I'm going on a solo journey to Ireland 5/3 - 5/15, flying out of and returning from Washington Dulles. In doing my research I have decided to concentrate on the Southwest and the West, basically exploring from Kinsale in the South to Connemara in the West. Was planning on flying in and out of Shannon and doing a loop. This would bypass being in Dublin but I'm now feeling a bit guilty about skipping Dublin and am thinking about flying into Dublin and out of Shannon. I'm 49, not really a nightlife person just like to pull off the road onto the beaten path, take lots of pictures, and generally just amble around enjoying the scenery. Not into museums, shopping, will go to the occasional pub.

So, just looking for opinions, you think a day or two in Dublin is worth my while? The difference in airfare is small.

Thx. Rob

I think it's impossible for anyone to tell you what's "worth it" for you.

But I do think that, unless you're spending an awfully long time there, in Ireland you're better off concentrating on one part of the country and really experiencing it. Adding Dublin to the part of the country you're planning to see might not be the best idea. It looks to me like you have enough on your plate for the length of time you're staying though you don't give an exact itinerary.

Also, it sounds like your interests might be better met in less urban areas.

My son and I were in Ireland a few years ago and pretty much stuck to the south and southwest, but did spend a couple of days in Dublin. While we enjoyed our time there, we decided that if we are lucky enough to travel back to Ireland, Dublin won't be on the list of places to revisit (Dingle on the other hand is a must do for us).

If you go, make sure to take DART and visit ( only 15-20 min. ride) a few places on the Bay ( like Sandy Cove, Monkstown, Howth).

Don't feel guilty - your plan sounds great. Unless there is something unmissable for you to see in Dublin, or if it makes better sense for your flights, you can do it another time. And it is a noisy town.
I love Kinsale, and I recommend The Spaniard pub. The bar and music area is tiny but met the coolest people and had the best pub night of my whole trip there. I also quite liked Schull and loved Dingle. There's also a small museum on the Dingle Peninsula drive that you might like.

It depends on your interests.

While there is certainly pretty countryside and dramatic natural beauties in Ireland - to me Dublin is mandatory. But then, I'm interested in the history (it part of my heritage) and the culture - as well as the "prettyness".

I can;t imagine going to Ireland and not seeing the Book of Kells at Trinity or Dublin Castle or a performance of the work of one of the great Irish playwrights. (Dublin has a brilliant theater scene.)

Thanks for all your responses. I have decided to skip Dublin and have booked my tickets in and out of Shannon.

Sheri_lp: Thanks for the Spaniard recommendation, Kinsale is on my list.

Rob

I notice that from Britain the most popular places to visit in Europe for a short break put Dublin at number 6.There are many things to do in the city and surroundings.On the other hand I have found it very easy and enjoyable to spend a week in the south west of Ireland.

This question surfaces pretty frequently. As Caph52 has said, it's all a matter of personal preference and priority. There is NO, 'OneSize Fits All' answer.

For more detail and insite, an old, but detailed thread on this subject:

http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...te-of-time.cfm

There's always NEXT time ...

Bob

You'll enjoy it - and the Dromberg Circle is on your way to/from Kinsale and worth a look. Look forward to your report and photos!

Sheri