Top 5 Ways to Get From Dublin Airport to Limerick – Bus, Train, Car, Taxi & More

Take the Intercity train as your first option for reliability and comfort. From Dublin Airport, you’ll take a short onward transfer to Dublin Connolly or Heuston and board an Intercity service to Limerick. The total time runs around 2.5–3 hours, and trains generally run frequently with verified schedules, making this option very relevant for most users seeking steady timing.

Cheapest entry is the bus: budget-friendly, straightforward planning. Regular coach services connect Dublin Airport with Limerick city center; expect around 3.5–4 hours of travel. Fare ranges typically €25–€40, and you can collect tickets online or at the stop. This option is ideal when you want to avoid last-minute changes and keep costs predictable.

Driving yourself gives complete door-to-door control. The route via the M7 and N18 covers roughly 210–220 km and takes about 2.25–2.75 hours in light traffic. Fuel and tolls add to the cost, so plan around €25–€50 for fuel and a few euros for tolls. If you value schedule flexibility, this option can make travel simpler, especially for trips with luggage or family.

Taxi or private transfer offers the most convenient last-mile solution. From the airport to Limerick city, expect a one-way fare in the €170–€250 range depending on time of day and luggage. Pre-booked transfers provide a fixed pickup window and a single point of contact for collect of baggage, helpful during odd-hour arrivals for the entire trip.

Other options add flexibility for groups or tight budgets. Shared shuttles or car rentals expand capacity for larger parties and allow you to tailor your stopovers for any occasion. Always verify the condition of the vehicle, confirm pickup points, and compare the total fare or cost per person to keep your budget in view.

Pro tips: check schedules in advance, compare four or five choices, and avoid peak traffic windows when possible. For a smoother trip, download the latest timetable from the operator’s site, note the last-possible departure, and plan an alternate route if a delay occurs. Once you know your preference, collect all tickets and keep a copy of the exact fare and pickup details at hand and you’ll be ready for a stress-free transfer.

Distance and Travel Time from Dublin Airport to Limerick

Direct coach with advance bookings is the simplest option: distance is roughly 205-210 km by road, and travel time ranges from 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes depending on traffic. When you arrive, board the coach and head straight to Limerick centre for a smooth start to your visit.

For door-to-door comfort, a taxi or private transfer is possible: typical one-way prices to Limerick centre are around €270-€320; SUVs are available at a higher rate, and waiting times at the arrivals hall are usually 5-15 minutes if you book in advance. However, if you are traveling with heavy luggage or a late-night arrival, a private transfer can be faster and more predictable. Platforms like mozio offer a user-friendly way to compare options, including gdpr-compliant providers. If you have questions, support is available. Whether you travel solo or with companions, this can be the least stressful option.

Rail is a solid alternative. From Dublin Airport you take the Airlink 747 to Dublin Heuston or Connolly, then board a train to Limerick Colbert or Limerick Junction. Total door-to-door time is typically around 3 hours, and the distance by rail aligns with the road distance. Plan 10-15 minutes for transfers, and check live times to avoid delays during peak periods. Compared with road options, rail avoids traffic and fatigue and can be a comfortable choice for first-time visitors to the area.

Shared services and longer bus routes offer a balance of price and convenience. A direct coach from the airport to Limerick centre can take about 2 hours 50 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes, with stops along the way. This option often presents the least expensive price and some fully flexible fare options. If you want a wonderful introduction to the region, landing in the historic centre of Limerick after a straightforward ride can be a great start.

Bus Travel from Dublin Airport to Limerick: Routes, Schedules, and Tickets

Purchase an advance ticket for a direct Dublin Airport to Limerick bus and use the live tracker on the day to time your arrival. A direct route minimizes duration and fewer stops help you reach Castletroy or Limerick city centre quickly. If you’re traveling with children, print or store the ticket on your phone for quick boarding.

Direct express routes connect Dublin Airport with Limerick City Centre and Castletroy. Routes include the M7 corridor via major towns, with stops designed to minimize detours. Prepare for a user-friendly experience, where landmarks along the route help you estimate arrival without checking a map constantly.

Frequency and schedules: Typically, services run from morning to early evening, with departures every 2–3 hours. Weekend and holiday timetables may shift; check live boards for precise times.

Тривалість: The journey duration is typically 2 hours 50 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes, depending on traffic and number of stops.

Tickets and fares: Expect prices in the 20–30 EUR range for a single trip. Tickets can be purchased online or at the airport pickup point. Purchasing in advance is recommended to secure your seat and avoid lineups. Discounts are available for children; check whether the operator offers family or student rates. You can print your ticket or use your phone for a user-friendly digital pass. For business travelers, some operators offer reserved seating or quieter sections.

