Cobh

Travel Guide

Cobh featuring heritage architecture, a bay or harbor and a coastal town
Cobh Heritage Centre which includes interior views
Cobh showing heritage elements
Cobh showing a bay or harbor, a marina and boating
Cobh showing a bay or harbor

Cobh Travel Guide Video

This southern town was the final departure point of the doomed Titanic, a history it has kept alive with heritage centers, events and Titanic-themed experiences.

Cobh, pronounced “Cove,” was formerly known as the busy port of Queenstown. The small town thanks its modern fame to an event that made world history. On April 11, 1912, the RMS Titanic sailed from Cobh with more than 2,200 people on its fatal first and final voyage.

The Titanic was constructed in Belfast and the “unsinkable” ship’s legacy is marked in various ways throughout Cobh. Visit the small memorial in Westbourne Place, enter the Titanic Experience in the old White Star Line ticket office, or join a guided Titanic tour.

Find happier tales of the sea at the Cobh Heritage Center. Learn about the 2.5 million people who emigrated from this town to the U.S. A statue near the harbor commemorates Annie Moore, who, in 1892, became the first immigrant to be admitted through the U.S. Ellis Island welcome center.  

While steeped in history, the town remains a busy port today. As Ireland's only dedicated cruise terminal, Cobh welcomes cruise ships from all over the globe. Due to the large influx of visitors, Cobh is well equipped for the tourist market. For locally produced wares, historic artifacts and history insights, visit the Cobh Museum, Museum of Irish Emigration, St. Colman's Cathedral and Tregan Craft Center. Afterward, visit one of the many restaurants, pubs and shops.

To see more of Cobh Harbour’s natural bay, book a cruise to nearby Spike Island. This is just a 20-minute trip from Kennedy Pier.

Cobh also has many annual events. Cobh People's Regatta takes over the town for an entire August weekend. There is free music at the Summer Swing Series, a season-long program. In September, Cobh hosts the Deep Sea Angling Festival.

Situated in the south of Ireland, Cobh is a 30-minute drive from Cork Airport and slightly less by train from Cork. Visit in the summer months from May to August when the sun is likely to shine often and the climate is warm. Or, make an off-peak visit to be first in line for attractions you’ll always find ample indoor activities to enjoy if the weather is inclement.

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Reviews of Cobh

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3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

We traveled to Cobh because of our interest in meeting the genealogist at the Cobh Heritage Centre - and the hotel was next to this building. Due to Covid-19, the museum was closed - but fortunately, Christy Keating, genealogist, showed up.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Highly recommend the Titanic Experience.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Cobh was a lovely town to visit. We are glad we added it to our road trip.

5/5 - Excellent

Kelly

Cobh is a beautiful port town. It's right on the water and the views are breathtaking! There's plenty to do/see/eat/drink here. It was likely one of my favorite places to stay on our trip.

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