Just a few kilometres to the south of Cork, Cork Airport (Aerfort Chorcai) is one of Ireland’s busiest, receiving in excess of three million passengers a year with many major airlines. Flights come in from the UK and the rest of the EU. Facilities at the single-terminal airport include a bank, ATMs and currency exchange as well as duty-free.

Cork Airport is just off the main N27, and is served by public bus every 30 minutes or so. There is also a taxi rank at Arrivals while those who have pre-booked hire cars can simply take the N27 north to the city. Kerry County Airport, to the northwest of Cork, is an alternative.

Cork is compact enough to get about on foot, but for those who want to explore, Bus Eireann plies the town centre, suburbs and nearby villages, including Blarney. Buses run from Parnell Place, alongside Merchant's Quay, and from the centre of St Patrick's Street. Cork bus passes are offered by Bus Eireann for tourists in July and August, when half-day tours leave from Parnell Place Bus Station.

Many coach companies also offer open-top bus tours in the summer months, while taxi ranks are all over the city and offer the greatest convenience. They are metered but can be tough to flag down on Friday and Saturday nights. Other options include hiring a bicycle or a car. Cork Airport is represented by all major car-hire firms and online booking is available.