- Must visit
Athlone Castle Visitor Centre
Interactive museum inside Athlone Castle exploring conflict, trade, and daily life on the Shannon through modern displays.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone
IrelandIreland
Take a bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone and enjoy the approximately 70 miles (113 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 06:30, the last at 23:25.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance70 miles (113 km)
- First bus6:30 AM
- Last bus11:25 PM
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
Understand & plan this route
Book with confidence
- Why book with Omio?Compare options, payment & support
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Frequently asked questions about your Dublin Airport to Athlone trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Dublin Airport to Athlone.
The earliest bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone leaves at 6:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone leaves at 11:25 PM.
Dublin Airport to Athlone Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 08:55AM | Duration 2h25 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €19 |
Operator Dublin Express | Departure Time 06:31AM | Arrival Time 08:55AM | Duration 2h24 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €28 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 12:36PM | Duration 4h56 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €29 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 10:55AM | Duration 2h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €19 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 11:25AM | Arrival Time 02:36PM | Duration 3h11 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €29 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 01:55PM | Duration 2h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €19 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 03:55PM | Duration 2h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €19 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 02:10PM | Arrival Time 04:32PM | Duration 2h22 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €29 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 2h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €19 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 07:55PM | Duration 2h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €19 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 05:55PM | Arrival Time 08:41PM | Duration 2h46 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €29 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 09:55PM | Duration 2h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €19 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 08:25PM | Arrival Time 12:13AM | Duration 3h48 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €0 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 11:55PM | Duration 2h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €19 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 11:25PM | Arrival Time 02:12AM | Duration 2h47 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €29 |
Bus companies
Bus companies from Dublin Airport to Athlone
Buses from Dublin Airport to Athlone with Expressway (Bus Éireann), Dublin Express, and Citylink. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
Expressway (Bus Éireann)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Expressway (Bus Éireann) Duration
2h 22m
Cheapest Expressway (Bus Éireann) Price
€29
Expressway (Bus Éireann) frequency
5 a day
Dublin Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Dublin Express Duration
2h 24m
Cheapest Dublin Express Price
€28
Dublin Express frequency
1 a day
Citylink
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Citylink Duration
2h 25m
Cheapest Citylink Price
€19
Citylink frequency
7 a day
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Dublin Airport and Athlone
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone, you can count on Expressway (Bus Éireann), Dublin Express, Citylink for the best way to get you to Athlone. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Dublin Airport and Athlone and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
No, the bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone.
No, luggage for the bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone.
Complete guide to Athlone
Things to do in Athlone
Discover the best of Athlone — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Athlone trip today.
- Recommended
Luan Gallery
Gallery space presenting changing exhibitions and cultural events, useful for seeing contemporary work during a visit to town.
Athlone Heritage Centre
Small local museum preserving regional memories, artefacts, and stories linked to Athlone and the wider Midlands area.
- Recommended
River Shannon Walk
Main riverside promenade in the centre, ideal for walking, boating views, and easy access to shops, bridges, and heritage sites.
- Recommended
Athlone Marina
Lockside and marina area with waterside paths and passing boats, giving visitors one of Athlone's most attractive urban views.
Burgess Park
Large public park with mature trees, sports facilities, and open lawns, popular for a relaxed walk close to the town centre.
- Gluten-free
Irish Stew
Slow-cooked Irish lamb stew with potatoes, onions and carrots. A long-standing pub and home staple valued for simple local ingredients.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Colcannon
Creamy mashed potatoes mixed with butter and spring onions. A classic Irish side dish tied to farmhouse cooking and comfort food.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Champ
Potato and cabbage mash, often richer and chunkier than colcannon. Traditional in Irish homes, especially in colder months.
Thyme Restaurant
Historic castle venue serving refined Irish dishes in elegant surroundings. Good choice for a more formal meal in central Athlone.
Dead Centre Brewing
Riverside restaurant and brewery known for house beers, burgers, seafood and relaxed industrial-chic dining near the Shannon.
The Fatted Calf
Long-running seafood restaurant and bar with a lively atmosphere. Best known for fish, shellfish and classic Irish hospitality.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Ireland: rooms and dining cost less than Dublin, while pubs, cafes and local transport are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €55+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, round up or leave 10% for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up. Cafes do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Plan your visit to Athlone
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Athlone.
Ireland uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find using cards more convenient and widely accepted for payments, though carrying some cash can be helpful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Athlone, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers not using meters and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. Staying alert in crowded places and using licensed transportation helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Bus from Dublin Airport to Athlone
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dublin Airport to Athlone by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Athlone, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take a bus between Dublin Airport and Athlone.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Most popular bus connections from Dublin Airport
Most popular buses to and from Athlone and Dublin Airport
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