Public transportation in Dublin has improved much over the last few years but is still worse than in other European cities. This is more of a problem for the commuter than the visitor to Dublin, however, as the centre of the city is easily visited on foot.
By Bus
A relatively extensive bus service operated by the state controlled Dublin Bus serves the city and its suburbs, right out to the very outer suburbs. However, the route numbering system is highly confusing, with numbers having been issued non-sequentially, suffix letters and alternate destinations, so obtaining a route map from Dublin Bus is essential. It should be noted that while there is effectively no queuing system at bus stops, those paying with cash generally enter to the left of the doors, and those using card tickets to the right. Your position in a perceived "queue" for a bus is effectively irrelevant once it arrives.
By Train
Dublin’s rail service is called the Luas. The first, 'green' line of the new tram system was opened at the end of June 2004 and runs between St. Stephen's Green and Sandyford (city centre to south-east). The second, 'red' line, from Connolly Station to Tallaght, opened on the 4th October 2004 (city centre to south-west). Here is the route map. The Luas is frequent and reliable.
By Taxi
Taxis were recently (2001) deregulated and are relatively easy to come by, although not as easily as in some other European cities. They may be ordered by telephone, at ranks, or just hailed on the street. Point to point trips in the city centre should cost between €4 and €8.
By car
Driving in Dublin is not to be recommended, particularly in the city centre. Traffic is heavy and there is an extensive one-way system explicitly designed to make it very difficult for cars to enter the city centre. There are a large number of bus lanes (buses, taxis and pedal cycles are permitted) the use of which by cars is liable to strict fines. It can be difficult to find parking other than in multistory car parks and the clampers pursue their work with an almost religious zeal. A system of two ring roads around the city has been introduced in recent years, with color coded signage in purple and blue.
By Bike
Dublin has a large student population and is relatively cycle-friendly. Hiring a bicycle would be a handy way to get around if you want to get outside the very centre of the city and are comfortable cycling in traffic.
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Texts partly derived from Wikitravel
