Cork is the second largest city in the Republic of Ireland, and is situated on the banks of the River Lee in the south of the county. Cork is the anglicised version of the Irish word Corcaigh, which means marsh. The city centre was originally built on marshland and boats were able to navigate into the channels which separated the many islands. Many of the wider streets, such as Patrick Street, the South Mall and the Grand Parade, are actually built on former river channels.

Brittany Ferries run a weekly car ferry service between Roscoff in France and Cork.

Cork International Airport. About 8km from the city centre with flights from numerous domestic and European locations. Cork has a small city centre. A visitor will most likely be staying, eating, drinking and touring in the city centre. There is a bus service to the residential suburbs. Most buses leave from the main street, Patrick's Street or the nearby bus station at Parnell Place.

Cork has a thriving cultural scene that was acknowledged internationally when it was named the European Capital of Culture for 2005. Several festivals are held annually in the city giving the visitor an opportunity to experience a wide range of music, theatre and film.