Cork has been named one of the eight most “underrated cities” in Europe by National Geographic, with the renowned publication encouraging travellers to visit the city in 2026 for its food, culture, and outdoor attractions.
In an article highlighting alternative European destinations away from the crowds, author Laura Holt described Cork as “Ireland’s food capital” and praised several recently developed attractions and hospitality venues across the city and county.
Among the recommendations was the newly-opened Urban Pantry in the Fifth Quarter area of Paul Street, which the publication said showcases produce from local artisan suppliers.
The article also highlighted Good Day Deli on Douglas Street, noting its cookery classes held in the gardens of Nano Nagle Place.
“Ireland’s food capital is in fine fettle this year. There’s a new grab-and-go hub at Urban Pantry, showcasing produce from local artisans, while sustainable vegetarian café Good Day Deli runs cookery classes in the summer-ready gardens of Nano Nagle Place,” Holt wrote.
The article also recommended the recently reopened The Savoy on Patrick Street, which previously operated as a well-known cinema from 1932 until 1975 before later becoming a nightclub and music venue.
“For after-hours hospitality, head to the Savoy, an historic cinema, now reopened as a music venue after a decade-long closure,” Holt added.
Outside the city, National Geographic encouraged visitors to explore the Midleton to Youghal Greenway, which fully opened to walkers and cyclists in December 2024. Stretching 23 kilometres along a former railway line, the route links the market town of Midleton with the seaside town of Youghal.
“The next day, brush off the cobwebs on Ireland’s newest greenway, running 15 miles between the market town of Midleton and the coastal resort town of Youghal,” Holt wrote.
“Set along a former railway line, it’s made for walkers and cyclists, with bike hire available at either end.”
Cork was listed alongside several other European destinations recommended for travellers seeking alternatives to heavily crowded tourist hotspots, including Tbilisi, Ljubljana, Trieste, Gdańsk, Ponta Delgada, Bilbao and Toulouse.
Holt said many tourists now avoid major European cities during peak summer months because of overcrowding.
“People avoid European cities in summer due to crowds, but sidestep the obvious and a different set of urban escapes emerges,” she wrote.
