Ireland’s public transport system is one of the most reliable ways to explore the country, whether you’re commuting within Dublin, traveling between cities like Cork and Galway, or heading to scenic destinations along the Wild Atlantic Way. With growing tourism and increasing demand for cashless, convenient travel, booking bus and train tickets online has become the preferred choice for both locals and visitors.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about booking tickets online in Ireland—from platforms to tips, common mistakes to avoid, and personal experiences that can help you make the most of your journey.
Why Booking Online Matters Today
In today’s fast-paced world, online ticket booking saves time, ensures seat reservations, and often comes with discounted fares compared to purchasing at the station. This is especially important during peak travel seasons in Ireland, such as summer holidays, St. Patrick’s Day, or big sporting events like the GAA All-Ireland finals.
From my own experience, booking online has been a game-changer. On one trip from Dublin to Galway, I decided to buy my ticket at the station—only to find the bus nearly full and the train completely sold out. Since then, I always book in advance online, which not only guarantees a seat but also gives peace of mind.
Main Options for Online Ticket Booking in Ireland
1. Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann) – Train Tickets
- Website: irishrail.ie
- App: Available for iOS and Android
- Coverage: Dublin to Cork, Galway, Limerick, Belfast (via Enterprise service), and regional towns.
- Advantages:
- Seat reservation included on most intercity trains.
- Discounts for booking in advance (up to 50% cheaper than buying at the station).
- Mobile QR code tickets (no need to print).
Personal Tip: Always choose a reserved seat when traveling long distances—especially on Dublin–Cork trains, which can get very busy. I usually book a quiet coach when I want to work or relax.
2. Bus Éireann – Nationwide Bus Services
- Website: buseireann.ie
- App: Available for both iOS and Android
- Coverage: Connects towns and rural areas across Ireland.
- Advantages:
- Affordable fares, especially for regional routes.
- Online booking ensures a seat, even during peak hours.
- Multi-journey tickets available for commuters.
Personal Insight: I’ve used Bus Éireann for trips to smaller towns that trains don’t reach—like Killarney and Clonakilty. Booking online saved me waiting in long queues at the station.
3. Dublin Bus & Go-Ahead Ireland – Dublin City Transport
- Website: dublinbus.ie
- App: TFI Go (Transport for Ireland)
- Coverage: Dublin city and suburbs.
- Ticketing System:
- Daily, weekly, or monthly passes available online.
- Single journey tickets often purchased via Leap Card or TFI Go app.
Note: For city buses, you don’t always “book” a seat in advance like intercity buses, but topping up your Leap Card or using the TFI Go app ensures cashless travel.
4. Private Bus Operators
Several private companies also operate intercity services that can be booked online:
- Aircoach – Dublin Airport to Cork, Belfast, Galway, and Dublin City.
- Citylink – Dublin to Galway, Clifden, and Limerick.
- GoBus – Dublin to Galway and Cork.
My Experience: On my last Galway trip, I chose Citylink over Irish Rail because the bus was cheaper and the schedule suited me better. Booking through their website was quick, and I received an e-ticket by email instantly.
Step-by-Step: How to Book Online
- Visit the operator’s official website or download the app.
- Enter your journey details: departure, destination, date, and time.
- Choose your ticket type: single, return, or multi-journey.
- Select extras if available: seat reservation, quiet coach (train), luggage allowance (bus).
- Pay online: Credit/debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
- Get your ticket: QR code via email or app.
👉 Pro Tip: Always screenshot your ticket in case your internet connection fails during ticket inspection.
Cost Comparison: Bus vs Train
| Route | Bus (one-way, online) | Train (one-way, online) |
|---|---|---|
| Dublin – Cork | €15–€25 | €25–€50 |
| Dublin – Galway | €12–€20 | €20–€40 |
| Dublin – Belfast | €10–€20 (bus) | €15–€30 (train) |
Hi, I’m Tanvir, the founder and author of Explore Ireland Now. With a deep love for Ireland and its rich culture, history, and landscapes, I created this site to share everything that makes this beautiful country worth exploring. Whether you’re a local looking for hidden gems or a traveler planning your next adventure, I provide insightful guides, tips, and recommendations to help you experience Ireland to the fullest.
From stunning landscapes to vibrant cities and quaint villages, Ireland is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. Through my personal experiences and research, I aim to bring you the most up-to-date information and inspiration for your journey.
Thank you for visiting Explore Ireland Now—I hope my content helps you uncover all that this incredible country has to offer! If you have any questions or need travel advice, feel free to reach out.
