Hi- The last time I was in Ireland was 1999. I was with my father who rented a car. This time I am going to go with my boyfriend and we are not renting a car. I know bus service is pretty good there. We are planning for about 10 days in Sept. this year. Fly into Dublin and out of Shannon. We are going to do Dublin and Galway for sure. I want to do either the ring of Kerry or Dingle and maybe somewhere else. Is 10 days ample time and going by bus? Thanks, Kim
Posted by
New York, NY
319 posts
Kim,
I would say that 10 days is definitely enough time if you were renting a car. By bus, I'd say it's doable but much more difficult and likely to be less enjoyable than traveling by car.
Bus service is NOT extensive on the west coast (i.e. ROK and Dingle and Galway). Also, traveling by bus will prevent you from stopping at will to enjoy the sites along the way, which is one of the great things about traveling in western Ireland.
If it's at all possible for you, I would rent a car for travel outside of Dublin. You could also travel to Galway by public transit and rent a car once you leave Galway to head to either ROK or Dingle.
Best of luck to you.
Posted by
New Hampshire
182 posts
I would mostly agree with Michael. 10 days should be enough, but if renting a car is at all an option, do it. You can stop anywhere and whenever you want.
Yes do the ROK. The sights are amazing as you probably remember. While driving along the ROK you'll also have fun maneuvering around the buses that are taking up most of road, but it's well worth the experience. September things won't be as crowded as the summer, so you have picked a good time.
Try to hit the Aran islands if you have time. You'll love seeing Dun Aengus. Dingle is also a wonderful place if time allows.