How to Get from Dublin Airport to Donegal, Ireland (Bus, Train, Flight & Car Options Explained)
This is probably going to be one of my shortest posts—but in a good way. Rather than overwhelm you, I want to make this simple and practical.
If you’re planning a trip to Donegal and feeling stuck on how to get from Dublin to Donegal, you’re not alone. In fact, this is one of the most common questions people have when planning a trip to Ireland’s northwest.
When I first looked into it, I realized two things almost immediately. First, Donegal is one of the most stunning places in Ireland. However, it’s also one of the trickiest to reach—especially if you don’t want to rent a car or navigate narrow rural roads on your own.
In my case, I had two clear reasons for heading north: attending TBEX in Letterkenny and starting a four-day hike along the Donegal Way with Tailor Made Adventures. Before I could hit the trail, though, I had to solve the logistics puzzle of getting from Dublin Airport to Donegal town.
Fortunately, you do have options. You can travel by bus, take a flight, rent a car, or piece together partial train connections. That said, some options are far more practical than others, depending on your budget, time constraints, and comfort level.
Ultimately, this guide breaks everything down clearly so you can choose the option that works best for you—no fluff, no overwhelm, just straightforward information. These are the exact notes I used to plan my own trip to Donegal, Ireland.
This Post Pairs Well With:
Fanad Lighthouse & Olde Glen Pub: A Perfect Donegal Day Trip
A Solo Journey on the Donegal Way: Waterfalls, Coastlines, and the Slieve League Cliffs
A Perfect 8-Day Donegal Itinerary for Solo Travelers and Hikers
At a Glance: Dublin to Donegal Travel Options
Cheapest: Bus Éireann Expressway Route 30 (€20–30, 3.5–4.5 hrs)
Fastest: Flight Dublin → Donegal Airport (1 hr, €60–120, limited service)
Most Flexible: Car rental (3.5–4 hrs, €40+ per day + insurance/fuel)
Not Direct: Train (no Donegal train line, must transfer in Sligo or other towns)
1. Dublin Airport to Donegal by Bus (Best Budget-Friendly Choice)
For most travelers—especially solo and budget travelers—the express bus is the clear winner. Not only is it the most affordable option, but it’s also the simplest way to get from Dublin Airport to Donegal without added stress.
Specifically, the service to look for is Bus Éireann Expressway Route 30, which runs directly from Dublin Airport to Donegal town.
- Travel Time: Around 3.5–4.5 hours, depending on traffic
- Cost: Typically €20–30 one way, with lower prices when you book online in advance
- Comfort: Free Wi-Fi, charging outlets, and under-bus luggage storage
Why I Recommend It
First and foremost, there’s no need to transfer through Dublin city center—you simply hop on at the airport and head north. As a result, you avoid both extra costs and unnecessary hassle after a long flight.
Additionally, you skip rental car expenses and the stress of driving on Ireland’s narrow rural roads. For solo travelers in particular, the bus is a safe, straightforward, and easy-to-navigate option from start to finish.
That said, it is a longer ride, so it helps to plan ahead. Because of this, I recommend settling in, downloading a podcast or playlist, and treating the journey as part of the experience. There are bathrooms on board, and depending on the driver, the bus may make slightly longer stops along the route. When that happens, the driver will usually announce it so you can grab food or stretch your legs.
Before boarding, I also suggest picking up snacks or a meal at the convenience stores just outside the bus area at Dublin Airport. This way, you’re not relying solely on rest stops along the route.
Pro Tip : check your ticket carefully for the zone number listed—something like Zone 12, Area 8. The signage inside the arrivals terminal is clear, and if you’re unsure, attendants are nearby and genuinely helpful about pointing you in the right direction.
2. Dublin to Donegal by Flight
If you’re short on time, and you don’t mind paying a bit more, flying is another solid option to consider. In fact, this is how I chose to leave Donegal myself—it worked better with my onward flight from Dublin to Venice, and surprisingly, the prices weren’t bad at all when flying out of Donegal.
Currently, the main carrier operating this route is Aer Lingus Regional, which is operated by Emerald Airlines.
- Flight Time: 1 hour in the air
- Cost: €60–120 one way
- Airport: Donegal Airport (CFN), near Carrickfinn
Why Flying Might Make Sense
First and foremost, it’s the fastest way to travel between Dublin and Donegal. As a bonus, Donegal Airport is frequently ranked as one of the most scenic landings in the world, thanks to its dramatic coastal approach and sweeping Atlantic views.
Additionally, Donegal Airport (CFN) also offers flights from Glasgow via Loganair, which can be a great option if you’re coming from or connecting through Scotland.
What to Keep in Mind
That said, flights are limited and can sell out quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Because of this, booking early is key if you plan to fly.
It’s also important to note that Donegal Airport is not located in Donegal town. As a result, you’ll need to arrange onward transportation—such as a local bus, taxi, shuttle, or rental car—to reach your accommodation or continue exploring the county.
👉 You can check car hire and onward transportation options from Donegal Airport here to plan your arrival smoothly.
👉 If you’re on points or a tight schedule, this can be worth it. For everyone else, the bus is usually easier.
3. Dublin Airport to Donegal by Car Rental
Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Donegal’s wild corners at your own pace.
- Travel Time: 3.5–4 hours drive from Dublin Airport
- Cost: €40–60 per day + fuel, insurance, tolls
- Pros: Flexibility to stop at Glenveagh National Park, Slieve League, or hidden beaches along the way.
- Cons: Left-hand driving, narrow rural roads, and higher costs if you’re traveling solo.
👉 Best if you’re traveling with friends/family or want maximum flexibility. For solo budget travelers, the costs usually outweigh the benefits.
Compare Dublin Airport car rentals here.
4. Dublin to Donegal by Train (Not Direct)
Here’s the blunt truth: Donegal has no direct train service.
If you want to try rail, your best option is to take a train from Dublin Connolly Station to Sligo, then connect by bus to Donegal.
- Travel Time: 4.5–6+ hours (with transfers)
- Cost: Similar to a bus, but slower and less direct.
👉 Unless you’re specifically interested in Sligo, the express bus straight from Dublin Airport is far simpler.
Which Option Should You Choose?
It depends on what you value most:
- Budget travelers & solos: Take the Bus Éireann Expressway Route 30.
- Short on time: Book the flight (if available).
- Want freedom to explore: Go for a rental car.
- Train lovers: Possible, but only with transfers (not recommended).
My Recommendation
As a solo traveler on a budget, the express bus was by far the best choice. I arrived in Donegal town rested, stress-free, and ready to explore without blowing my budget and driving on the other side of the road (haha)
I did appreciate the flight from Donegal Airport to Dublin on the back half. That was quite wonderful. So I believe these are two of the best options.
FAQs: Dublin to Donegal
Is there a direct train from Dublin to Donegal?
No—Donegal has no rail service. You’d need to take a train to Sligo and then a bus.
What’s the cheapest way to get to Donegal from Dublin?
The Bus Éireann Expressway Route 30 (€20–30 one way).
How long is the bus from Dublin to Donegal?
About 3.5–4.5 hours depending on traffic.
Is Donegal worth visiting without a car?
Yes—Donegal town, hiking trails, and even guided tours are all accessible without driving.
Final Thoughts
Donegal may feel remote, but getting there doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you want the cheapest, fastest, or most flexible option, there’s a route that will get you north with minimal stress.
For me, hopping on the bus straight from Dublin Airport was the perfect balance of price and convenience—and I’d recommend it to any traveler starting their Donegal adventure.
