Galway and Cork are the two most visited cities in Ireland, after Dublin. The biggest dilemma people face when they try to choose between the two is which city has the best surrounding areas because both cities are close to some of Ireland’s most iconic attractions. Here is the ultimate guide to help you decide which city to visit.
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Galway or Cork Overview
Galway
Galway is the 4th largest city in Ireland with just over 80,000 residents living in the city proper. The city is known for having a vibrant Irish culture and it is actually the 2020 European Capital of Culture. People are drawn to always because it has one of, if not the best Irish Cultures in all of Ireland.
There is also a thriving art scene in Galway which will become apparent if you visit. Galway is a university city, with 1/4th of the population being university students. Galway is also known for being the “festival capital of Ireland“, holding over 100 festivals including its most famous, the Galway Arts Festival.
Cork
Cork is the second-largest city in Ireland with over 210,000 people in the city. Most people would agree that Cork is Ireland’s “second city.” It sits at the end of the Cork Harbor which is one of the largest natural harbors in the world. Cork is a bustling city but has the feel of a smaller city because of its narrow streets.
Since Cork is easily the largest city in Southeast Ireland, you will be able to see sights in the surrounding area that many people who visit Ireland never see. Cork has a stiff rivalry with Dublin, even with many Cork residents saying that Cork should be the capital city, not Dublin. The city is also regarded as the “food capital of Ireland” so make sure you visit some authentic restaurants.
Things to See
Galway
The Galway Cathedral was built in 1965 making it one of the newest large cathedrals built in Europe.
Eyre Square, also known as John F. Kennedy Square, is the main public square in Galway.
The National University of Ireland Galway is ranked in the top 1% in the world and has a beautiful campus.
Shop Street is the main shopping street in Galway.
Galway Harbor is one of the best places in the city to explore.
Cork
Blarney Castle is located just outside of the city but is a must-visit when in Cork.
St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral was completed in 1879 but its grounds have been a place of worship since the 600s.
Blackrock Castle is a fortification built in the 16th century.
St. Patrick’s Street is the main shopping street in Cork and one of the best in Ireland.
Holy Trinity Church was completed in 1890 and the surrounding area is beautiful.
Food
Galway
When visiting Galway, the best dish you can try is Irish Stew. This meal is slow-cooked with some form of hard meat, as well as hearty vegetables like carrots and potatoes. Goat meat is traditionally used, but mutton or lamb are common, as well. Fish and chips is always a safe option when you visit Galway. Seafood chowder is also a classic dish in Galway.
Cork
Picky eaters might be hesitant to try one of Cork’s signature dishes, but Clonakilty Black Pudding is well worth a taste. This traditional breakfast food is a kind of sausage made from pig’s blood and combined with delicious spices, oatmeal, and other ingredients. The flavor might be considered a bit too strong for some, but it’s a favorite among locals in Cork. Crubeens, a dish of boiled pigs’ feet, and Trip, edible portions of animal stomach, are also traditional foods in Cork. (but they are not for everybody!)
Getting Around
Galway
Galway is not a huge city which makes it extremely easy to get around, especially when walking. You can walk to most of the city’s attractions within a 10 or 20-minute walk. The city’s public transportation revolves around a network of buses. Renting a bike would be the fastest way to see the city and may be your best option if you have limited time to explore.
Cork
The central island of Cork is an excellent place to explore on foot because of the narrow, pedestrian-friendly streets. There are many sights to see outside of the center of the city so you will want to utilize public transportation. The network of buses is the easiest way to get around the city but if you want to travel further out of the city limits, you might want to consider taking the trains or renting a car. Biking is also a good option while in Cork.
Nightlife
Galway
For being a smaller city, Galway holds its own in regard to its nightlife. Since the city’s population is 1/4th university students, you can expect there to be some pretty lively establishments, especially during the weeknights. As you would expect, most of the nightlife is concentrated in the city center. You will want to start your night at a traditional bar or pub-like Murphys or The Dáil Bar. If you want more of a clubbing atmosphere, you should head to Halo or Electric.
Cork
The nightlife is Cork revolves around going to bars and pubs rather than nightclubs. There is an abundance of places that have many craft beers on tap like Rising Sons Brewery. As far as nightclubs go, Cork is nothing to write home about but if you want to go clubbing, your best bet would be Dali. If you want a change of scenery from the classic bars and pubs, The Queen of Rebels is a really fun place that is worth checking out.
Day Trips
Galway
The Cliffs of Moher are arguably Ireland’s most iconic sight to see.
Aran Islands is a group of small islands that you can take a ferry to from Galway.
Kylemore Abbey is located on the bank of Polacapall Lough, to the northwest of Galway.
Cork
Cobh is a picturesque town on one of the islands in Cork Harbor.
Kinsale is known for its two fortresses and its beautiful waterfront.
Old Head Lighthouse was constructed in 1853 and is one of Ireland’s most iconic lighthouses.
Both Cork and Galway are easily accessible to Dublin and Limerick, so if you have the time you should consider taking a few days to explore one or both of them.
Overall
Galway and Cork are two cities that people often consider as alternatives to visiting Dublin. Galway is a much smaller city than Cork and has “small-town charm.” If you want to experience authentic Irish culture, Galway is the choice for you. Cork is much bigger but still feels like a smaller city.
There are many things to see in the area around Cork but if you feel the need to go to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher, you will want to go to Galway.
If you are still unsure of where to visit during your time exploring Ireland, take a look at Dublin or Limerick for a little more insight into Ireland’s two other major cities.