Compact and easy to get around, Cork takes its name from the Irish word corcaigh, meaning "marshy place." The original 6th-century settlement was spread over 13 small islands in the River Lee and Cork City received its first charter in 1185.

Major development occurred during the 17th and 18th centuries with the expansion of the butter trade (there is a butter museum) and many attractive Georgian-design buildings with wide bowfront windows were constructed during this time. As late as 1770 Cork's present-day main streets, including Grand Parade, Patrick Street and the South Mall were submerged under the Lee. Around 1800, when the Lee was partially dammed, the river divided into two streams that now flow through the city, leaving the main business and commercial center on an island, not unlike Paris's Île de la Cité.

As a result, the city has several bridges and quays, which, although initially confusing, add to the port's character. Cork is a great city for foodies and lovers of live music. Cork can be very "Irish" (think hurling, Gaelic football and televised plowing contests), depending on what part of town you're in, but it is also the sort of place where you will make plenty of new friends at the pub.