Public transport is certainly not the only way to travel around the island of Ireland – but it's definitely one of the best! All of the island's public transport is overground, so all you have to do is peer out the windows to take in our cities, towns and villages – along with some of the most stunning landscapes in between. It gives you that time to reflect on your travels, where you've been to and where you're going...along with what you want to do when you get there. It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end. Ernest Hemingway Meet the locals Speaking of which, when you hop on board a bus, coach, train or ferry, you're travelling along with the locals – and that's where some of the most amazing conversations can start. Ask the person next to you what pub to visit that night, or what cafe you should head to for breakfast – even what hidden corner of Ireland you should visit while you're touring, and they'll steer you in the right direction. Plan your journey With so many ways to travel on public transport, it's important to piece together all your options to make sure you arrive on time – and in the right place! The National Journey Planner offers information and comparison options for travelling by bus, rail, tram, ferry and taxi – it even includes information on portions of your journey where you may need to walk. The planner covers the entire island, and you can also download a handy series of apps to keep you in the loop while you're on your travels. Transport companies in Ireland Download your travel planning apps The National Journey Planner apps provide journey planning and timetable information, as well as real-time apps. Irish Rail Irish Rail looks after intercity railway services, as well as Dart and communter trains in the Republic of Ireland. NI Railways NI Railways offers a combination of express services and trains operating on key commuter lines around Northern Ireland. Bus Eireann Bus Éireann’s network of local, city, commuter and long-distance bus services connects communities throughout Ireland. Translink Ulster Bus Ulsterbus operates a bus service to towns and villages across Northern Ireland as well as services to and from Belfast. Dublin Bus Dublin Bus operates a bus network in the Greater Dublin Area, extending to County Wicklow and County Kildare. Explore more By roadIf you're planning on driving in Ireland, here's what you need to know about driving laws, tolls and parking. Rental vehiclesFrom cars to motorcycles to camper vans, renting a vehicle in Ireland puts the island in your hands. Internal flightsIreland's compact size means air travel is not essential, but if you need to fly here's how you do it
By roadIf you're planning on driving in Ireland, here's what you need to know about driving laws, tolls and parking.
Rental vehiclesFrom cars to motorcycles to camper vans, renting a vehicle in Ireland puts the island in your hands.
Internal flightsIreland's compact size means air travel is not essential, but if you need to fly here's how you do it