Practical info Dublin, Ireland
Getting around the city
Dublin has appalling street congestion in the city centre, but the light rail service known as LUAS (the Gaelic word for 'speed') now offers two lines with numerous stations, many of them giving easy access to the main sights and places of interest. The city also has an extensive bus network, with a limited Nitelink service operating from 1.30am. This, however, is most useful for commuters to and from the city centre. There is also a rapid transit train (DART) that links the city centre with the suburbs and seaside communities. Because most public transport stops before midnight, taxis can be hard to find in the city centre after 11pm, particularly over the weekend. Taxis can be hailed in the street, but it is often easier to find them at taxi ranks or to book ahead by telephone. Renting a car can be impractical and expensive, although they can be essential if visitors want to explore off the beaten track on excursions from Dublin.
Time
GMT (GMT +1 between the last Sunday in March and the last Sunday in October).
Electricity
Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. UK-style three-pin and round three-pin plugs are in use.
Currency
The unit of currency is the Euro (EUR). Currency can be exchanged at banks and bureaux de change, and ATMs are widely available. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
Communication
The international access code for Ireland is +353. City/area codes are in use, e.g. 1 for Dublin. When making outgoing calls, dial 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free wifi are widely available. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option.
Emergency number
112/ 999 (General)
Travel documents and health
Dublin International Airport
Getting to the city
Several bus services, including Dublin Bus and Airlink, connect the airport to all parts of Dublin and the city's central train station, both day and night.
Car rental
Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, Dooley Car Rentals, Enterprise Rent-a-car and Sixt all operate from car-hire desks in the Arrivals Concourse. There are also a number of pre-booked car-hire desks on this concourse.
Airport taxi's
Taxis are available in front of the Arrivals Hall. All taxis have meters but they are only used for destinations in the 'Dublin City Taxi Metered Area'. It is wise to negotiate the price with the driver beforehand.
Transfer between terminals
A clearly signed walkway connects the two terminals.
Facilities
Airport facilities include a bureau de change and ATMs, numerous restaurants, pubs and bars, several shops, a church and tourist information.
Parking
There are plenty of parking options at Dublin International Airport, including short and long stay options. The short-term car park is close to the terminal building, while the off-site long-term car park is serviced by a free shuttle service. Long term stays can be pre-booked via the airport website.
Internet
Free wifi is available throughout the airport.