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Dublin Airport DUB Airport Traveler Guide

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DUB Airport Insights & Guide

Key DUB Airport Topics:

Getting to Know DUB Airport

Welcome to the Dublin Airport Online Guide, your essential companion for navigating Ireland's busiest airport. Known for its seamless blend of modern facilities and rich history, DUB serves as a key gateway to Ireland and the rest of Europe. With its two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, the airport caters to a multitude of airlines, offering a variety of services for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. For those interested in exploring other airports they might be flying to or from, be sure to visit our worldwide airport guide.

WATCH VIDEO: Learn essential tips for a smooth departure from Dubai Airport Terminal 3 with this step-by-step walkthrough for Emirates flights to Glasgow:

Airport News

Dublin Airport announced new routes in its 2024 summer schedule, including a direct flight to Denver. These new routes, operated by airlines such as Aer Lingus, add to the existing robust connections to North American cities like Boston, Chicago, Seattle, New York, and Los Angeles. Furthermore, Dublin Airport has introduced Mobile Passport Control for US-bound passengers, allowing them to complete part of the immigration process via an app, thus reducing wait times and congestion. These enhancements are part of Dublin Airport's ongoing efforts to improve the passenger experience and accommodate future growth (sources: DublinAirport.com, Airport Technology, CAPA - Centre for Aviation).

DUB has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 has 59 gates and is used by airlines such as Aer Lingus, Ryanair, and British Airways. Terminal 2 has 23 gates and is used by airlines such as Emirates, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. Both terminals offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and services for travelers to enjoy during their time at the airport.

When arriving at DUB Airport, passengers should check their airline and flight information to determine which terminal they will be departing from. Once inside the terminal, there are clear signs and directions to guide travelers to their airline's check-in counters and departure gates. There are also information desks and airport staff available to assist passengers with any questions or concerns they may have.

For those with a longer layover or looking for a bite to eat before their flight, both terminals offer a variety of dining options ranging from fast food to sit-down restaurants. There are also numerous shops and duty-free stores for travelers to browse and purchase souvenirs or last-minute items.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

At the airport, there are two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The terminals are connected by a covered walkway, which takes approximately 15 minutes to walk. If you have limited mobility or heavy luggage, there is also a free shuttle bus that runs between the terminals every few minutes. The shuttle bus stop is located outside of the arrivals area of each terminal, and the journey takes around 5 minutes.

Tips from DUB Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Dublin Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from DUB-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"Navigating between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 is straightforward once you know the layout. The covered walkway is convenient, but if you're in a rush or have heavy luggage, the shuttle bus is a lifesaver. It runs every few minutes and is quite reliable." — Liam O., Swords, December 2023

"If you have some time before your flight, I recommend exploring both terminals. Terminal 1 has a more traditional feel, while Terminal 2 is modern and spacious. Both offer excellent facilities, but Terminal 2 tends to be less crowded." — Aoife M., Malahide, January 2024

Getting to/from the City

"For a quick trip to the city center, the Airlink Express is your best bet. It’s efficient and reasonably priced. However, if you have a lot of luggage, a taxi might be more comfortable, especially during peak hours." — Conor F., Finglas, February 2024

"If you're staying near the coast, consider using the DART train. It’s a scenic route and connects well with buses from the airport. Just make sure to check the schedule, as trains can be less frequent during off-peak times." — Niamh R., Howth, March 2024

Parking

"For long-term parking, I always use the off-airport lots. They’re affordable and offer a free shuttle service to the terminals. Just remember to book in advance during busy periods to secure a spot." — Seán P., Portmarnock, April 2024

"If you're picking someone up, the cell-phone waiting areas are a great option. They're free and save you from circling the airport or paying for short-term parking." — Emma K., Blanchardstown, May 2024

Inside the Airport

"Terminal 2 has some fantastic dining options. Street Feast is a personal favorite for a quick but delicious meal. And if you’re looking for gifts, the Irish Memories shop in Terminal 1 has a lovely selection of local products." — Patrick D., Skerries, June 2024

