8 things you could be doing in Cork this summer (instead of searching for a home)

1. Having a pint in one of the city’s fabulous beer gardens.

When the weather is nice, the Rebel City comes to life! It’s no surprise everyone wants to be outside, taking in the sunshine while it lasts. This year so far we’ve been lucky with longer bouts of clear blue skies, which means you MUST take advantage of it. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of  outdoor drinking hotspots that are sure to keep your thirst quenched while you soak up those sweet rays. A few of our favourites are: Tom Barry’s, Franciscan Well, Electric, The Sextant, The Courtyard on Sober Lane (part of the Flying Enterprise complex) and Deep South. Bring on that Vitamin D!

Via @pinkybrand on Instagram.

Via @electriccork on Instagram.

2. Taking a trip to Kinsale

Kinsale is definitely one of the most beautiful places in County Cork, and this quaint town never ceases to charm its visitors. The curious shops, vibrant colours, picturesque scenery and incredible food options make this harbour hideaway definitely worth exploring. Kinsale boasts some of the best restaurants in the country, and is the perfect place to escape to when seeking an intermission from the city.

Via @abailliedavid on Instagram.

Via @stephaniefarah on Instagram.

3. Strolling around Fota

Tigers and cheetahs and zebras: Oh my! Fota Wildlife Park offers an ideal day out for the entire family. Located on Fota Island, just 10 km from the city, this 100-acre paradise is home to a variety of fascinating animals as well as botanical gardens, which boast a plethora of rare plants and flowers. Observe assorted treasures of the natural world as you walk through this lush sanctuary, which also offers special events throughout the seasons.

Via @fotawildlife on Instagram.

Via @the_idyll on Instagram.

4. Enjoying the Cork Midsummer Festival

This annual summertime celebration boasts a programme of events chock-full of compelling performances in music, theatre, dancing, comedy, circus, arts, and culture. The festival takes place from the 17th – 19th, 21st, and  24th – 26th  of June across the city’s best venues.  City Hall, Cork Opera House, Firkin Crane, The Everyman and Fitzgerald’s Park are just a sampling of the participating locations that will be invigorated with the Festival’s unique entertainment offerings. For more information, please see: www.corkmidsummer.com.

Via @corkmidsummer on Instagram.

Via @corkmidsummer on Instagram.

5. Rocking out  at the Marquee

From June 7- July 13, The Docklands will ROCK! Every year, some of the biggest names in music come to Cork to captivate us with their talents, and this year is no exception.  Acts including Don Henley, Dropkick Murphys, The Corrs, Imelda May, The Coronas, Walking on Cars, and The Pixies will all play shows during the Live at the Marquee festival, and we can’t wait! Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.ie.

Via @kierannugent on Instagram.

Via @damienrice on Instagram.

6. Spending a day at the beach

One of the great things about living on the coast is the wealth of beaches us Corkonians have to choose from. Myrtleville and Fountainstown, Garretstown, Garryvoe and Inchydoney are some favourites, however there are plenty more across the county, sure to satisfy even the most persnickety beach bums. Surf, build a sand castle, take a dip in the (usually cold) waters, or relax shore-side with a good book: the beach has it all. If you go to Myrtleville, we suggest stopping by Bunnyconnellan Bar & Restaurant for some prime alfresco dining with stunning views of the Atlantic.

Via mountains_only_know on Instagram.

Via @steffiefuller on Instagram.

7. Tucking into some BBQ

Nothing says summer like deliciously smoked and sweetly spiced meat! BBQ is ideal on hot summer days, especially if accompanied by a cold brew. Luckily, a number of quality BBQ joints have sprouted throughout Cork as of late, and a few of them offer outdoor seating so you can feast on your BBQ while making the most of the glorious summer days. White Rabbit Bar & BBQ on MacCurtain Street has quickly become a local favourite, with  the newly-opened Holy Smoke and nouveau-gourmet Elbow Lane also boasting a loyal and satisfied following. Barbecue restaurants seem to be a new trend, and you won’t see us complaining about that!

Via @johnrelihan on Instagram.

Via @cmitch84 on Instagram.

8. Having a picnic in the park

Cork county boasts an array of pretty parks so  pack a meal, a blanket and head over to your favourite to dine in peaceful bliss. Stop by the English Market to pick up freshly made sandwiches or antipasto ingredients, and spend the afternoon surrounded by mother nature. Fitzgerald’s Park is always an excellent option, with lots of space to choose from and scenery that just begs to be painted. Bring an easel and some art supplies to picnic as Monet must have done all those years ago. Don’t forget the beret!

Via @youngdooley on Instagram.

Via @cailin83 on Instagram.

Feature image via @rachelvp on Instagram.