What you should know before hiring a car in Cork
| Cork city centre | ||
| Cork Airport (ORK): 3 mi from city centre | ||
Car hires in Cork: practical information
Where to rent a car in Cork
Situated along the romantic banks of the River Lee, Cork is the Irish escape you've been looking for. The best chance to rent a car in Cork is at the airport. Here you'll find the best selection in one place. Compare prices in order to get the best cheap car hire in Cork and you're golden. Even if you don't need to pick up your rental car until later in your trip, the Cork Airport is so close to the city that it's hardly an inconvenience to go back to get your rental. Choose from Avis, Budget, Hertz, 353, Alamo/National, Dooley, Enterprise, Sixt and Thrifty.
You can also find a low cost car rental in Cork City as well. Cork Car Hire is just along Wandesford Quay, so is GoBase, a car sharing place. Budget is along Grand Parade and Avis is just next to City Hall along Eglington Street. Whether you pick up your rent car in Cork or at the airport, always compare the offers in advance, ideally at the same time as your tickets from London to Cork.
Driving in Cork: parking and other tips
Cork is a very accessible city for both driving and parking. The best places to park in the city centre are at the city operated car parks. There are eight, all located in ideal locations for getting out and exploring: Carroll's Quay, Patrick's Quay, City Hall, Paul Street, Grand Parade, Merchants Quay, North Main St. and St. Finbarre's. All of these car parks have different hours of operation and different prices. Starting at €1.70/hour with a maximum of €22/day to €2.20/hour with a €21/day. Some do not let you park over-night, others do.
Alternatively you should book a hotel in Cork that has parking facilities if you plan to use car rentals in Cork for the duration of your trip.
Road trips from Cork: what to do, what to see
Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle is an essential stop if you're in this corner of Ireland. This picturesque castle is in the bustling village of Blarney and attracts visitors 365 days a year. The obvious highlight to the castle is the famous Blarney Stone. Legend says those who kiss it are given the gift to woo whomever they truly love. Admission is around 10 Euro, with concession prices for students. Blarney is a mere 5 miles outside of Cork along the N20, easy to reach with a Cork car hire.
Cobh
Previously known as the Cove of Cork, Cobh is a quaint port village overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It was the last port of calling for the Titanic and many Irish immigrated from here. Discover the Titanic story on a 90 minute tour, including a pint of beer. There is a Titanic memorial in Pearse Square. There are also a number of sailing tours departing from the harbour, the perfect addition to your holiday in Cork.
Kinsale
Love historical pubs, seafood and beaches? Then plan a day-trip to Kinsale. While only a 30 minute drive away from Cork, this town has enough to fill a day with. The small Irish town is a favourite among sailers and it's a great place to learn to sail. It's famous for its summer food festival and beaches but you can quench your thirst at the city's great pubs at any time of the year.