I'd really appreciate any insight you have to share. I'll be in Dublin for 9 days on a work trip (teacher with students, touring Dublin and spending just one day in Belfast on this tour). I'll have 4 full days on my own after they all leave. I've spent a total of two hours in Galway in the past, so have been considering it, but I'm also drawn to the idea of visiting Kilkenny and Carlingford. I'm mostly interested in historical sites (have already seen Glendalough and Hill of Tara in the past) and charming towns. Any thoughts?
I'm also not sure if I'll be staying in Dublin for those 4 days or if I should pack everything up and go elsewhere. Thank you so much for any shares!
Posted by
Olympia, WA, USA
6489 posts
I haven't been to Ireland but I've been doing a lot of research for an upcoming trip. It's hard to be helpful here, all you're giving us in your post is an interest in "historical sites," a couple of places you're considering, and the fact that you spent two hours in Galway and have been to Tara and Glendalough. With four days you should have a lot of options. If this were my trip (and I like historical sites too), I'd get a train or bus to Galway, base myself there, and take day tours to the Burren/Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands, and Connemara. That plan is more about scenery and culture but logistically it would seem pretty easy and rewarding. If you'd be OK with driving in Ireland, more possibilities open up. What I wouldn't suggest is spending another four days in Dublin after the nine you'll have already spent, when there's so much else to see in Ireland. Maybe you'll decide that your day trip to Belfast wasn't enough, and want to go back there for awhile longer.
Posted by
Lynnwood, Washington
8346 posts
I like the train to Galway, daytrips from there idea.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA ☔️
6788 posts
Time of the year? Suggestions would be different for June or November...
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thanks so much for help!
I’ll be there next month. I’ve been to Ireland many times, but haven’t seen the western part, so this may be the best option. Thanks again!
Posted by
Missoula, Montana
508 posts
By all means head to the West! Connemara should be your scenic highlight. Galway, Clifden and Leeane around the Connemara loop with perhaps a dip south to lovely Roundstone before reaching Clifden.