Getting around Ireland: A transportation guide

Ireland’s charming towns, and rich history make it a dream destination for travelers. But how do you get around the Emerald Isle to experience all it offers? This comprehensive guide to transportation in Ireland will cover everything you need to know, whether you’re planning to rent a car, use public transport, cycle, walk, or even take ferries.

1. Renting a car in Ireland

Arguably the best way to get around in Ireland is by car. Renting a car gives you the freedom to go where you want when you want, without having to rely on public transport or tour providers.

Driving requirements and license rules

Visitors from the EU, the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can drive in Ireland with their domestic licenses. However, it’s always smart to check whether you need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Car rental costs and insurance

Car rental costs vary depending on the season and car type, but budget around €35–€50 per day for a compact car. Insurance is essential, and many rental companies require a credit card for deposits. Be prepared for additional fees, including those for younger drivers under 25.

Benefits of renting a car

• Flexibility: Access off-the-beaten-path locations not served by public transport.
• Convenience: Travel on your schedule.
• Freedom: Stop anywhere along scenic routes like the Wild Atlantic Way.

Challenges to consider

• Adjusting to left-hand driving.
• Narrow and winding rural roads can be challenging.
• Parking can be difficult and expensive in cities.

Tips for driving in Ireland

1. Ireland drives on the left-hand side of the road.
2. Check with your insurance or car hire company to see if you need a Green Book for insurance purposes.
3. Speed limits are shown in miles in Northern Ireland and kilometers in the Republic of Ireland.
4. You must wear seat belts at all times in the front and back of the vehicle. It’s the law.

Pro Tip: Check out our detailed guide on Driving in Ireland: A Stress-Free Guide for essential tips and tricks to navigate like a pro.

Rental Requirements

• Age: Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with additional fees for those under 25.
• License: A valid driver’s license from your home country is usually sufficient. Some companies may require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• Insurance: Comprehensive insurance is recommended. Check if your personal car insurance or credit card covers rentals abroad.

Popular Car Rental Companies

• Hertz
• Avis
• Enterprise
• Budget
• Europcar

Read our full guide on Renting a Car in Ireland.

2. Public transport in Ireland

Public transport in Ireland is an affordable and convenient option for getting around in Ireland. Public transport in Ireland can be very hit and miss. It’s generally good in the main towns and cities, but services get poorer the more off-the-beaten-path you go.

2.1 Traveling by train in Ireland

Ireland’s train network, operated by Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail), connects major cities and towns, providing a comfortable and scenic way to travel.

Key routes and destinations

• Dublin to Cork: One of the most popular routes, taking about 2.5 hours.
• Dublin to Galway: Approximately 2.5 hours, offering beautiful views of the Irish countryside.
• Dublin to Belfast: About 2 hours on the Enterprise service, connecting the Republic of Ireland with Northern Ireland.

Ticket purchasing tips

• Online vs. Station: Tickets are cheaper if purchased online in advance. At the station, prices can be higher, especially on the day of travel.
• Discounts: Look for discounts on return tickets, student rates, and group travel.

Pros:

• Affordable transport option.
• Convenient for city-to-city travel.
• Trains run frequently in the busier towns and cities in Ireland.

Cons:

• Limited routes and schedules, especially in rural areas.
• Can be expensive if they’re not booked in advance.
• Trains can be unreliable.

Traveling by train in Ireland? Here are 5 things you need to know:

1. The train is particularly good for intercity travel with journeys rarely taking longer than 2.5 hours.
2. Dublin and Belfast are the key rail hubs, connecting travelers with cities and towns all over the island.
3. Tickets can be prebooked in the Republic of Ireland (Irish Rail) but must be bought at a station or on the train in Northern Ireland (Translink).
4. Free WiFi connections are available on trains in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
5. Bikes can be brought on trains free of charge, but there may be some restrictions during peak times, so check before you travel.

2.2 Getting around Ireland by bus

National bus services

• Bus Éireann: The national bus service covers extensive routes across Ireland.
• Private Companies: Companies like CityLink offer express services between major cities.

Regional and local bus services

• Local Services: Each county typically has its own regional bus services for local travel.

Tips for buying tickets and finding schedules

• Online Booking: Like trains, bus tickets are often cheaper if booked online.
• Timetables: Check schedules online or at bus stations. Apps like TFI Real Time Ireland can help.

Pros:

• Extensive network
• Affordable
• Covers areas not accessible by train.

Cons:

• Can be slower than trains due to traffic
• Less comfort on long journeys.
• Buses can be unreliable.

