Things to do in Cobh, Province of Munster: The Best Historical & Heritage Tours

February 4, 2022 Randal Brittian

Cobh (/ˈkoʊv/ KOHV,  Irish: An Cóbh), known from 1849 until 1920 as Queenstown, is a tourist seaport town on the south coast of County Cork, Ireland. Cobh is on the south side of Great Island in Cork Harbour and is home to Ireland's only dedicated cruise terminal. Tourism in the area draws on the maritime and emigration legacy of the town - including its association with the RMS Titanic, which was built in Belfast.
Restaurants in Cobh

1. Blarney Castle, Cork City and Cobh Private Tour from Killarney

Munsterbus Tours
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Explore southwest Ireland with a personal guide on this private, full-day tour of timeworn castles, rugged coastlines, and cities steeped in history. Kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle, visit Cork, and see where the 'Titanic' set sail from Cobh. Pricing is per group, based on a maximum of nine people on this day trip from Killarney.

Inclusions: Private guide, Transport by private vehicle

Exclusions: Food and drinks

Reviewed By XO2travel2

My husband and I have traveled to Europe over a dozen times in the last twenty years. We’ve always traveled independently doing our own research and making our own reservations. We’re very comfortable taking public transportation in Europe and have also driven rental cars. A few years ago, we started purchasing small group or private tours for day trips and museum tours. We find them to be a great value for the personalized experience you receive. The key is doing your research ahead of time and finding the right tour company for you. For our trip to Ireland in August 2019, I found several highly-rated companies that offered day trips in southern Ireland. We ended up selecting MunsterBus Tours and had a fantastic experience. We booked with MunsterBus Tours because of their good customer reviews and excellent customer service in planning the trip – specifically my interactions with Linda Conway. Linda and I emailed back and forth to plan our two day trips for 4 adults. She was very responsive and professional (with a nice sense of humor). She took the time to really think about the information I sent her and then responded with detailed information and personalized itinerary options for us to consider. I also emailed Linda while in Ireland for advice with something not related to our day trips and she responded immediately with very helpful suggestions. Great customer service! We were also delighted to find the actual day trips were very enjoyable. Our driver and guide for both days was Craig. He was knowledgeable, helpful, patient and a very good driver. He did a great job balancing informing us, entertaining us (we had fun singing Irish songs) and giving us quiet time. Craig made our time in southern Ireland even more enjoyable. When we return to continue our exploration, we will definitely use MunsterBus Tours!!

2. Visit 16 Sites Key Historical Sites And Experience Cobh Rebel Tours

Cobh, Cobh, County Cork Cobh Rebel Walking Tours
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5.0 based on 65 reviews

VISIT 16 KEY HISTORICAL SITES AND EXPERIENCE 90 MINUTES ON A WALKING TOUR  WHEN YOU VISIT THE PLACES VISITED BY LEADING FIGURES LIKE JAMES CONNOLLY, ROGER CASEMENT, PATRTICK PEARSE AND MANY OTHERS. VISIT LOCATIONS OF AMBUSHES AND INCIDENTS WHERE COBH VOLUNTEERS TOOK ON THE MIGHT OF A EMPIRE.VIEW BUILDINGS ASSOCIATED WITH THE REPUBLICAN AND THIER ENEMIES. SAFE HOUSES AND TRAINING HALLS, BARRACKS AND PLACES OF DETENTION.ENJOY 90 MINUTES STEPPING BACK IN HISTORY WITH OUR  LOCAL TOUR GUIDE AND HISTORIAN KIERAN MCCARTHY WHERE HE BRINGS THE STREETS ALIVE WITH HISTORY.

Inclusions: Tour guide

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By 623kirstym

This tour was FANTASTIC. I really enjoyed this. I learnt so much and loved the passion in all of his stories! Would thoroughly recommend this to anyone. Wouldn't suit anyone who is unable to walk up hills. But for anyone else I would 100% recommend!

3. 6-Day All Ireland Rail Tour from Dublin

Heuston Station, St John's Rd W, Saint James' (part of Phoenix Park), Dublin, Ireland Railtours Ireland First Class - Day Tours
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

This tour covers a large part of the Wild Atlantic Way and Causeway coast. We head South to visit Cork, Blarney Castle & the Ring of Kerry, West to the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, the Aran Islands in Galway Bay and North to the Giants Causeway.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Return Rail Tickets , Reserved Seats on the Train, Railtours Ireland Host Throughout, Visitor Attraction Admissions, Escorted Coach, Transfer to Inis Mor, Aran Island, Accommodation

Exclusions: Gratuities, Meals

Reviewed By JarveC

As a party of four we have just had an amazing 3 night 4 day experience on the Emerald Pullman First Class Train Trip. The journey took in many of Ireland's most scenic & spectacular locations including Waterford Crystal, Killarney, The Ring of Kerry , Cliffs of Moher & Galway Bay to name just a few .. We experienced first class service from the time we left Connolly Station. The whole experience was completely relaxing and hassle free as everything was organised for us every step of the way, from the lovely hotels we stayed in to the wonderful tours of our beautiful country. Would highly recommend Railtours Ireland if planning a staycation and a huge thanks & appreciation to Jim Deegan and his very professional team for a great holiday in Ireland.

