1. Overview
This guide provides essential tips for navigating the Dublin bus system, ensuring a smooth journey through the city.
2. Getting a Bus Map
If you’re planning to explore Dublin by bus, acquiring a bus map is crucial. Visit the Dublin Bus office located on O’Connell Street to obtain a complimentary map outlining the city bus routes. Alternatively, you can visit the Dublin Bus website and utilize their route planner, ensuring you know the street names of both your starting and ending points.
3. Timetables
After obtaining a map, quickly identify the most relevant routes between your accommodation and the city center. You can collect free printed timetables based on route numbers from the Dublin Bus office or download them from the website. Remember that timetables are usually only displayed at major bus stops.
4. Leap Card Usage
For visitors planning to use buses regularly throughout the day, consider purchasing a Leap Card. This card is valid on various private bus services, including the LUAS, the DART, and the Suburban Rail Network, providing convenience and savings.
5. Change for Fare
Cash passengers should carry change since Dublin bus drivers only accept the exact fare. Purchasing tickets on the bus is allowed, but keep in mind that no change will be given. Instead, you may receive a slip for overpayments to redeem later at the O’Connell Street office. Drivers often prefer coins over paper money, so it’s advisable to have sufficient coins on hand. Credit cards are not accepted.
6. Identifying Stops
Bus stops are marked by blue “lollypop signs” with the Dublin Bus logo, while red signs indicate Bus Eireann stops. Information such as timetables and route maps may not be available at most stops, highlighting the importance of gathering information beforehand at the Dublin Bus office or website. Some modern bus stops provide approximate arrival times on LCD displays.
7. Stay on the Correct Side
Keep in mind that the Irish drive on the left, which may confuse visitors from countries that drive on the right. It’s important to look in the correct direction to avoid hailing the wrong bus.
8. Queuing Etiquette
When boarding a bus, passengers should queue in an orderly manner, with ticket holders passing ahead of those paying with cash. Cutting in line can result in disapproving looks and verbal comments from locals.
9. Checking for Your Bus
At bus stops serving multiple routes, pay attention to approaching buses and confirm the route number displayed on the onboard sign. Although service might seem inconsistent, the sign typically indicates the general direction. For example, An Lar means “city center,” while terms like As Seirbhis indicate a bus is “out of service.”
10. Right Route Confirmation
Be aware that some routes may divide into A, B, and C sub-routes. Ensure you are boarding the correct route. Asking the driver to confirm whether the bus stops at your destination can save you from an unexpected detour.
11. Hailing the Bus
Buses will not stop unless you signal your intention to board. Wave at the driver to indicate you wish to catch the bus, as relying on others may lead to confusion with different routes.
12. Taking a Seat
Once on board, finding a seat quickly is advisable. Dublin buses can accelerate rapidly, particularly around corners, which may throw you off balance if you’re standing.
13. Enjoying the Views on a Doubledecker Bus
For a unique perspective, sit in the front seats of the upper deck on double-decker buses. The view can be impressive, though be prepared for close encounters with other vehicles, sometimes startling first-time visitors.
14. Keeping Track of Your Stop
Buses do not announce stops, making it essential to be vigilant during your ride. If you’re uncertain about your stop, don’t hesitate to ask the driver for assistance.
15. Stopping the Bus
As your stop approaches, push the “Stop” button to signal the driver. You’ll hear a notifying PING, prompting the driver to slow down for your exit.
16. Safety on Stairs
Due to Dublin’s unpredictable traffic patterns, be cautious when navigating the stairs from the upper deck. Hold on firmly to avoid accidents.
17. Lost Items Assistance
If you believe you’ve left belongings on the bus, the Dublin Bus office can assist with inquiries about lost property. However, it’s wise to remember that Dubliners often adhere to the unwritten rule of “Finders Keepers.”