Drop-off points: Direct Dublin Airport to Limerick routes typically drop at Limerick Bus Station in the city centre or at Castletroy’s main stops near the University of Limerick. Confirm your destination when you book and use a tracker to monitor progress in real time; landmarks along the way help you gauge when you’re near your stop.

Onboard experience: Buses feature reclining seats and comfortable legroom. This is not luxury travel, but you will find a solid, professional ride for the duration. If you travel with children, an extra seat can make the journey smoother, and there are print or mobile ticket options for quick boarding. The бізнес vibe on these routes remains practical and professional.

Advance tips: Check that you understand the routes and use the live updates the day before. If you’re pressed for time, a direct service minimizes risk. Remember to bring print or digital copies of your ticket, and have your ID handy if discounts apply. If you want a quick door-to-door option to Castletroy, an uber ride from the airport to the bus stop is possible, though it adds cost.

Alternative option: If buses don’t fit your plan, you can reach Limerick by train from Dublin (Heuston) to Limerick Junction, then take a short bus or taxi to your final spot. This path offers another pace and lets you enjoy a few landmarks along the route.

Train Travel from Dublin to Limerick: Rail Options, Stations, and Timetables

Direct Intercity from Dublin Heuston to Limerick Colbert is the best first option for most travelers: it’s the fastest, most convenient, and typically takes about 2h15m–2h30m. Use the official website for verified timetables and price updates, and mozio can help you compare routes and rides. News about track works or timetable changes will appear there, so you can avoid surprises and plan with confidence.

The journey runs through Dublin Heuston (origin) to Limerick Colbert (destination), with stops along the way including Portlaoise and Thurles. The historic Heuston station and modern Limerick Colbert station offer comfortable facilities for boarding and waiting. Rail travel also avoids emissions vs cars and provides space to store bags. Weve designed this guide to help travelers plan ahead, especially when traveling with bags or meeting contacts in Limerick. If you’re meeting someone in Limerick, the direct option minimizes transfers and creates a smooth plan.

Tip: check timetables on the official site and use the keyboard_arrow_down control on your device to reveal extended schedules. Booking early yields the best price. For weekends or holidays, schedules shift; watch for news and plan accordingly. You can also combine with a short taxi or rideshare from Limerick Colbert if needed, where appropriate, but rail is usually best for long distances without parking hassles. Also, traveling by rail helps reduce emissions and avoid the cost of parking; you can travel without enduring traffic.

Driving from Dublin Airport to Limerick: Route, Tolls, Parking and Fuel

Take the M7/M20 corridor for the fastest drive; plan about 2 hours 20 minutes in light traffic and roughly 210–220 km of road.

1. From Dublin Airport, follow airport signs to the M50 and join toward the M7, then head south toward Limerick. This is the most direct route and typically avoids backtracking through city streets.
2. Continue on the M7 and transition to the M20 when you approach the midlands; steer toward Limerick and stay on the motorway network until you reach the city outskirts. The route passes well-known towns and landmarks that help you gauge progress without needing a map every few minutes.
3. Take the exit for central Limerick or your chosen destination on the south or west side of the city, depending on where you’re staying. Arrivals in Limerick happen most smoothly via Dock Road, O’Connell Street, or Corbally if you’re headed to the northern side.

Along the journey, you’ll notice landmarks such as the River Shannon crossings as you approach the city, and you’ll pass through or near service areas with providers for fuel, snacks, and rest breaks. If you’re driving a larger vehicle like suvs or cars with extra luggage, the well-maintained motorways keep the drive comfortable, even on a full pack for a weekend trip.

Tolls and payments

• There are a few toll points on the M7/M20 corridor. Plan for cashless payments where available, or use an e-tag if your rental or own car supports it. In Ireland, most tolls at busy sites are quoted as modest charges for the journey through the tolled sections.
• Quoted totals vary by entry and exit points, but expect a modest sum for a one-way trip from Dublin Airport to Limerick. Always budget a small buffer for tolls, since traffic and entry points can shift the final amount.

Parking in Limerick

• For central arrivals, Colbert Station Car Park and The Crescent Shopping Centre car park are popular options with long-stay and short-stay slots. Expect a daily rate in the mid-range, with higher rates near peak shopping hours.
• If you plan a longer stay, look for city-center long-stay lots or park & ride locations on the outskirts and walk or bus into the core. In busy periods, book or arrive early to secure a space close to your hotel or business venue.
• Near the riverfront and Dock Road, you’ll find convenient parking for quick access to the riverbank stroll or local landmarks. For arrivals late in the day, consider higher-capacity lots to avoid circling for a space.

