Navigating Dublin can be a delightful adventure, but sometimes, the best way to get from A to B is by hopping into one of the city’s iconic taxis. If you’ve ever found yourself in Dublin, you know the drill – rain, a map that just doesn’t make sense, and a growing need for a little local knowledge. That’s where Dublin taxis come in.
First off, you’ll notice that Dublin’s taxis are a mixed bag when it comes to vehicles. Unlike cities with uniform taxi designs, Dublin’s fleet is a colorful array of makes and models, each sporting a distinct yellow and blue sign on top.
You can hail a taxi, but if you are uncomfortable hailing a cab from the street there are about 79 taxi stands throughout the city of Dublin. All of the large taxi stands are open round the clock with most other taxi stands opening between 22.00 – 06:00. The main taxi stands in the city centre are located near the main gate of Trinity College at College Green, O’Connell Street (near Parnell Square), and on College Green (near the Bank of Ireland).
A lot of Taxis are now on the FreeNow and Uber apps. Fares in Dublin are metered, starting with a base fare and then ticking up depending on distance and time. While it might be more expensive than public transport, the convenience and comfort can be well worth it, especially after a long day exploring the city’s many attractions. And often you will get a few free nuggets of wisdom from the driver! From hidden gem recommendations to the latest scoop on city events, these drivers have seen it all and are more than willing to share their stories. A chat with a Dublin cabbie can sometimes be more entertaining and insightful than any guidebook.
Always remember to check if the meter is running and ask for a receipt if you need one. One thing to keep in mind is that tipping isn’t mandatory but is always appreciated. Rounding up to the nearest euro or giving a little extra for great service is a nice gesture. And speaking of service, Dublin taxi drivers are known for their helpfulness. Whether it’s helping with your luggage or giving directions for the next leg of your journey, they generally go the extra mile.
