Public Transport in Dublin
Dublin has good public transport, consisting of buses, trams, and trains. Public transport is efficient to get around the city, especially the outskirts. There is no subway system. The city center is walkable.
Driving in Dublin
Avoid rush hour between 7:30 – 9 am and 6:30 pm when there is gridlock near the Liffey. Stick to main roads to avoid dead-ends. Ensure legally able to drive. Drivers from EU/EEA can drive as long as license is valid. There is little reason to drive in Dublin. Paying for transport depends. Buses only take coins. LUAS takes cards, coins, and notes.
Tips for Driving in Ireland
On M50 motorway around Dublin, eFlow bridge charges a toll without stopping. Gas stations sell petrol by the litre, can’t "fill up." Specify euro amount. Book rental cars early, especially automatics. Dublin isn’t designed well for driving. Signage is poor quality, route numbers rarely correct. Automatic cars are better than manual.
Can US Citizens Drive in Ireland?
U.S. citizens can drive in Ireland for up to 12 months as a tourist. Apply for an international permit through AAA in the U.S. If staying longer than a year, convert your U.S. driver’s license to an Irish one. The U.S. Embassy in Dublin can’t help obtain an Irish license.
Is It Easy to Drive in Dublin?
Driving in Dublin can be challenging for newcomers. It’s best to use public transport, walk, or cycle. Parking is expensive and limited in the city center. Drivers from the EU/EEA can drive in Ireland as long as their license is valid. Tourists with licenses outside of the EU/EEA can drive for up to one year with the correct license. Keep fuel levels in mind when driving in rural areas. Tolls in Dublin can become an annoyance for regular drivers. Secure parking lots are expensive. Rush hour traffic is similar to other major European cities. Signage in Dublin can be poor quality and confusing for visitors. Renting a car provides flexibility to see remote villages.