Dublin City Car Rental: Picking Up in Town
Quick summary: Dublin city car rental suits travelers who spend a few days in the city on foot and only want a car for the trip beyond it. City depots save a trip back to the airport, but you’ll need to navigate busy streets, bus lanes and one-way systems on the way out. Plan your route to the M50 or the N11 before you set off, and avoid weekday rush hours.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Best for | Starting after a few days in Dublin |
| Driving out | Head for the M50 ring road |
| Watch for | Bus lanes, one-way streets, cyclists |
| Parking | Limited and costly in the center |
| Day trips | Wicklow, Glendalough, Newgrange, Howth |
| Tours | Day tours |
Compare car rental in Dublin city
Why pick up in the city?
You don’t need a car to see Dublin; walking, buses and tours are easier. Picking the car up only when you’re ready to head out of town means fewer days to pay for and no city parking bills.
How do you get out of Dublin by car?
Use navigation and head for the M50 ring road, which links to motorways in every direction. Avoid driving in bus lanes during their hours of operation, and watch for cyclists and trams.
Where can you go on a day trip?
| Destination | Why go | Tours |
|---|---|---|
| Glendalough | Monastic site and lakes | Glendalough tours |
| Powerscourt | Gardens and waterfall | Powerscourt tours |
| Newgrange | Prehistoric passage tomb | Newgrange tours |
| Howth | Cliff walk and harbor | Howth tours |
What do you need?
A full driving license, a credit card in the main driver’s name and your passport or ID. The minimum age is usually 21. See the car rental overview.
Compare car rental at Dublin Airport
Frequently Asked Questions
The city suits those starting after a few days in town; the airport suits those leaving on arrival.
No. Walking, buses and tours are easier in the center.
Head for the M50 ring road, which links to the main motorways.
Glendalough, Powerscourt, Newgrange and Howth are all within an hour or so.