Transports in Ireland

The local transportation system

The best transportation system in Ireland is in the capital city of Dublin. You will have a lot fewer options the further you move out of Dublin. Therefore, it is a good idea to research what type of transportation is available in a given area you are thinking about visiting. 

Bus

There is a Dublin Bus service, which caters to the greater Dublin area. This bus system links most of the city together with regular buses. Fares start at €2 if you are paying by cash and can rise to €3.10 when you go by more than 13 stops. Be sure to have the correct change to pay for your fare, as Dublin Bus services are exact fare only and the driver will not accept euro notes or give change.

There are also other buses that transport you around the country, hitting major towns. Some towns may have their own bus services operating in the area too, catering to more rural areas. 

Train

There is a train service catering just for the Dublin area called the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transport). This runs mainly on the coast of Dublin and is a popular option for those commuting to work. An average price for a single-way ticket if paying by cash would be €2.

There is also the Irish Rail system, which links most of the major towns in Ireland to one another. This is the preferred form of transport for many people when making a trip around the country. One way fares range from €18 if you book well in advance. Book online in advance to avail of the lowest fares.

Read also Getting around Dublin

Tram

There is a tram service in Dublin called the Luas, Dublin city's Light Rail Transit System. This is a useful service that is gradually extending to reach other parts of the city. It operates two lines - Red Line and Green Line - serving different parts of the city. It allows you to get from one side of the city to the other without having to get off. Services regularly run every 3 to 4 minutes at peak times, and every 15 minutes at night. It starts at €2 for a one-way ticket and can rise to €5.20 for a return, depending on how many stops you go.

Taxi

There are extensive taxi services in Dublin. Ride-sharing apps, such as Uber, are not available due to the regulated taxi industry. FreeNow is the most popular taxi app, particularly in urban areas. Most towns will also have local taxi men who will be of great help for transporting you to and from your destinations if needed. 

Carpooling

There is not really any carpooling system in Ireland. You will not have a lane dedicated to carpooling on motorways, so you will have to make do in the normal lanes. 

Renting a car in Ireland

It is easy to rent a car in Ireland, and there are numerous major collection and drop-off points across the country. 

There is also a go and drop car service in Dublin where you can pick up a car at a designated spot and use it as you need, once you enter your key details. 

Read also Driving in Ireland 

Biking in Ireland

Biking is very popular in Ireland, particularly in cities and towns. There is a public bike service in Dublin where you can hop on and off bikes at allocated points around the city for a cost.

Transportation prices in Ireland

Generally, the prices of public transport in Ireland are pretty reasonable. You will get cheaper rates if you are a student and if you obtain a LEAP card, which can be topped up. You simply tap the card when you get on the bus.