For the business traveller, Cork is one of those destinations that quietly impresses.
While Dublin often gets the corporate spotlight, Ireland’s second city is an increasingly important business hub, particularly in pharmaceuticals, tech, and finance. But what makes Cork special is that business here never feels too formal, meetings can happen just as easily in a historic hotel lounge as they can in a cosy riverside café.
With a growing international business presence, excellent transport links, and a vibrant cultural scene, Cork is ideal for a short but productive business trip. And let’s be honest, when you’re in Ireland, a little post-work enjoyment is inevitable. Whether it’s a pint of Murphy’s, a stroll along the River Lee, or a detour to the famous English Market, Cork makes it easy to mix business with pleasure.
Here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in Cork, where work gets done efficiently, but never at the expense of enjoying the city.
Getting There: Easy Access from Europe and Beyond
For a city of its size, Cork is surprisingly well-connected, making it an ideal location for short business trips.
By Air
Cork Airport (ORK) is just 15 minutes from the city centre, with direct flights to major European hubs like London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt. The airport is small but efficient, meaning quick arrivals and departures, ideal for time-conscious business travellers.
By Train & Road
If you’re coming from Dublin, the train from Heuston Station to Cork Kent Station takes just 2.5 hours, with comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi for catching up on emails. For those driving, the M8 motorway makes the journey straightforward (about 3 hours).
Once in Cork, taxis, buses, and walking are the easiest ways to get around. The city is compact, so getting from a morning meeting to an afternoon coffee stop rarely takes more than 10 minutes.
Where Business Gets Done in Cork
Cork has a growing corporate scene, particularly in pharmaceuticals (Pfizer, Novartis), fintech, and tech (Apple has a major presence here). Whether you need a quiet café for remote work, a sleek meeting venue, or a co-working space, the city offers plenty of options.
Best Spots for Business Meetings & Work-Friendly Cafés
- The River Lee Hotel – A stylish business hotel with elegant meeting rooms, a great riverside location, and a relaxed but professional atmosphere.
- Republic of Work – Cork’s best co-working space, perfect for setting up a laptop between meetings or hosting informal networking sessions.
- Soma Coffee Company – A modern café with excellent coffee, strong Wi-Fi, and plenty of seating—great for a quick work session.
- Café Velo – A trendy spot near the river, ideal for a casual business coffee meeting with its mix of good food and a relaxed setting.
For formal business events or client meetings, venues like The Metropole Hotel and Clayton Hotel Cork City offer conference facilities with a touch of Irish charm.
Balancing Business with a Taste of Cork
Even the most structured business trip should include a bit of local flavour, and Cork makes it easy to do just that.
A Quick Break: The English Market
If you have an hour between meetings, take a walk through The English Market—one of Europe’s oldest covered markets. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick bite, whether it’s fresh seafood, artisanal cheese, or a hearty sausage roll.
A Walk Along the River Lee
For a bit of fresh air before your next meeting, take a walk along the River Lee, which winds its way through the city. The bridges and waterfront buildings make for a scenic, stress-free break from work.
An Evening Pint at a Historic Pub
If there’s one thing that simply must happen on a business trip to Cork, it’s a visit to a proper Irish pub. While Dublin has Guinness, Cork’s signature stout is Murphy’s, smooth, slightly chocolatey, and best enjoyed in a traditional setting.
Some great spots for an after-work drink include:
- Sin É – A legendary pub with live Irish music most nights.
- The Shelbourne Bar – An elegant whiskey bar, perfect for networking over a premium Irish whiskey.
- The Long Valley – A classic Cork pub with huge, freshly made sandwiches, great for a laid-back business catch-up.
Where to Eat: Business Lunches & Dinner Meetings
Cork is often called Ireland’s food capital, and for good reason. Whether it’s a quick business lunch or a fine-dining experience, the city offers plenty of great choices.
Top Business Lunch Spots
- The Farmgate Café – Located inside The English Market, this spot offers traditional Irish dishes in a charming, informal setting—perfect for a relaxed client lunch.
- Isaac’s Restaurant – A local favourite known for fresh seafood and modern Irish cuisine, great for both casual and formal dining.
- Electric – A stylish riverside restaurant with Asian-inspired dishes and great cocktails, ideal for an informal business lunch.
Client Dinners & After-Work Dining
- Market Lane – One of Cork’s most popular restaurants, serving high-quality Irish food with a modern twist.
- Jacobs on the Mall – Set in a historic building, this upscale spot is perfect for impressing clients.
- Orso – A smaller, intimate restaurant, great for a relaxed but memorable meal with colleagues.
If you really want to push the boat out, consider a short drive to Ballymaloe House—one of Ireland’s most famous food destinations. It’s an incredible experience, and if your schedule allows, absolutely worth it.
Day Two: Work, Culture, and a Taste of the Countryside
If you’ve wrapped up meetings by midday, take the opportunity to experience a little more of Cork’s surroundings before heading back home.
Visit Blarney Castle (Yes, Even on a Business Trip)
Even if you’re here for work, it’s hard to justify a trip to Cork without visiting Blarney Castle—just 20 minutes outside the city. While kissing the famous Blarney Stone might be optional, the castle grounds and gardens are worth a short visit if time allows.
Whiskey Tasting at the Jameson Distillery, Midleton
If you have a free afternoon, a visit to Jameson Distillery Midleton is one of the best experiences just outside Cork. The tour offers a fascinating look at Irish whiskey-making, and yes, tastings are included.
Final Thoughts: Business Travel, Cork Style
Cork might be known for tech, finance, and pharmaceuticals, but it never loses its warm, welcoming personality. Whether you’re closing deals, hosting meetings, or just working remotely, the city offers plenty of spaces to be productive, but always with an invitation to slow down and enjoy a pint, a walk along the river, or a moment of good conversation.
And that’s what makes a business trip to Cork different. It’s a city where work gets done, but always with a bit of Irish charm on the side.