10 Days in Ireland

Posted by Kathy (Atlanta, GA, USA) on 06/02/16 08:32 PM

I am flying into Dublin at the end of August and flying out of Shannon and have 10 wonderful days. On my first trip 10 years ago, I explored Dublin and then we took the bus to Waterford, Cork City and then to Killarney and saw this beautiful place, Dingle but did not get to explore. I am returning by myself to celebrate a big birthday and explore new areas.

Since I don't want to back track, I wanted to take the train from the Dublin Airport to Belfast for 2 to 3 nights based on the feedback I get here.

Then I want to take the train directly to Galway and looks like it will bring me back to Dublin and directly to Galway or I might have to change at the airport. I want to stay a minimum of 3 night, should it be 4?

Then how do I get to Dingle for my remaining time and from there to the Shannon airport where I will stay at the Park Inn for a 9am flight.

Should I do Dingle first and then go to Galway and get back to Shannon on public transportation?

Thank you for your advise.

Kathy

Posted by Kathy OP

Atlanta, GA, USA

06/03/16 01:12 AM

215 posts

Paul,
Thank you for that clarification and do you have a recommendation on where to stay?

Posted by Nancy

Bloomington, IL, USA

06/06/16 08:44 PM

9371 posts

What town are you talking about, Dublin, Galway, or Belfast?

Posted by Kathy OP

Atlanta, GA, USA

06/07/16 01:53 AM

215 posts

I am having trouble finding lodging for my last 2 days in Ireland that are special as it is high season. So now I am thinking of staying in Dublin for 2 nights and I do have a lovely hotel.

But can use your advice on taking the train from Dublin to Tralee and then taking the bus from Tralee to Dublin. But can't tell where the train departs from in Dublin.

Then from Dublin to Galway and it appears a bus with a few changes. Looks like 5 or so hours.

Finally Galway to the Shannon airport via bus to stay at the airport hotel.

I have taken out Belfast to do on another trip one day and Belfast was the one I needed a lodging recommendation. But any help on my train and bus routes would be appreciated to make it most efficient. Thank you and sorry I was not specific on my previous post.

Posted by Bud Light

06/12/16 07:10 AM

51 posts

Kathy,

I would not worry about finding a place to stay. Look for the Bord Failte Shamrock. For a couple Euros they will book you a wonderful B&B or other accommodation on the spot. I know it sounds risky - however a lot of folks take day trains out to Galway from Dublin and travel down to Kerry without a thought in the world of where to stay. We are among them. In 20+ years of traveling to Ireland we have never had an issue. Many B&B just don't do booking.com..

Now grain of salt - Bord Failte is great out of town (town meaning like Dublin) and even before you get to the Shamrock sign you may find great offerings and you can always go have a look before you decide. Dublin we like to book as the family is there (we don't like to stay with family - houses too small - if we can avoid it). The Grand Hotel in Malahide is a great spot. Near the DART, Malahide is a nice village, if you are looking for near Dublin. In Malahide you have Gibney's Pub and Also Oscar Taylors. Both great spots.

Posted by Kathy OP

Atlanta, GA, USA

06/12/16 09:37 PM

215 posts

Thank you Bud Light. Great tips. Would you and others give me feedback on my new plans based on your advice:

Day 1 land in Dublin and stay at By St Stephens Square. Hop on and Hop Off Bus. Exploring. Been in Dublin for a week but 10 years ago. Or should I train to Galway to have an extra day???????

Day 2 Hop and Hop Off Bus Dublin. Or train to Galway.??????

Day 3 train from Dublin to Galway. Stay at local B&B, pub for dinner and music?

Day 4 and 5 Galway Tours

Day 6 Bus with connections in Tralee to Dingle or can I train to Tralee from Galway?????

Day 7, 8 and 9 Dingle at the Pax House. Local tours????? Marathon in Dingle. Sold out in Dingle so decided to go to Ennis. There are rooms outside of the center but no car. Dingle TI is very helpful just nothing yet for the town itself.

Day 10 and 11 Bus from Dingle to Ennis. Grey Gables and tours??

Next day Shannon airport hotel for early flight.

Any changes and recommendations are very welcomed.

Thanks again!!