Public Transportation in Dublin | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 160

Today is the first day of my fall tour. It's always a bit of a nervous time when I put a group of strangers on a bus. But it has always worked out and this group is no exception. They have blended easily and day 1 was a success.

I'll share a bit more about today's activities but first I want to thank Tim K for sharing his Aer Lingus business class experience with me. He and his wife used the bidding system to upgrade their trip and he reported that it was worth every penny.

And S. Fitz has sent in a terrific question.

I want to drive over near Dublin and park the car at a train station some distance away and commute into the city. Where should I park and how should I get to hotel once we arrive at Heuston Station? Are taxi's and busses easily navigated for 1st time visitors?

Is Public Transportation Easy to Use in Dublin?

Having just left Dublin and noticing all the new bike lanes, new one way streets, and road construction – which will create more bike lanes and one way streets – I can not stress enough that visitors should not drive in Dublin city centre.

I was told by a taxi driver that the goal is to make the city centre car-free. I can't say if that is a true statement, but every time I visit I notice that it is more difficult to navigate on 4 wheels.

If you are driving clockwise around the country you will come to Dublin from the north. So you could choose to park in Skerries or Rush/Lusk. Both of these spots have a nice sized car park and are far enough from the city that driving in to them is easy.

Another option would be to go halfway around Dublin and park in Newbridge.

All of these stations are far enough outside of Dublin that you won't have the city traffic, and still about 30 minutes from the train station.

Be sure to check your arrival station – trains from the north will likely arrive at Connelly Station while those from the west will arrive at Heuston.

As for getting to your hotel from the train station…

The simplest way to get your accommodation is by taxi. All train stations have taxi queues so all you have to do is follow the signs and grab the next available cab.

If your hotel is on or near the Luas (light rail) that is very easy to use – just purchase a ticket at the kiosk.

Buses can be a bit more confusing as you do need to know what bus number you need and the approximate time schedule. If you are traveling with luggage that can also be a bit of a hassle.

When I have luggage I almost always use a taxi.

A Celtic Experience Day 1

Powerscourt Estate and Gardens – stunning gardens with views of Sugarloaf Mountain

Powerscourt Distillery – a very good tour of a small working distillery; whiskey tasting with food pairings is spectacular

whiskey tasting with food pairing at Powerscourt Distillery

Butler House, Kilkenny – formerly the Dower House of Kilkenny Castle; centrally located in the medieval city

The Botanical Room at Butler House in Kilkenny

Don't forget! I would love to answer your questions on the podcast! Email your questions to jody@irelandfamilyvacations.com – write Podcast Question in the subject line. And be sure to let me know if I can use your first name and the first initial of your last name when I share the question.

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Jody Halsted

Jody Halsted is the charismatic host behind the popular Traveling in Ireland Podcast and the Ireland Family Vacations website. With a deep passion for Ireland and an infectious enthusiasm for sharing its wonders, Jody has become a trusted voice in the realm of Irish travel.

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