Southern Ireland Airports: Location & Access Guide

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Post on Mar 26, 2025

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Southern Ireland Airports: Location & Access Guide

Planning a trip to the Emerald Isle? Knowing your airport options is crucial for a smooth start to your Irish adventure. This guide covers the major airports in Southern Ireland (the Republic of Ireland), detailing their locations, access options, and what to expect. We'll help you choose the best airport for your destination within the Republic of Ireland.

Dublin Airport (DUB): The Main Hub

Location: Dublin Airport is located just 10km (6 miles) north of Dublin city centre, making it easily accessible.

Access:

• By Air: Dublin Airport is a major international hub, with flights from numerous destinations worldwide.
• By Train: The DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) commuter rail system provides direct access to the city centre. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes.
• By Bus: Several bus companies offer frequent and affordable services to Dublin city centre and other parts of the country. The Aircoach is a popular option.
• By Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal buildings.
• By Car: The airport is easily accessible by car via the M50 motorway. On-site parking is available, but booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

What to Expect: Dublin Airport is a modern and well-equipped facility with numerous shops, restaurants, and lounges. It offers a wide range of services, including currency exchange, Wi-Fi, and baggage storage.

Cork Airport (ORK): Gateway to the South

Location: Cork Airport is situated approximately 8km (5 miles) east of Cork city centre, in County Cork.

Access:

• By Air: Cork Airport serves numerous European destinations, with a growing number of international flights.
• By Bus: Regular bus services connect the airport to Cork city centre and other parts of County Cork.
• By Taxi: Taxis are available outside the terminal building.
• By Car: The airport is easily accessible by car via the N25 and N27 roads. On-site parking is available.

What to Expect: Cork Airport is smaller than Dublin Airport but offers a range of amenities, including shops, cafes, and car rental services.

Shannon Airport (SNN): The Wild Atlantic Way's Hub

Location: Shannon Airport is located in County Clare, on the west coast of Ireland. It serves as a gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way.

Access:

• By Air: Shannon Airport offers both domestic and international flights, particularly connecting flights to North America.
• By Bus: Bus Éireann operates regular bus services to and from Shannon Airport, connecting to various destinations in County Clare and beyond.
• By Taxi: Taxis are available outside the terminal building.
• By Car: The airport is conveniently located near major roads, making it easily accessible by car. Rental cars are readily available at the airport.

What to Expect: Shannon Airport is a mid-sized airport with a selection of shops, restaurants, and services.

Other Airports in Southern Ireland

While Dublin, Cork, and Shannon are the largest airports, several smaller airports serve specific regions of Southern Ireland. These include:

• Kerry Airport (KIR): Serving County Kerry and the beautiful Ring of Kerry.
• Knock Airport (NOC): Located in County Mayo, serving the west of Ireland. (While geographically closer to Northern Ireland, its primary service area falls within the Republic).

Choosing the Right Airport

Selecting the correct airport depends heavily on your final destination within the Republic of Ireland. Consider:

• Your destination: Check the distances from each airport to your final destination.
• Flight availability and cost: Compare prices and schedules from various airports.
• Accessibility: Evaluate the transportation options available from each airport to your final destination.

This guide offers a starting point for planning your trip. Always check the official airport websites for the most up-to-date information on flight schedules, services, and transportation options. Remember to factor in travel time from the airport to your accommodation when planning your itinerary. Enjoy your trip to Southern Ireland!