2 weeks in Ireland; what to do?
Mar 14th, 2004, 06:36 AM
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2 weeks in Ireland; what to do?
My wife and I will fly into Dublin 7/9 and fly out 7/23. Is this too long a time to spend in Ireland? We plan on spending a few days in Dublin, then will rent a car and see the countryside. Enjoy small villages and country scenes. Any ideas for our itinerary? Should, or can, we pre-book B&B's or small hotels in small towns and villages? Thank you, Robert
Mar 14th, 2004, 06:59 AM
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That's not too much time in Ireland, as you can never have too much time in Ireland!! We were there for 10 days and left feeling that there were many things we missed. We did not pre-book accomodations and had no trouble finding them, but do pre-book your rental car. We also began our trip in Dublin and from there we made the beautiful drive north to Belfast. We spent a few days in Northern Ireland, based in Portsmouth, then came back into the Republic of Ireland. In the Republic we enjoyed the cliffs of Moher, Cashel, Galway and Killarney. But the highlight of the trip for us was the drive from Belfast to Portsmouth in Northern Ireland. Make sure to see the Giant's Causeway and the rope bridge on the north coast. Please do not be afraid to visit the north. I know we hear a lot of stuff in the news, but the news has a way selling a story and not telling the exact truth. One difference is that in the north you will use the pound sterling, as it's still part of the UK. Have a great time
Mar 14th, 2004, 07:48 AM
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Robert,
We are doing just the SW Peninsulas for our upcoming 9-day trip.
Grab a map of Ireland. I would recommend two possible itineraries: Dublin/Galway North, or Dublin/Galway South. Both have their plusses. If you want to enjoy the small villages and country scenery, it will be virtually impossible to do all of Ireland in 2 weeks, unless you want to do a "drive by shooting."
I would pre-book in some of the areas you know you will be, as this is the height of the tourist season in Ireland.
Once you have gathered some data for possible itineraries, come back here to ask some specifics on recommendations of what to see/where to go. There's a wealth of knowledge on this board concerning Ireland.
We are doing just the SW Peninsulas for our upcoming 9-day trip.
Grab a map of Ireland. I would recommend two possible itineraries: Dublin/Galway North, or Dublin/Galway South. Both have their plusses. If you want to enjoy the small villages and country scenery, it will be virtually impossible to do all of Ireland in 2 weeks, unless you want to do a "drive by shooting."
I would pre-book in some of the areas you know you will be, as this is the height of the tourist season in Ireland.
Once you have gathered some data for possible itineraries, come back here to ask some specifics on recommendations of what to see/where to go. There's a wealth of knowledge on this board concerning Ireland.
Mar 14th, 2004, 08:15 AM
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No, 2 weeks isn't too much time, especially if you like scenery and villages. Most regular visitors to Ireland still haven't seen it all. There are tons of scenic little back roads, little villages with a church and a pub, ocean and mountain views, etc.
I'm going to recommend that you might want to look into picking up one of the guide books at your local book store or on Amazon while you still have time. Not saying that to be uncooperative, but until you leaf through one of these things, you just don't get the full picture that you're going to have to trim some stuff just to fit it into 2 weeks.
I personally recommend the DK Eyewitness Guide for Ireland because it's focused on the attractions mostly and it's illustrated, which is great because it gives you a pretty good idea what things look like. Some other books like Fodors or Lonely Planet then have more details on pubs, walks, etc.
Mar 14th, 2004, 08:23 AM
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At the end of your 2 week trip, don't be surprised to find yourself already planning the next one. Ireland is full of small villages and country scenes!
You should definitely pre-book your accommodations for Dublin. Given that you'll be there during the busy season, I'd choose to pre-book everything, but you don't have to do that. If you choose to 'wing it', you'll always find somewhere to stay, but it might not be in the location you'd have chosen if you'd booked in advance.
You should definitely pre-book your accommodations for Dublin. Given that you'll be there during the busy season, I'd choose to pre-book everything, but you don't have to do that. If you choose to 'wing it', you'll always find somewhere to stay, but it might not be in the location you'd have chosen if you'd booked in advance.
Mar 14th, 2004, 09:38 AM
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We did an 11 days trip Ireland and wished for more time when we were getting ready to leave. You have to keep in mind that the roads are ok, but they are not interstates. We found if you figure about a third more drive time than an US estimate it worked well. Also, the scenery is so beautiful you are constantly pulling over for a photo. We did 2 days in Dublin and that was fine..it is small and easy to get around. Then off to Killarney for 3 days. The ring of Kerry drive should be given a whole day to enjoy the scenery. Also, did Muckross House & grounds and just relaxed. We stayed at Applecroft House and loved it. On the way to Killarney we stopped in Adare to see the lovely thatched roof cottages. Next was Dingle Peninsula...awesome sites...the coastline drive to Slea Head, the beehive ancient huts..Conor pass and the Dingle Pub and great music! Then off to the Cliffs of Moher and a night in Doolin. A must is Gus O"connor's for an eveving of music. Then through the Burren on our way to Galway. A nice city..nice shopping area shut off from car traffic..The Quays pub was great fun. A nice drive to Clifden thru the Connemara area and Kylemeare Abbey. Spending 2 or 3 nights in each gives a great way to enjoy the wonderful people, sights and food. We booked all our b& b's on line.