Planning on taking the bus while you’re in Ireland? Here are 5 things you need to know:

1. The bus network is often the only public transport option if you want to get off the beaten track and explore Ireland’s countryside.
2. Cities and some large towns have dedicated bus services.
3. Bus services are run by both public and private operators and prices are competitive, so check before you travel to get the best value.
4. Bus tours are a great option if you want to see the sights with no hassle.
5. Travel cards, such as Leap and iLink, are handy, cost-effective and can be used on public bus services.

Tip: Learn more about navigating buses and trains in our guide, Using Public Transport in Ireland: Buses, Trains & Trams.

3. Domestic flights in Ireland

Domestic flights can be a quick way to travel between distant parts of Ireland, particularly useful for reaching remote areas.

Key routes

• Dublin to Donegal: Perfect for reaching the remote northwest.
• Dublin to Kerry: Ideal for exploring the Ring of Kerry quickly.

When flying is more convenient

Flying is most useful when you’re short on time and need to reach the far west or northwest quickly. For example, traveling from Dublin to Donegal by car or bus takes several hours, but a short flight can get you there in under an hour.

Budgeting for domestic flights

• Costs: Generally range from €30 to €100, depending on the route and time of booking.
• Booking Tips: Book in advance for the best prices and check for deals from airlines like Aer Lingus and Ryanair.

Pros:

• Fast travel time.
• Convenient for long-distance routes.
• Avoids road traffic.

Cons:

• Can be more expensive than other options.
• Limited routes.
• Airport security and check-in can be time-consuming.

If you do decide to take an internal flight while you’re in Ireland, here are 3 things you need to know:

1. The only internal flights on the island of Ireland are the Dublin-Kerry and Dublin-Donegal routes, which take around 40 minutes.
2. You can fly to all three of the Aran Islands from picturesque Connemara Regional Airport with Aer Arann. Journey time is around 8 minutes and there are no flights between the islands themselves.
3. You’ll need to have your passport with you when you’re flying internally on the island of Ireland.

4. Cycling and walking

Ireland is a paradise for slow travelers who prefer exploring on two wheels or by foot.

Popular cycling routes

• Great Western Greenway: A 42 km off-road trail in County Mayo.
• Ring of Kerry: A challenging but rewarding route with stunning coastal views.
• Waterford Greenway: A 46 km trail from Waterford to Dungarvan.

For more cycling inspiration, check out our list of 5 Best Cycle Routes in Ireland.

Bike rental options

• City Rentals: Available in cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway.
• Tour Companies: Many offer bike rentals and guided tours.

Safety tips for cyclists

• Helmet: Always wear a helmet.
• Visibility: Use lights and wear high-visibility clothing.
• Road Awareness: Be aware of road rules and signals, especially in rural areas with narrow roads.

Planning on cycling while you’re in Ireland? Here are 5 things you need to know:

1. Always cycle with traffic on the left-hand side of the road.
2. Think safety first: wear a high-visibility jacket and helmet and use a good headlamp.
3. City bike schemes are an easy way to travel around the cities.
4. You can bring your bike on public transport free of charge at off-peak times.
5. Some bike hire shops allow you to rent your bike in one location and drop it off at another.

Walking tours and hiking trails

Walking is an excellent way to explore cities and towns, with many pedestrian-friendly areas.

Popular walking Rroutes and hiking trails

• Dublin: Stroll through Phoenix Park or along the River Liffey.
• Wicklow Mountains: Known as the “Garden of Ireland,” offering numerous hiking trails.
• Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk: Stunning views that are worth every step.

For more walking inspiration, check out our list of 10 Best Hiking Trails in Ireland.

Pros:

• Environmentally friendly.
• Great for health and fitness.
• Allows you to experience places more intimately.

Cons:

• Weather-dependent.
• Limited to shorter distances.
• Requires physical effort.

5. Taxis and ride-sharing in Ireland

Availability and cost of taxis

Major rideshare operators like Uber and private taxis operate in Ireland, with registered taxis findable at stands at transport hubs and in urban centers. Costs vary, with higher rates at night and on weekends.

How to hail a taxi or book in advance

• Hailing: Easily hailed on the street in cities.
• Booking: Use apps like Free Now or call local taxi services to book in advance.

Safety tips for using taxis and ride-sharing

• Verification: Check the driver’s ID and vehicle details before getting in.
• Share Details: Share your ride details with a friend or family member.

