We are considering staying in Ireland for a couple of days as our plane would connect in Dublin between the US and Budapest. Rather than worrying about making a connecting flight we are considering spending a couple of days to visit Ireland before then taking our flight to Budapest. What would be a convenient way to enjoy Ireland for a couple of days when based at a hotel near the airport? Thanks!
You don't need to stay near the airport. You can get to the airport quickly and easily from the city. You don't say what time of year you'll be there, what your interests are or whether you intend to rent a car, so it's difficult to make any recommendations. Also, will you be there two days and two nights or just one night?
The express bus from the airport into Dublin city center is effortless, so I wouldn't even consider a stay at the airport, I'd stay in the city center. Then you get the full experience. We had an extremely early departure out of Dublin and our hotel arranged for a taxi back to the airport. There's Aircoach and Dublin Express for the bus. Check out their websites for info.
I highly recommend renting a car to visit Ireland even if only for two days.
Are you wanting to spend all the time in Dublin or do days out to see some of the surrounding area. Newgrande and Glendalough are both popular day trips.