Accommodations
I stayed at Bru Bar and Hostel located conveniently close to the train station. Since I had so much luggage this was the right choice for me. It has a bar, but the rooms are small. I didn’t spend much time in the hostel so I can’t comment on how friendly the people are.
Transportation
I took the airport express from Dublin airport to the train station which is the best way to do it on a budget. The train stations have some food and are easy to navigate. I took the train to Cork from Dublin using a very nice student discount.
Food
- Gallagher’s Gastropub was right near the hostel, so I grabbed a burger and tried out Murphy’s Red Ale which is brewed in the area. While waiting I found out online that in Ireland you can ask for a pint if you want Guinness (you don’t need to specify what type of beer, they will know) and if you don’t want an entire pint of something, you can get a half-pint, which is what I did for the red ale.
- Café at Blarney castle was a nice place to grab a bite to eat and some tea.
Attractions
- St Patrick Street is a lively street to spend some time on, although I didn’t have much time to do that.
- Blarney Castle is one of the most famous castles in Ireland and if you come to Cork, it’s a must see.
What I would have done differently
The entire point of coming here was to see Blarney Castle, so mission accomplished.