Cork is Ireland’s second city, some even consider it the ‘real capital’ of Eire. Local pubs and restaurants are plentiful on every corner, almost all of which have live music that really makes the atmosphere even more lively. This liberal city sits on an island on the Lee River, with major Gregorian avenues and 17th-century alleys surrounding it. There’s something for everyone here, whether you want to admire historical buildings or simply indulge in local cuisine. But if you want a quick break before all those activities, staying at one of the airport hotels in Cork would be a great idea.
There are lots of things you can do in Cork because this vibrant city has everything, from beautiful attractions to activities. It’s even home to some of Ireland’s most beautiful destinations. In the city center, you’ll find Blackrock Castle that dates back to the 16th century. A 10-minute walk from St. Patrick’s Street will take you to Saint Fin Barre, an Anglican cathedral that was completed in 1879. 10km to the east of the city, you’ll find Fota Wildlife Park, a 100-hectare wildlife conservation area. If those are your reasons for traveling here, make sure you experience them to the fullest by staying at one of the recommended hotels in Cork airport below.
Where to Stay in Cork
Canceled or rescheduled flights, especially at the last minute, can be very frustrating. In this regard, staying at the airport hotels in Cork is the best. You can immediately check-in and rest on a soft mattress after previously tormented in the plane cabin for hours.
Hotels in Cork airport also have flexible operating hours. They’re used to receiving guests at ‘odd hours’, such as 12 at night or 3 in the morning. Most offer airport shuttle services, which is of course very helpful for first-time travelers to Ireland. When it comes to overnight rates, hotels near the airport are usually cheaper than accommodations around the city center, a perfect solution for those looking to travel on a budget.
If you have time, you can also stop by the city center and explore the surroundings. Just by driving for 11-16 minutes, you should be able to visit several famous destinations such as Cork City Gaol, English Market, and Crawford Art Gallery. Don’t forget to also stop by famous restaurants like Nash 19 and Paradiso, the latter is known for their exquisite vegetarian dishes.
Cork Airport Hotel
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Spending a night at the Cork Airport Hotel is guaranteed not to disappoint, as everything you need for pleasure or business is right here. Their modern rooms come with satellite TV, a work desk, and a private bathroom with complete toiletries. Located right next to Cork airport, the hotel offers airport shuttle service that’s available 24 hours a day.
If you’re hungry after a long flight, the on-site restaurant and bar provide breakfast, lunch, and evening meals. Take-and-go breakfast is also available for those in a hurry. We also recommend stopping by Olivo, a 70-seat Italian restaurant that serves extensive Italian dishes with fresh ingredients.
From the Cork Airport Hotel, it takes approximately 15 minutes to drive to the city center. The airport itself is only a 10-minute walk away. Overall, its one of airport hotels in Cork that’s commensurate with the facilities and services. We can say with confidence that it’s highly recommended.
- Airport Shuttle Service: FREE, available 24/7 every 30 minutes
- Nearest Airport: Cork Airport at 0.4mi (0.7km)
- Estimated walking time: 10 minutes to the airport lobby
Cork International Hotel
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If flexibility is your main concern, then the versatile Cork International Hotel is a perfect choice. Right across from Cork airport, this property is just a 10-minute drive from the city center, where you can find many local restaurants, pubs, and shopping centers. For extra convenience, the hotel also provides airport shuttle service which is available 24 hours a day for free.
You can choose between 140 rooms and 4 apartments at the Cork International Hotel, all of which are luxuriously decorated and come with complete amenities. You’ll get air conditioning, a large comfortable bed, and blackout blinds. If you want, you can book a room with a private balcony, where you can enjoy beautiful views of downtown Cork and the surrounding countryside.
Room service is available 24 hours a day, but if dining in bed is not for you, we recommend stopping by The New Yorker Bar or Atlantic & Pacific Restaurants. You can get some light refreshments as well as international and local cuisines there. For those who come to Cork for business, this hotel has eight meeting rooms and a ballroom.
Of all the hotels in Cork airport, this one is arguably very good. They have luxurious rooms, top service, and offer great flexibility. If you haven’t decided where to stay, this one is quite recommended.
- Airport Shuttle Service: FREE, available 24/7
- Nearest Airport: Cork Airport at 0.62mi (1km)
- Estimated drive time: 3 minutes via Avenue 2000
Travelodge Cork
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Managing data usage on the go can be stressful, especially if you’re traveling on a budget. For that reason, stay at a hotel that offers the best solutions such as Travelodge Cork. Apart from being only 3.6km from the airport, this accommodation provides free WiFi with unlimited bandwidth in all areas. Plan your trip or complete office tasks in peace without thinking about quotas!
