Dublin essentials

Entry to Ireland

Ireland is a member of the EU but not of the Schengen area, so it runs its own border checks. It is not taking part in the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES): travellers arriving directly into Ireland are not subject to its requirements, the Irish Immigration Service says. Check whether you need a visa on irishimmigration.ie before you book.

From the airport

Dublin Airport has no rail link. Dublin Express and Aircoach run coaches to the city, the fastest in as little as 14 minutes, Dublin Express says; Dublin Bus serves the airport, and taxis wait at the terminals.

What is closed in late 2026

Dublin Castle is closed to the public until January 2027 and the Chester Beatty until the end of December 2026, both for events during Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the EU, in their own words. The Hugh Lane Gallery closed for refurbishment on 28 September 2025, and the Natural History Museum on Merrion Street is closed for works, with part of its collection in the Dead Zoo Lab at Collins Barracks. At Trinity, the Long Room’s books have been removed for the Old Library Redevelopment Project, though the Book of Kells and the Long Room remain open.

Money and paying

The currency is the euro. On Dublin Bus and the Luas you cannot yet pay by tapping a bank card: use a Leap card, a Leap Visitor Card or a ticket.

The seasons

Summer brings long evenings by the bay and on the cliff path at Howth; Christmas brings the pantomime at the Gaiety and the Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo; winter is the season for theatre, music and the pubs.

Emergencies and health

Call 112 or 999 for an ambulance, the Gardaí (police), the fire brigade or the coastguard. St Vincent’s University Hospital and St James’s Hospital have emergency departments. Carry your EHIC or GHIC, or travel insurance that covers medical costs.

Questions and answers