- Must visit
Crawford Art Gallery
Major public art gallery in the city center, known for Irish and European art, sculpture casts, and rotating contemporary exhibitions.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Limerick to Cork
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Limerick to Cork among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 45m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $20, and a bus costs an average of $21.
Distance: 53 miles (86 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$24 Average price | $20 Average price Cheapest | $22 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 15m Average total duration Fastest 1h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 22m Average total duration 1h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Limerick to Cork is a train with an average price of $20 (€16).
This is compared to other travel options from Limerick to Cork:
A train is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Limerick to Cork costing on average $24 (€20).
The fastest way to travel from Limerick to Cork is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 45m.
Other travel options to Cork take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 52m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Limerick and Cork including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Limerick to Cork among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -1h -5m sooner (1h 45m by bus vs 1h 40m by car) and save roughly $-1.91 (€-1.54) compared to fuel and tolls ($24 (€20) vs $22 (€18)). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Limerick to Cork Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 07:25AM | Arrival Time 09:15AM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 08:35AM | Arrival Time 10:25AM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 09:35AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 10:35AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 11:35AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 12:35PM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 01:35PM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 02:35PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 03:35PM | Arrival Time 05:25PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 04:35PM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 05:35PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 06:35PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 07:35PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 08:35PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 08:50PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $21 |
Compare prices and tickets Limerick to Cork by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Limerick to Cork buses with Omio?
Alibus as well as Irish Citylink, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink and more offer buses services from Limerick to Cork.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Alibus tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Alibus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Alibus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Irish Citylink, Expressway (Bus Éireann) or Citylink to find the best option for your trip from Limerick to Cork.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Alibus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Limerick to Cork.
Why book with Omio over Busbud or Checkmybus?
- Official reseller: Alibus tickets can only be bought on Omio or Alibus's website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Alibus tickets. Busbud or Checkmybus do not sell Alibus tickets as they are not official sellers.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Limerick to Cork.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Limerick to Cork
IrelandIreland
Buses from Limerick to Cork run on average 115 times per day, taking around 1h 45m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $21 (€17) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by train.
There are 13 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 07:25, the last at 20:55. The fastest bus covers the 53 miles (86 km) distance in 1h 30m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $20 (€16)
Distance 53 miles (86 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€17) |
Buses per day 115 |
Direct buses 13 |
Fastest bus 1h 30m |
First bus 7:25 AM |
Last bus 8:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 77 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $20 (€16)
Bus providers: Alibus, Irish Citylink, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink from Limerick to CorkYou can travel by bus between Limerick to Cork with Alibus, Irish Citylink, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink for as low as $20 (€16). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Irish Citylink
About
Irish Citylink is an Irish bus company, a subsidiary of the Singaporean company ComfortDelGro, that has been providing intercity coach travel in Ireland since 2003. They offer high-frequency express services connecting major cities, towns, and airports across Ireland, including Dublin, Galway, Limerick, Cork, and Ennis. Their fleet of modern coaches is equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, reclining seats, free Wi-Fi, and onboard toilets. Popular routes include Dublin to Galway, Galway to Dublin, and Dublin to Cork. As of May 2025, Irish Citylink operates on nine routes, including non-stop express services between Galway and Dublin City and Dublin Airport.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 20m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€15)
Luggage included
Each passenger is permitted to carry one 20kg suitcase, one 10kg suitcase, and one small soft bag suitable for onboard storage.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage may be accepted if space permits, with a surcharge of €5.00 per extra item.
Cancellation Policy
Refund requests may only be made by writing to the Customer Service Team, and Citylink will only consider refunding a ticket if the cancellation is due to the company being at fault, such as a late departure.
Refund
Citylink will only consider refunding a ticket if the reason for the cancellation is in some way caused by the company being at fault, for example a late departure of a vehicle.
Unaccompagned minor
For safety reasons, children under 14 years of age will not be carried unaccompanied on any of their Express services under any circumstances.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Free water bottles are available onboard.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Irish Citylink has several wheelchair-accessible coaches on the Galway to Dublin route, but it is recommended to reach out ahead of time to ensure necessary accommodations.
