Getting Around: Jersey

LibertyBus Network

LibertyBus maintains an extensive network of routes covering most of Jersey's main towns, villages, attractions, and beaches. The buses are modern, clean, and provide a comfortable travel experience.

The service tries to connect all corners of the island, helping visitors reach popular sites without a car.

Features

Main Hub: Liberation Station in St Helier serves as the central bus terminal. Most routes originate from or pass through this station.
Route Maps: Obtain detailed route maps at Liberation Station, their website, or via their mobile app.
Ticketing: Pay cash, contactless card, or use an AVEC Card for discounted fares.
Day Passes: Provide unlimited travel for a full day (~£8.50). Multi-day passes also available for longer stays.

Hours & Frequency

Buses generally run from early morning (6:00 AM) until late evening (11:00 PM). Services operate less frequently on Sundays and public holidays. Popular routes run every 15-30 minutes.

Accessibility

Most LibertyBus vehicles are modern and designed with accessibility. They feature low-floor access, ramps for wheelchairs and pushchairs, and designated spaces.

Navigation Tips

Use the LibertyBus App for real-time bus tracking and journey planning. Plan routes in advance for less frequent services. Signal the driver at roadside stops.

Payment Options

Ticket Purchases

Cash: Pay the driver directly. Exact fare is helpful.
Contactless Card Payment: All buses accept contactless payments via debit or credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Apple Pay, Google Pay).
AVEC Card: A top-up smart card available for purchase at Liberation Station for discounted fares.

Pass Options

Day Pass: Provides unlimited travel for a full day and costs approximately £8.50.
Multi-day passes (e.g., 3-day, 7-day) are also available, offering further savings for longer stays.
Purchase these at Liberation Station.

Typical Fares

Single Trip

£2.50 - £3.00

Day Pass

£8.50

St Helier Taxi Short

£8 - £12

Airport to St Helier Taxi

£15 - £20

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis provide a convenient option for direct travel, especially for evenings or when carrying luggage.

Licensed Taxis

Licensed taxis in Jersey are typically black cabs or white cars displaying a roof light and a meter.
Hailing: You can hail them on the street, though this is less common outside of St Helier.
Taxi Ranks: Find designated taxi ranks at major points like Liberation Station, Jersey Airport, and other popular areas in St Helier.
Booking by Phone: Many local taxi companies allow booking by phone. This guarantees a taxi at a specific time and location.

Fares & Payments

Taxi fares operate on a metered system.
Short Journey: A short journey within St Helier might cost approximately £8-£12. Airport to St Helier: Expect fares around £15-£20.
Most taxis accept both cash and major credit/debit cards. It is always wise to confirm payment methods with the driver.
Fares increase slightly after midnight and on public holidays.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Ride-Sharing Apps: Major international apps like Uber or Lyft do not operate in Jersey.
Local taxi companies offer their own booking apps, like the "Jersey Taxi App," offering similar convenience.
This allows booking and tracking local taxis.

Safety Considerations: Licensed taxis in Jersey are safe and regulated.
Always choose a licensed taxi (check for roof light and meter).
Confirm the fare or ensure the meter runs at the start of your journey.

Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements

Jersey Airport

A taxi rank is located directly outside the arrivals terminal for easy access.

Elizabeth Terminal

Taxi ranks are easily accessible for arriving and departing ferry travelers.

Liberation Station

Main bus terminal in St Helier also provides accessible taxi ranks.

Rental Options

Explore Jersey with personal vehicle rentals, offering flexibility.

Car Rental Requirements

Minimum Age: Usually 21; some companies surcharge for drivers under 25. Check with the specific rental company.
Driving License: A full, valid driving license, held for at least 1-2 years, is needed.
UK, EU, US, Canadian, and Australian licenses are generally accepted.
International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for other nationalities as an official license translation.

Driving Regulations

Drive on the left side of the road.
Speed Limits: 40 mph (64 km/h) on main roads, 30 mph (48 km/h) in built-up areas, and 15 mph (24 km/h) on "Green Lanes".
Seatbelts: Mandatory for all occupants. Strict drink driving laws apply.
Road Conditions: Generally well-maintained. Many rural roads are narrow, especially the "Green Lanes," requiring careful driving.

Car Rental Services

Major Brands

Major international brands like Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and Sixt operate in Jersey. Local operators also offer competitive rates.

Pickup Locations: Desks at Jersey Airport and in St Helier.

Parking Options

Paid parking is available in multi-storey car parks in St Helier. Many attractions offer their own car parks, some free, some paid.

The PayByPhone app provides a convenient way to pay for parking.

Other Rentals

Motorcycle and scooter availability is limited. Enquire with local hire companies. Ensure you have the correct license category.

Jersey is very cycle-friendly; numerous places rent bicycles, including electric bikes.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Friendly Areas

St Helier town center is highly pedestrian-friendly, with many streets reserved for foot traffic.
Beyond the town, Jersey boasts an extensive network of coastal paths, inland tracks, and "Green Lanes" ideal for walking.
The entire coastline features a well-maintained path.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Dedicated cycle paths exist, especially along the coast and converted railway lines.
"Green Lanes" provide an excellent, low-traffic environment for cycling, with a 15 mph (24 km/h) speed limit.
No-Go Areas: Jersey is generally safe for pedestrians and cyclists. However, exercise caution on busy main roads, where pavements can be narrow or non-existent. Always use marked crossings.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses: Local companies offer open-top bus tours that provide a convenient way to see major attractions.
These tours often feature commentary, offering insights into the island's history and points of interest.
Some may operate on a hop-on-hop-off basis during peak season, allowing flexibility.
Jersey does not have unique local options like tuk-tuks or funiculars.

Boat Taxis & Water Transport: Limited boat taxi services exist, but boat trips and excursions are readily available.
Coastal tours offer views of Jersey's cliffs and bays from the sea.
Fishing trips and excursions to offshore reefs and islets like Les Écréhous or Les Minquiers.
Book these trips with local operators in St Helier or Gorey.

Driving Green Lanes

A smaller car offers better maneuverability on Jersey's Green Lanes and narrow country roads, heightening your driving experience.

Getting Around Jersey