Rick Steves Ireland (Travel Guide)

I’m a big fan of the Rick Steves guidebooks because they’re so thorough and full of tips and suggestions that appeal to a variety of interests. This book covers almost the entire country from the east coast, points south and west, and a separate section for visiting Northern Ireland; the only info that was missing was where to go in central Ireland. Otherwise, this book covered all the major attractions, interesting and unique side trips, detailed info on where to buy tickets, dealing with transportation concerns, lodging, and dining. There is also a thorough section on what to expect when renting a car and driving through Ireland and how to manage situations like roundabouts and who has the right of way on the narrow roads of the Ring of Kerry. There was a tear-out planning map in the back of the book which helped me figure out the best sites to visit in Dublin. Don’t leave home without this handy book!

I was a little intimidated by the size of this book but there is so much useful information that wouldn't want Rick Steve to leave anything out. Save your money by buying this book and skipping the rest. I know because I bought 3 others that were worthless. Rick Steve is the man when it comes to travel

I especially like the hotel reviews

I liked that there was some humor and practical information in it. It was easy to read and I liked the way it went from town to town across Ireland.

This is my second guide from Rick Steves. Last year I went to Slovenia and Croatia and wished that I had gotten the RS guide sooner so this year Ireland is the target to visit and I have the guide in time to help with planning. I'm spending some time in Dublin on my own and already this is helping choose a hotel and places to visit. With this, I don't think I need a separate map, I'll just copy or cut out a city map (I cut out Mostar info from my Croatia guide and used Gorilla tape to put it back together) for my walking around. There is no one guide that gives everything you might need, I check Tripadvisor to see what people say about anything I think I am interested in. Sometimes RS (or his associates) gushes about stuff that is rather mediocre so I like to check other sources as well, due diligence is always advised.

Very comprehensive travel guide to Ireland, fits well in coat pocket. Would've preferred more color photos, although I know it would raise the price. Maps should definitely be larger so you can read the small print identifying landmarks/road names. I like that there are multiple maps for the same geographic area but for different topics... one for restaurants, one for sightseeing, one for accommodations, etc. Would have liked to see more tips / suggestions on what to watch out for or avoid or that maybe isn't a good value. Liked that some sections recommended best time of day to visit. Would have liked a chart (to go with map) of place-to-place drive times and measured distances, e.g., how long to get from Dublin to Dingle Peninsula? Also, would like to have seen more suggested driving trips, e.g., if you go from Dublin to Kilkenny or to Belfast, here's all the things you should see along the way. I may update this review in August, when I get back from my 2-week July trip!

A thorough assessment of what to see in Ireland. Written in Rick’s straight-forward way. Always a useful travel book and it’s nice that he still includes self-guided walks.

Great info and travel tips!

Not only does this book give a better description then the other books I have gotten of places and things to do but he ads a little humour into it as well. I bought 8 books on traveling Ireland and this is the one I am taking with me when I go.

Excellent Info

Leider ist da sehr viel Info drin und all das kann man im Internet finden. Hätte mir mehr erwartet.

PROSInformativePertinentCriticalWorth the money ( if a bit expensive if used as a casual guide )CONSCould have had a more detailed one view of Ireland map included

I truly like this book. It is an excellent introduction for your trip!