Transport and Driving in Ireland

Transport and driving in Ireland are not without challenges, but you'll generally find the public transport system efficient and the road networks well-maintained. While the rest of Europe drives on the right-hand side of the road, in Ireland, you’ll be driving on the left. 

This is a holdover from British rule and can be a bit tricky if you’re not used to it. In Irish vehicles, the driver’s seat is on the right, which may take some getting used to, especially when turning or navigating roundabouts.

Dublin and other major cities boast modern transport networks, but some areas of Ireland have infrastructure that might feel a bit dated. Still, you won't have much trouble getting around. Ireland’s public transport network, although not perfect, is more comprehensive than what you’ll find in many other countries.

Driving in Dublin can be congested, with frequent delays. Consider using public transport or walking within the city.

Public transport in Ireland

Trains

Ireland has a punctual and comfortable rail network that connects most major towns and cities, including Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Limerick. It’s an affordable option if you plan ahead. Booking tickets online can save you up to 50 percent of your fare.

Dublin is connected to its suburbs by the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) and to surrounding counties by commuter rail services. Both options are great if you live outside Dublin but work in the city.

Recent upgrades and expansions, like the Cork City rail upgrade and new trains for the Dublin-Belfast route, promise even better service in the future.

Buses

Ireland has an extensive city and intercity bus network. Buses serving remote areas may not run on Sundays and can experience delays in winter. Regular rural bus services, operated by TFI Local Link, run on fixed routes between towns and villages.

Bus Éireann is the main national bus service, complemented by other operators like Dublin Bus. The Leap Card, a reloadable prepaid travel card, can be used on Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus and some private operators, making it easy to navigate routes. Bus Éireann’s Expressway service is similar to the rail network and also serves airports.

Useful links

• Irish Rail
• Dublin Bus
• Bus Éireann
• Transport for Ireland

Taxis in Ireland

It’s quite easy to hail a taxi in Ireland: just look out for the distinctive yellow and blue signage. You can hail one from the street, get one at a taxi rank, call for one or order via an app. All taxis are metered, and fares are among the highest in Europe. Dublin’s standard fare is pricier than in cities like London in the UK and Paris in France but cheaper than Zurich, Switzerland.

Taxis are plentiful in city centres but can be harder to find in smaller towns or rural areas. In these places, ask locals for recommendations on the best taxi companies.

Ride-hailing services, including Uber, FREE NOW and Bolt, are available. Uber operates only with registered taxi drivers, as private cars aren’t permitted.

Useful links

• Uber Ireland
• FREE NOW Ireland
• Bolt Dublin

Driving in Ireland

Dublin’s roads are among Europe’s safest. The city features extensive traffic-calming measures, widespread roundabouts, dedicated bus and cycle lanes, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Outside the city, drivers are generally courteous.

You don’t need a car if you live in cities like Dublin, Cork or Galway. These cities have extensive public transport networks and are easy to navigate on foot. In the countryside, a car may be necessary due to limited public transport.

Country driving can be challenging. Roads are narrow, winding and sometimes unmarked. Livestock, lack of street lighting and poor road conditions add to the difficulty. In summer, thick hedgerows can obscure bends. The best advice is to keep left and drive slowly.

You can drive in Ireland with a valid foreign licence for up to 12 months. After that, you must apply for an Irish licence. Ireland has exchange agreements with many countries, including EU nations, allowing easy conversion without testing. 

If you're from a country that has no exchange agreement with Ireland, you will have to go through several steps to obtain an Irish driving licence. First, you must pass a theoretical test, apply for a learner's permit, complete an Essential Driver Training (EDT) course, pass a practical driving test, and finally apply for a local driving licence. 

Useful links

• National Driver Licence Service

Cycling in Ireland

For the eco-conscious, cycling in Ireland is a fantastic option. Dublin boasts over 186 miles (300km) of dedicated cycle lanes, placing it among the top European cities for cycling. The Greater Dublin Area Cycle Network Plan aims to expand and connect the cycling infrastructure further.

Outside the capital, there are plenty of scenic routes. The Ring of the Reeks is a 68-mile (110km) loop through the stunning MacGillycuddy's Reeks mountains. The Tralee to Dingle route offers 84 miles (135km) of breathtaking coastal views. Killarney National Park provides 17 miles (27km) of family-friendly paths, and the famous Ring of Kerry, a 111-mile (179km) route, showcases Ireland's dramatic southwest coastline.

Other cities, such as Cork, Galway and Limerick, are also investing in cycling infrastructure, promoting a shift towards sustainable mobility.

Useful links

• Cycling in Ireland
• Dublin Cycling Campaign
• Cork Cycling Campaign

Air travel in Ireland

Dublin Airport is the largest in Ireland, handling millions of passengers annually. It offers connectivity to numerous destinations across Europe and North America. Other major airports include Shannon, Cork, and Ireland West Airport Knock.

Several factors have disrupted air travel in the recent past, including a pay dispute with Aer Lingus pilots, which led to numerous flight cancellations and affected thousands of passengers. Looking ahead, Dublin Airport is planning a new runway and terminal expansions to meet growing passenger demand. 

Shannon and Cork airports are also investing in infrastructure upgrades. These developments aim to enhance the capacity and connectivity of Ireland's air transport network.