- If you're using the M50 motorway, which circles around Dublin to the west, you need to pay a toll to cross the River Liffey between junctions six and seven. You can pre-pay for this gate-free toll or pay online by 8pm the following day.
- Speed limit signs are marked in kilometres per hour; there are five miles to every eight kilometres. Speeding offences are punishable with an €80 fine and three penalty points on your licence.
- Don't be surprised to find tractors and farm animals hampering your progress on rural roads – plan your trip accordingly to account for delays.
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Search for the best car hire deals in Dublin
Dublin has a great public transport network, but you'll need your own wheels to explore the fabulous surrounding countryside if you’re heading over in 2018. Hire a car for easy access to the dramatic Wicklow Mountains, the stunning east coast, The Burren, Galway Bay and Belfast – some of Ireland's best-loved visitor destinations.
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| Language | Currency | Local time | Flight time |
| Irish/English | Euros (EUR) | GMT |
1.5 hrs |
*Average flight time from London to Dublin
Fast facts about hiring a car from Dublin Airport
Hiring a car from Dublin Airport (DUB) is simple. Hertz, Europcar, Avis, Enterprise, Budget and local operator Dooley have a presence in Terminal 1's arrivals hall and Terminal 2's multi-storey car park. You can also make a booking with Sixt from Terminal 1, but the operator doesn’t have a desk in Terminal 2.
Cheap hire cars are also available in Dublin’s city centre, with various booking offices located both north and south of the River Liffey.
Dublin Airport is 13km (8 miles) north of the city, and the drive to central Dublin takes just 20 minutes. Take the R132 to the M1 motorway and head south on the M50, before joining the N1 and following the signposts to City Centre/Dublin Port. After that, turn onto the R802, which will take you into the centre of town.
Car rental companies that have desks at Dublin Airport include:
- Hertz: (Tel: +353 1 844 5466)
- Avis (Tel: +353 1 605 7500)
- Europcar (Tel: +353 1 812 2800)
- Enterprise (Tel: +353 1 460 5042)
- Budget (Tel: +353 1 844 5150)
- Dooley (Tel: +353 1 944 6866)
- Sixt (Tel: +353 1 844 5689)
Driving in Dublin city centre
Hiring a car allows to you to leave the city behind, heading out in search of unspoilt hills, spectacular coastline and traditional Irish villages in County Dublin and beyond. Vehicle rental offices can be found in the east of the city centre, with Europcar's office on Mark Street and the Sixt branch on Marlborough Street easily accessible from the major landmarks of Dublin Castle, City Hall and Christ Church Cathedral.
Dublin's well-maintained roads, which are signposted in Gaelic and English, make for comfortable driving. However, don't be surprised if you encounter traffic, particularly if you're attempting to cross the river. Dublin can be hectic – it pays to stay alert and be wary of unpredictable behaviour from other drivers.
While navigating is generally easy, you'll find a proliferation of cul-de-sacs and narrow one-way streets in the historic centre. If you're heading into that part of Dublin, it's advisable to stay on the main routes where possible, or bring along a satnav.
As for parking, you'll find very few free options in Dublin. Your best bet is to use one of the city's multi-storey car parks, which usually offer more competitive prices than the on-street meters. And don't kid yourself that Dublin's playful, relaxed vibe extends to no-parking zones – if you park in one, you can fully expect to be clamped or towed.
Recommended day trips from Dublin
Wicklow Mountains
Driving Time: 40 minutes
The dark, mysterious Wicklow Mountains – just a short drive south of Dublin along the R115 – provide a spectacular backdrop to the Irish capital and offer action-packed days out. The soaring peaks, clear blue lakes, raging waterfalls and scenic valleys will take your breath away, and the pass through Sally Gap is one of Ireland's best-loved driving routes. This is a place for outdoor adventures and long lunches in cosy pubs.
Kilkenny
Driving time: One hour 30 minutes
Head south-west along the M9 motorway and you'll soon arrive at culture-rich Kilkenny. With its superbly-preserved walls, medieval landmarks and narrow, winding passages, this is one of Ireland's most charming cities. The Marble City's quaint shops, boisterous pubs and atmospheric restaurants provide an authentic taste of traditional Ireland, while St Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny Castle and Rothe House are among the main cultural attractions.
Powerscourt Estate
Driving time: 40 minutes
The stately Powerscourt House and its elegant gardens are a short drive south of Dublin along the R117. The beautifully-landscaped 47-acre estate includes lakes, sculptures, fountains and follies, and there are also fine views of the surrounding hills. Ireland's tallest waterfall, Powerscourt, is a short drive from the main grounds, and it isn't far to Bray's attractive seaside promenade either.