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Cork is a marvelous shopping destination: big enough to attract all the major chains, but compact enough to be able to walk between the different shopping areas.

Patrick Street (or 'Pana' as it is known to the locals) is the main thoroughfare, and it is home to the biggest of the high street department stores: Debenhams, Marks and Spencer, Brown Thomas and the recently renewed flagship Dunnes Stores.

During the course of the last ten years, the usual list of British chains such as Monsoon, Next, Penneys, HMV, Boots and Body Shop have also found their way to the street. Recent city centre developments on the Coal Quay and Academy Street have attracted TK Maxx, H&M and Gap.

Shopping gets more interesting as you move off Patrick Street, and wander through the Huguenot Quarter, a series of little lanes and alleys filled with cafes, bars, buskers and shops. It is here that you will find Pinocchio's traditional toy shop, the eclectic Connolly Bookshop, and all manner of quirky little craft and jewelery shops. This area really comes alive during the Christmas season, as it is a treasure trove for gift hunters.

Oliver Plunkett Street runs parallel to Patrick Street, and is best known for its collection of shoe shops, boutiques and jewelery stores. And when you are here, take a moment to look left and right at the pedestrianized intersections that connect Oliver Plunkett Street to Pana in one direction and the South Mall in the other: Princes Street, Marlboro Street and Cook Street. These little streets are worth checking out for their selection of art, craft, beauty and clothes stores.

Probably the most interesting and unique spot in the city centre is The English Market. This covered market has a fascinating history, and it is one of the most vibrant shopping experiences in the city today. It attracts a diverse mix of customers due to the fact that traditional butchers and food sellers operate side by side with the more exotic stalls. For charcuterie, cheese, fish, breads the best of Asian and Mediterranean foods, this is the place to go. It also houses an excellent coffee bar and the famous Farmgate restaurant, and the atmosphere is lifted by the music of Donal, who has entertained the shoppers for years on the old piano upstairs.

If you want to take a trip outside of the city centre, the best shopping centre to visit is Mahon Point, a short ride on the No. 10 bus which leaves from the South Mall. One of the newest developments in Cork city, Mahon Point

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