Practical tips for visiting Dublin
From the airport
Dublin Airport (DUB) is about 10 kilometres north of the centre. There is no rail link yet (MetroLink is planned), so buses are the main option: Dublin Express and Aircoach run to O'Connell Street and other points, and the Dublin Bus 16 and 41 routes are cheaper but slower. Taxis cost roughly €30 to €40 to the centre.
Getting around
The centre is walkable. The Luas tram has two lines: Red (east-west through Connolly and Heuston stations) and Green (north-south through St Stephen's Green). The DART train runs along the coast. Dublin Bus covers the rest. Use a Leap Visitor Card for unlimited travel for 24, 72 hours or 7 days, including airport express buses, or a regular Leap card for discounted fares; contactless payments are rolling out. Dublinbikes is a public bike sharing scheme.
Weather and best time to visit
Dublin's climate is mild and often damp; rain is possible every day, but heavy downpours are less common than the reputation suggests. Summer highs are about 18 to 20°C, and winter highs about 8°C. May to September offers the longest days, with daylight until after 22:00 in June. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket in all seasons.
Budget
Dublin is one of Europe's most expensive cities. Hostel beds cost €35 to €70, mid-range doubles €180 to €300 and luxury hotels more than €350. A pint of Guinness costs €6 to €8 and up to €9 or more in Temple Bar. A pub lunch costs €15 to €20. Free attractions include the National Museum, the National Gallery, the Chester Beatty Library and parks.
Currency and payments
Ireland uses the euro. Contactless payment is everywhere. Tipping 10 to 15 percent is customary in restaurants for good service, but not in pubs unless you're served at the table.
Pub etiquette
Pubs often use the round system, where each person takes turns buying drinks for the group. Live music sessions are informal; listen respectfully. Pubs generally close around 23:30 on weekdays and later at weekends. Smoking is banned indoors, as Ireland was the first country to introduce a nationwide ban in 2004.
Safety
Dublin is generally safe. Use normal city precautions, especially around O'Connell Street, Temple Bar late at night, and on some quays. Watch bags on buses and in crowded pubs.
Driving
Ireland drives on the left. Driving in Dublin isn't recommended because of traffic and parking costs. If renting a car for day trips, pick it up on your way out of the city.
Plugs and practicalities
Ireland uses three-pin Type G plugs, the same as the UK. Tap water is safe. Shops typically open 9:00 to 18:00, with late opening on Thursdays.
Leap Visitor Card
The Leap Visitor Card gives unlimited travel on Dublin Bus, Luas, DART and commuter rail for 24, 72 hours or seven days, including Dublin Bus routes 16 and 41, which link the airport with the city. It is sold at the airport and in some shops. Contactless payment is accepted on buses, while TFI Go app tickets work on many services.
Opening hours and pub times
Pubs typically serve until 23:30 from Monday to Thursday and later on Friday and Saturday. Many attractions open from about 9:30 to 17:00, with longer hours in summer. Booking ahead is wise for the Book of Kells and Kilmainham Gaol, which sells out.
Rain gear
Dublin's rain is frequent but usually light. A waterproof jacket with a hood is more practical than an umbrella in the wind.
Food tips
Try a full Irish breakfast, seafood chowder with brown bread, Irish stew and oysters from Galway Bay. Many restaurants offer good-value early bird menus before 19:00.
Day trips without a car
DART trains run along the coast to Howth, Dalkey and Bray, and buses go to Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains. Coach tours to the Cliffs of Moher, Newgrange and Belfast leave early from the centre.
Tipping
Tipping 10 to 15 percent is customary in restaurants when service is not included. In pubs, tipping is not expected when ordering at the bar.
Getting from the airport by bus
Dublin Airport has no rail link, so buses are the main option. Express coaches run to the city centre in 30 to 40 minutes, and Dublin Bus routes 16 and 41 are slower but cheaper. Taxis are metered and cost about €30 to €40 to the centre.
Booking restaurants and pubs with music
Popular restaurants fill up quickly on Friday and Saturday nights, so book ahead. For traditional music sessions, arrive early in pubs such as The Cobblestone in Smithfield to secure a seat.
Emergencies
Dial 112 or 999. Pharmacies are widely available, and the Irish Tourist Office has information points in the city centre.
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