How to Get to Dublin. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Flights to Dublin

Airport and Airlines

Dublin Airport (DUB) is the main international airport, located approximately 10 kilometers north of the central area.

Air Travel Information

Major European Carriers: Aer Lingus, Ryanair, British Airways, Lufthansa, Air France, KLM.
North American Carriers: Aer Lingus, Delta, United Airlines, American Airlines, Air Canada.
Direct flights from numerous cities across Europe, North America, and some West Asian hubs.

Seasonal Flight Patterns

Flight availability and prices fluctuate throughout the year.

Price & Availability Outlook

High Season (Jun-Aug): Most direct flights, highest prices. Book well in advance.
Shoulder Season (Apr-May, Sep-Oct): Good availability, moderate prices. Good balance.
Low Season (Nov-Mar): Fewer direct routes, lowest prices (excluding holiday surge).

North American Routes

Direct flights from major US cities (New York, Boston, Chicago, etc.) and Canadian cities (Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver).

Extensive European Links

Direct connections from London, Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Rome, Madrid, Barcelona, Lisbon, Berlin, and many other European nations cities.

Middle Eastern Connections

Direct flights from Dubai (DXB) and Doha (DOH) connect Dublin to Asia and Australasia.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Dublin Airport Services

Facilities: Duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, currency exchange, ATMs, vehicle rental desks, free Wi-Fi.
US Pre-Clearance: Clear US immigration and customs in Dublin for US-bound flights.
Two main terminals (T1 & T2) connected by covered walkways.
Luggage storage, prayer rooms, executive lounges available.

Airport to City Transfers

Dublin Express (Aircoach): Popular fast bus service into the city's core and suburbs.
Dublin Bus (Route 16, 41): Cheaper, slower public bus service.
Taxi: Readily available from ranks. Fare into the city's core typically €25-€40.
Car Rental: Desks for major companies in arrivals halls.

Flight Booking & Savings

Find Deals

Use services like Dollar Flight Club for flight deal alerts.

Compare Flights

Check Skyscanner for comparing prices across multiple airlines.

Book in Advance

Secure better rates by booking flights well ahead of your travel dates, especially for high season.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Ireland's national rail network connects Dublin to most major cities and towns.

Irish Rail Services

InterCity Services: Heuston Station (west/southwest), Connolly Station (southeast, north, Belfast).
DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit): Electric commuter rail along Dublin coast (Malahide/Howth to Greystones).
Commuter Rail: Additional services extend into the Greater Dublin Area.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Extensive bus networks link Dublin across the island.

Bus Services

Bus Éireann: National operator, extensive network from Busáras (Dublin's central bus station).
Other Operators: Aircoach (to Cork, Belfast), GoBus, Citylink (express to Galway, Limerick).
Border Crossing: No physical border controls with Northern Ireland (Common Travel Area).

Self-Driving Considerations

Driving Essentials

Driving Side: Left-hand side of the road.
License: Valid national driver's license, IDP if not in English/no photo. Minimum age 21-25.
Road Conditions: Good on motorways. Rural roads can be narrow/winding.

Parking & Tolls

Be aware of parking regulations and toll payments in and around Dublin.

Cost & Convenience

Parking: Expensive and challenging in city center. Paid on-street, multi-storey car parks.
Tolls: Several motorways. Some have booths, others (M50) use electronic payment online or at designated shops.
Consider park-and-ride facilities on city outskirts connected to DART/Luas.

Driving Safety Concerns

Be aware of cyclists and walkers in urban areas.
Watch for slow-moving farm vehicles in rural areas.
Plan routes in advance, especially if new to left-hand driving.

Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal.
Adhere to speed limits: 50 km/h urban, 80 km/h regional, 100 km/h national, 120 km/h motorways.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Ferry services present an alternative way to reach Dublin, notably from the UK.

Sea Travel to Dublin

Ferry Ports: Dublin Port (main terminal, near city center). Dún Laoghaire Harbour (south of Dublin).
Ferry Operators: Stena Line, Irish Ferries (from Holyhead, UK to Dublin Port). Isle of Man Steam Packet Company (from Douglas).
Cruise Ports: Dublin Port is a popular destination for cruise ships.

River Transportation & Immigration

River Liffey cruises are available for sightseeing, offering an unique perspective.

River & Entry Details

River Liffey Cruises: Mainly for tourist experiences, not arrival/departure transport.
Immigration Procedures: Similar to the airports. EU/EEA/Swiss/UK citizens minimal checks. Others undergo full checks.
Connections to Land: Dublin Port served by Dublin Bus and taxis. Dún Laoghaire by DART and Dublin Bus.

River Liffey Exploration

Scenic river cruises offer an unique view of Dublin's historical quays and modern architecture. A relaxing way to see the city from a different angle.

Ferry Access to UK

Regular ferry services from Holyhead (Wales, UK) to Dublin Port, with Stena Line and Irish Ferries. A popular route for travelers coming from or going to Britain.

Streamlined Immigration

Immigration procedures at seaports are efficient. Have your passport and any necessary visas ready for inspection, especially for non-EU/EEA/Swiss/UK citizens.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures & Timing

Plan your departure to Dublin Airport for a smooth experience.

Departure Guidelines

International Flights: Arrive 2.5-3 hours before departure (excluding US-bound).
US-bound Flights: Allow 3-4 hours for US Customs pre-clearance at DUB.
Domestic/UK Flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.

Airport Facilities for Departure

Dublin Airport has extensive facilities for departing travelers.

Amenities & Services

No Exit Fees: No specific exit fees or taxes for tourists departing Ireland.
Facilities: Duty-free shopping, numerous restaurants, cafes, bars, lounges, free Wi-Fi.
Efficiency: Complete online check-in if available. Prepare liquids/electronics for security.

Train and Bus Station Amenities

Heuston Station

One of Dublin's main train stations, serving western and southwestern routes. Features cafes and waiting areas for comfortable departures.

Connolly Station

Serves southeast, north, and Belfast routes. Similar amenities for departing travelers, including shops and eateries.

Busáras Central Bus Station

The hub for Bus Éireann long-distance services. Contains cafes and commerce options for pre-departure needs.

Departure Reminder

Always check your airline's specific recommendations for arrival times at Dublin Airport, especially if traveling during peak seasons or for US-bound flights due to pre-clearance.

How to Get to Dublin