Getting Around The City With Dublin Bus

Dublin doesn’t have an underground rail system and while there are is light rail (DART) and an expanding tram system (LUAS), the bus network remains the largest and most flexible system for getting around Dublin. And to be fair to Dublin Bus they provide a good service overall. Buses are generally modern (thanks to large investment during Irelands boom years), fares are reasonable, and the digital displays at most stops will tell you when the next bus is due.

The personality of the drivers differs a lot, some are more helpful than others if you have a query so it’s probably best to check out their website first or download their app before you plan your journey. Fares are relatively cheap and as you can imagine, prepaid tickets or LEAP cards are the best value. Try to have your change ready before you board the bus, this makes boarding a more pleasant experience – nothing worse than routing around pockets with a bus full of eyes burning a gaze at you!


If you are travelling within the city centre zone, make sure you avail of the ‘city centre fare’. It’s just 75 cents and is great value. Note that Dublin Bus do not give out cash change nor do they accept banknotes, so exact change or prepaid is recommended. However if you have paid too much, the driver will give you a change receipt for the difference which is only redeemable at Dublin Bus head office located on O’Connell Street.


We think Dublin Bus provide the best value links to the Airport at present on their 747 and 757 services. For €6 one way or €10 return the service is regular and quick with stops all around the city centre.
If you want to see the city via bus then we highly recommend their Hop-On Hop-Off service with live commentary from trained guides. Kids go free which is a nice touch and the tour covers all the most popular attractions.

Dublin Bus also offer an extensive night time service called Nitelink at weekends – perfect for revellers who need to get to the suburbs.
We recommend the visitors LEAP card to any tourists expecting to use public transport for more than a couple of days. For more info on Dublin Bus visit the website – www.dublinbus.ie

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