We are traveling to Ireland on October 2 through October 10. We fly into Dublin and stay the first night then we travel to Killarney and stay the next 2 nights then travel to Galway and stay 2 nights then travel to Dublin and stay one night and then fly back to the states. I was wondering if there are any suggestions on an itinerary that we could follow that would take in the sights without being rushed. We are renting a car, any suggestions would be appreiciated.
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9371 posts
I world suggest looking at several guidebooks to see what is near each stop, then using www.viamichelin.com to help determine actual routes/driving times (add about 25% to their time estimate). We have no idea what you might be interested in seeing or doing, so we would just be guessing.
Posted by
OP
Avondale, Arizona, US
2 posts
We are interested in a lot of things, art, architecture, history and culture. I was thinking of walking around Dublin the first day when we arrive we will get to the hotel around 12 noon. Wanted to see the book of Kells and maybe see some local culture can you walk very easy in dublin? When we drive to Killarney was thinking of stopping along the way maybe see the rock of cashel is that a good stop or is that to much to do on a drive? When in Killarney was thinking of the Dingle Peninsula or another drive? I am just looking for some good insight from someone who has been there so we don't waste time at a tourist trap or something. Thank you for your help!
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9371 posts
Dubiln is very walkable, except for Kilmainham Gaol, which I would suggest you see. Unless you get there first thing in the morning, you might find a long wait to get in to see the Book of Kells. But you could walk around the Temple Bar area, Trinity College, etc. The Rock of Cashel is definitely worth a stop - allow a couple of hours there if you want to see the little film and look around, too.
Posted by
Little Rock, AR, USA
116 posts
Just returned this week from Ireland only had 1 day of rain, otherwise it was outstanding weather in a beautiful country. In Dublin there is a hop-on bus that lets you see everything to get your bearings. There are 2 other tours that start at Trinityone is www.historicalinsights.ie for walking tour of about 2 hours at 11 & 3. Another is a 1/2 hour tour run by students who take you to the Book of Kells. This you can book on site just inside the gate of Trinity. Dublin to Killarney is a long drive, as is Killarney to Galway, so you might think of narrowing your destinations, especially when learning to drive on the left. We stayed in Cashel, but would stay in Kilkenny if we were doing this againit was a delightful town about 20 minutes from Cashel. Also, be sure you have your car insurance established before you pick up your car one fellow we met had to pay over $500 for insurance. And, be sure to check if your policy asks you to return the car with a full or empty tank just a little 100 Euro trick some of the car rentals pull. Rick's Ireland book is a great foundation for a trip to Ireland. Have fun.