My boyfriend and I want to rent a car and drive around Ireland for a week. Any suggestions on town to visit?

Question

We're from NYC and are interested in seeing the "real" Ireland. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

I recently returned from a vacation in Ireland with some friends who had never been.  They really enjoyed the time spent visiting my relatives as it is more of the "Irish experience" than sitting on a tour bus.  Even if you have no relatives in Ireland, try to spend some time in the country side.  There are wonderful bed and breakfasts you can stay in.  Outside of Mallow is one next door to a Dromagh Castle.  Don't avoid the touristy stuff either.  The Jameson Distillery tour in Middleton, outside Cork is a good one.  It is also conveniently close to Kinsale, which somebody else mentioned.  Cobh is also a quaint seaside town in the south.

The Ring of Kerry is scenic, just watch out for the buses when you drive.  Outside Rathkeale is Castle Matrix, hard to find but worth the trip.  The Burren, with the Cliffs of Moher, and Connemara are also scenic.

Answer 2

Yes, I went with my son 3 years ago.

It's wondeful

Don't waste too much time in Dublin (2 days are OK)

Do not miss Kinsale, a seaside town

and the Ring of Kerry.

Also Galway is great!

Answer 3

Galway, Doolin, Dublin.   I did the Dingle penninsula instead of the Ring of Kerry.  Dingle is a charming town!! Kinsale is a beautiful place to.  Be sure to do the walking tour.  Galway has a walking tour as well that is mentioned in Rick Steves book.  It's good!

Answer 4

Well as an Irish man myself I can give you some pointers!! First off it depends on what you mean by the "Real Ireland" because that would mean far from what you'd see on tv. But as was already mentioned the ring of Kerry is good (when the weatheris good, and it has been lately this is one of the best places to go for the countryside) a few towns cities that are good to visit are: Kilarney, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Dublin though you probably wouldnt be able to see them all in a week.

If you want more specific information click on my profile and give me an email. Ill try try to answer any questions you have

Answer 5

Visit the place that makes Guinness beer

Answer 6

Search online for the "Ring of Kerry" it is southern Ireland, with mountain and water veiws and many smaller towns.