We arrive in Dublin July 1 8:30 a.m. and intend to stay in the Sheraton for 3 nights.
What sort of day trips do you think we might be able to do?
We have rented a car.
We drive up to Monaghan City for 4 nights in Grovelodge (July 4-7) We have a wedding on the Saturday and some family to visit with so we'll be busy here.
Then on to Downpatrick for 2 nights at either Tyrella House or Burford Lodge. Any thoughts?
Then we are "itinerary-less" until
departure on July 15 when we depart Dublin at 10:00 a.m.
What shall we do???

Have you traveled to Ireland much in the past? Are you very comfortable with driving over there?

If your answers to those questions are no, I would not rent the car until I planned to leave Dublin. A car is pretty useless in the city which is not terribly easy to drive in and harder to park in for a "feriner". I would suggest (if you find the site of Dublin boring after your 1st day, to take some day trips to places like Newgrange and Glendalough using local tour operators.

Since you are up that way, spend some time in Co. Donegal and/or perhaps the Antrim coast. There are loads of beautiful things to see throughout Donegal and the varied coast line is absolutely spectacular.

Let us know what your interests are and perhaps we can help a bit more.

Bill

The rental car is cheaper for the full 2 weeks so we decided to just keep it. My husband has never been to Ireland - I've been a few times but done mostly family stuff - not too much touristy! This time is for us! That's the Westin in Dublin by the way. I've actually posted separately regarding Roscommon - can't find a place to stay - thought it might be nice on our way down to Galway? We are very flexible - love driving, eating, drinking, general merriment. We know we can't possibly do it all - but we'd certainly love to hit the high spots. Thanks.

I've never stayed in Roscommon but I have stayed in Boyle. It's a cute village with a fine ruin of an Abbey. There is a B&B there, the Abbey House which sits right next to the abbey. It's an old building, not purpose built and I like it very much. I've stayed there twice. The Boyle River runs right past the property. This would make a nice stop in my mind.

As far as the car is concerned, amke sure that parking fees in Dublin don't eat up what the difference is in rental cost. You might also want to check a couple different rental agencies. I've used quite a few in my time. Last time I had irishcarrentals.com and got a great price and good service.

Bill

Belcamp Hutchinson is a lovely Guesthouse very near the Dublin Airport. We have stayed there the night before our Dublin departure and it worked quite well.