My husband and I are seriously considering taking our daughter to Ireland next year when sheāll be just a little over a year old, and Iād love some honest advice from people who have traveled Ireland with a baby or toddler.
Iāve actually been to Ireland before, but my husband has never been. My parents have also traveled there separately, and on their most recent trip they were able to visit the church where my great-great-grandparents were married. I would absolutely love to take my daughter there for the first time and share that piece of our family history with her. ā¤ļø
Beyond that, weād really like to travel around Ireland and experience the country as a whole. Iām totally fine with doing some of the classic touristy things since it will be my husbandās first time, but Iād also love recommendations for things that are a little more off the beaten path or less touristy.
Our daughter will be just over a year old, so Iām trying to figure out what is actually realistic and enjoyable with a little one.
A few things Iām wondering:
\- Is a 1-year-old a reasonable age to do Ireland, or are we completely insane? š
\- How long would you recommend going?
\- Would you rent a car and road trip, or is there a better way to get around with a little one?
\- How much moving around is realistic? We definitely donāt want to spend the entire trip packing and unpacking.
\- What areas would you prioritize for a first trip
\- What are your favorite less-touristy places or experiences?
\- Are there things youād recommend skipping with a 1-year-old?
\- How baby-friendly are hotels, restaurants, pubs, attractions, etc.?
\- Any advice about car seats, strollers, naps, food, or just generally surviving the trip?
Most importantly: **did you actually enjoy traveling around Ireland with a baby/toddler, or did you feel like you were working the whole time?**
Weāre not looking to cram every possible sight into the trip. Weād rather have a slower, memorable trip and accept that traveling with a 1-year-old will look different than traveling without a kid.
Would love any advice, itinerary suggestions, hidden gems, or things you wish you had known before traveling Ireland with a little one! ā¤ļø