"Don’t miss the duty-free shopping, especially if you’re flying outside the EU. There are great deals on Irish whiskey and chocolates, perfect for gifts or a treat for yourself." — Ciara H., Lucan, July 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"To avoid stress, try to get to the airport at least two hours before your flight, especially during peak travel times. Security lines can be long, and it’s always better to have some extra time to relax before boarding." — Eoin L., Tallaght, August 2024

"Download your airline’s app for real-time updates on your flight status. It’s incredibly helpful, especially if there are any last-minute changes or delays." — Orla B., Clondalkin, September 2024

"If you’re traveling with just a carry-on, use the fast-track security option. It’s a small fee but can save you a lot of time, especially during busy periods." — Kevin J., Ballymun, October 2024

iFly Tip: Plan your trip with ease using the resources found on our Flying Info and Tips page.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At DUB, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at designated curbside areas outside of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. However, there are strict restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles cannot be left unattended at any time. Drivers must remain with their vehicles at all times and are only allowed to stop for a maximum of two minutes to drop off or pick up passengers.

If you need to wait for arriving passengers, there are several cell-phone waiting areas available near the airport. These areas are free to use and provide a convenient place to wait until your passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up. Once your passenger is ready, you can then proceed to the curbside area to pick them up.

Parking Facilities & Options

If you're flying out of DUB Airport, you have several parking options to choose from. There are both short-term and long-term parking options available at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. If you're picking up or dropping off passengers, there are convenient cell phone waiting areas located near both terminals.

If you're looking for an economical option, off-airport parking is also available. These parking lots are located near the airport and offer shuttle service to and from the terminals. This is a great option for those who are looking to save money on parking fees.

Handicapped parking is available at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. There are designated parking spots located near the entrances of the terminals for those with disabilities. If you require special assistance, you can contact the airport ahead of time to arrange for assistance with parking and getting to your terminal.

Get details about the airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

Dublin Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to help travelers get to their final destination.

  • Rental Cars: If you prefer to rent a car, there are several car rental facilities available at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt. You can find these facilities in the Car Rental Village, which is located just a short walk from Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
  • Taxis: For those who prefer to take a taxi, there are designated taxi ranks outside of both terminals. The fare to the city center typically costs around €25-€30, and the journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
  • Ride Share Services: Shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are also available at Dublin Airport. These services can be accessed from the designated pickup area outside of both terminals. However, it is important to note that there are restrictions on where these services can drop off passengers, so be sure to check with your driver before starting your journey.
  • Airport Shuttles: If you are looking for a more affordable option, airport shuttles are available to transport passengers to and from the airport. These shuttles can be found outside of both terminals and typically cost around €8-€12 per person, depending on your final destination.
  • Public Transportation: Public transportation options such as buses and trains are available to take you to various destinations throughout the city. The Airlink Express Bus and the Dublin Bus both offer services to the city center, while the DART train provides transportation to destinations along the coast.

iFly Tip: Plan your trip with confidence using our overweight passengers tips.

Airport Hotels

Traveling can be a stressful experience, but finding the right accommodation doesn't have to be. Whether you're looking for a luxury 4-star hotel with a complimentary 24-hour shuttle service, a hotel with a unique view of the runway, or an apartment that offers a picturesque garden view, we have a range of excellent hotel options for you. Some of our hotels are even situated within the airport complex itself, ensuring you won't have to travel far to catch your flight. Others are conveniently located near local attractions, making them an excellent base for exploring the city's rich cultural heritage. Discover your perfect place to rest and recharge during your travels with our list of Airport Hotels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

If you're traveling through Dublin Airport, you won't want to miss out on the great dining and shopping options available. With a variety of restaurants and stores to choose from, you're sure to find something to suit your tastes. Some popular dining options include Street Feast, McDonald's, Gourmet Burger Kitchen, and Great Irish Food To Go. If you're looking to do some shopping, be sure to check out stores like Benefit Cosmetics and Beauty Bar, Sunglass Hut, and Irish Memories.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Dublin Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, check your options here.

