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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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:
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:
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!
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