While not providing an airport shuttle service, Travelodge Cork makes up for it with a free taxi phone and arrival/departure screen for Cork Airport. Each room at this hotel comes with standard amenities, including a flat-screen TV, soft bed, as well as coffee and tea. If you want to use a hairdryer or iron, you can ask the local staff. The reception is open 24 hours a day, so you can check-in or check-out whenever you want.
Need a drink or snack? Go straight to one of the vending machines in the lobby area. For a heavier meal, we recommend visiting Rockin Joes, an American-style on-site restaurant that serves all-day dining. It only takes a five-minute drive to get to downtown Cork, where you can find many interesting local restaurants and pubs to visit. Overall, Travelodge is one of the most recommended airport hotels in Cork, especially for those traveling on a budget.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Cork Airport at 2.23 mi (3.6km)
- Estimated drive time: 6 minutes via N27 and 8 minutes via Airport Rd/R851
The Kingsley Hotel
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Staying at The Kingsley Hotel is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you got! That’s because each luxury room here is individually decorated and comes with extensive amenities such as air conditioning, coffee maker, satellite TV, hairdryer, and bathtub. Some even have wide windows that offer splendid views of the Lee River.
Located on the south bank of the river, this hotel is perfect not only for pleasure but also for business. It has eight business suites, conference rooms, and one elegant function room. WiFi with a stable and quality connection is also available for free throughout the complex. To relax for a while after a long journey, we recommend stopping by the Organic Spa, a modern health club, or diving into the indoor pool.
Once you’re ready, exit the lobby and walk for 15 minutes to reach downtown Cork. There you’ll find interesting local attractions and a number of local restaurants and pubs. One that we recommend is Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, an Anglican cathedral that has existed since 1879. But if you’re not sure where to go, taking a private tour with a local guide isn’t a bad idea.
Overall, The Kingsley Hotel is one of the many airport hotels in Cork that offers a complete package. The room decor is amazing, their staff service is top-notch, the restaurant and spa are also one of the best around. For those who plan to travel to Ireland, this accommodation is one of the best that we can recommend.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Cork Airport at 3.6mi (5.8km)
- Estimated drive time: 11 minutes via N27 and 13 minutes via N22 and N27
The River Lee Hotel
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Standing on the banks of the Lee River, this hotel offers a truly luxurious stay. Apart from free parking and a bistro, it also boasts spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. Each comes with a flat-screen TV, free internet access, and a bathroom with a power shower and underfloor heating. There’s no information regarding the availability of a hairdryer, so bringing your own hair dryer for travel would be a good idea. Meanwhile, your night’s rest is guaranteed to be even more comfortable, because each room is decorated with light colors and modern fabrics.
If you want to lounge while enjoying a drink and accompanied by a beautiful view of the Lee River, we recommend coming to The River Club Bar, Terrace, and The Grill. In this glam decorated place, you can eat or drink, or even be social. The ambiance itself is quite relaxed, makes it perfect for a dinner with a loved one. As for the menu, they serve Irish and international dishes.
Local attractions such as St Finnbar’s Cathedral and Beamish Brewery are only 300 meters away. A 10-minute walk will take you to the Cork Opera House. For outdoor fun, we recommend coming to Lee Valley, where you can canoe, bike, or play disc golf. There’s always something for everyone in Ireland’s third-largest city!
Of all the hotels in Cork airport, The River Lee Hotel offers a very satisfying stay. The beautiful view of the Lee River won’t bore you, let alone the fabulous decor of the rooms. Make sure you check this one out while you can.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Cork Airport at 3.7mi (6km)
- Estimated drive time: 12 minutes via N27 and 14 minutes via R851 and N27
Imperial Hotel Cork City
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Located in the heart of the city, the Imperial Hotel Cork City is like heaven for shopping enthusiasts. Just a short walk of fewer than 10 minutes and you’ll get yourself in Cork’s main shopping district, complete with restaurants and its vibrant nightlife. Don’t forget to stop by the local pubs and feel the excitement of drinking and singing the night away!
Imperial Hotel Cork City boasts rooms with classic décor. Penthouses are also available for those who want extra comfort. Whichever you choose, you’ll get amenities such as the state-of-the-art smart TV, free WiFi access, an espresso machine, and luxury toiletries. If you need something, you can contact the local staff directly or take advantage of the convenience of room service.