Passenger Services

DUB offers a variety of passenger services to make your travel experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Whether you're traveling with children, have special needs, or need medical assistance, the airport has got you covered.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. If you happen to lose an item during your travels, the lost and found office is located in Terminal 1. Families traveling with children can take advantage of the children's play areas located in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

Passengers with special needs can request assistance from the airport's Special Assistance team. This includes assistance with mobility, hearing or visual impairments, and medical conditions. The airport also has accessible restrooms, elevators, and ramps throughout both terminals.

For banking services, there are ATMs and currency exchange booths located in both terminals. If you require medical attention, there is a medical center located in Terminal 1, open 24/7. The medical center provides emergency care, first aid, and medical consultations.

Flight Status Info

As a traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date with the status of your flight. At DUB Airport, there are several ways to check your flight status and receive alerts about any changes or delays.

Firstly, you can use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, arrivals, and gate information. Simply find the display for your airline and flight number, and you'll be able to see the current status of your flight.

Another helpful tool is the use of airline mobile phone apps. Many airlines offer their own apps which allow passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancellations, or gate changes directly to their phone. You can also sign up for text, email, and push notifications through these apps to stay informed about any changes to your flight status.

Lastly, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at the airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

iFly Tip: Explore the perks of TSA PreCheck in our in-depth guide.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Dublin Airport (DUB) is located in Dublin, Ireland.
  • Terminals: The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, serving both domestic and international flights.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines include Aer Lingus, Ryanair, and British Airways. For a full list of airlines, visit the DUB Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Dublin Airport handles approximately 80,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 700 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations from DUB are London, Amsterdam, New York, Manchester, and Birmingham.
  • Hub Status: Dublin Airport serves as a hub for Aer Lingus and Ryanair.

Airport History

The airport, located in Ireland, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1917 - The first flight from Dublin Airport takes off, carrying passengers to Liverpool.
  • 1940s - During World War II, the airport is used by the British Royal Air Force as a military airfield.
  • 1947 - The airport officially opens for commercial flights.
  • 1950s-1960s - The airport experiences significant growth in passenger traffic and expands its facilities to accommodate the increase.
  • 1980s - Dublin Airport becomes a hub for transatlantic flights, with airlines such as Aer Lingus and American Airlines offering routes to North America.
  • 2000s - The airport undergoes a major renovation and expansion, including the construction of a new terminal building and runway.
  • 2010s - DUB continues to see growth in passenger traffic, with over 31 million passengers passing through the airport in 2018.

Today, DUB Airport is a major international airport serving as a gateway to Ireland and Europe. With its modern facilities and convenient location, it is a popular choice for travelers from around the world.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Dublin Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Dublin Airport Q&A

You can use the covered walkway, which takes about 15 minutes to walk, or the free shuttle bus that runs frequently and takes around 5 minutes.
The Airlink Express bus is a reliable option, taking about 30 minutes to reach the city center. Taxis are also available, with fares around €25-€30.
There are short-term and long-term parking options at both terminals. For economical choices, off-airport parking lots with shuttle services are available.
Street Feast in Terminal 2 is recommended for its fresh and tasty options. Terminal 1 offers the Irish Memories shop for last-minute gifts and souvenirs.
Consider booking into one of the airport lounges for a peaceful environment. Both terminals also offer a variety of dining and shopping options.
Arriving early, especially for Terminal 2, can help avoid long lines. Traveling with just a carry-on can also speed up the security process.
Use the in-airport flight displays or airline mobile apps for real-time updates. You can also visit the flight departures page on ifly.com.
Besides taxis and the Airlink Express, rental cars and ride-sharing services like Uber are available. Public transportation options like buses and trains are also accessible.
Several hotels are situated within the airport complex or nearby, offering various amenities like complimentary shuttles and proximity to local attractions.
Use the designated curbside areas outside each terminal, but note that vehicles cannot be left unattended. There are also cell-phone waiting areas for convenience.