Moving to Ireland...do I need to buy a car?

Expert Info

Posted by

on 19 Feb 2013

Hey guys, I'm going to be living in Ireland for a year come this summer and I'm just trying to weigh up the benefits of owning a car in Ireland. I'm gonna be living in Dublin and working at a pub at the Temple Bar area. Do I need a car, or is the public transport sufficient? Also, I want to explore the countryside a bit, so are there any buses or trains doing routes around the country? Anyone got any experiences of driving in Ireland that they can share?

Anonymous (not verified) on 21 Feb 2013 - 06:42

Hi Jonny

If living in Dublin it is definitely not essential to have your own car. Dublin has an excellent system of buses, trains and trams and there are also taxis if you need one. It is actually cheaper and quicker to get around Dublin using public transport.

For more information on the public transport system in Dublin have a look at our Getting around in Dublin page.

As for going into the countryside you could take a train or a bus, although if you wanted to explore the more remote little villages you might need to hire a car.

For detailed information on what driving in Ireland is like, visit our Transport and driving in Ireland page.

I hope this helps.

Regards

Candice

Anonymous (not verified) on 21 Feb 2013 - 14:41

Hey Jonny,

I agree with Candice. For everyday life in Dublin you won't need a car. In fact, its probably going to be more trouble than its worth. Its difficult to find parking in most places in the city-centre and even when you do find parking its pretty expensive.

When I was in Dublin I did a few tours out to some of the more remote areas. Tours are a good idea if you are on your own but if you make a bunch of friends its worth hiring a car for the weekend and taking your time to explore.

Enjoy Dublin.

Anonymous (not verified) on 24 Feb 2014 - 11:26

Hi, I am moving to Dublin within the next three months and wondered if it was worth taking my car with me? Its in my mums name at the moment, would this confuse matters? How long can I drive my car in Dublin while still on English insurance and do I have to pay vehicle tax to register it in Ireland? Sorry for all the questions...

Anonymous (not verified) on 25 Feb 2014 - 07:30

Hi Anon,

As previously stated in the thread, you really won't be need a car in Dublin as the city has excellent transportation links.

I think its best to check with the insurance company, as to wether your insurance will be valid for a long-term stay in London or if you need to find an Irish car insurance provider.

Good luck

Shantalie

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