 mph).
Where are the best places to park in the city centre? If you’re staying near the main shopping or business districts, your best bet is one of the many public car parks. While there are some street-side parking spaces, they tend to fill up quickly, especially in busier areas. However, if you’re parking outside the city area, you’ll find plenty of parallel street parking, making it a much easier and more convenient choice.
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