Not to be missed is Oliver Plunkett Street which is a narrow street cutting the city centre east-west with an amazing selection of shops. It has some interesting pubs which take on a special flavour in the evening. Just opening the door can be a shock to the system as you view impossibly crowded bars, loaded with continuous conversation, to the backdrop of an Irish reel. Standing cheek by jowl along the street are bistros, second-hand book shops, fashion stores and music shops. Here is Carl Scarpa, specialising in stylish footwear, also Irene Brennan's Gold and Silversmith selection of handcrafted work on show.

Other excellent stores include the quality jewellers Keanes and the oldest jewellery shop in Cork – J. Hilser & Sons (South Main St.). There are the excellent fashion houses of Jill Oliver showing the top Irish & European labels for quality ladies fashion, Jon Clare and Susan Charles – also one of the best choices for quality fashion. Gifts galore at Egans and for music lovers and those with a particular interest in Irish music Pro Musica offers a wide selection as does The Living Tradition in MacCurtain Street. If age brings distinction then Victoria Antiques will open the door to period purchases and in terms of age, one of the oldest established shops in Cork is Brennan & Co — merchants since 1872 and worthy of a visit.

Paul Street has a boulevard atmosphere along with the roads off it with such names as French Church Street where a cafe society of artists has developed.

There is a good choice of shopping centres in Cork where you can browse amongst the shops whatever the weather including Douglas Shopping Centre and Wilton Shopping Centre. If it is ladies shoes and leather accessories, Aldo Renati in Douglas village could be the answer. Erin Country Knitwear are stockists of exclusive Irish knitwear and sweaters. Manufacturers of finest quality traditional aran handknits since 1964.

During your time here you can visit the Cork Duty Free Shop at Cork Airport where there is an extensive range of quality goods at reduced prices.

Whatever your needs, the city offers an excellent choice of well-stocked stores and friendly help.

Pages: [1] | [2]