Getting to Dublin
Dublin Airport (DUB) is located approximately 10–12 km north of the city centre. Journey time into the city is typically 25–45 minutes, though this can extend during peak hours. The airport has two terminals (T1 and T2), located close together and connected by a short walk. Most international and European flights use T1; T2 primarily handles Aer Lingus and most transatlantic services.
Airport Transport Options
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Aircoach (Route 700) A private express coach service running between the airport and the city centre, with stops on O'Connell Street, O'Connell Bridge, and Kildare Street. Services typically run every 30 minutes. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or from staff at the airport. Note that the Leap Visitor Card is not valid on Aircoach and a separate ticket is required.
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Dublin Bus (Route 16) The public bus option, operated by Dublin Bus as part of the TFI network. Route 16 operates between approximately 06:00 and 23:00, serving Drumcondra and O'Connell Street before continuing south to Ballinteer. This is the most economical airport bus option and accepts the Leap Card. Journey times are longer than the express coaches, particularly during rush hour. Route 41 is an alternative that runs 24 hours and follows a similar corridor.
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Dublin Express (Routes 782/784) A premium private coach service running frequently between the airport and multiple city centre stops. Tickets are available from €8 one-way, and coaches depart every 7½ minutes at peak times. The 782 service runs along the quays and terminates at Heuston Rail Station, while the 784 serves the south side of the city, stopping at Connolly Rail Station, College Green, Merrion Square, and St. Stephen's Green. Tickets can be booked online or purchased at the terminal. Note that the Leap Visitor Card is not valid on Dublin Express.
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Taxi: Taxis are available from the designated ranks outside both terminals. A metered fare to the city centre typically runs €25–35, depending on traffic and destination. All licensed taxis accept card payment.
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Private Transfers: Pre-booked private transfers can be arranged through a number of operators and may be preferable for groups or those arriving late at night. Your hotel or accommodation provider will often be able to recommend a reliable service.
Getting Around Dublin: Local Transportation
Dublin's public transport network is operated under the Transport for Ireland (TFI) umbrella and covers the city and surrounding area via bus, tram, and suburban rail.
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Dublin Bus: The city's main bus network, with over 130 routes operating from approximately 05:00 to midnight. Buses are frequent in the city centre and inner suburbs. Cash fares are accepted but exact change is required and no change is given. Using a Leap Card is strongly recommended for convenience and cost savings.
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Luas (Tram): Dublin's light rail system operates on two lines. The Red Line runs east–west across the city, linking Tallaght and Saggart in the southwest with Connolly Station and The Point in the docklands. The Green Line runs north–south through the city centre, from Broombridge in the north through St. Stephen's Green and out to Brides Glen in the south. Luas is a fast and reliable option for many central locations. Tickets must be purchased or validated before boarding at platform machines.
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DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) A coastal suburban rail service running along Dublin Bay, connecting Malahide and Howth in the north with Greystones in County Wicklow to the south. Key city centre stations include Connolly, Tara Street, and Pearse. The DART is particularly useful for reaching coastal areas or travelling between the north and south of the city without going through the centre.
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Dublin Bikes: Dublin's public bike-share scheme has 1,600 bikes across 115 docking stations throughout the city centre, making it a convenient option for short journeys between central locations. The first 30 minutes of each journey are free; a one-day ticket costs €3.50 and a three-day ticket €5, both purchasable at any docking station with a card terminal. Bikes can be returned to any station in the network. Real-time availability can be checked via the Dublin Bikes app (iOS and Android) or website.
The Leap Card
The TFI Leap Card is the standard reusable prepaid travel card for public transport across the TFI network. It offers savings of up to 30% compared to cash fares and covers Dublin Bus, Go-Ahead Ireland bus services, Luas, DART, and commuter rail. Transport for Ireland
For visitors, the Leap Visitor Card is the most convenient option. It offers unlimited travel on Dublin City Bus, Luas, DART, and Commuter Rail for 1, 3, or 7 days for a fixed price. Prices are €8 (1 day), €18 (3 days), and €24 (7 days). The card is activated from the first time it is used.
Important: The Leap Visitor Card is not valid on private airport bus services such as Aircoach or Dublin Express. If you travel from the airport on Dublin Bus Route 16 or 41, however, your Visitor Card will cover that journey.
For those staying longer than a week, a standard TFI Leap Card loaded with pay-as-you-go credit is the better choice. Daily and weekly fare caps apply automatically abnd once you reach the cap, no further travel credit is deducted for the rest of that period.
Where to buy: Leap Visitor Cards can be purchased at Dublin Airport (Terminals 1 and 2), at the Dublin Bus office on Upper O'Connell Street, and at a wide range of shops and newsagents throughout the city. They can also be ordered online for delivery in advance of travel.