public transport

Public transport

Ireland’s public transport system is extensive, modernising rapidly, and increasingly accessible for both residents and newcomers. The network covers urban centres, regional towns, and rural communities, providing a range of options including buses, trains, trams, and integrated ticketing. The government is making record investments in public transport infrastructure and services, with a strong focus on affordability, sustainability, and connecting more people to jobs, education, and essential services. Whether you are commuting in Dublin, travelling between cities, or living in a rural area, understanding how public transport works in Ireland will help you get around efficiently and cost-effectively.

Structure of Public Transport Services

Ireland’s public transport is primarily coordinated by the National Transport Authority (NTA) and delivered through several key operators:

  • Dublin Bus and Go-Ahead Ireland: Provide city and suburban bus services in Dublin.
  • Bus Éireann: Operates intercity, regional, and city bus services in Cork, Galway, Limerick, and Waterford, as well as rural and school transport.
  • Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail): Runs intercity and commuter train services, including DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) and regional rail.
  • Luas: Dublin’s light rail tram system, with two main lines serving the city and suburbs.
  • Local Link: Offers rural bus services connecting small towns and villages to larger hubs.
  • Private operators: Provide additional intercity and airport coach services.

The system is designed to be increasingly integrated, with coordinated timetables, ticketing, and real-time information available through the Transport for Ireland (TFI) platform.

Recent Developments and Investments

The Irish government has made public transport a national priority, reflected in Budget 2025’s allocation of €3.9 billion for the Department of Transport-a €480 million increase over the previous year. Over €1.6 billion is specifically earmarked for public transport expansion, including new and enhanced services nationwide. Major projects include the continued roll-out of BusConnects in Dublin and regional cities, the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, and new town bus services in places like Ennis and Mullingar.

Significant investment is also being made in rail, with the DART+ Programme, Cork Area Commuter Rail upgrades, and progress on MetroLink, Dublin’s planned metro system. These projects aim to improve frequency, reliability, and coverage, making public transport a more attractive option for everyone, including newcomers and families.

Affordability and Fare Discounts

Ireland’s public transport is designed to be affordable, with a range of fare initiatives to support different groups:

  • Free travel for children under 5 and, from 2025, children aged 5–8 on Public Service Obligation (PSO) services.
  • Young Adult Card/Student Leap Card: Offers a 50% fare discount to 19–25-year-olds and eligible students on PSO and participating commercial services.
  • Leap Card: A reusable smart card that works across most bus, rail, and tram services, offering fares up to 30% cheaper than cash tickets.
  • TFI 90 Minute Fare: Allows unlimited transfers between buses, Luas, DART, and commuter rail within 90 minutes in Dublin for a capped price.
  • Daily and Weekly Fare Caps: Ensure you never pay more than a set amount per day or week when using a Leap Card.
  • Free Travel Pass: Available to people over 66 and certain social welfare recipients, allowing free travel on most services.

Standard adult Leap fares in Dublin are €1.50 for short journeys and €2.00 for the 90 Minute Fare. Young adults and students pay €0.75–€1.00, while children’s fares are as low as €0.65. Similar discounts apply in Cork, Galway, Limerick, and Waterford, making public transport accessible for families and individuals on a budget.

How to Use Public Transport

Getting a Leap Card

The Leap Card is the most convenient and cost-effective way to pay for public transport in Ireland. You can purchase and top up a Leap Card at newsagents, ticket machines, or online. Simply tap your card on the reader when boarding (and, for some services, when exiting) to pay your fare. Leap Cards can be registered online for balance protection and automatic top-up.

Planning Your Journey

Transport for Ireland (TFI) provides an easy-to-use journey planner online and via mobile apps, offering real-time information on routes, timetables, and service updates. Timetables are also displayed at bus stops and train stations. Most urban services operate from early morning until late evening, with some night services in larger cities. Rural and intercity services may be less frequent, so checking schedules in advance is recommended.

Accessibility and Facilities

Ireland’s public transport system is increasingly accessible, with low-floor buses, step-free tram and train stations, and priority seating for people with disabilities or reduced mobility. Assistance dogs are welcome on all services. Many stations and stops have audio and visual information, and staff are available to assist passengers with special needs.

Urban and Regional Transport Options

Dublin

Dublin has the most extensive public transport network in Ireland, combining Dublin Bus, Go-Ahead Ireland, Luas trams, and Irish Rail’s DART and commuter services. The BusConnects Dublin project is redesigning the bus network to provide higher frequency, more direct routes, and better connections. The TFI 90 Minute Fare makes transfers between modes seamless and affordable.

Cork, Galway, Limerick, and Waterford

These cities have their own city bus networks operated by Bus Éireann, with Leap Card fares offering significant savings. Cork and Limerick also have suburban rail services. Plans are underway to expand services and improve frequency as part of the Connecting Ireland initiative and urban mobility plans.

Rural and Regional Services

Local Link provides vital rural transport, connecting small towns and villages to larger centres and essential services. Services are being expanded and made more flexible, including on-demand and door-to-door options in some areas. Intercity coach and rail services link all major cities and many towns, with competitive fares and comfortable amenities.

Taxis, Ride-Sharing, and Alternative Transport

Taxis are widely available in cities and towns and can be booked by phone, app, or at taxi ranks. The government is supporting the expansion of the taxi fleet, including incentives for electric vehicles and pilot ride-sharing schemes to improve rural connectivity. Cycling and walking are also strongly promoted, with major investment in new cycle lanes, greenways, and pedestrian infrastructure as part of Ireland’s commitment to sustainable transport.

Safety, Security, and Road User Support

Public transport in Ireland is safe, with a strong focus on passenger security, CCTV on most vehicles, and visible staff presence. Budget 2025 includes increased funding for road safety agencies, infrastructure upgrades, and targeted measures to improve safety for all road users. The Road Safety Authority (RSA) and other agencies provide information and support for safe travel.

Tips for Newcomers Using Public Transport

  • Get a Leap Card as soon as possible for cheaper fares and easier travel.
  • Use the TFI Journey Planner or app to plan your routes and check live updates.
  • Stand at designated stops and signal clearly to the driver as your bus approaches.
  • Validate your Leap Card on entry (and exit, where required).
  • Keep your ticket or Leap Card handy for inspection.
  • Be aware of peak travel times (7–9am and 4–7pm), when services can be busy.
  • Respect priority seating for elderly and disabled passengers.
  • Check for service changes during holidays or special events.
  • Explore cycling and walking for short journeys-many cities have bike-share schemes and safe cycling routes.

Future Developments and Sustainability

Ireland’s public transport system is set to expand and improve further, with major projects like MetroLink, DART+, and BusConnects entering construction. The government is committed to making public transport greener, more frequent, and more accessible, supporting a shift away from private car use and helping to meet climate and sustainability goals. Investment in cycling, walking, and integrated ticketing will make it even easier for newcomers to navigate the country without a car.

Conclusion

Ireland’s public transport network is growing, affordable, and increasingly user-friendly, making it easier than ever for newcomers to travel, work, and explore the country. With significant government investment, fare discounts, and ongoing improvements in accessibility and sustainability, public transport is a reliable choice for daily commuting and longer journeys. Understanding how to use the system, access discounts, and plan your travel will help you make the most of Ireland’s evolving transport network.