The best Student travel options in Dublin
Being the Irish capital and home to more than a quarter of the Irish population, Dublin’s public transportation network is extensive. That means (luckily for you) when it comes to student travel options, you’re spoilt for choice.
This guide will help you get to your lectures on time, get home from a day exploring or even night out. Most importantly, it’ll help you never waste a moment of your time in Dublin.
For international students: arriving in Dublin
With Ireland being an island, when talking about student travel options in Dublin we have to talk about how to initially get here.
There are two ways to get here:
- By air - Dublin airport is just 6 miles away from the city centre.
- By sea - Dublin is frequented by ferries from Liverpool in the UK and other European countries such as Rotterdam. The port is less than 2 miles from the city centre.
Both are well-linked with direct bus routes to get you as close as possible to your halls.
However, when arriving for the first time as a fresher (with lots of luggage in tow), a taxi with a direct drop off outside your door is the most-stress free option. You’ll find a taxi rank right outside the airport and port.
For all students: Getting around the city
Luas
AKA trams, Luas translates to fast in Irish, so if you need to get somewhere quickly these are for you.
Arriving every 4-6 minutes, these are great if you’re running late to a lecture or have to get to a building across town. The hop on’ hop off service will definitely save you more than once during your time here.
Student Leap Card
The easiest way to pay for travel around Dublin is with a Leap card. Top up your account online and tap your card as you get on to buses, luas and trains.
Avoiding the panic of not having the correct ticket change makes this one of the best student travel options in Dublin, especially when you’re new to the city.
It's convenient and flexible, working for all public transport options. Saving upwards of 32% on fares (which is always a bonus). Leap cards are also capped so you never spend more than you have to.
Cycling
We know sometimes exercise can get put on the back burner. Especially for freshers. Cycling is a great way to get around the city and get your heart rate up at the same time.
With over 120 miles of cycle routes to enjoy, Dublin is very much a pedal pushing city.
If you don’t want to be responsible for your own, you can rent a bike from Dublin Bikes.
They have over 115 stations across the city, as well as a live bike availability map.
A great option for student travel - Dublin bikes offers both daily and annual subscriptions.
If you’re an international student just remember to ride on the left hand side of the road!
Walking
Despite Dublin's big reputation, it is actually a relatively small city (and we mean that in the best way).
Because it is fairly compact, you’ll be able to make it from one side to the other in around 45 minutes just on foot!
We think these are the best student travel options in Dublin. But, if you want to find out more ways to get around the city, check out Dublin life or Visit Dublin.
So, you’ve decided to call one of Europe's most-loved cities home for the next 3 years or so. But, to fully understand how to get around Dublin you’ll need to know where home is. With 7 popular residencies across Dublin - head here to take the first step into securing your perfectly located home base.