Ireland’s enchanting landscapes, lively cities, and quaint villages are easy to enjoy without driving. Although many folks think a rental car is a must, the country’s public transportation network often provides a smoother and more budget-friendly journey. For a background on its history and structure, see Public Transport in Ireland. If you ask Rick Steves, he’d say hopping on a bus can lead to some funny chats with fellow travellers, he once compared it to riding with a rolling talk show!
This 2025 guide covers all you need to know about traveling around Ireland without a car, from breezing between cities by train to finding hidden coastal spots by bus. Drawing on various insights and personal experiences, you’ll learn how to shape your Irish outings while cutting costs and carbon emissions.
Using Ireland’s Public Transportation
Ireland provides a wide range of transport options linking busy hubs and rural gems. Knowing the benefits of each service helps you get the most out of your trip.
Bus Éireann: Ireland’s National Bus Service
Bus Éireann forms the backbone of public transport, reaching cities and smaller towns across the country. In 2024, it achieved full wheelchair accessibility for city and town services.
Open Road Travel Pass
- 3 days, valid 6 days, €57
- 4 days, valid 8 days, €73
- 5 days, valid 10 days, €89
- 8 days, valid 15 days, €132
- 15 days, valid 30 days, €249
Buy the Open Road Pass online or at major bus stations. You can choose which days to use it, making it handy if you want a few days off between travel legs. For best value, plan your biggest jumps (such as Dublin–Cork) on pass days.
Dublin Bus: Serving the Capital
Dublin Bus ranges throughout the city and into counties Kildare and Wicklow. Over half (54%) of public transport trips in 2024 ran on Dublin buses, totaling 177 million journeys. They operate from early morning to midnight, with 24-hour weekend services, you can be pretty spontaneous while exploring the city.
Considering Private Bus Operators
Several private firms also run routes between key locations at good prices if you book ahead. They often have Wi-Fi and power outlets, which Rick Steves would call a nice perk, especially when you need to recharge both phone and spirits on a rainy Irish day.
Riding the Rails with Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann)
Irish Rail links major cities and towns across the Republic of Ireland. In 2024, there were 328 million journeys on bus, tram, and rail, marking a 10% boost from the previous year. Trains usually have table seating and refreshments on longer routes, offering a more relaxed ride.
Northern Ireland Railways
Northern Ireland Railways serves the six counties in Northern Ireland and connects seamlessly with Irish Rail at Belfast. The Enterprise service runs between Dublin and Belfast, taking about two hours.
Dublin’s Tram System: The Luas
Dublin’s tram system has two lines, and in 2024, it clocked 54 million trips for the first time. Trams are frequent, user-friendly, and convenient for hopping around the city.
Irish Ferries to Offshore Islands
Ireland’s islands are reachable by ferry, including sailings to the Aran Islands from Doolin and Rossaveel in County Galway, plus service from Killimer in County Clare to Tarbert in County Kerry.
Accessibility on Ireland’s Public Transport
By early 2025, Bus Éireann city and town services reached 100% wheelchair accessibility, and 90% of TFI Local Link services can accommodate wheelchairs and buggies. Assistance schemes are available, with advance notice, Irish Rail can arrange help at stations, and many stations have lifts, accessible restrooms, and waiting areas.
More Ways to Get Around
Biking Through Towns and Countryside
Biking has become increasingly popular. The Waterford Greenway covers 46 km, and rentals typically cost €25 per adult, €10 per child. The Great Western Greenway spans 42 km from Westport to Achill Island, also around €25 per day. Rick Steves might remind you to watch out for friendly sheep; they never read the highway code, but it sure makes the ride memorable.
Exploring on Foot
Walking is still an excellent way to see Ireland’s towns, cities, and natural sights. From exploring Dublin’s Georgian streets to hiking remote coastlines, you can often hop on a bus or train to trailheads.
Taxis and Rideshares
For those final connections or late returns, taxis and rideshares fill in the gaps. They might be pricier than buses, but they’ll save you if you miss the last train.
Planning Your Car-Free Trip: Tools and Tips
As Rick Steves once joked, missing a bus just means more stories to tell your friends later. Having a plan doesn’t hurt, though.
TFI Journey Planner
Transport for Ireland’s online planner covers bus, train, and tram services. It’s handy for checking schedules and creating multi-stop routes, great for deciding if you can see the Blarney Stone and make it back for dinner.
Getting a Leap Card for Savings
The Leap Card is a reloadable card you can use on multiple bus and rail services. In 2024, its adoption grew to 29%, a jump from 26% the previous year. You can save up to 30% on fares, with daily and weekly caps that help you avoid overspending.
Sample Itineraries
Cliffs of Moher
- Route: Bus Éireann 350 from Galway Bus Station to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center
- Travel Time: About 2 hours 15 minutes each way
- Fare: ~€24 round-trip
- Timetable: Hourly in summer, fewer weekend runs off-season
- Tip: Start out early so you have 3–4 hours at the cliffs. If you’re on a tight budget, ride to Doolin, then walk up to the cliffs for free instead of paying admission.
Ring of Kerry
- Guided Tour: Operators leave Killarney mid-morning for a loop through Ladies View, Waterville, and Sneem.
- Do-It-Yourself:
- Killarney to Kenmare via Local Link bus
- Kenmare to Sneem to Waterville via Bus Éireann route 270
- Waterville back to Killarney via Bus Éireann 279 (check times carefully)
Extended Trips
Consider cross-border trips from Dublin to Belfast by train, or head from Dublin to Galway for artsy cafés and street music. Keep your schedule flexible; random detours might yield the best stories, like that unexpected pub you stumble upon, where the locals offer you a pint and some laughter.
Conclusion
Exploring Ireland without a car in 2025 is not only doable—it’s delightful. With a growing network of accessible buses, scenic train routes, and charming local services, you can uncover both famous sites and off-the-beaten-path gems while keeping your carbon footprint low. Whether you’re weaving through city streets on a tram or watching the coast roll by from a train window, public transport lets you slow down and soak up the Irish spirit. And as Rick Steves might say—when you travel like a local, you live like one too.
FAQs
1. Is it cheaper to travel to Ireland without a car?
Yes. Public transport options like Bus Éireann, Irish Rail, and Leap Card discounts make it budget-friendly. You also skip rental, fuel, and parking costs.
2. Can I visit rural Ireland without driving?
Absolutely. Many rural areas are served by TFI Local Link, Bus Éireann, and ferries. Guided day tours are also available from major towns.
3. Do I need to book transport in advance?
For intercity trains and private buses, yes especially during weekends or holidays. Local buses and trams usually don’t require reservations.