Getting around in Ireland

Travelling between major centres in the Republic of Ireland is generally straightforward, with reliable public transport network operated by the state-supported train and bus companies,  Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) and Bus Éireann.

Travelling by car
This is definitely the best way to get acquainted with Ireland. Car rentals in Ireland offer you total independence allowing you to choose when and where you travel to. Pick up points for your car hire are easily arranged and include air and ferry ports.

By renting a car, you can plan your own itinerary pm the island and stop at whatever town, attraction, or viewing point that you wish to see.

Travelling by bus
Ireland has a good bus network with every region being well-served. Busaras in Dublin is the central bus station for the Republic of Ireland while the Europa Buscentre in Belfast is the core of Northern Ireland's bus network.

All major towns in Ireland have a main bus station. These points allow you to travel to the adjoining smaller towns and villages and in some cases, more isolated spots of Ireland.

Travel Ireland by rail
Ireland's rail tracks extend to every region of the island. Dublin has two central stations; Heuston Station serves the south and west regions while Connolly Station links the north and the North West. Great Victoria Street Station in Belfast is the central base of rail travel in Northern Ireland.

Not every county of Ireland is linked to the rail network but in most cases it is straightforward enough to get a connecting bus to your destination.

Travelling by internal flights
Owing to its regional airports, Ireland has internal air routes to get you from one end of the country to the other. Although it is not the cheapest form of transport, it is ideal if you are restricted for time and want to see as much of the island as possible.

You can take a domestic flight from Dublin to Knock Airport (Co. Mayo), Galway Airport, Shannon Airport, Kerry Airport and Cork Airport. The Irish airline company Aer Arann operates these flights on a daily schedule. They also offer a summer service from Galway Airport to the Aran Islands.

To travel to the North West regions, you can use the air routes from Dublin to Sligo Airport and Donegal Airport. These are operated on a daily basis by Euroceltic Airways.

If you wish to travel to Northern Ireland, British Airways offer a daily scheduled flight from Dublin to City of Derry Airport.

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