Going in early Aug. Flying in and out of Dublin. Will train and bus - no car. So far have Dublin 3 nights, 1 when we arrive and 2 at the end. Then thinking of Kilkenny, Dingle and Galway. Thinking of 2-3 nights each area. Maybe 4 nights in the Dingle area? What would you suggest as another place or places to stop. ie Cork area? or somewhere between Dingle and Galway. Have never been to Ireland so looking at maps and guidebooks. Interests are music, scenery, gardens, as opposed to shopping or festvals. Thanks
Posted by
Anaheim, CA, USA
1455 posts
Marshall, just got back from Dublin and Cork.
I really liked Cork, and our trip to Blarney castle.
Cork is very small city really, but going out of the city to Blarney was pretty. I'd say 1 or 2 days top for there. I didn't get to visit their gaol, but I heard that's worth a stop.
I would suggest extending Dublin to an extra day. There's so much to do there, IMHO.
I would suggest getting the 3 day freedom ticket in Dublin. Not only do you get airport transport to the city center, the ticket includes hop on/ hop off bus (for 3 days) and use of the local bus as well.
Enjoy the trip!!
Posted by
New York, NY
319 posts
You might consider a day in Cashel, either instead of or in addition to a night in Kilkenny. The Rock is a marvelous sight, and the town is a delightful small Irish town.
You could stay in a town like Doolin on the way from Dingle to Galway. It's a great town for traditional music.
I'm not sure how good public transit is to Kinsale, but it's a great town on the southwest coast. Fantastic harbor scenery, great food, interesting history.
If you have time and you're in the area, you could also take a day tour of the Ring of Kerry. Many folks here are down on the Ring, but I found it breathtaking. Dingle is great as well, but that doesn't invalidate the beauty of the Ring.
Posted by
Ocean Shores, Wa, USA
124 posts
Many people who post on several internet Ireland web sights say that Kenmare is their favorite small Irish Town. It was our favorite, in a list that included: Avoca, Waterford, Dungarvin,Cobh, Kinsale, Doolin, Trim and Dingle. A close 2nd was Dingle. We had a rental car, so not familiar with bus schedules to Kenmare, but would probably go thru there on the way from Galway to Dingle. Our favorite town for Trad music was Doolin.
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9371 posts
Kenmare would be a good stopping point, in my opinion. There is lots to do in the area and it's a cute little place.