Ireland truly is the Emerald Isle.I grew up in Ireland and travel back a few times throughout the year. In fact, once school is out for the summer, we all head off there and spend around 10 weeks in Europe. The boys love to spend time with their grandparents, aunts and uncles but also love to take little trips around the country.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links and we receive a commission if you visit a link, reserve or purchase on our recommendations. Purchasing via an affiliate link doesn’t cost you extra, and we only recommend products and services we trust. All opinions are our own.
DUBLIN
Dublin, Ireland's capital, is located on the east coast. The majority of international flights to and from Ireland operate here. If traveling from the US, you will most likely arrive early to mid morning. This is also a similar situation for most US travelers to other European cities. It is important to note that most hotels will not be ready to accept check-in until early afternoon but most will store luggage ahead of time to allow you to walk around or relax in the lobby area while you wait. But in Dublin that waiting time is minimal with many things to see and do within walking distance of most city centre hotels. There are no rail connections from Dublin airport into the center but there are plenty of bus routes and taxis. The airport is about 7 miles from the city. It is also possible to prebook a driver which is always nice on the morning of arrival when you don't have the energy after a flight to think of logistics to your hotel or lodging of choice. Viator is a provider we use for all our travel transfers.
HOTELS and ACTIVITIES
For many reasons, the Shelbourne Hotel is our favorite of all in Dublin. Not only is this where the original Irish constitution was drafted, it is the hotel of choice by many celebrities and international sporting teams. In fact, this is where Celine Dion first kissed her late husband in 1988. There is always a wonderful yet homely atmosphere here. Its located on Stephens Green, just a couple of minutes by foot to Grafton Street and Government Buildings. The hotel dates back to 1824. Experience some history and make some of your own in this premier hotel in Dublin.
This property is also personal to us. This is where we first met as Scott was staying for a couple of months and it is also where we enjoyed our post wedding celebrations.
Other hotels in Dublin we would recommend include The Westbury with more budget friendly options such as The Dean and The Morrison.
Activities in Dublin of course include a visit to The Guinness Storehouse (brewery) where you will learn all about the world renowned 'black stuff', and maybe even pour your own. Tickets can be pre-purchased here.
For the whiskey drinker, a visit to the Jameson Distillery is a must. Learn about the history and enjoy a taste or two. Pre-purchase tickets in advance by clicking here.
A tour of Trinity College and a walk around Dublin to learn the history from Viking invasion to times of British rule to modern day freedom is also worth a couple of hours. Tours can be booked via Viator here
SCENIC ROAD TRIPS
When one thinks of Ireland, images of mountains, lakes and greenery come to mind. Dublin is a fun city and has lots to offer but no trip to Ireland would be complete without heading to the natural beauty of the Atlantic Coastline. West Cork, Kerry, Clare, Galway and Mayo are top of my personal list and growing up in Ireland, these were the places we visited most often.
There are train connections to the main cities from Dublin as well as buses but, and it really is a 'must', a rental car is needed to really see the top locations along the Atlantic coast. Yes we drive on the 'other side' of the road, our roads and streets are narrow, but it honestly isn't as scary as you might believe. A rental will allow you to dictate your own schedule and itinerary and let me say it again, having one is a must.
In the early stage of your trip planning to Ireland, be sure to book a car as early as possible. The majority of rentals in Ireland are manual (meaning you need to change gears) but automatics are available if booked ahead and they do carry a higher rate than manual transmissions. Book a rental that you can amend if needed. If you wait to the last minute to book, expect to pay a very high rate.
Price out your rental and consider booking a rate that you can amend by clicking our link here.
Places to visit while on your road trips:
Cork
Cork City is a fun and lively city; a place where the locals call 'the real capital'. We recommend visitors to drive from Dublin to Cork City*, (approx 3hrs), then stay the night, have dinner and after a hearty Irish breakfast head out on a drive through West Cork as you make your way to Kerry.
*(On your way from Dublin to Cork, be sure to stop off in Cashel and see the infamous Rock of Cashel).
As you leave Cork City, consider visiting Cobh, the last port of call of the ill fated Titanic. The Titanic Experience is an interesting tour which includes a virtual experience of boarding the ship.
Another pit stop would be at the town of Kinsale. This is a cute harbour with many great seafood restaurants.
Kerry
The drive from Kinsale to Killarney in Kerry should take around 1hr and 30mins. Settle in to your hotel and get ready for a wonderful scenic drive around The Ring of Kerry the next day.
This infamous drive is a must if you are craving the true Irish landscape with many photo ops along the way. Bear in mind, this drive is long so take some snacks and drinks but there are plenty of cute little restaurants dotted around. Don't make dinner plans that evening because there really shouldn't be a schedule for this day apart from starting relatively early.
The so called ring is a circular drive through Kerry, just over 110 miles and without stopping, will take around 3.5hrs but I strongly recommend giving it the entire day. You will want to stop and enjoy almost every corner. In fact there is an extension to the Ring of Kerry to see the breath taking Skellig Islands - fans of Star Wars will appreciate this diversion even more as they featured in The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi. Skellig Michael is also listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
As you return to Killarney, enjoy a dinner in town at your leisure and have a relaxing morning. Consider visiting Muckross House or playing some golf. The following day, it is time to say goodbye to Kerry and head north.
Clare & Galway
Another must on your road trip are the Cliffs of Moher in the county of Clare. Without doubt, you have seen photos of this truly magical view. The dramatic cliffs stand tall and defiant against the Atlantic. A visit here will be another highlight of your time in Ireland. Just beware that if on the day you pencil in to visit, the cliffs may be shut off to the public due to weather and safety. We love visiting these cliffs and are lucky enough to do so every summer. Don't forget to make sure your camera and phone are charged for all those photos and videos.
The next stop on the way to Galway is an area called the Burren. It's a region of amazing rock formation which many say resembles their idea of what the mood would look like as well as many native floral species. The Burren is also famous for its Ailwee Cave and falconry which are both always popular with our boys.
The drive from the caves to Galway city is relatively short, approximately one hour.
After your busy day visiting the cliffs and the Burren, relax for the evening and get excited for a quick boat ride into the Atlantic to visit the Aran Islands. Situated off the west coast, these islands show how life was back in the day of simple Ireland. The islands with their charming stone walls, are still Irish language speaking today. Famed for their uber comfortable sweaters, be sure to pick up one or two while there. A hike up to Dún Aonghasa is truly worth it. Enjoy the ocean air and breeze before heading back to the mainland. If a boat ride to the islands isn't for you, you can also take a quick 10 minute scenic flight with Aer Arann.
Another favorite of ours in Ireland is Kylemore Abbey. Depending on your time, you could create a day trip through stunning Connemara in County Galway and have a tour around the beautiful abbey. This could also be planned with an evening drive back to Dublin before catching your flight to your next destination. Shannon Airport is located in the West of Ireland. There is a select number of flights to the US from here as well as other locations around Europe. Knock Airport is also in the West with flights to London. Depending on your next overseas location, these airports could save you the drive back to Dublin and enabling you to l the western side of Ireland for a little longer.
Favorite Hotels
There are many options in Ireland for accommodation based on your budget. Of course, the most popular and scenic areas will be elevated in pricing during the Irish summer period but you can expect great views and service not to mention the memories you will take home from our favorites listed here.
Dublin
Cork
Kerry
Galway
.
Yorumlar