As background, I've been to Ireland once years ago on a TWA Getaway Tour (remember them?), now would like to go on my own with a partner who's never been. I don't really need to see Dublin again; most of the rest of the sights below will be new for both of us.
Day 1 (stay near Glendalough): Arrival in Dublin; get rental car and head south to Glendalough; just over an hour's drive. - Rest if needed then head out to explore the area. Would like to visit Avoca as well (Ballykissangel fans).
Day 2 & 3 (Stay in Kilkenny): Drive to Kilkenny; Explore Kilkenny City (all sorts of wonderful things including a pretty amazing castle); Explore Kilkenny surroundings including Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castle.
Day 4 & 5 (Stay in Kinsale): Drive to Kinsale, possibly visit Blarney Castle (grounds, I've already "done" the Blarney Stone); explore Kinsale, Cobh, visit music pub in Cork City.
Days 6 & 7 (Stay in or near Killarney): Explore Killarney, drive Dingle Peninsula, explore Dingle town, end near Adare.
Day 8 –(Stay in or near Adare?) to make tomorrow's drive easier.
Days 9, 10 & 11 (Stay in or near Galway): Explore Cliffs. Mini-cruise? en route.. Explore Galway, Connemara, and if possible, Inishmore.
Day 12 (Stay in Bunratty): for final night before flight out from Shannon; Bunratty Folk Park and possibly medieval banquet.
Day 13: flight home from Shannon.