Planning a trip to Ireland and wanting to venture beyond Dublin? Amazing! We’re here to help you learn everything you need to know about getting around the Emerald Isle comfortably and without blowing out your budget. And especially if you’re not willing to drive on the left side of the road.
This beautiful country offers plenty of ways to explore its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and vibrant cities using public transportation. Whether you’re planning to visit the charming cities of Cork, Galway, or Limerick, or just want to do a full round trip around the island, there is likely a way to get where you want to be safely and hassle-free.
Here’s what you need to know about ground transportation in Ireland.
Getting around Ireland by bus
Traveling by bus in Ireland is an excellent choice for several reasons. Buses are frequent, reliable, and cover a vast network across the country. You can sit back and enjoy the scenic views without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads. Additionally, bus travel is generally more affordable than renting a car or taking a train, making it a budget-friendly option for many travelers.
Advantages of choosing the bus to travel in Ireland
- Cost-Effective: Bus fares are usually lower than train tickets or car rental costs.
- Extensive Network: Buses reach even the smaller towns and rural areas, providing access to more remote parts of Ireland.
- Comfort and Convenience: Modern buses are equipped with comfortable seats, Wi-Fi, and restrooms.
- Eco-Friendly: Traveling by bus reduces your carbon footprint compared to driving a car.
Bus companies operating in Ireland
Ireland boasts a variety of bus companies that cater to both locals and tourists. Here are some of the key players:
Dublin Express offers convenient services between Dublin Airport and the city center almost every 10 minutes, perfect for getting in and out of the capital. It’s also a convenient way to travel from Dublin to Belfast, as they have multiple departures from the city center and the Airport. Expect about 16 daily trips to Belfast, and comfortable buses with toilet facilities, WiFi and charging ports.
Aircoach provides comfortable and frequent services between Dublin, Cork, Belfast, and other major cities, including routes to and from airports. Travelers can enjoy reclining seats with footrests, free WiFi, and charging ports. If you’re on the Dublin-Cork route, the bus will also have bathrooms. Luggage allowance is generous, with each traveller being allowed to bring 2 pieces.
Expressway offers long-distance express services connecting major cities and towns in Ireland. With routes linking Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Sligo, Donegal and beyond, Expressway ensures provides passengers with spacious reclining seats, toilets free WiFi, and charging ports to stay connected on the go. Expressway also allows travellers to bring a 15kg suitcase with them.
Expressway also offers overnight bus trips between London (UK) and Dublin (IE), so it’s a good option if you’re seeking a budget-friendly trip between the two countries.
Citylink specializes in intercity travel, with frequent services between cities like Dublin, Galway, Ballina, Limerick, Castlebar, Cork and beyond. Their buses are equipped with free Wi-Fi, toilets, reclinable seats, and charging points. You can travel with two large pieces of luggage of up to 20kg plus a carry-on.
Taking the train in Ireland
Ireland’s rail system is another excellent option for getting around, especially if you prefer a more scenic journey. The main train operator is Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann), which runs services connecting Dublin with other major cities such as Cork, Galway, Limerick, and Belfast. Trains are generally comfortable and offer amenities like Wi-Fi, dining cars, and restrooms.
About train travel
- Speed: Trains are often faster than buses, especially for long-distance travel.
- Comfort: Spacious seating and amenities make for a relaxing journey.
- Scenic Routes: Enjoy picturesque views of the Irish countryside from your window.
- Higher prices: Compared to buses, trains tend to cost more.
Flying within Ireland
Ireland is a small country, so we generally don’t recommend flying for domestic travel. However, there are a few domestic flights available, primarily connecting Dublin with regional airports like Kerry and Donegal. These can be useful if you’re short on time or need to travel between Dublin and other cities quickly.
Main Airports in Ireland
- Dublin Airport (DUB): The main international gateway with a few domestic connections. The easiest way and most efficient way to get to Dublin Airport is by bus, as most bus companies in the country have trips that take travellers directly to the airport.
- Cork Airport (ORK): Serves international flights only, mostly within Europe.
- Kerry Airport (KIR): Connects the southwest of Ireland and Dublin through quick and direct low-cost flights.
- Donegal Airport (CFN): Serves the northwest of Ireland with flights to and from Dublin.
- Connemara Airport (NNR): Connects the island of Connemara to Galway.
- Galway Airport (GWY): connects the city to France and the UK only.
Car Rental
Renting a car in Ireland is an option, but it comes with a few considerations. It’s more expensive than public transportation, and you’ll need to be comfortable driving on the left side of the road. Car rental is best for travelers who want the flexibility to explore remote areas and scenic routes at their own pace.
About car rentals in Ireland:
- Flexibility: Travel on your own schedule and explore off-the-beaten-path locations.
- Convenience: Ideal for families or groups with lots of luggage or specific needs.
- Beware of tolls: factor in tolls when planning a car trip. You can pay the toll charge directly, but only with cash.
Ireland Day Tours
If you’re looking to explore specific attractions or regions without worrying about transportation logistics, day tours are a fantastic option. Many companies offer guided tours to popular destinations such as the Cliffs of Moher, Giant’s Causeway, and the Ring of Kerry. These tours often include transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and sometimes even meals, making them a convenient and enriching way to see the sights.
Ireland Budget Travel
Traveling around Ireland on a budget is completely doable, especially when using the bus network. Here are some practical tips to help you save money while exploring the Emerald Isle:
- Book in Advance: Many bus companies offer significant discounts for tickets purchased ahead of time. Planning your trips early can result in substantial savings.
- Travel Off-Peak: Avoiding peak travel times can also save you money. Off-peak tickets are often cheaper and buses are less crowded, making for a more comfortable journey.
- Use Online Platforms: Websites and apps like Busbud can help you find the best deals by comparing prices from different bus companies. This ensures you get the most bang for your buck.
Booking Bus Tickets Online
One of the easiest ways to book your bus tickets in Ireland is through Busbud. The online platform allows you to compare schedules, prices, and routes from various bus companies all in one place. Here are some advantages of using Busbud:
- Convenience: You can book tickets from the comfort of your home or on the go using their website or app.
- Best Prices: Busbud helps you find the best deals by comparing prices from multiple companies.
- Customer Reviews: Read reviews from other travelers to choose the best service for your needs.
- Secure Payments: Enjoy peace of mind with secure online payment options.
Traveling around Ireland without a car has never been easier. With a robust bus network, budget-friendly options, and the convenience of online booking, you’re all set for an unforgettable adventure on the Emerald Isle. Happy travels!