Transfers Countries Ireland DublinDublin to Cork

Private car transfer from Dublin to Cork

Door-to-door
in 2 h 50 min

From €96
per seat

Comfortable
car

One way

One wayReturnMulti-city

New

One way

Cancel for free 24 hours before departure

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024

Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Dublin.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 2 h 50 min.

Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Cork.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

In total

261 km2 h 50 min

Car Trip From Dublin to Cork

Over 136 miles of sprawling countryside await on a car trip from Dublin to Cork. From the bustling streets of Ireland's political headquarters to the lanes of the nation's self-proclaimed "Real Capital," it's nothing but lush greenery, mystical castles, and charming villages encircled by rustic farmyards.

Every twist and turn is like a page from a picture book of unspoiled natural beauty. That's until the multicolored buildings of the Republic of Ireland's second-largest city come into sight. Nothing should spoil such a stunning drive through the heart of Ireland's Ancient East. So we put together an in-depth guide that includes the best way to get from Dublin to Cork and travel tips to enhance this bucket list car ride!

About Cork

After driving from Dublin to Cork, you'll have entered Ireland's second-largest city, home to over 264,000 welcoming locals. Its location along the River Lee and the southern tip of the island makes it one of the most significant regions, thanks to its proximity to continental Europe.

St. Finbarr founded Cork after building a monastery on the island. By the 1100s, Vikings and Normans had conquered the land and made it part of England. Although a vital port city, Cork witnessed occupation from William of Orange, the invasion of Cromwell, and the burning of Cork City by the English in retaliation for multiple ambushes during the War of Independence.

Cork's eagerness to voice its beliefs and fight for its land earned it its nickname as the Rebel County. Today, you can still feel the rebellious attitude, like how locals only drink Murphy Stout instead of Dublin-owned Guinness. The region's energy and rich past let you experience its city charm, family-owned stores, and historic red brick buildings in the 21st century.

Official languages: English and Irish
Currency: Euro
Climate: Mild Oceanic
Time Zone: GMT
Plug Type: Type G
High season: July and August

From Dublin to Cork: Travel Tips

Although the distance from Dublin to Cork seems small on the map, it's big in spirit and adventure. These travel tips from local drivers and experts will make this a smooth ride you won't forget!

Prepare for the Weather

Even if it's sunny when you leave your accommodation in Dublin, be sure to prepare for rain. You can easily experience all four seasons in a day in Ireland, even in the summer. An umbrella and waterproof clothing are essential, especially if you plan to do sightseeing en route.

Book Tickets in Advance

Cork and Dublin are two of the most visited cities in the Republic of Ireland. As a result, public transportation can sell out at your desired time. Train tickets also skyrocket if you wait to buy them at the station or at the last minute.

Explore Ireland's Ancient East

Ireland's Ancient East is the country's most historical region. Castles, abbeys, and monasteries are all nestled within the thick foliage of the Irish woodlands. Stunning attractions such as Blarney Castle and Dunamase are along the way and are challenging to reach without renting a car.

How to Get From Dublin to Cork

Being the Republic of Ireland's two most visited and largest cities, the government and several companies established a robust transportation infrastructure. Each has its own unique advantages to suit your preferences on how to get from Dublin to Cork.

Bus from Dublin to Cork

The bus is cheap and by far the most popular way for locals to get from Dublin to Cork. Bus Eireann is the national bus firm and is the most affordable yet slowest of the four services. You can view the timetable and purchase a ticket online or at Dublin Busaras Station for €14. The journey to Cork Parnell Place takes four hours, as it stops in several towns along the way.

Aircoach and CityLink are the most frequently used, as they're the quickest and stop at Dublin airport. Tickets are still cheap, costing between €15 and €19, and take just three hours to complete.

Train from Dublin to Cork

The train is a relaxing, but not very convenient, way to travel from Dublin.

You must take a tram or taxi to Dublin Heuston Station, located 15-20 minutes from downtown. Tickets with Irish Rail start at €25 if you book more than a month in advance and can rise to €50 if you wait until the last minute.

The train ride lasts around 2 hours and 40 minutes and will arrive at Cork Kent Station, just a 20-minute walk from St. Patrick's Street.

Daytrip Private Car from Dublin to Cork

Daytrip is the easiest and most enriching method of transport when traveling from Dublin to Cork.

For 2 hours and 50 minutes, you can sit back and relax in your private vehicle, admiring the timeless allure of the Emerald Isle. But with optional sightseeing attractions, you have the opportunity to extend this tour through the rugged coastline. You will learn about the regional heritage at the UNESCO World Site of the Rock of Cashel. Or take a leaf out of the local's book and sample the finest whiskeys at the Jameson Distillery Factory!

Don't worry about arranging a taxi to your hotel once you arrive. Your friendly driver will drop you off directly at your accommodation and handle any bags you have with you!

Things to Do When You Get to Cork

Cork may be the Republic of Ireland's second-largest city. But it's second to none when it comes to exciting things to see and do. Put these unmissable attractions on your list of things to do when you get to Cork!

Wander the English Market

The English Market dates back to 1788. And today, it's still adored by locals and tourists. Inside the narrow corridors, you'll uncover festive energy and a plethora of regional delicacies, from soda bread to black tea and vegetables to shellfish.