Linger in the plane cabin can be very tiring, especially if you have to fly for hours before arriving in Cork. In this case, we recommend coming to Escape Spa. Infused with a calming atmosphere, you can indulge in a range of body treatments, from aqua body polish, facials, and Aveda or Voya massages here. After that, you can continue with Pembroke Restaurant, which serves Irish dishes of a high standard. Meanwhile, for some light refreshment, stop by Lafayette or Seventy Six, the hotel’s two main bars, making it one of the 11 Best Hotels in Cork.
The absence of airport shuttle services is quite a shame. Fortunately, the location of this hotel is quite strategic. It only takes a 10-minute walk to Kent Train Station and Cork Bus Station. From there, you can continue to catch your flight. In general, this doesn’t diminish Imperial’s appeal as one of the airport hotels in Cork that offers the perfect experience. We highly recommend this accommodation.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Cork Airport at 1.9mi (6.2km)
- Estimated drive time: 11 minutes via S Link Rd and N27
Jurys Inn Cork
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The Lee Riverfront is home to some of the best hotels around and Jurys Inn Cork is one of them. This homely property is only a five-minute walk from Kent Station. From there, you can catch a train and arrive at Cork Airport in about 35 minutes. Unfortunately, they don’t provide airport shuttle service here.
Nothing too special about the amenities at the Jurys Inn. Their rooms come with flat-screen TVs, spacious bathrooms with spa toiletries, and coffee makers. A work desk is available for those who want to complete one or two office tasks before exploring the city center. Speaking of which, a five-minute walk from the hotel will take you to the Merchants Quay Shopping Center and the main shopping district on St Patrick’s Street. We also recommend visiting the English Market and the Boardwalk, which are both located nearby.
Breakfast is available in the lobby, along with baps or Irish soft bread rolls. If you want, you can have it delivered to your room. Around the lobby, you’ll find bars serving lunch, snacks, and coffee. Dropping by here would be a good idea if you don’t feel like getting out and walking around town.
Of all the airport hotels in Cork, this one is quite decent. It has comfortable beds, breakfast with local traditional touches, and a great location. You might want to consider staying here if you’re planning a vacation to Ireland.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Cork Airport at 4.1mi (6.6km)
- Estimated drive time: 10 minutes via S Link Rd and N27
The Old Bank Town House
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Classic ambiance sets The Old Bank Town House apart from other airport hotels in Cork. It occupies a Gregorian style townhouse and offers classically decorated rooms. Old wood furniture is visible in several corners and some of the stone walls are still preserved as is, reminiscent of life from around the 17th century.
Even though it has a strong classic impression, this doesn’t mean the hotel is outdated. Free WiFi internet access is available throughout the property. Each room comes with a TV, free tea/coffee, toiletries, hairdryer, and a private bathroom. If you need luggage storage or child care services, you can contact the local staff directly or through the front office.
Breakfast available at home’s cafe. It also serves coffee, takeaway lunches, and daily specials. If you want something more authentic, just come to Blue Haven Restaurant which is right next to the hotel. They have the finest Irish dishes to satisfy your cravings for local cuisine.
Cork Airport is a 22-minute drive or taxi ride away. However, the hotel also provides airport shuttle services at an additional cost. Overall, this is one of the most recommended airport hotels in Cork. You don’t have to go far to find a restaurant and it also has a unique ambiance. Plus it’s located right in the heart of Kinsale, where you can easily stop by local attractions such as Charles Fort and Kinsale Golf Club.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Available upon request with an additional charge
- Nearest Airport: Cork Airport at 9.5mi (15.4km)
- Estimated drive time: 22 minutes via R600
Maldron Hotel South Mall Cork City
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If you’re looking for a hotel that’s not too far from the airport, but also easy to reach the city center, Maldron Hotel South Mall is the answer. Located in the heart of Cork, this property is just a 12-minute drive from Cork Airport. It’s also within walking distance of the most famous attractions, shopping districts, and local restaurants.
Not sure which destination to visit? Well, looking at YouTube reviews isn’t a bad idea. You can do this while lounging on the bed, using the big screen. That’s because all TVs in the rooms of the Maldron Hotel South Mall are equipped with Chromecast. Other than that, you’ll also get other amenities such as a sitting area, desk, air conditioner, and a private bathroom with free toiletries.
