Cork, Ireland’s vibrant second city, is a lively and welcoming destination set along the banks of the River Lee. Known for its charming streets and lively atmosphere, Cork boasts a rich cultural scene with a thriving arts community, bustling markets like the English Market, and a variety of historic sites, including the striking St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral. The city's warm, friendly character is matched by its picturesque surroundings, from the scenic harbor to the nearby lush countryside and coastal beauty of the southern Irish coastline. Cork’s dynamic blend of history, culture, and natural splendor makes it a captivating place to explore.
If you're a local seeking a weekend escape, read on. With a wide selection of nearby destinations, both domestic and international, there's something for everyone. Here are some weekend getaway ideas for residents in the Cork, Ireland area, all accessible within a direct 4-hour flight. Best of all, these trips can be enjoyed without the need to take annual leave (perfect for those working Monday to Friday, 9 to 5). It all comes down to what you wish to do at your chosen destination.
Edinburgh, Scotland (EDI) - 1 Hour 20 Minute Flight
Why go?
Experience Edinburgh's rich history, from its famous castle to its annual international festivals.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Edinburgh
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
easyJet from ORK - See flight deals
Loganair from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €10+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Amsterdam, Netherlands (AMS) - 1 Hour 45 Minute Flight
Why go?
Amsterdam combines rich history with a vibrant cultural life and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere (more than just what you read or hear about).
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Amsterdam
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
KLM from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €40+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
London, England (LHR, LGW, STN, LTN, LCY, SEN) - 1 Hour 25 Minute Flight
Why go?
London is a bustling metropolis packed with world-class museums, diverse neighborhoods, and historical landmarks.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in London
When to go?
Summer
Who can fly you there?
easyJet from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €10+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Barcelona, Spain (BCN) - 2 Hour 20 Minute Flight
Why go?
Explore Barcelona’s unique blend of Catalan culture, innovative architecture, and vibrant street life.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Barcelona
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
easyJet from ORK - See flight deals
Vueling from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €20+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Paris, France (CDG, ORY, XCR, BVA) - 1 Hour 40 Minute Flight
Why go?
Paris entices with its unrivaled art, architecture, cuisine, and a timeless sense of style.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Paris
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
easyJet from ORK - See flight deals
Air France from ORK - See flight deals
Ryanair from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €10+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Rome, Italy (FCO, CIA) - 2 Hour 55 Minute Flight
Why go?
Rome presents a spectacular display of ancient history, baroque art, and vibrant street life.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Rome
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
easyJet from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €30+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Venice, Italy (VCE) - 2 Hour 40 Minute Flight
Why go?
Venice enchants with its intricate canal system, historic architecture, and striking art scene.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Venice
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
easyJet from ORK - See flight deals
Ryanair from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €20+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Dubrovnik, Croatia (DBV) - 3 Hour 15 Minute Flight
Why go?
Visit Dubrovnik for its stunning Old Town encircled by massive stone walls and the sparkling Adriatic Sea.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Dubrovnik
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
Jet2 from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €80+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Milan, Italy (BGY, LIN) - 2 Hour 30 Minute Flight
Why go?
Milan is a fashion powerhouse, offering a stunning mix of modernity and history, with incredible shopping and dining.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Milan
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
easyJet from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €10+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Seville, Spain (SVQ) - 2 Hour 35 Minute Flight
Why go?
Immerse yourself in the heart of Andalusian culture in Seville, where flamenco, festivals, and historic architecture abound.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Seville
When to go?
Spring, Fall
Who can fly you there?
easyJet from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €40+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Zurich, Switzerland (ZRH) - 2 Hour Flight
Why go?
Zurich combines cultural vibrancy and rich history with a backdrop of picturesque lakes and mountains.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Zurich
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
Edelweiss from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €150+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Valencia, Spain (VLC) - 2 Hour 25 Minute Flight
Why go?
Valencia blends history, culture, and modernity, with stunning architecture and a famous paella scene.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Valencia
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
easyJet from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €30+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Venice, Italy (VCE) - 2 Hour 40 Minute Flight
Why go?
Venice enchants with its intricate canal system, historic architecture, and striking art scene.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Venice
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
easyJet from ORK - See flight deals
Ryanair from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €20+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Pisa, Italy (PSA) - 2 Hour 35 Minute Flight
Why go?
Pisa is renowned for its iconic Leaning Tower, beautiful duomo, and vibrant student culture.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Pisa
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
Jet2 from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €30+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Palma de Mallorca, Spain (PMI) - 2 Hour 35 Minute Flight
Why go?
Palma de Mallorca boasts beautiful beaches, a historic old town, and vibrant local markets.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Palma de Mallorca
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
Ryanair from ORK - See flight deals
Jet2 from ORK - See flight deals
easyJet from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €30+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Canary Islands, Spain (TCI, LPA, TFS, TFN, ACE, FUE, SPC) - 4 Hour Flight
Why go?
The Canary Islands offer a perfect escape with their volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and year-round sunshine.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in the Canary Islands
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
Ryanair from ORK - See flight deals
How much will it cost to fly there?
Airfare: €150+
Want to take the train instead?
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
