Cork City is Lively yet Cozy
With a population of around 190,000 people, including over 40,000 students, Cork has a long tradition of welcoming international students, offering a safe and friendly environment, perfect for making this new city your home away from home.
Hotspots
Cork English Academy is centrally located, just two minutes from the main shopping street, Patrick’s Street. With easy access to everything from cafés to cultural institutions, students will find everything they need nearby.
Beer Gardens
- The Courtyard on Sober Lane: Popular student hangout
- Tom Barry’s: Barrack Street
- Deep South: Grand Parade
- The Vicarstown Bar: North Main Street
- An Brog: Large beer garden, affordable prices
- The Franciscan Well: Famous for craft beers and pizza
- Gaia: 98 Street
- Fionbarra’s: Douglas Street
Eating Out in Cork
Students love to grab a bite at Cork’s variety of affordable, diverse eateries. Whether you’re craving burritos, Asian fusion, or healthier options, there’s something for everyone:
- Cheap & Cheerful: Umi Falafel, Boojum Burritos, and Tony’s Bistro
- Asian: Ramen, Miyazaki, and Dashi
- Fast Food: McDonald’s, Wow Burger, and Lavish Kebab
- Healthy Options: Quay Co-op, Rocket Man, and Café Gusto
- Marina Market: Cork’s largest indoor and outdoor market with lots of food stalls
For the coffee lovers, Cork Coffee Roasters and Maher’s are top spots for a caffeine fix, while Scoozi’s and Café Mexicana are favorite hangouts for students wanting a heartier meal.
Nightlife in Cork
Cork’s nightlife has something for everyone. The pubs are cozy, inviting, and great for both drinkers and non-drinkers alike:
- Traditional Pubs: Try The Oval or Fionn Barra’s for a laid-back atmosphere. For craft beer, head to Franciscan Well, Cork’s microbrewery, where you can enjoy live music.
- Late-Night Spots: If you want to keep the night going, hit The Crane Lane, The Bodega, or An Bróg on Oliver Plunkett Street for music and dancing. For something quirky, check out Arthur Mayne’s, where you’ll feel like you’re drinking in an old-time pharmacy.
For LGBTQ+ nightlife, Chambers on Washington Street is the place to be, while Church Nightclub on Hanover Street is a great spot for a clubbing night out.
Cultural Venues
If you’re into live music, Cork’s music scene is booming. Check out Cyprus Avenue or Coughlan’s for live gigs, or drop by Sin É to hear some traditional Irish tunes. The Triskel Arts Centre is a hub for all things cultural, from cinema to art and music.
Cork’s blend of culture, great food, and an unbeatable atmosphere ensures that your time here as a student will be filled with unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re sipping coffee by the river or dancing the night away, Cork has it all.