The best Cork walking tours

Cork's city centre sits on an island between two channels of the River Lee, which makes it compact and easy to explore on foot. City walks take in the English Market, which has traded since 1788, the bridges and quays, St Fin Barre's Cathedral, Elizabeth Fort and the Shandon area on the north side, where visitors can climb the tower of St Anne's Church and ring the bells. Guides cover the city's merchant past, its rebel reputation and the War of Independence.

Group city walks last about one and a half to two and a half hours and, at the time of checking, were listed from about €16 to €30, with a self-guided app tour from about €9. Private walks were listed from about €125. The page also includes food walks, a coastal foraging walk and a guided visit to Blarney Castle, about 8km outside the city.

Walking tips for Cork

The flat centre is easy, but the north side around Shandon is steep, so wear comfortable shoes. The English Market is closed on Sundays, so book a weekday or Saturday walk if you want to see it. In December, Glow, the city's Christmas festival in Bishop Lucey Park, makes evenings busier and more festive.