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Using Public Transportation in Ireland (a trip report)

ByJody Halsted Posted: Updated:

For travelers who want to explore Ireland without renting a car, public transportation is a practical and affordable option.

This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Deb Thompson, a travel blogger who worked with Jody to plan her trip. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.

Getting Around Ireland: Transportation from the Airport

Jody spoke with Deb Thompson in podcast Episode 4 – Ireland Vacation Coaching. Now she is following up with Deb about her trip – and discussing public transportation in Ireland.

When Deb arrived in Dublin, she found the bus stop a short walk from the airport. The buses in Ireland are well-marked, making them easy to find. She was able to board an earlier bus than planned without any problems, and the price stayed the same. This convenience made her arrival smooth and set the tone for her trip.

Comfortable and Affordable Bus Rides

Deb’s bus ride from Dublin to Kilkenny took two hours aboard a Bus Éireann coach. The bus had comfortable seats, climate control, and enough space for luggage. The fare was just 15 euros, making it a budget-friendly option for travel. With low costs and comfortable seating, buses are a popular choice for travelers.

Easy Navigation and Accessibility

Deb found that getting around on the bus system was simple. The routes were clearly marked, and if she had any questions, the locals and bus station employees were happy to help. Ireland’s bus network is extensive, connecting even smaller towns and villages. This makes it easy to travel across the country without a car.

Touring with Wild Rover Tours

For her visit to the Giant’s Causeway, Deb took a tour with Wild Rover Tours. She chose the political tour in Belfast, which she found interesting. Wild Rover Tours lets travelers choose different types of tours, making it easy to see the sights that match their interests. Combining guided tours with public buses is a convenient way to explore Ireland.

Using GetThere.ie to Plan Your Trip

Deb used GetThere.ie to help plan her bus routes. This tool made it easy to navigate from one bus to another, whether local, national, or tourist buses. The buses were clean and safe, and Deb recommends them for solo travelers or anyone who prefers not to take large guided tours.

It’s also important to note that in Ireland, you must be at least 25 years old to rent a car. For younger travelers, the bus system is a great option, providing an easy way to get around.

Three Not Miss Places to Visit

During her trip, Deb visited some of Ireland's most well-known landmarks. Here are three she recommends:

  1. Giant's Causeway – This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its unique rock formations. It’s a popular spot, so visiting during off-peak times can help avoid crowds.
  2. Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin – This medieval cathedral offers both historical and cultural significance. Deb took a guided tour, which included a chance to ring the church bells.
  3. St. Canice's Cathedral, Kilkenny – This cathedral is known for its round tower and graveyard. It’s worth visiting for its historical value and scenic views.

Buses as a Convenient Alternative

For travelers who prefer not to drive, Ireland’s bus system is a great alternative. It’s affordable, accessible, and easy to navigate. Tools like GetThere.ie help with planning, making it simple to travel by bus. Whether you're traveling alone, with a group, or want to skip large tours, the bus system offers flexibility and freedom to explore.

Deb’s trip shows that with some planning, Ireland is easy to explore without a car. The bus system is a good choice for anyone looking to travel across the country on a budget.

For more of Deb’s travel experiences, visit her blog, Just Short of Crazy, where she shares updates and links to her social media accounts.

Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 17

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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Jody Halsted
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2 Comments

  1. this was really insightful as i plan on visiting next month and am worried about the public transportation. I didn’t hear any mention of the LEAP card. would you recommend it?? i plan on hiking and going to the castles

    Reply