Flying To Ireland: Everything You Need To Know

Flying To Ireland: Everything You Need To Know

Whether it's your first time flying to Dublin or your fiftieth, I’ve been in your shoes. I’ve flown between Ireland and the US more than 100 times and through Dublin Airport more than 300 times.

I've tested every lounge at Dublin Airport, and even built a walking tour for jetlagged travelers. This hub collects my best tips, reviews, and guides to help you land smoothly, breeze through the airport, and make the most of those blurry first hours in Dublin.


Step 1: Plan Your Flight

Your Irish trip begins months ahead when you book your flight. It's crucial to book the best flight and price isn't the only factor. Here's how to book the best flight

How to Book the Best Flight From the US to Ireland
I’ve flown from the US to Ireland more than 100 times. Here’s my tips on how to book the best flight to Dublin Airport. I’ve made the mistakes so you won’t.

Here's a review of my recent flight between Newark Liberty International Airport and Dublin. It was very eventful! Lots of lessons to be learned from it.

An Eventful United Business Class Flight: Newark To Dublin
You get two reviews for one thanks to a last minute cancelled flight. I boarded a United 777 in new Polaris but took off on a tired 757. POP-EWR-DUB

Step 2: Arriving at Dublin Airport

You're likely landing very early, so you'll be tired. My guide to Dublin Airport will let you arrived prepared and know what to expect. The best tip is to book things in advance, so there's less decisions to be made when your brain needs sleep.

Dublin Airport Guide: Advice from 300 Flights Through DUB
All your Dublin Airport questions answered by a frequent Dublin flyer. Local tips for getting there, the airlines, the terminals & US PreClearance.

Dublin is now a major European hub with passengers taking advantage of the US Preclearance facility in Dublin. You can fly from Dublin onto many other Europeans cities with Aer Lingus. The connection process is easy.

Connecting in Dublin Airport between US & Europe? Read This
A guide to connecting through Dublin Airport between US and Europe. Step-by-step with photos, tips & FAQs from a Dublin Airport expert

You've finally made it to Dublin. Here's how to get around!

Getting Around Dublin By Bus, Train, Tram, Taxi, and Foot
Dublin’s public transport can be confusing. I’m a Dubliner who uses our buses and trains every day. Here are my tips to easily get around Dublin.
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Dublin Airport Transfer: No Surprises
We don't use Uber in Ireland. Prebook your airport transfer and you'll know your driver's name, car details, and exact price before you land.

Book your secure transfer

Step 3: What To Do When You Land (and Can’t Check In Yet)

The bad news is that you often land too early to check-in. Don't worry, I've got all the things you can do so that your first day in Ireland is a fantastic one.

What to Do in Dublin Until Your Hotel Is Ready for Check In
Landing early in Dublin but your hotel isn’t ready yet ? I’ve flown from the US to Ireland 100 times. Here’s the 9 things to do on your first day in Dublin

I've even designed a Jetlag Tour for folks who have flown all night.

The Jetlag Walk In Dublin. For When You’ve Just Landed
You’ve flown all night but your hotel room isn’t ready. Besides, you’re in Ireland! This walk is the perfect intro to Dublin. Fun not boring to keep you awake.
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Was Your Flight Delayed?
If your EU flight was delayed by 3+ hours, you may be entitled to compensation up to €600 under EU law. 
Check if you qualify for flight delay compensation

In Dublin

You've recovered from jetlag and you're ready to explore. Here's where to stay and what to do during your time in Dublin. My guided walks in coastal Dublin are perfect for seeing the side of the city most tourists miss - stunning sea views, Dublin villages, and dramatic cliffs all within the city limits.

Where to Stay in Dublin: A Local’s Top Hotel Choices
Dublin hotel recommendations by budget and area. Handpicked by a Dubliner. Book with the confidence of a local & save time researching.
What To Do in Dublin: Tips from a Dublin Tour Guide
A Dubliner’s suggestions for things to do in Dublin. Get tips for the famous sites & off the beaten track Dublin. Plus the best Dublin day trips.

I lead walking tours in Dublin

They're different. Not your typical tourist walks. People love them.
Coastal Dublin. Sunday Music Session & the famous Jet Lag Walk.

Choose From 6 Walks

Step 4: Departing Dublin

It's a sad day, you're leaving Ireland. But it's made easy thanks to US Preclearance in Dublin. Here's everything you need to know about that.

Dublin Airport US Preclearance Guide: 12 Steps To Help You Fly Through
Navigate Dublin Airport’s US PreClearance with 12 steps by a frequent DUB flier. From timing tricks to lounge access, everything you need to clear US immigration with ease

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I haven't flow coach in years thanks to my airline points. I use Point.me to find award flights. Quick & simple to use.
Get 4 months free with this code: IRELANDBYLOCALS4

If you're flying in style or have lounge access, here are my reviews of the Dublin Airport lounges:

51st & Green Lounge in Dublin Airport Review By A Dubliner
This is the lounge for all US bound passengers from Dublin. It is after you go through US Preclearance and it’s not a bad lounge. Not great, but not bad.
Aer Lingus Lounge Review By A Frequent DUB Flier
The Aer Lingus Lounge in Dublin does a good job with design and a real barista, but really falls down the lack of hot food. Nice place to relax but eat elsewhere
Review: The T1 Lounge Dublin Airport. Not The Best
The T1 lounge in Dublin is a basic lounge but it gives you some peace from the very busy terminal. It has hot food, showers & worn out seating.
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Save money on expensive airport food. Get lounge access with included food & drink from $10/month with Priority Pass

Don’t Like Flying?

Here's how to arrive in Dublin by sea

Review: Stena Adventurer Ferry Dublin To Holyhead Day Trip
I just did a day trip as a foot passenger on Stena Line’s Adventurer from Dublin to Holyhead and back to Dublin. All for €10. Read my review here.


Planning Your Trip To Ireland?

Start here

Start Planning Your Ireland Trip Here. Everything you need.
Start your Irish vacation off right with clear tips and guides from locals who know Ireland best. Accurate and updated constantly.

Need help with your Irish itinerary?

It can be overwhelming with so many options, but you'll go from stressed to excited after a trip planning call with me

Book A Call
Get 4 months free with this code: IRELANDBYLOCALS4

Your Ireland Trip Essentials

Here's everything you need to arrange the perfect Irish vacation.

  1. Book your flight
  1. Find A Hotel
  1. Get a rental car
  1. Arrange your airport transfer
  1. Stay safe with trip Insurance
  1. Have eSim data when you land
  1. Things To Do