The Best Budget-Friendly Hotels to Book in Cork
With its buzzing pubs, cultural hotspots and arguably the best restaurant scene in Ireland, Cork has an accommodation offering that doesn’t always come cheap. But we can help – here’s our roundup of budget-friendly hotels and B&Bs in Cork that don’t compromise on style.
1. Maldron Hotel Shandon Cork
Hotel
If you’ve come to Cork to scrub up on your Irish history, you’ll want to check into Maldron Hotel Shandon, in the middle of the city’s historic culture quarter. Since a refurbishment, rooms offer every modern amenity, and there’s a fully equipped gym and swimming pool, if you’ve not had enough exercise exploring the city.
2. The Metropole Hotel, Cork City
Hotel
Built in 1897 but with modern ensuite bathrooms and luxe Karre toiletries, the Metropole is a traditional bolthole near to shops, boutiques, bars and eateries. Join locals for a drink in the lively Met bar, while Sundays should be saved for Brunch in the City, where you can indulge in tasty breakfast staples washed down with free-flowing prosecco.
3. Cork International Hotel, Cork City
Hotel
5. Jurys Inn Cork
Hotel
6. Blarney Castle Hotel
Hotel
Just 200yd (180m) from Blarney Castle, this is a great option for travellers on a budget who don’t want to compromise on location. Locals come early for the traditional cooked breakfasts and stay late for traditional live Irish music and refreshing ales at Johnny’s Bar. When it comes to your meals, ingredients are locally sourced, and guests rave about the monkfish served with sun blushed tomatoes and sautéed potatoes. And while rooms are simple, you won’t be compromising on comfort.
7. Belvedere Lodge
Bed and Breakfast
This charming family-run guesthouse is thoughtfully decorated with accents of colour, and set among its own tranquil gardens with cascades, ponds and a gazebo. A traditional Irish breakfast is the star of the show, so fill up on a feast of scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, mushrooms and grilled tomato, all cooked to order. Rooms have all the essentials – come summer, be sure to ask for a room with private access to the gardens for a special touch.
8. Vienna Woods, Glanmire
Hotel
9. Cork Airport Hotel
Airport Hotel
Just a five-minute walk from Cork Airport terminal, Cork Airport Hotel offers smart and spacious rooms that won’t break the bank. Touting authentic Italian with locally sourced ingredients, enjoy some of the best pizzas in town at the Olivio Bar & Restaurant. A continental buffet breakfast of fresh bread, pastries, cold cuts and more freshen every morning, and there’s even a grab-and-go option available from 4am if you’ve got an early flight.
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