Dublin Airport: Overview and Travel to the Venue

 

Dublin Airport (DUB) is Ireland’s largest and busiest airport, located about 10 km north of Dublin city centre. It is modern, easy to navigate, and well signposted in English.

Terminals

Dublin Airport has two terminals:

Terminal 1 (T1)

  • The older and larger terminal
  • Handles many short-haul and European flights
  • Airlines include Ryanair and some Aer Lingus routes

Terminal 2 (T2)

  • Newer, modern terminal (opened in 2010)
  • Primarily used by Aer Lingus long-haul flights and some international airlines
  • Offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, and passenger facilities

The two terminals are within walking distance of each other (approximately 5–10 minutes walk).

There is currently no metro or rail link directly serving Dublin Airport.

However, there are several convenient alternatives:

A convenient and reliable express coach service to Dublin City Centre (Dublin 1 & Dublin 2).

  • Route: Aircoach Route 700 from Dublin Airport (Terminals 1 & 2) to Grand Canal Dock (The Marker Hotel stop), approximately a 5–7 minute walk from Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane
  • Frequency: Every 15 minutes (peak times)
  • Travel Time: Approx. 25-35 minutes
  • Operating Hours: 24/7
  • Fare: From €9 each way
  • Booking: Tickets available on the Aircoach website Aircoach website

 

  • Route: Direct from Dublin Airport (Terminals 1 & 2, Zones 11/21) to Custom House Quay, a 10–15 minute walk or short taxi ride to Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane.
  • Frequency: Every 15–30 minutes
  • Travel Time: Approx. 30–40 minutes
  • Operating Hours: 24/7
  • Fare: €8 – €12
  • Booking: Purchased online or at the Airport Travel from Dublin Airport to City by Coach | Dublin Express

Dublin Bus

A budget-friendly option connecting the airport to the city centre.

  • Route: Dublin Bus routes 16 or 41 from Dublin Airport to Eden Quay / Custom House area, followed by a 15–20 minute walk to Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane
  • Frequency: Every 10–20 minutes
  • Travel Time: Approx. 1hour 15mins
  • Tickets: Cash on board €3.10
  • Info: Visit Dublin Bus Dublin Bus - Route 16 and Dublin Bus - Route 41 for schedules and updates

Taxi and Ride-Hailing Apps 

Available 24/7 directly outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

  • Fare Range:
    • Day (05:00–24:00): €25–€35
    • Night (00:00–05:00): €32–€45
  • Travel Time: Approx 20 - 30 minutes (traffic dependent)
  • Extras: Additional charges may apply for extra passengers, tolls, or phone bookings

Taxis are available 24/7 from ranks directly outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

  • FREE NOW App
    FREE NOW is Ireland’s most widely used taxi app. It allows you to book fully licensed, regulated taxis, see fare estimates, track your driver, and pay by card or mobile payment. Availability is generally very good across Dublin and surrounding areas.

  • Uber App
    Uber operates in Ireland, but only licensed taxis are permitted. Private‑hire vehicles (such as UberX) are not available. User experience and pricing are similar to booking a standard taxi, with in‑app tracking and payment options.