Are you planning your first city-trip to Ireland? Navigating from airports to city centers can be a bit daunting for newcomers. Fear not, for I'm here to guide you through the public transportation options available
Dublin AirportDublin Express and Aircoach shuttles: Dublin Airport is seamlessly connected to the city center by the
Dublin Express and Aircoach shuttle buses. These buses operate frequently, ensuring minimal wait times and it is cheaper to buy a return ticket than two one ways.
Leap Visitor Card using Dublin Bus: for an efficient and cost-effective travel experience, consider the
Leap Visitor Card. This smart card allows unlimited travel on Dublin Bus, Luas (tram), and DART (train) services within Dublin for a specified number of days (1, 3 or 7). It will also allow you to commute from and to the airport with the local
Dublin Bus 16 and 41. Note that it is a bit slower than the dedicated shuttles we discussed above but way more affordable.
Cork AirportThe Bus Éireann Expressway service connects Cork Airport to the city center, offering a comfortable and journey.
Belfast International Airport and Belfast City Airport Translink Airport Express 300:
this bus service connects Belfast International Airport to the city center and Europa Bus Centre in just 45 minutes, providing a direct and affordable option.
If you are travelling from Befast City Airport, you can then take the Airport Express 600 services. Note that this one is including in the
Belfast Visitor Pass, but the Airport Express 300 isn't.
Shannon Airport Bus Éireann provides regular services connecting Shannon Airport to Ennis, Limerick (Bus 51 and 343), and Galway (Bus Eireann 51). The well-maintained buses offer a comfortable ride, allowing travelers to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Irish countryside.
A few more tipsPlan Ahead: Familiarize yourself with the public transportation schedules on the
Transport for Ireland website to minimize waiting times. You can also download their apps
Get a transportation card to save money. In the Republic of Ireland, the
Leap Card: this is a convenient way to pay for your fares and it even gives you 30% discount on city busses. You can easily top it up yourself with the TFI app. In Northern Ireland, you can purchase an
iLink card which may include airport transportation and unlimited travel in the region depending on your needs
Has our Community any more tips for traveling by public transport from the airport to city centers? Also, check out our thread about the public transportation passes if you plan to go beyond our cities