Southeast of Cork City, Cobh was the most significant port in Ireland for trade and a major port-of-call for travelers. The first steamship crossing of the Atlantic started in Cobh in 1838. Interestingly, it was also the departure point of more than 2.5 million emigrants who left Ireland as a result of the great famine (1844–48). Emigration lasted for nearly 100 years, during which time over 6 million Irish people fled their own country for work and a chance at a better life.

To learn more about the history of the region, visit the Cobh Heritage Centre, which details “the Queenstown Story” (021 481 3591, www.cobhheritage.com). Located at the Cobh Railway Station, which can be accessed by taking the train from the Cork Train Station. Open May–October: daily, 9:30 A.M. — 6:00 P.M. November–April: daily, 10:00 A.M. — 5:00 P.M. Closed the week of Christmas. Admission 3–6/7.

The Titanic Trail (021 481 5211 or 087 276 7218, www.titantic-trail.com) is a popular daily walking tour exploring the history and heritage of the region. Join in at the Commodore Hotel, daily at 11 A.M., with an extra 2 P.M. session in the summertime. Times may vary from October to March. Admission 5/10–15.

North of the Great Island is Fota Island, which houses the Fota House and Gardens (021 481 5543, www.fotahouse.com, 3–5/6). The Fota Wildlife Park (021 481 2678, www.fotawildlife.ie), located between Cobh and the Cork City center off the N25, is a rewarding endeavor. Open Monday–Saturday, 10 A.M.–6 P.M. Admission 8.50/13. The family-friendly park, which lures sightseers to check out its plethora of exotic species, works to breed and reintroduce animals into their natural habitats.