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.

Don't forget to check vacation packages, they can often be cheaper than booking the flight and hotel separately.

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 business class flight between Newark Liberty International Airport and Dublin. It was very eventful! Lots of lessons to be learned from it.

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.

Was Your Flight Delayed?

We have generous flight delay compensation here. If your flight was delayed coming or going, you may be entitled to up to €600 in compensation.

You can quickly check here with Airhelp or read more in my post about it.

Flight Delayed to or from Ireland? You Might Be Owed €600
If your flight to or from Dublin or Shannon was delayed, you might be entitled to compensation under EU law. We explain the rules and when you can claim.

Connecting in Dublin Airport To Another Flight

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
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Dublin Airport Transfer: No Surprises
Prebook your airport transfer and you'll know your driver's name, car details & price before you land. Uber is not the same here as the US.
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.

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.

Which Area of Dublin To Stay In By a Dubliner.
Confused by Dublin areas? You won’t be after reading this. A Dubliner explains which neighborhood is right for you to book your hotel.
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.

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

Here's how to make your departure less stressful

7 Ways to Make Flying Home From Ireland Less Stressful
Your time in Ireland is over and you’ve a long day of flying ahead of you. Here’s how to make it less stressful by a frequent Dublin Airport flier.

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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.
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Save money on expensive airport food. Get lounge access with included food & drink from $10/month with Priority Pass

Planning Your Trip To Ireland?

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.