If you’ll be using taxis or hackneys in Ireland, here are 5 things you need to know:

1. You’ll find taxis at airports, train and bus stations and taxi ranks in cities and large towns. Hackneys (vehicles licenced to carry passengers) are a little different — you’ll need to call their offices to order one.
2. Taxis use a meter to calculate your fare but hackneys aren’t metered so it’s a good idea to agree a fare with your driver before you start your journey.
3. It’s not essential to tip your taxi driver in Ireland but if you choose to do it, go for at least 10–15% of your fare.
4. Some taxis also operate tour services where your driver can take you on a personal tour of a city or region.
5. Taxis are plentiful in the cities, but can be harder to find in smaller towns or rural areas so ask the locals if they can recommend a taxi or hackney service.

Learn about Tipping in Ireland to understand etiquette when using taxis.

Pros:

• Convenient and readily available in cities.
• Safe and reliable, especially for late-night travel.
• Door-to-door service.

Cons:

• More expensive than public transport.
• Limited availability in rural areas.
• Surge pricing can apply during peak times.

6. Ferries in Ireland

Ferries connect the mainland to Ireland’s offshore islands and offer routes between ports.

Key routes and sestinations

• Dublin to Holyhead (Wales)
• Rosslare to Pembroke (Wales)
• Galway to Aran Islands
• Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher

Booking tips and schedules

• Advance booking: Book in advance during peak seasons.
• Schedules: Check ferry company websites like Irish Ferries for up-to-date timetables.

Taking a ferry trip while you’re in Ireland? Here are 5 things you need to know:

1. Peak season for ferry travel to islands is June-August and some services may not run outside these months. It’s a good idea to book ahead so you’re not disappointed.
2. Always check with your ferry operator before you travel as the weather could affect sailing times.
3. Most ferries are accessible to passengers with disabilities. But check with your ferry operator as some piers and harbors might pose problems for people with mobility issues.
4. Yes, you can bring a dog (if you have one). And a bicycle (if you have one of those).
5. Cars may not be allowed on your island destination so check ahead and plan accordingly. And just enjoy the fact that you can cycle, walk or take a pony and trap to explore!

Pros:

• Scenic and relaxing mode of travel.
• Can access remote islands.
• Allows for transport of vehicles and bikes.

Cons:

• Weather-dependent.
• Can be time-consuming.
• Limited services during off-peak seasons.

7. Private driver/Chauffeur

For a more luxurious and stress-free travel experience, consider hiring a private driver or chauffeur.

Benefits of using a private driver

• Comfort: Travel in comfort without worrying about directions or parking.
• Local Knowledge: Drivers often provide valuable insights and recommendations.

Recommended companies offering chauffeur services

• Devine’s Chauffeur Service
• Executive Travel Solutions
• Ireland Chauffeur Travel

Pricing and booking tips

• Costs: Vary based on duration and distance. Expect to pay a premium for luxury services.
• Booking: Book well in advance, especially for high-demand periods.

Pros:

• Personalized and luxurious service.
• Stress-free travel experience.
• Insightful local recommendations.

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other options.
• Availability may be limited during peak seasons.
• Requires advance booking.

8. Tour companies

Guided tours offer a structured and informative way to see Ireland’s highlights.

Types of tours available

• Day Trips: Ideal for exploring specific regions or attractions.
• Multi-Day Tours: Cover extensive areas over several days.
• Specialized Tours: Focus on themes like history, food, or nature.

Popular tour companies

• Paddywagon Tours
• CIE Tours
• Wild Rover Tours
• Vagabond Tours

Benefits of joining a tour

• Guided experiences: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience.
• Convenience: No need to worry about transport or itinerary planning.

How to choose the right tour

• Interests: Choose a tour that aligns with your interests.
• Budget: Consider your budget and what is included in the tour price.
• Group size: Smaller groups offer a more personalized experience.

Pros:

• Organized and hassle-free.
• Insightful commentary from guides.
• Often includes transportation and meals.

Cons:

• Less flexibility compared to self-guided travel.
• Can be expensive.
• Group travel may not suit everyone.

FAQs about getting around Ireland

Getting around Ireland can be as enjoyable as the sights themselves. Whether you rent a car to wander scenic backroads, take a train to relax with views of the countryside, or hop on a ferry to discover remote islands, Ireland offers plenty of choices.

For most visitors, a mix of transport methods works best. With a little planning, your Irish trip will be smooth, flexible, and full of unforgettable moments.

Slán go fóill (goodbye for now)!