Cork Private Guided Tour Blarney Castle & Kinsale

Cork , Ireland

Cork Private Guided Tour Blarney Castle & Kinsale

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About this experience

As a local born and bred I love sharing Cork’s rich history. The tours that I offer are with a genuine local insight. We’ll visit all the main attractions Blarney Castle home to the world famous Blarney Stone, Kinsale with its narrow and colourful streets must be one of the prettiest towns in the country you won’t be disappointed. My tours are flexible and can be tailor made to suit your requirements. This tour is suited is for all ages young and old alike. The day itself, I’ll be with you every step of the way. Not just dropping you off at the gates of Blarney Castle we’ll explore the grounds together likewise for Cobh and Kinsale. My job isn’t just to drive or guide you , it’s to make sure your day was truly memorable leaving you with great memories and photos.

Available options

Cork Private Guided Tour Blarney Castle & Kinsale

What's included

We travel in a clean modern car . I can accommodate 4 people 3 comfortable.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

One of Irelands most famous attractions. Blarney Castle home to the world’s famous Blarney Stone. Legend says if you kiss the stone you’ll get the Gift of the Gab. We’ll explore the grounds if you’re a gardener then you’ll be in heaven so wear comfortable shoes.

Described as the largest Irish store in the world on the site of an old woollen mill. With a wide range of Irish Knitwear, jewellery, crystal and linen. This is a great stop if your looking for an Irish craft or memory of your Irish visit%

Cork the largest county and the second city in the ROI. Here we take a quick drive through this beautiful city. Visiting the Shandon area.

Stop 4

Charles Fort is one of the finest examples of a 17th. Century star-shaped fort in Ireland. Built right on Kinsale harbour at Summer cove. The fort is now operated as a heritage site.

This garden I has been dedicated to the firefighters and Chaplain that died on September 11, 2001. It’s the work of a local woman Cait Murphy who worked as a nurse in New York City devastated by the loss of the firefighters she built this memorial park with the help of her family in their memory.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For wheelchair users if you can get in and out of a car , then yes .

Meeting point

We’ll meet outside the tourist office .

About Cork

Cork is a vibrant city in southwestern Ireland known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and friendly locals. Nestled between rolling hills and a stunning coastline, it offers a mix of urban charm and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

English Market

A historic covered market offering a variety of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts. It's a great place to sample Cork's culinary delights.

Market 1-2 hours Free entry, prices vary for purchases

Blarney Castle

A medieval stronghold and home to the famous Blarney Stone, which is said to grant the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it.

Historical 2-3 hours €20-€25

Cork City Gaol

A former prison that offers a fascinating insight into the lives of inmates and the history of Cork.

Historical 1-2 hours €8-€10

Fitzgerald Park

A beautiful public park with walking paths, a lake, and the Cork Public Museum. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

St. Fin Barre's Cathedral

A stunning Gothic Revival cathedral with intricate stone carvings and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free entry, donations welcome

Must-Try Local Dishes

Coddle

A hearty dish made with sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, slow-cooked in a flavorful broth.

Dinner Contains pork and beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Black Pudding

A type of blood sausage made with pork blood, fat, and oatmeal, often served with breakfast.

Breakfast Contains pork and blood, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Cork Sausage

A spiced sausage made with pork, often served with bread or in a sandwich.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Seafood Chowder

A creamy soup made with fresh seafood like fish, mussels, and prawns, served with crusty bread.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made gluten-free and dairy-free upon request.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Gougane Barra Forest Park Cycling around Fota Island Kayaking in Kinsale Harbour Picnicking in Fitzgerald Park Strolling through the English Market Enjoying a spa day at a local resort Visiting Cork City Gaol Exploring St. Fin Barre's Cathedral

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, longer days, and various festivals. Expect lively streets, outdoor events, and vibrant nightlife.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Irish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (IST: GMT+1 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cork is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's always advisable to take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and agree on a price beforehand

Getting there

By air

Cork Airport • 8 km from city center

By train

Cork Kent Station

By bus

Cork Bus Station (Parnell Place)

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Cork, with frequent services covering the city and suburbs.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Shandon The Lough Ballincollig

Day trips

Kinsale

25 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A charming coastal town known for its colorful buildings, gourmet restaurants, and historical sites.

Blarney Castle and Gardens

8 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A medieval stronghold and home to the famous Blarney Stone, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Cobh

25 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A picturesque seaside town with a rich maritime history, known as the departure point for the Titanic.

Festivals

Cork Jazz Festival • October Cork International Choral Festival • May Cork Film Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit the English Market early in the morning for the freshest produce and a less crowded experience
Kiss the Blarney Stone early in the day to avoid long queues and enjoy the castle and gardens with fewer crowds
Explore the city's hidden gems, such as the Butter Museum and the Shandon Bells, for a unique and authentic experience
Try local specialties like coddle, black pudding, and brown bread ice cream for a taste of Cork's culinary delights
Attend a traditional music session in a local pub to experience the city's vibrant cultural scene and friendly atmosphere