Bikes
Irish Citylink will carry bicycles for €5 per bicycle, as long as there is enough room in the undercarriage.
Pets
One guide dog is permitted onboard per passenger.
Entertaiment on board
Alibus
About
Alibus is a bus company, managed by A.N.M. S.p.a (Azienda Napoletana Mobilita), primarily known for providing efficient airport transfer services in Italy. It connects Naples Capodichino Airport with various points in Naples, including the Central Station (Piazza Garibaldi) and the Port of Naples (Molo Angioino/Beverello and Porta di Massa). Alibus also offers airport transfers to Catania International Airport. The service is recognized for its punctuality and affordability, with buses running frequently, typically every 15 to 30 minutes, and a journey time of approximately 35 minutes between Naples Airport and the Maritime Station.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One piece of baggage and one piece of hand luggage are allowed.
Additional luggage
For medium-sized dogs, an additional ticket is required.
Luggage storage
Ample luggage storage is available on Alibus coaches.
Cancellation Policy
The cancellation policy depends on the type of ticket chosen.
Refund
Refunds depend on the cancellation timeframe and ticket conditions, with 100% refund for cancellations more than 48 hours before departure for baseline tickets.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Pram/stroller access and dedicated wheelchair accessibility are available.
Pets
Small pets are allowed in carriers, and dogs must be muzzled and leashed; guide dogs are allowed for free.
Expressway (Bus Éireann)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 50m
Cheapest Price
$26 (€21)
Expressway (Bus Éireann) frequency
11 a day
Citylink
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 30m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
Citylink frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Cork
Things to do in Cork
Discover the best of Cork — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cork trip today.
- Recommended
The Butter Museum
A small specialist museum telling the story of Ireland's butter trade and Cork's historic Butter Exchange, with local food-history context.
- Recommended
Cork Public Museum
Local history museum in Fitzgerald Park covering Cork's archaeology, civic history, and culture in an accessible park setting.
- Must visit
English Market
Historic covered market and one of Cork's signature places to experience the city's atmosphere, architecture, and everyday local life.
- Must visit
St Patrick's Street
Cork's main shopping street and civic thoroughfare, notable for its wide layout, bridges over the old channels, and city-center energy.
- Recommended
University College Cork Main Quadrangle
Historic university area with attractive stone buildings, leafy walks, and one of the city's most photographed academic settings.
- Gluten-free
Drisheen
A traditional Cork blood sausage, usually made with sheep's blood, milk, and spices. It is one of the city's most distinctive old-fashioned specialities.
Tripe And Drisheen
A classic Cork dish pairing slow-cooked tripe with drisheen in a rich oniony sauce. It is strongly associated with the city's food heritage.
Ballycotton Seafood Chowder
A hearty chowder from the Cork coast, made with local fish, shellfish, cream, and vegetables. It reflects the county's strong seafood tradition.
Goldie
A highly regarded restaurant focused on sustainably sourced fish and seafood. Contemporary, intimate, and one of Cork's standout dining rooms.
Jacques Restaurant
A long-running Cork favourite with French influence and excellent local ingredients. Warm, bistro-like atmosphere with a strong reputation for quality cooking.
Market Lane
A popular central Cork restaurant serving modern Irish food with strong local sourcing. Lively, polished, and reliable for seafood, meat, and seasonal dishes.
Euro
Moderate by Irish standards. Pubs and casual dining are manageable, but hotels and fine dining cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for takeaway or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3.50-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or not expected in casual places. In restaurants, 10% is appreciated for good service. Round up taxis. Tipping in pubs is uncommon unless for table service.
TFI Live
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.55
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Cork Bus Station, Cork -> Patrick Street, Cork
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Leap Card fares are usually cheaper than cash fares on Bus Éireann city services in Cork.
- Card payment is not generally available on board Bus Éireann city buses, so use cash or a Leap Card.
FAQs: Bus from Limerick to Cork
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Limerick to Cork by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cork, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Limerick to Cork can start from as little as $21 (€17) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Limerick to Cork is $24 (€20) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Limerick to Cork is 1h 30m to travel the 53 miles (86 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Limerick to Cork leaves at 7:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Limerick to Cork leaves at 8:55 PM.
