What are the pros and cons of flying into Shannon vs Dublin? I understand the differences relative to itinerary and price, just wondering if there are any other considerations. Thank you
Posted by
755 posts
Shannon is smaller. Easy in and out, and you can rent cars there and be on country roads before you know it and avoid city driving.
Posted by
Colorado Mountains, USA
7346 posts
If western Ireland is your sole focus (as it was our first trip), then Shannon, for sure.
If you’re either starting or ending your trip in Dublin, that airport works well. Maybe fly in one, and out of the other? Maybe that’s what you’re referring to by “relative to itinerary.”
Posted by
11152 posts
We flew into Shannon and left for the UK from Dublin at end of our time in Ireland. It fit the itinerary and Shannon was certainly easier to deal with when jet lagged.
Posted by
140 posts
Shannon is a pretty small airport. Honestly, just a few minutes to exit the plane, pass through passport control, pick up luggage, nothing to declare, get some cash from the ATM, the rental car desk is right there. You pick up the car right outside the door. No shuttles, no buses. It couldn't be easier. If the West Coast is part of your itinerary, Shannon is really convenient.
Posted by
141 posts
I think it may depend on your travel plans in Ireland. We flew into Dublin and flew home from Shannon. This allowed us to hit Dublin sights first then we traveled to Kinsale, Dingle, and Galway and then flew back home to Boston. Shannon is very small and manageable and we were there when the Vice President of the US at the time happened to be landing there. If your plan is to hit the west coast of Ireland first then flying into Shannon might make more sense. We devised our itinerary so we were never backtracking. And leaving from Shannon was a slightly faster flight for us.