First time Ireland trip..early September.
 

Thinking about an Ireland trip after Labor Day. I’ve driven a lot in Europe but a bit leary about driving in Ireland, especially in traffic. So am thinking about flying into Shannon, and staying in 1 or 2 villages which would be suitable for day trips to see the sites in the southern and western parts. Then possibly train to Northern Ireland, village near Giant Causeway. Might take a ferry over to Scottish island of Islay. Then back to Belfast for a couple of days. Then train to Dublin, 2-3 days then fly back from Dublin.
Time frame is about 2 weeks but don’t want to rush so could extend a few days.
First time to Ireland so open to suggestions re sites not to miss, lodging(b&b’s/cottages), quaint villages to stay in southern and Western parts, etc. Have looked at many posts but would still like input. Thanks!

We stayed here, just outside Belfast, for a few days and it was absolutely gorgeous.

Peartree Hill Bed & Breakfast - Luxury B&B Belfast Northern Ireland

Our favourite day out was Mussenden Temple and Gardens.

Mussenden Temple | Northern Ireland | National Trust

Just quick -- more later. 2+ weeks would be doable for a bit of western Ireland, a bit Northern Ireland, a couple of days on Islay and Dublin -- but more difficult if you don't want to drive at least parts of the itinerary.

And Islay does complicate things a bit. The ferry to Islay leaves from Ballycastle which is a long way from Belfast by public transport -- between 3 and 3.5 hours with multiple buses/trains.

Ok will check it out, thanks!

I’m thinking about only driving around the southern and western parts, then a train up to Northern Ireland, Giants Causeway. If I decide to go to Islay, I may extend a few days.
Very helpful, thanks!

Renting a car
 

I’m thinking of taking a train from Dublin to Killarney area then renting a car out of there to explore the south and west. I hear different opinions about driving along the Atlantic Way, Ring of Kerry…some have said they would go by tour bus, others prefer driving your own rental.
Would love to hear thoughts about this. Thanks!

If you're flying into Shannon, why would you rent a car in Dublin?

Driving in rural Ireland is not very difficult. You just have to get used to driving on the left. Some of the rural roads are very narrow, and it's easy to forget you're on the left. Be especially careful at intersections, and remember to look both ways when turning right. Also remember to go clockwise at roundabouts.

Believe it or not, some Irish drivers are speed demons. Don't let them make you rush.

Correction on flight
 

My flight plans have changed. I’ll be flying in and out of Dublin.

Many thanks for the note. I now plan to fly in and out of Dublin, then a train to Killarney area where I’ll rent a car. From there as I said I’ll explore the south and west, drive up to the north, drop the car at Belfast then train to Dublin.

OK -- but do just check -- NI is a different country than Ireland and there could be a hefty fee if you drop the car in Belfast which wouldn't occur if you keep the car and drop it at DUB.

Most Irish car rental companies have a moderate cross-border fee for driving across the border, but no additional cross-border dropoff fee.

Good to know -- I wasn't sure cuz I've not done a cross border drop off. But a good idea to just double check when booking . . .