Cork is also dubbed Ireland's food capital. The best way to immerse yourself in its cuisine is by picking up regional goods and enjoying a meal at Bishops Lucey Park, just across the street!

Take a Trip to Spike Island

Spike Island is 25 minutes from downtown but is easily accessible by train. The trip is worth every second and penny you spend since it was recently crowned Europe's best attraction at the World Travel Awards, overcoming landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Buckingham Palace.

You can visit this eerie jail known by prisoners as "Ireland's Alcatraz" during the day, or if you're feeling brave, take a haunted tour once the sun sets!

Enjoy the Pub Culture

No trip to the Republic of Ireland is complete without diving into its raucous pub culture! Endless traditional pubs litter Cork's walkways with live music and free-flowing beer, creating a lively atmosphere.

To plunge deeper into what makes this nation famous, take a tour of a local microbrewery like the Franciscan Well or Rising Sons.

Visit The Crawford Art Gallery

The Crawford Art Gallery is ideal for a more sophisticated afternoon or something to do on a rainy day. It's the most extensive art museum in Munster, home to historical and contemporary collections.

Over 3,000 exhibits reside here, and several temporary collections are also available. So you'll have something new to discover every time you return!

When Is the Best Time to Visit Cork?

Since the Rebel City isn't a tourist hotbed like London or Paris, summer is the best time to travel from Dublin to Cork. Although you'll witness other travelers here, the streets won't be gridlocked from large crowds.

The climate is pleasant, with an average temperature of 63° Fahrenheit. Since it's not baking, you can enjoy walking tours and outdoor activities. As a bonus, the outdoors is even more beautiful this time of the year after the flowers and plants transform the green landscape into various shades of vibrant colors.

Ireland's national and UNESCO World Heritage-certified sport, GAA, also takes place in the summer. You can attend the festival-like games in person or go to one of the countless bars and celebrate with the locals.

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Dublin to Cork

Is there a direct train from Dublin to Cork?

On average, 16 daily direct connections are available between Dublin and Cork. The first train on the timetable departs Dublin at 6:00 AM, while the last leaves at 9:00 PM. The journey costs between €25 and €50 and will take around 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete.

How far is it from Dublin to Cork?

The road distance from Dublin to Cork is over 136 miles, which will take only 2 hours and 50 minutes to drive. However, traffic leaving Dublin and entering Cork can increase the overall time.

What is the best way to get from Cork to Dublin?

A private car with Daytrip is the best way to get from Cork to Dublin. Our door-to-door service will drop you directly at your new address, on schedule, in under three hours. You can also explore the fascinating landmarks most tourists overlook on their road trip through the Republic of Ireland.

Is Cork, Ireland, worth visiting?

Yes, Cork is one of Europe's underrated cities. Its compact urban center allows you to explore the area on foot, and there's an abundance of museums and attractions to keep you entertained for days. The food and drink scene is also one of the best nationwide.

Can you take a day trip from Dublin to Cork?

Since the journey from Dublin to Cork is under three hours, it's possible to take a day trip. It's also a small city, so you can explore all the downtown streets and visit a few museums in a day. However, you need three days to see all the major attractions and experience its unique culture.

Is there a direct flight from Dublin to Cork?

As of 2024, there is no direct flight from Dublin Airport to Cork Airport. Several connecting flights to London, Liverpool, or Manchester will take between 4.5 and 6 hours, including the aircraft transfer and security time wait at the airports.

Visit these sights on the way

Irish National Stud and Gardens

Surrounded by serene gardens, the legacy of Irish horse racing lives on at the only stud farm open to the public. Horsiculture

Dunamase

Destroyed multiple times, this once mighty medieval castle is now an atmospheric ruin. A Slightly Rocky History

Holycross Abbey

With its magnificent medieval architecture, the oldest bell in Ireland, and a relic of the True Cross, this abbey is a historic treasure trove. Virtues Un-tolled

Rock of Cashel

The seat of early medieval kings, this partly ruined complex boasts some of the oldest and finest religious art and architecture in Ireland. The Medieval Peak

Cahir Castle

This medieval castle exudes history - right down to the cannonball still stuck in its wall. Cannonballs to the Wall

Midleton Distillery Experience

Home to the world’s largest pot still, this historic brewery introduces visitors to the past, present, and future of Irish whiskey. Whiskey to the Past

Blarney Stone

For centuries, statesmen, authors, and actors have sought the gift of eloquence by performing a precipitous kiss on this legendary rock. The Gift of Gab

Why people love Daytrip

5,100+ reviews

1,001 travelers took this route with us

Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C

Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137

Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L

Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N

Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO

Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M

Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861

Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte

Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R

Jan 25, 2025

Excellent service

“We used the service twice while in Thailand. Extremely prompt and efficient customer service. Best rate being offered in Chiang Mai for the travels. Polite, punctual, professional and English speaking drivers. Clean, comfortable vehicles. Being a regular visitor to Thailand, this was hands down the best service. Most pleased with the company. I hope it sustains the excellence of service that was rendered to us.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Omar

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm

Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.

For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,500+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.