The paragraphs below are from the lonely planet guide which selected Cork as one of their top 10 cities for 2010.

Rebel with a cause

Ireland’s second city has always had an unshakeable self-confidence and innate sense of pride, despite, or perhaps because of its (inaccurate) perception as Dublin’s pushy, clothes-borrowing, style-imitating younger sister. The stock of the so-called ‘Rebel County’ has been on the rise even more since it was named the European Capital of Culture in 2005: modern glass-and-steel offices and apartment buildings adorn the banks of the River Lee; new galleries, arts festivals, bars and shops have added to the city’s cache; and restaurants and local food producers have come into their own to make Cork a foodie paradise.

Town and country

While Cork has some of Ireland’s most traditional and historical towns and villages dotted along its vast harbour and throughout its countryside, its city centre crackles with youthful energy. That’s thanks in large part to award-winning University College Cork (UCC), which each year pumps out new graduates – and therefore new life, enthusiasm and ideas – into the city. The cumulative effect of all these influences means Cork is at the top of its game right now: sophisticated, vibrant and diverse, while still retaining its friendliness, relaxed charm and quick-fire wit.

Transport connections

Cork is very well connected, both nationally and internationally. If visiting from abroad, check out the flight destination map from Cork Airport at http://www.corkairport.com/. Also checkout Ryanair and Aer Lingus for cheap flights. If planning to travel by train in Ireland, check out http://www.irishrail.ie/. 

Getting information about other events in Cork

Whazon.com is an excellent site listing entertainment, events, accomodation etc.

General information on Cork

Cork City council have comprehensive information about the geography, history and culture of Cork in the About Cork section of their web site. Well work checking out.