4. Titanic Trail Guided Walking Tour Cobh

Commodore Hotel, 4 Westbourne Pl, Kilgarvan, Cork, P24 WR60, Ireland The Titanic Trail
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4.8 based on 119 reviews

Titanic Trail Guided Walking Tour of Cobh Operating daily since 1998, this 1 hour gentle stroll through the heritage town of Cobh explores the diverse and magnificent history of Cork harbour, its environs and the architecturally preserved streetscape. The engaging narrative brings together the amazing maritime, emigrant and social history of the area. Cobh was the main departure point for millions of Irish emigrants to the US. It was the last port of call for RMS Titanic, it received the victims and survivors after the sinking of the Lusitania during the first world war. Over many centuries, the invasions, departures, arrivals and utilisation of the port by many different peoples have crafted a fascinating story that will enthral and engage the visitor no matter what their interests. Created by the renowned Dr Michael Martin, this tour will bring you new knowledge and fascinating insights into world stories in the environment in which they were created.

Inclusions: Public tour

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By Connector670435

An informative and moving experience here. But the entire town with its amazing cathedral overlooking the sea is amazing. And like the 99% of irish people we met, they were warm and friendly. Cant say the same about the whether though.

5. Small-Group 6-Day Driftwood Ancient Ireland Tour from Dublin

Grand Canal Hotel, Grand Canal Street Upper, Dublin, D04 X5X7, Ireland Vagabond Tours
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4.8 based on 5 reviews

Discover eastern Ireland in 6 Days. From the wilderness of the Wicklow Mountains to the perfection of Waterford Crystal and the heritage of ancient Kilkenny; From the gourmet delights of Kinsale, to Cobh’s tragic history of Ireland’s emigration or the grandeur of Ireland’s greatest stately homes, this six day journey through one of Ireland’s most off-the-beaten-track regions is perfect for visitors who want to see a whole new side of Ireland’s ancient east.

Inclusions: Accommodation as per itinerary, 5 nights accommodation, All taxes, fees and handling charges, Breakfast, Driver/guide, Small-group tour (16 Pax Maximum)

Exclusions: Entrance fees (Optional) Blarney Castle - €15 per person Kilkenny Castle - €8 per person Queenstown Experience - €9.50 per person The Ross Tapestry - €6 per person, Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities

Reviewed By jenniger

Well I am like most of the others in recent reviews as I have not yet gone on my trip. I want to emphasize how marvelous Ciara was when I had to cancel and I have now rebooked the 11 day driftwood tour September 7. Would love to hear from anyone else booking that tour. One of the reasons I rebooked was the low deposit as even though did get my deposit back with no trouble last year I was uncomfortable at my age and who knows what’s gonna happen with Covid putting a large deposit down again. Marvelous communication and service and I’m sure my tour will be marvelous and I can write a great review when I have been

6. 2-Day Cork and Blarney Castle Rail Tour from Dublin

Heuston Station, St John's Rd W, Saint James' (part of Phoenix Park), Dublin, Ireland Railtours Ireland First Class - Day Tours
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4.8 based on 4 reviews

Take a journey by rail and coach through Ireland's picturesque landscapes on this 2-day trip departing from Dublin. Kiss the famous Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle in Cork and learn about the history of Cork on a city tour. Then visit Victoria Station, where you’ll learn about generations of Irish emigrants as you tour the fascinating Queenstown Story Heritage Centre in Cobh.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Overnight accommodation, Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner), Local guide

Exclusions: Gratuities, Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By JarveC

As a party of four we have just had an amazing 3 night 4 day experience on the Emerald Pullman First Class Train Trip. The journey took in many of Ireland's most scenic & spectacular locations including Waterford Crystal, Killarney, The Ring of Kerry , Cliffs of Moher & Galway Bay to name just a few .. We experienced first class service from the time we left Connolly Station. The whole experience was completely relaxing and hassle free as everything was organised for us every step of the way, from the lovely hotels we stayed in to the wonderful tours of our beautiful country. Would highly recommend Railtours Ireland if planning a staycation and a huge thanks & appreciation to Jim Deegan and his very professional team for a great holiday in Ireland.

