Soliciting Opinions on next Europe Trip - Ireland vs Portugal

I've done a week in Ireland twice in early May, in the shoulder season. I didn't find any issues driving like a bat out of hell all over that area. Get the smallest car possible!

However, you're absolutely right about the weather. Even in early May, about 1/2 of it would be sunshine or partly overcast, and then the remainder was, blech. If OP was single, I'd risk it, but not with a XX in tow.

I can't remember if I've been to Portugal for any more than a refueling stop, so I'm a little useless there. My travel to the Med coasts of Spain and France were generally later. I can tell you that Portuguese completely screws me up, though. Knowing just enough French and Spanish means I hear Portuguese and my brain just goes "tilt." I hear three languages in one (including Italian sounds).

I was in Manchester last March and it wasn't *awful.* Most of the time. I figured the latitude change to get to most of Portugal would buy him a few weeks of decent-ish weather. Although anything that involves an Atlantic coast is probably not a great idea.

The Portuguese speak better English than the Irish. :)

Great times to be had both places, but I'm pro Portugal. I've been twice on business and once as a tourist.

It might be warmer than Ireland. Having been a major colonial power, it has many historical sites to visit. The food is outstanding especially the wines.

They do speak Portuguese which will limit spontaneous interactions with the nice people. The school system teaches English as the main 2nd language making basic communication simple. Train transit is good.

I have only been to Ireland once ... 3 weeks this past May. It was cool and rainy...sun on 3 days.

Ireland's history is mostly that of a minor colony. There are some very good castles, archeological sites, museums (Archeology in Dublin), etc. but nothing approaching Portugal.

I only had one memorable meal...The Winding Stair in Dublin...go if there. It's a beer and whiskey culture.

Irish speak perfectly good English and may engage with you in casual conversation. In that regard they may be more private than the average American.

Galway and that coastal region is worth a longer stay. Unfortunately, passenger train service is pretty limited.

Portugal and Irish Republic are members of the EU (Northern Ireland is not) so you have the common Euro, lax customs, etc in both places.

Appreciate the feedback, Everyone! Sounds like Portugal is getting the nod.

I hear everyone on Lisbon and Porto.. any other must see/do's in Portugal outside of these two cities?

We were in Portugal last year for 10 days. Many places you could go to. Of interest might be going to Fatima, home to the Sanctuary of Fátima. The city is the site of a world-renowned Catholic miracle.

You'll end up doing a Douro river cruise. But, if you can, travel to Sandeman and taste their world renowned port!