Fuel, charging and transfer considerations

• Fuel up before leaving Dublin Airport area to maximize driving time on pristine motorways; there are Applegreen and Topaz stations along the corridor if you need a quick refill. For long trips, plan a stop every 150–180 km to be safe.
• Most travelers traveling in comfortable cars with typical consumption notice 6–7 L/100 km on highways; for a 210–220 km leg, you’ll use roughly 13–15 L. SUVs tend to consume more, so budget about 17–22 L depending on load and driving style.
• If you prefer not to drive, you can arrange a private transfer or an Uber option for parts of the trip; shared transfer services also operate between the airport area and Limerick, though a direct car hire gives you the most flexibility.

Practical tips

• Always check live arrivals and traffic updates; Dublin traffic and midland jam points can add time, especially around arrivals peak. If you’re traveling with kids or a reclining seat preference, ensure the vehicle is comfortable for the full journey.
• Pack essentials for the drive: water, snacks, a quick change of clothes, and a light jacket for changing weather along the coast and inland. Ireland’s climate means quick showers are possible, even on a sunny forecast.
• Where possible, keep a copy of your route handy, but rely on real-time navigation as roadworks or incidents can change the quickest path. Most providers offer live routing, which helps you avoid delays and stay on track.

Taxi and Private Transfer: Cost, Booking Tips, and Comfort

Book a private transfer in advance to lock a fixed rate and skip taxi queues at arrivals.

Costs vary by service type: metered taxis, private car services, and limousines. Private transfers often use a fixed rate, with surcharges for late arrivals or extra stops. A sedan from Dublin Airport to Limerick City typically runs €170–€260; a private minivan for up to six passengers ranges €210–€320; larger limousines or VIP vans may be €280–€360. For Castletroy or central Limerick, add a small margin if traffic is heavy. If you’re sharing, a minivan becomes cost-effective and keeps the comfort level high. Booking through a trusted provider reduces risk and allows you to pick a vehicle type that suits your group and luggage. For Castletroy, check what types are allowed at the airport; some providers restrict certain vehicle sizes. If you’re visiting Ireland, a private transfer can still offer a predictable plan and a smooth start to your visit. For budget planning, you can also explore flixbus for city-center connections and finish with a taxi or private transfer to your final stop.

Cost overview

Typical ranges help you compare options quickly: sedans €170–€260, minivans €210–€320, and larger limousines €280–€360. Shared rides rarely beat private transfers on comfort and luggage handling, especially if you have multiple bags or children.

Booking tips

• Choose licensed private-hire services or airport desk options; check that the driver holds the required permits for Ireland.
• Compare fixed-rate offers with metered rates; fixed-rate transfers are often more cost-effective for a direct run to the city or Castletroy.
• Use a reputable app or the hotel’s concierge; many types of booking flows are user-friendly, and some sites include a live chat option if questions arise.
• Provide flight details and arrivals time, terminal, and a landmark to meet (for example, the arrivals hall information desk or outside Door 4); this helps the driver locate you quickly and reduces waiting time.
• Specify needs for children’s seats or extra luggage; many vehicle types accommodate this, including SUVs and minivans.
• Ask about a meet-and-greet option where the driver waits with a name sign; this is helpful after a long flight.
• Check cancellation terms and how cookies on the booking site affect options; some offers include free changes within a small window.
• For flexible travel, compare with other transport modes like flixbus or rail connections; a private transfer remains the most comfortable option if you value privacy and direct routing.
• Look for a plugin-enabled booking flow to speed up the request process on supported sites.
• If you visit Castletroy or plan a stay in Ireland beyond Dublin, note that availability and frequency of private transfers can vary by time of day and demand.
• uber option: some riders also use uber where available, but check local coverage, as it can vary by airport and hour.

Other Options and Practical Planning Tips: Shuttles, Rideshares, and Passes

Book a verified shuttle for your transfer from Dublin Airport to Limerick. This option guarantees a fixed pickup time, secure luggage handling, and an absolutely straightforward ride with comfortable reclining seats, reducing stress and avoiding last-minute price spikes.

Shuttles and Rideshares

Shuttles typically operate from both terminals and run on scheduled slots; browse options, compare prices, and choose your preferred service. For rideshares, verify the driver in the app, confirm the live ETA, and meet at the designated pickup zone to avoid security delays. Always have the transfer details handy in the app, and use in-app payments to simplify check-in and reduce delays.

Passes and Practical Planning

Passes and multi-use tickets can save money if you have multiple legs; look for official multi-use passes and verify what routes are included before you commit. Carry a digital copy of your pass and a backup payment method, because thousands of travelers rely on quick, secure payments to lock in seats. If your plans include layovers, plan for extra time and check transfer windows to minimize delays and keep travel on track. Knowing locations of pickup zones in advance helps you manage the first steps after arrival, and using live updates keeps you informed even if a transfer changes. With careful prep, you stay economical and secure without sacrificing comfort.