Transportation in Dublin: Choosing your means of transport

Dublin has an estimated population of 1.5 million people with a further 8.7 million overseas visitors arriving each year. With hotels, apartments, Air BnB and much more located throughout the entire county; the trick lies in getting around. When you first arrive in Dublin airport you have a couple of options if you are headed straight for the city.

From the Airport

Taxis are in abundance from the airport, and the taxi rank is easy to find from either Terminal 1 or 2. Taxi fares are metered by law (throughout Ireland) and the fare may differ depending on the time of day. To give you a rough idea; it would usually be €20 – €25 plus €1 extra per passenger. Sometimes just as easy if the fare can be split amongst a few people.

Apparently, there are over 1,000 more taxis in Dublin than New York

Bus access is just as easy. The Aircoach provides a number of services that leave every 15 minutes and access Dublin city within 35 minutes (depending on traffic). On Aircoach, Dublin city single fare is €7 in cash. There are a number of ATMs in the airport if you have not got Euros with you.

Many travellers prefer the freedom and luxury of renting a car and Dublin airport is supplied by numerous car rental firms. I would recommend making your car rental reservation before you arrive at Dublin airport to avoid disappointment or frustration.

Once in town

Once you have dropped the bags off and are ready to become a Dub, the city is your oyster. If you are planning to travel around Dublin a lot, I would recommend getting a Leap card. The Leap card acts as ‘One for all’ credit card that allows access to all major methods of public transport in Dublin; Bus, rail and Luas. It can be bought in most Newsagent stores in Dublin and works on a pay as you go basis.

In the city centre, there are taxis and public transport routes regularly accessible, however, the city centre is a bit condensed so check your Maps to see if your destination can be reached on foot.

Dublin buses are characteristic with their yellow design

When it comes to late at night, I would recommend using a taxi. Dublin is not a particularly unsafe city. However, like all cities it is best to remain in groups and avoid wandering off alone (safety in numbers).

However your method of getting around, you will need a map of some sort or if you’re more technically inclined, Google Maps is your best friend. If you have internet access you can use Maps on the go, if not, you will have to find free WiFi and plan your route in advance.

Dublin is home to the oldest pub in Ireland; the Brazen head, One of the most successful rock bands ever; U2, A Nobel Prize winner; George Bernard Shaw and of course, The world renowned pint of plain; Guinness.

The Brazen Head, 20 Lower Bridge St, Merchants Quay, Dublin 8 The oldest pub in Dublin

Time to explore

The city of Dublin is there to be explored by any who desire so saddle up, brace the weather, charge up the cellphones and dust off the camera! Once you’ve come to grips with how to get around your adventure can begin!

Also make sure to stay connected to share your Dublin experience!