Airport to City Transport Guide (Dublin)

Helpful Content
Purpose: Help students choose a safe, reliable way to get from Dublin Airport to the city or their accommodation.
Responsible team: Student Success / Admin
Last updated: February 17, 2026
Quick summary
  • AirCoach 700x is the most common route to the City Centre (around €9).
  • Use the official Dublin Airport transport page to check live routes and operators.
  • Keep your accommodation address and phone number accessible — do not rely on phone battery alone.
700xAIRCOACHCITY CENTRE~€9

Who this is for

New arrivals who want a simple, low-stress way to reach Dublin city from the airport.

If you are not sure this applies to you, contact Student Success for guidance.

Step-by-step

1) AirCoach (recommended for most students)

AirCoach is a blue coach service that runs direct routes from the airport to the city centre and beyond. Look for the blue coaches outside the arrivals terminal.

Blue AirCoach bus at Dublin Airport
  • Route 700x — City Centre. This is the most likely option for most students. It runs frequently and stops at key city centre locations.
  • At the time of writing, the City Centre fare is approximately €9.
  • Check all routes and timetables at: aircoach.ie/timetables

2) Dublin Bus — Airport Express 747

The 747 Airport Express is a green Dublin Bus service that also runs between the airport and the city centre, with several stops along the way.

Dublin Bus 747 Airport Express

3) Taxi

Official taxis are available outside the arrivals hall. Make sure it is a licensed taxi with a meter. Expect to pay €40–€60 to the city centre depending on traffic and time of day.

If you land late at night, a taxi or pre-booked transfer is the safest option.

4) Keep your address ready

Have your accommodation address and contact number saved on your phone and written down on paper. Do not rely on phone battery alone after a long flight.

Important: Do not take the Route 16 bus

Dublin Bus Route 16 — not recommended for airport arrivals
Warning: The Route 16 is a regular urban bus that passes through the airport but is not designed as an airport service. It circulates through many residential areas (Harold's Cross, Terenure, Rathfarnham) before leaving the city. Students arriving for the first time in Dublin should not take this bus — unless you already know the route and have a specific reason to use it. Stick with a Taxi, AirCoach or 747 Bus instead.

Documents, costs, timelines

Documents
  • No documents required for transport.
  • Keep your phone charged and your accommodation address accessible.
  • All taxis in Ireland must accept card payments. Tickets for AirCoach are purchased before boarding and accept card payments or cash.
Costs and timing
  • AirCoach 700x: ~€9 to City Centre.
  • Dublin Bus 747: ~€8 to City Centre.
  • Taxi: €40–€60 depending on traffic.
  • Travel time: 30–50 minutes by bus/coach depending on traffic.

Common mistakes (avoid these)

  • Getting into unofficial or unlicensed vehicles
  • Taking the Route 16 bus without knowing the route
  • Not checking the correct pickup area at the airport
  • Waiting too long to decide during peak hours

If something goes wrong

If you feel unsafe or confused, step back into the main terminal and ask airport staff for help. Do not wait. Tell us early so we can help you.

  • If you feel stuck, contact the Student Success Team.

How ULearn can help

  • Explain the simplest route to your accommodation
  • Help you choose between AirCoach, Dublin Bus, or taxi
  • Student life questions: contact the Student Success Team.
Need help now? Contact Student Success and we will guide you.
Email Student Success

Sources (official)

Disclaimer: Rules can change. Always check the official sources above or contact Student Success if unsure.

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