I am in the dream and plan stages of a 15-20 day trip to Ireland sometime in the near future. Most likely fall of 2011. We are not big city fanciers, and prefer the country and landscapes. Can someone point me toward an itenerary, and advice on B&Bs or which type of lodging would be preferable. I look forward to your advice. Thanks, Jeff
Posted by
Michigan, USA
162 posts
Jeff, since your trip is so far in the future, you will have plenty of time to read some good guide books -- starting with the Rick Steves of course! I would also suggest following this forum and the Ireland Trip Advisor forum ( that one is exceptionally good with lots of witty Irish folks who answer questions). From all that you will get a sense of what is interesting to you. If you prefer countryside -- then look into flying in and out of Shannon on the western side of the country. This is an easy in and out airport -- very convienent to lots of beautiful countryside. A trip to Ireland does not necessarily require time spent in Dublin. B&B's are the only way to go in Ireland as far as I am concerned. Once you get a general itineray built you can go to Trip advisor and check out the best B&B's in that location and make reservatons.
By doing some of your own homewoork you will build a trip that fits your interests -- not someone elses. There is lots to see and do in Ireland -- you will be "spoilt for choice" .
Posted by
Coldwater
55 posts
I LOVE Ireland ! Have been there 4 times now-3 of those we rented a car and did B and B's-driving is not bad if you stick to the west side of the country-and get an automatic transmission.Going into Shannon is easy as is going out.I personally think the "old Ireland " is more to be found in this area.We enjoyed Dingle and a day trip to Aran Islands.This last time-last year-we did the Beara peninsula-drove around it in 1 day and found the scenery awesome. We did all B and B's-I feel this is a way to really get to know the Irish people. Kathy
Posted by
Chicago
2876 posts
The Ireland guidebooks put out by Karen Brown have excellent B&B recommendations as well as several suggested driving routes. We've used her books on a number of trips and found them very helpful.
Posted by
Philadelphia
655 posts
We spent over three weeks touring Ireland by car. We had a great trip thanks to guides by RS, and Karen Brown. Also look up: http://www.irelandyes.com/. This site and the book it relates to will provide excellent guidance by someone who travels the country extensively. They all feature many B&Bs which are an excellent way travel in Ireland.
Ireland is a perfect match for someone who prefers the countryside and landscapes. Also for someone who enjoys locally crafted music - watch for it.
With twenty days I would consider flying to Shannon and returning from Dublin. The Dublin airport is removed from the city so there is no need to visit Dublin unless you care to. With 15 days you might want to fly to and from Shannon with the focus of your trip in the southwest.
Investigate the Irish Heritage Pass.
Posted by
Ocean Shores, Wa, USA
124 posts
Many that post here suggest flying into Dublin esp. if it is a trans-atlantic flight and spending the first 2-3 days in Dublin to rest up and get over jet lag, before getting into your rental car and driving on the left side of the road! You can shuttle back out to the airport to get a car after you are finished in Dublin, or get a car from the downtown location. It is ill-advised to drive in Dublin....it is a night mare of one way traffic, congestion, and since Dublin is a compact city it is easily seen on foot or hop-on hop-off busses. Of course, if you wish to not spend time in Dublin itself or the surrounding area, (we didn't the first time into Ireland) then it would be better to fly into and out of Shannon (less stressful for the first time driving on the left side of the road)