A Guide to Airports in Ireland
Whether your flying in for a Locum GP placement or relocating to start a new role, knowing how to navigate through airports in Ireland can save you time and stress. This blog breaks down the major airports in Ireland, transport links, and hotel options.
How Many Airports Are in Ireland?
In the Republic of Ireland, there are five major airports:
- Dublin Airport
- Cork Airport
- Shannon Airport
- Ireland West Airport (Knock)
- Kerry Airport
In addition to these, smaller regional airports like Donegal Airport and Connemara Airport support domestic travel. Including Northern Ireland’s three commercial airports, there are over a dozen operating airports in Ireland.
Dublin Airport – Ireland’s Main Gateway
If your traveling from overseas, Dublin Airport will likely be your arrival point. It is the biggest airport in Ireland and also the busiest, with extensive flight connections across Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
Terminals
Dublin Airport has two terminals. Terminal 1 mainly handles short-haul flights, while Terminal 2 serves most long-haul flights. Passengers flying to the USA can clear U.S. immigration at the pre-clearance facility in Terminal 2. The terminals are a short walk apart and connected by a covered walkway.
Dublin Airport Parking
There are options for both short-stay and long-term parking at Dublin Airport.
Short term parking: For short-term parking, options include Terminal 1 Car Park A, Terminal 1 Car Park C, and the Terminal 2 Short-Term Car Park, all conveniently located near both terminals for easy access.
Long- term parking: There are car parks Express Red and Holiday Blue which offer shuttle buses to and from the terminals.
Car rentals
Car rentals in Dublin airport are available from rental desks in the Arrivals halls of Terminal 1 and 2.
Hotels
The Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport is a popular choice for overnight stays. It offers a free shuttle bus every 30 minutes. The hotel is just 10 minutes from the airport.
Other nearby options are the Maldron Hotel Dublin Airport, the Radisson Blu, and the Premier Inn. All are easy to reach from the airport.
Airport Bus Routes
You can find detailed information on all Dublin Airport bus routes, including pick-up and drop-off points on the Dublin Airport website, and book tickets directly through the Dublin Airport coach booking page.
Cork Airport – Convenient for the South
Terminals
Cork airport has one terminal which handles both arrivals and departures for all flights.
Cork Airport Parking
Short-Term Parking: Ideal for drop-offs, pick-ups, or short stays. You can pre-book short-term parking online for added convenience and potential savings.
Long-Term Parking: Similar to Dublin Airport, Cork Airport has two long-term car parks. Parking spaces are available for both drive-up access and online pre-booking.
Car Rental
A range of car rental companies operate from the arrivals area at Cork Airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise and Sixt. You can find the full list of providers on the official Cork Airport car rental page.
Airport Bus Routes
From Cork Airport, you can take Bus Éireann services to Cork city centre, Carrigaline, Ringaskiddy, Haulbowline, Kinsale, Riverstick, and Belgooly. Citylink also operates buses from the airport to Limerick and Galway.
You can view all Cork Airport bus routes, including pick-up and drop-off locations, and book tickets directly through the official Cork Airport coach booking page.
Shannon Airport – Access to Western Ireland
Terminals
Shannon Airport has a single terminal that handles all arrivals and departures, making navigation quick and straightforward.
Parking
If your flying into Shannon Airport it’s worth arranging your parking ahead of time. Shannon Airport offers three on-site car parks: Park4Less from €9 a day, Long Stay closer to the terminal from €10 a day, and Short Stay right next to the terminal from €24 a day. All options include free cancellations, no transfers, and best price guarantees when booked online.
Parking options can be booked online via their official website.
Buses
Shannon Airport is well connected by public transport, with several bus routes serving the airport daily. Whether your heading to Limerick, Galway, Ennis, or Dublin, you’ll find convenient and affordable options. Timetables, route details, and ticket information are available on the official Shannon Airport bus page.
Car Hire
A range of trusted rental companies operate onsite, offering a variety of vehicles to suit different budgets and needs. Booking in advance is recommended to secure the best rates and availability. For more information and to reserve your vehicle, visit the official Shannon Airport car hire page.
Ireland West Airport Knock – Western Regional Access
Terminals
Knock Airport (Ireland West Airport) operates with one main terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. The terminal offers convenient facilities including dining, shopping, and car hire services.
Railway
The nearest railway station to Ireland West Airport is Claremorris (31 km away) or Ballyhaunis (22km away), both on the Dublin Heuston – Westport line. These stations can be accessed by airport taxis or by bus.
Buses
Ireland West Airport (Knock) is well-connected by regular bus services linking the airport to towns and villages across Donegal, Galway, Sligo, and Mayo, with additional connections to Leitrim, Roscommon, and the Midlands.
You can start to plan your journey and view current routes and timetables, visit the official Bus Éireann Routes and Timetables page.
Kerry Airport – Southwest Access
For healthcare professionals working in Tralee or Killarney, Kerry Airport offers an accessible option. This airport in County Kerry, Ireland has regular domestic flights, including to Dublin.
Terminals
Kerry Airport features a single terminal that caters to both domestic and international flights.
Buses
Outside the main terminal is a Bus Terminus with bus services available directly from Kerry Airport to Tralee, Killarney and Limerick linking into the Bus Eireann network. Tickets for all bus services may be purchased onboard the bus.
Car Hire
The Car Hire companies’ offices are located in the Long-Term Car Park which is only a one-minute walk from the main terminal and can also be booked online.
Taxis
A list of local taxis is available on the Kerry Airport Ireland website and can be prebooked for your arrival.
Regional Airports
Donegal Airport
Donegal Airport is useful for those working in the northwest, especially near Letterkenny University Hospital. Flight options are limited, but convenient for local access.
Connemara Airport
Located west of Galway, this airport serves the Aran Islands. It’s essential for those doing outreach work or GP clinics in Inis Mór, Inis Meáin, or Inis Óirr.
Airports in Northern Ireland
Belfast International Airport
A practical option for those working in northern counties like Donegal, Leitrim, or Cavan.
George Best Belfast City Airport
Closer to Belfast city centre, this airport provides fast access to UK cities and regional towns.
City of Derry Airport
Convenient for healthcare professionals in the northwestern part of Ireland, including border communities.
Summary
Whether your planning your travel for a locum position, starting a new role in healthcare, or relocating to Ireland as a Doctor, knowing how to get from the airport to your final destination can help make the process easier and avoid complications.
From the busiest airports in Ireland like Dublin to regional hubs such as Knock Airport or Shannon Airport, each offers distinct advantages depending on your destination.
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