Yes, there are 13 direct buses a day from Limerick to Cork with Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Limerick to Cork, you can count on Alibus, Irish Citylink, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink for the best way to get you to Cork. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Limerick and Cork and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Cork from Limerick is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Limerick to Cork is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Limerick and Cork including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Limerick to Cork:
- Alibus
- Pram/stroller access and dedicated wheelchair accessibility are available.
- Irish Citylink
- Irish Citylink has several wheelchair-accessible coaches on the Galway to Dublin route, but it is recommended to reach out ahead of time to ensure necessary accommodations.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Limerick to Cork for bus company Irish Citylink.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cork are:
- Blarney Castle, a historic castle known for the Blarney Stone which is said to grant the gift of eloquence
- St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, a Gothic Revival cathedral with impressive architecture and intricate stained glass windows
- English Market, a covered market offering a variety of local produce and artisanal foods
- Cork City Gaol, a former prison now serving as a museum with exhibits on 19th-century prison life
- Fitzgerald Park, a public park featuring landscaped gardens, sculptures, and a museum dedicated to Cork's history.
The best things to do in Cork include:
- Take a scenic walk along the River Lee, enjoying the picturesque views and vibrant atmosphere
- Explore the vibrant street art scene in Cork, discovering colorful murals and creative expressions throughout the city
- Attend a traditional Irish music session at a local pub, experiencing the lively culture and music of Cork
- Visit the Crawford Art Gallery, showcasing an impressive collection of Irish and European art
- Enjoy a boat tour of Cork Harbour, taking in the stunning coastal scenery and learning about the area's maritime history.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Limerick to Cork depends on the bus companies:
- Alibus
- The cancellation policy depends on the type of ticket chosen.
- Irish Citylink
- Refund requests may only be made by writing to the Customer Service Team, and Citylink will only consider refunding a ticket if the cancellation is due to the company being at fault, such as a late departure.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Irish Citylink.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Limerick to Cork.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Limerick to Cork:
- Alibus
- One piece of baggage and one piece of hand luggage are allowed.
- Irish Citylink
- Each passenger is permitted to carry one 20kg suitcase, one 10kg suitcase, and one small soft bag suitable for onboard storage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Limerick to Cork:
- Alibus
- For medium-sized dogs, an additional ticket is required.
- Irish Citylink
- Additional luggage may be accepted if space permits, with a surcharge of €5.00 per extra item.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Limerick to Cork. The following conditions apply:
- Alibus
- Small pets are allowed in carriers, and dogs must be muzzled and leashed
- guide dogs are allowed for free.
- Irish Citylink
- One guide dog is permitted onboard per passenger.
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Limerick to Cork with the following bus company: Alibus, Irish Citylink.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Limerick to Cork with the following bus company: Alibus, Irish Citylink.
Since neither Limerick nor Cork are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of Ireland and Ireland. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Limerick to Cork among Omio's users.
Ireland uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find using cards more convenient and widely accepted for payments, though carrying some cash can be helpful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Cork, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Avoid unlicensed taxi services and always use official transportation options. Be wary of distraction scams where someone may try to divert your attention to steal belongings. It's also advisable to keep an eye on personal items and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Limerick to Cork
Limerick
Cork
The major bus station for departures in Limerick is Limerick, Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Limerick, Bus Station for your trip from Limerick to Cork.
Limerick, Bus Station
information
Limerick, St Nessans Road (Crescent SC)
information
Limerick, Saint Nessan`s Rd (University Hospital)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Cork is Cork, Curraheen Road (Marymount Hospice). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cork, Curraheen Road (Marymount Hospice) for your trip to Cork from Limerick.
Cork, Curraheen Road (Marymount Hospice)
information
Cork, Bishopstown University Hospital
information
Cork, Sheares Street (Mercy Hospital)
information
Most popular bus connections from Limerick
More options for your journey from Limerick to Cork
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cork and Limerick
Most popular bus connections to Cork
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