I would appreciate feedback regarding the best route for a 10 day Ireland trip for my husband and I, not including Northern Ireland, not enough time. Any towns or scenic things we should not miss? Any suggestions would help. Thank you.
Start with RS suggested route in the front of the book, tailoring it based on your available time. https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/ireland/itinerary
What do you like to do? Will you be driving? Any must sees/dos? Is 10 days on the ground not including travel days?
It's hard to answer without knowing your interests. Are you lovers of antiquities and museums? Interested in the Troubles? Want to hike, fish, golf, see beautiful scenery? Want to hear Irish music and enjoy some craic and the pub scene?
Do you have Rick's guidebook? We have done two trips to Ireland about the same length, both using Rick's book. Now, 10 + years later, I'd also check out other guidebooks from the library to supplement and explore a different perspective on things to see and do.
On the first trip we flew into Shannon, drove a southern route and flew out of Dublin. Second trip was into Dublin, drove a northern route and flew out of Shannon. Flying open jaw will allow you to cover a lot more ground. But it's hard to advise you without knowing what you are most interested in.
I agree, without knowing your interests it is hard to say. However I am going back in July with my son after 20 years for 10 days. Going into Dublin - 1 day, then drive to kilkenny, then to Galway 3 days, then Dingle 2, Killarney 1 and Cork 1 ending in Limerick to fly out of Shannon. Having drive there before I know it is do-able. We are not museum people except for brewery tours, we love to hike and be outdoors. I do not shop so this is why we chose this path. Enjoy!