When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Cork?
Winter in the Republic of Ireland is by far the best time to find cheap flights to Cork due largely to the cooler temperatures and increased rainfall. The low season in the city is between September and April, but if you’re looking to find the best budget-friendly deals, then make sure to avoid St. Patrick’s Day on 17 March.
When is the Best Time to Book your Flight to Cork?
It is generally recommended that you book your return Cork flights two to three months in advance to secure the best prices, although last-minute flights are often on offer if you’re able to be more flexible. If you’re willing to pay higher prices in exchange for a true taste of Ireland, then there really is no better time to visit Cork that St. Paddy’s. Marvel in the magic of the annual parade that brings the city to life and experience a true Irish tradition.
Flying to Cork Airport (ORK)
Cork Airport (ORK) is the second busiest of the Republic of Ireland’s airports, handling over two million passengers every year. Located south of the city of Cork, it serves as a major transport hub for the Republic of Ireland.
Connected to the majority of United Kingdom (UK) airports via direct flights operated by Air Lingus, Cork is an extremely easy destination to reach. Direct Cork flights depart from London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Bristol just to name a few and are run by Air Lingus and British Airways. Due to the short flight time, indirect return flights are less common but there are some operated by Flybe, KLM and British Airways with connections in Paris, Amsterdam and London Heathrow respectively.
On Arrival and Getting Around the Airport
The main terminal building of Cork Airport is clean, spacious and extremely well equipped. Fitted out with a wide array of cafes, restaurants and shops, both affordable and high end, ORK is a great airport for passengers. As well as great food and shopping, it is also equipped with a large variety of passenger services, including currency exchanges, banks and ATMS, an airport lounge and access to Wi-Fi.
Getting to the City from Cork Airport (ORK)
ORK is located just six and a half kilometres from the centre of Cork, so there are a variety of cheap and easy ways to travel to and from the airport. A taxi rank and several bus stops are situated just outside of the terminal building, the latter serviced by a number of buses and coaches that will get you to Parnell Place Bus Station, the main bus station in Cork, in around 20 minutes. If you prefer to drive yourself, you can find several car hire companies inside the arrivals hall.
Why Visit Cork?
Perched on the River Lee in south-west Ireland is the spectacular city of Cork, or Corcaigh in the original Irish, a word which translates into ‘marsh’. A fitting name indeed, the metropolis is split into a number of islands by the flowing river before it reaches Cork Harbour, one of the world’s largest natural harbours. A city worth its weight in gold, Cork is a wondrous medley of tradition and quirky modernity, a town where cosy old pubs and niche hipster cafes exist harmoniously side by side.
Speaking of complimentary contrasts, you’ll encounter a variety of architectural styles while exploring the downtown area, from medieval to metropolitan with a generous sprinkling of Georgian influence scattered through it all. During your visit, be sure to make your way to St. Patrick’s Street, the Cork City Gaol and the English Market, all top tourist attractions that give you a real taste of life in Cork.
Don't Forget Before you Fly
Travelling to the Republic of Ireland as a UK national does not require a visa as it is part of the Common Travel Area. However, Irish immigration officers will want to check proof of identity, so make sure to travel with your British passport. The official currency is the euro (€), which can be easily obtained either before you travel or during your stay.
