Have you just asked yourself what to see around Cork on your upcoming Ireland trip? Or you're not even sure, if Ireland should be your next destination? I hope this blog post with will help you to get the information you need and even inspire you to visit this lovely part of Ireland!

SEE ALSO: What to See in the Faroe Islands

So, it's been my second time in Ireland. The first time, Ireland has totally stolen my travel heart by hitchiking around, exploring wonderful places and meeting lovely people. Especially places like Dublin, Kilkenny, Cobh, Ring of Kerry, Galway and the Aran islands blew me away. Make sure to put these places onto the list of must-see places in Ireland. This time, we were based in Cork, and each day with the rental car we went on a trip to a nearby place. Seems a good idea but I think it is better to book a place to stay near the sights in order to save the drive back to Cork.

These are the corners we explored around Cork:

Kinsale is one of those cute little towns Ireland is famous for. Narrow streets, colourful houses, cute shops, many cafes and restaurants, located at the waterfront. It was my favourite place on this year's trip. 

Budget accommodation: Zunera Lodge

Luxury accommodation: Perryville House

Don't miss out Cobh when in Ireland. This town with its 12,800 inhabitants is known for its colourful houses and it's St. Colman's cathedral. It is about a 30 min drive from Cork. I've visited Cobh by train once with my cousin and I really liked it due to the short walking distance between the sights and those lovely houses.

Budget accommodation: Bella Vista Hotel

1 hour drive from Cork is the lovely and tranquil Inchydoney beach. If you like surfing, this is the place to go! You don't surf? No problem, go for a walk along the coastline and take some awesome photos! 

Budget accommodation: Joan B+B

Luxury accommodation: Dunmore House Hotel

If you haven't tried surfing at the Inchydoney beach, maybe you are up for the following water adventure - stand up paddling or kayaking. Lough Hyne is definitely the right place to do that! It's one of the most beautiful and tranquil lakes in West Cork. Go for it!

Need a break on your road trip? I thought, why not including this coffee stop! On your way to Barleycove, stop at the Coffee shop called "Along the Way" and enjoy your coffee cup!

A stunning place - Barleycove!! I didn't know, Ireland has those kind of beaches - white sand, turquoise water, cliffs. Huh, take me back to this place. 

Budget accommodation: Rock Hill House (in Schull)

It takes you about 2 hours 14 min drive to reach Mizen head from Cork. This cliffs with a connecting bridge and a lighthouse is just a few km away from Barleycove and definitely worth your time. Entrance fee: 7.50 EUR per adult. 

What is Charles Fort? It is a military fortress built in 17th century with the aim to protect the Kinsale harbour in the times of king Charles II. If you're into history or simply want to enjoy some beautiful views, the Charles Fort should be on your list. Also here, expect an entrance fee of 5 EUR.

Cliffs of Moher. A must-see spot, not to be missed! Although it became quite touristy during all these years, it is still worth it! No entrance fee, it just needs a great camera and a wind/rain jacket and you're good to go! Enjoy!

Check the opening hours of the must-see sight in Bantry: The Bantry house & garden. Because we haven't, we missed it! Hungry? We recommend the pub called "The Snug" - we ordered garlic bread, vegetarian soup, fish, chips and salad - yummy!

This is another MUST in Ireland. The Ring of Kerry is one of the most scenic drives on this planet. I experienced it the 1st time when visiting the country and the memories of the breathtaking coastline with majestic cliffs are still fresh. It takes you about 3.5 hours to get around the famous Ring of Kerry: Kenmare - Sneem - Cahersiveen - Killarney - Kenmare represents the official route. 

Last but not least, spend a day or two in Cork. This city with its 210,000 inhabitants has its own airport. We flew into Cork and rented a car via the webpage rentalcars.com for only 75 EUR for 5 days! Quite cheap for Ireland, I'd say! We stayed at the lovely Montenotte hotel, which is about 1.5 km away from the city centre. Cork has many great pubs like the Old Town Whiskey Bar, The Mutton Lane Inn, The Corner House, The Hi-B, Tom Barry's, Sin E etc. , so make sure to visit at least one of them! 

Budget accommodation: Amnis House

Luxury accommodation: Montenotte Hotel

Anything else to do around Cork? Tell us in the comment section below!