7. The Queenstown Story @ Cobh Heritage Centre , Great Stories of Emigration.

Cobh Heritage Centre- The Queenstown Story, The Queenstown Story @ Cobh Heritage Centre Deepwater Quay Tel 021 4813591 Deepwater Quay, Kilgarvan, Cobh, Co. Cork, P24 CY67, Ireland Cobh Heritage Centre The Queenstown Story
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4.7 based on 31 reviews

With such a rich History, Heritage and a story to tell, a trip to The Queenstown Story @ Cobh Heritage Centre is a must. This beautiful, informative cultural centre is inventively situated within Cobh's restored Victorian Railway station, a building holding its own historic story. Given that so many from Ireland's past travelled through Cobh(Queenstown), one of the world's finest natural harbours, visitors can learn historic and emotive recounts of The Queenstown Story, where over three million Irish people emigrated from this port town in search of a new life. Everything from the sinking of the Titanic and The Lusitania, to the transportation of the forgotten Irish who endured forced labour in Cromwellian times to the West Indies and American Colonies as well as the stories of emigration to Canada and North America, is inventively displayed in a variety of modern, tasteful and artistic ways. Relax, and "Walk in the Footsteps of our Emigrant Ancestors"

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Guaranteed to skip the long lines

Exclusions: Food and drinks

Reviewed By Alison Q

Full of information about Cobh/Queenstown well laid out and a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the folk who left either as prisoners or in search of a better life. As with all attractions and things to do in Cobh excellent value for money.

8. Shore Excursion From Cork: Including Blarney Castle and Kinsale

Port of Cobh, Kilgarvan, Cobh, Co. Cork, Ireland Paddywagon Day Tours
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4.6 based on 150 reviews

The tour begins with a pick up from the cruise liner terminal in Cobh, Cork Harbour, where your driver will be waiting for you to drive to Blarney Castle. Admission to the Blarney Castle and Gardens is included. Take a panoramic drive through Cork City, where your guide will point out the highlights of the southern capital. In the afternoon visit Kinsale and tour Cobh.

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Port pickup and drop-off, Blarney Castle and Gardens Entry Fee included, Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board, Back at port 1 hour before last boarding.

Exclusions: Gratuities, Lunch

Reviewed By Gary E

We did the half day tour starting at Dingle. Picked up at Heatons excellent guest house, drove the headlands in driving rain and wind, but still a fantastic trip. Tour of beehive huts, famed beaches, and Oratory. Spring would be grand with LOTS of fuschias.

9. Cork and Blarney Castle Rail Tour from Dublin

Heuston Station, St John's Rd W, Saint James' (part of Phoenix Park), Dublin, Ireland Railtours Ireland First Class - Day Tours
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4.5 based on 340 reviews

No visit to Ireland is complete without a visit to Blarney Castle! On this full-day trip from Dublin you'll kiss the famous Blarney Stone, walk through the castle grounds and hear the moving story of Ireland's emigrants at the Queenstown Story in Cobh. Traveling by train and coach, you'll take a journey through Ireland's rich history and scenic countryside.

Inclusions: Host on trains, Information pack, Reserved seats on trains, Qualified driver-guide on coaches, All travel by rail and coach from Dublin

Exclusions: Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By JarveC

As a party of four we have just had an amazing 3 night 4 day experience on the Emerald Pullman First Class Train Trip. The journey took in many of Ireland's most scenic & spectacular locations including Waterford Crystal, Killarney, The Ring of Kerry , Cliffs of Moher & Galway Bay to name just a few .. We experienced first class service from the time we left Connolly Station. The whole experience was completely relaxing and hassle free as everything was organised for us every step of the way, from the lovely hotels we stayed in to the wonderful tours of our beautiful country. Would highly recommend Railtours Ireland if planning a staycation and a huge thanks & appreciation to Jim Deegan and his very professional team for a great holiday in Ireland.

10. 3-Day Cork, Blarney Castle, Ring of Kerry and Cliffs of Moher Rail Tour

Heuston Station, St John's Rd W, Saint James' (part of Phoenix Park), Dublin, Ireland Railtours Ireland First Class - Day Tours
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4.4 based on 173 reviews

From Cork and Blarney Castle to the Ring of Kerry and Cliffs of Moher, you'll see the best of Ireland's west and south-west on this leisurely three-day rail and coach tour from Dublin.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Host on trains, Information pack, Reserved seats on trains, Qualified driver-guide on coaches, All travel by rail and coach from Dublin Heuston Station, 2 nights accommodation in B&B including Full Irish Breakfast

Exclusions: Gratuities, Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By JarveC

As a party of four we have just had an amazing 3 night 4 day experience on the Emerald Pullman First Class Train Trip. The journey took in many of Ireland's most scenic & spectacular locations including Waterford Crystal, Killarney, The Ring of Kerry , Cliffs of Moher & Galway Bay to name just a few .. We experienced first class service from the time we left Connolly Station. The whole experience was completely relaxing and hassle free as everything was organised for us every step of the way, from the lovely hotels we stayed in to the wonderful tours of our beautiful country. Would highly recommend Railtours Ireland if planning a staycation and a huge thanks & appreciation to Jim Deegan and his very professional team for a great holiday in Ireland.

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