Daily breakfast with continental menus is available at the on-site restaurant. Before leaving, you can come to the front office to ask the local staff about interesting places to visit. They’ll be happy to come up with some great recommendations. We ourselves recommend The Butter Museum which is a minute’s drive away. Here you can learn about the amazing history of butter in Ireland. After that, you can move a little north to visit Shandon Bells & Tower, an Anglican church with a beautiful tower.
In conclusion, the Maldron Hotel South Mall is one of the recommended airport hotels in Cork. It is ideal for exploring the city center and not too far from Cork Airport. For those who are planning a trip to Ireland and don’t know where to stay, this one is pretty good.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Cork Airport at 3.9mi (6.3km)
- Estimated drive time: 12 minutes via S Link Rd/N27
Clayton Hotel Cork City
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This modern hotel is directly across from Cork City Hall. It offers spectacular views, overlooking the Lee River. Guests will be able to experience it to the fullest since each room comes with floor-to-ceiling windows. They’re also beautifully decorated and come with a flat-screen TV, private bathroom and air conditioning.
It’s a good idea to relax your body and mind after a long flight, so you might want to indulge a little here. Clayton Hotel Cork City has a ClubVitae Health & Fitness Club and an Essence Spa. The latter provides a fitness facility, sauna, and steam room. You can also try a number of body care methods, all of which are available with the recommended Yon-ka products.
Once refreshed, you can start exploring interesting attractions around you. Starting with the Holy Trinity Church, which has a long history. Continue to admire the great works at the Crawford Art Gallery. Then you can browse local products at the famous English Market. All these places are within a kilometer radius of the hotel.
With great views and great facilities on offer, there’s no doubt that the Clayton Hotel Cork City is one of the best airport hotels in Cork. Lying on the banks of the Lee River, you’re guaranteed a great stay while in Ireland.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Cork Airport at 4mi (6.5km)
- Estimated drive time: 11 minutes via S Link Rd/N27
Rochestown Park Hotel
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Six kilometers from Cork Airport, this luxury hotel features a leisure center with a pool, beauty salon, and fine-dining restaurant. Each of the spacious rooms at the Rochestown Park Hotel is elegantly decorated and comes with a marble bathroom. They’re also equipped with a bed with feather duvets, a dressing table with a hairdryer, and mood lighting. If you need anything, their room service is available 24 hours a day.
Make sure you visit their famous Thalasso Therapy Center and Beauty Salon. Here you can try a series of satisfying treatments, such as massages, facials, and more. This should be the perfect way to relax your body after a long journey. Meanwhile, at their award-winning fitness center, you’ll find a hot tub, sauna, and modern gym equipment. Perfect for those who want to get some exercise before taking a walk around the city.
To fulfill your culinary desires, Rochestown Park Hotel boasts a Gallery Restaurant which serves modern cuisines. Meanwhile, for a more relaxed atmosphere accompanied by drinks, you can come to the chic Sutton Bar and Bistro.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Cork Airport at 3.8mi (6.1km)
- Estimated drive time: 13 minutes via N40 and N27
Recommended Restaurant/Bars in Cork:
- Farmgate Cafe – You obviously don’t want to miss this when you stop by the English Market. This eatery offers a balcony with views of the food stalls below and local produce cuisine with the best ingredients. From the oyster to crab, it’s all worth trying. That’s two thumbs up from us.
- Paradiso – Often dubbed the best in the whole city, this restaurant serves vegetarian dishes as its mainstay. Menus such as Dunmanus cheese with salsa sauce and smoked tomatoes, as well as corn pancakes with leek filling, are always favorites here. Make sure to stop by if you’re around Lancaster Quay.
- Nash 19 – Nothing beats a meal made with the finest local ingredients and that’s exactly what you’ll get at Nash 19. From chicken pies to soups, salads, desserts, everything tastes perfect. It’s perfect for those looking to have an Irish breakfast or lunch.
Recommended Activities in Cork:
- Jameson Experience Whiskey Tour in Cork – Ever wondered how the famous Jameson whiskey is produced? How did they get started in Midleton? All those questions will be answered, in a tour that will take you around the active maturation warehouse with micro-distillery.
- Blarney and Cobh Tour from Cork – Explore two of Cork’s most famous cities. See the famous Blarney Castle with its majestic gardens. Continue on to Cobh, the pretty town that was also the final departure point for Titanic – the unsinkable ship.
- Ring of Kerry Full-Day Guided Tour from Cork – Marvel at the beauty of Ireland’s most mystical point. Having been attracting visitors for centuries, the Ring of Kerry is also a place with an extraordinary ancient heritage. Experience the splendor for yourself through this full-day tour.
