DoDublin Blog - What is Happening in Dublin City #airport #transfers

Comparing Dublin Airport Buses

Aircoach parked

If you’re travelling between Dublin Airport and the city centre there are two Express services to choose from: Aircoach and Dublin Express. Both are fast, affordable alternatives to taxis, but they differ in subtle ways that can have a real impact on your journey.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know—routes, pricing, comfort, and reliability—so you can choose the right service for your trip.

Overview of the Two Services

 

Aircoach is the older, more established operator, offering a mix of airport transfers and longer intercity routes across Ireland. It’s known for its wide network and 24/7 service.

Dublin Express, on the other hand, is a newer, streamlined airport shuttle focusing primarily on efficient connections between the airport and key city locations.

 

Both services run frequently and take roughly 30 minutes to reach the city centre via the Dublin Port Tunnel (though this can be longer in bad traffic situations).

 

Routes and Coverage Available

One of the biggest differences lies in where each service goes.

 

Aircoach

  • Main routes: 700, 700X, 702
  • City Centre stops are at O’Connell Street, O'Connell Bridge and Kildare Street (Trinity College)
  • Returns to the Airport depart from St. Stephen's Green, Westmoreland Street and O'Connell Street only
  • Extends beyond Dublin to places like Cork, Belfast, and Derry.
  • Serves south Dublin areas like Blackrock and Dalkey

 

Best for: Travellers heading to specific neighbourhoods or other cities

 

Dublin Express

  • Main routes: 782, 783, 784
  • Connects airport to Heuston Station, Camden Street, Dublin Docklands, Temple Bar and Terenure
  • Takes the Dublin Port Tunnel which is usually the quickest and most reliable route to the city centre from the Airport.
  • Fewer stops, more direct routing

 

Best for: Travellers wanting quick access to transport hubs or fewer stops

 

Frequency, Flexibility and Operating Hours

 

Operating:

  • Aircoach: Runs 24/7, with departures as often as every 15 minutes at peak times
  • Dublin Express: Also frequent, though not always fully 24/7 depending on route

 

Flexibility:

  • Dublin Express: Tickets are valid up to 12 hours before/after your selected time (subject to availability)
  • Aircoach: More tied to a specific departure, though changes can be made via support

 

Comfort and Onboard Experience

 

Comfort and Onboard Experience

Both services are quite similar here:

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Charging ports
  • Luggage storage

You get luxury comfort and amenities with both companies here - neither one to fault!

 

Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?

 

Choose Aircoach if you:

  • Need 24/7 service
  • Are staying in North Dublin - any of the many hotels situated near O'Connell Street or Kildare Street on the South side.
  • Want connections beyond Dublin

 

Choose Dublin Express if you:

  • Want the fastest, most direct route
  • Need flexible ticket timing
  • Are heading to Heuston Station or Connolly Train stations

 

There’s no clear “winner”—both services are reliable, affordable, and far cheaper than a taxi. The best choice comes down to where you’re going and how flexible your plans are.

If you’re unsure, check which stop is closest to your accommodation - that alone can make the decision for you. Check out the full list of Airport Transfers available here