12/05/2016
Navigating travel routes, especially when heading to or from an airport, can often be a source of stress. For those travelling between Ashbourne, Dublin Airport (DUB), and Dublin city, understanding your transport options is key to a smooth and enjoyable journey. While public transport offers a viable solution, the unparalleled comfort, speed, and convenience of a taxi service often makes it the preferred choice for many, especially those with luggage, tight schedules, or seeking a more personal travel experience.

The journey between Ashbourne and Dublin Airport (DUB) covers a relatively short distance, approximately 19 kilometres (or 19.3 km by road). Similarly, travelling between Dublin city and Ashbourne is a common route for commuters and visitors alike. While a bus journey between Ashbourne and Dublin Airport typically takes around 32 minutes, and from Dublin to Ashbourne about 35 minutes, these times often include transfers and adherence to fixed schedules. This is where the flexibility and directness of a taxi truly shine.
- The Unrivalled Benefits of Choosing a Taxi
- Estimating Taxi Fares and Journey Times
- How to Book Your Taxi
- Comparison: Taxi vs. Bus
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How far is Ashbourne from Dublin Airport (DUB)?
- How long does a taxi take from Ashbourne to Dublin Airport?
- How much does a taxi cost from Ashbourne to Dublin Airport?
- Can I book a taxi in advance for my airport transfer?
- Are taxis available 24/7 at Dublin Airport?
- Is a taxi a good option for group travel between Dublin and Ashbourne?
- What should I do if I have a lot of luggage?
- How long does a taxi take from Dublin city to Ashbourne?
- Conclusion
The Unrivalled Benefits of Choosing a Taxi
When time is of the essence, or when you simply desire a more relaxed travel experience, a taxi offers distinct advantages over other modes of transport. Consider the following:
- Door-to-Door Service: Unlike buses that operate on fixed routes and stops, a taxi picks you up directly from your location in Ashbourne or Dublin and drops you off precisely at your terminal at Dublin Airport, or your chosen destination in Ashbourne. This eliminates the need for walking with luggage or navigating unfamiliar streets.
- Speed and Efficiency: Taxis, being direct, often complete the journey faster than public transport. They can utilise the most efficient routes, adapting to traffic conditions in real-time. For a journey like Ashbourne to Dublin Airport, where the bus takes 32 minutes, a taxi might cut down this time, especially during off-peak hours or if bus schedules involve multiple stops.
- Comfort and Privacy: Travel in your own private space, free from crowded buses. This is particularly appealing after a long flight, before an important meeting, or when travelling with family, including young children or elderly passengers. You can relax, make phone calls, or simply enjoy the quiet.
- Luggage Handling: Taxis provide ample space for luggage, removing the struggle of hoisting heavy bags onto public transport or navigating busy aisles. Drivers are also typically happy to assist with loading and unloading.
- Flexibility and Availability: Taxis operate 24/7, making them an ideal option for early morning flights, late-night arrivals, or travel outside of regular bus operating hours. You don't need to adhere to a timetable; the taxi works around yours.
- Group Travel: For groups or families, a taxi can often be a surprisingly cost-effective solution. When the fare is split among several passengers, it can become comparable to, or even more economical than, individual bus tickets, especially when factoring in the added convenience.
Estimating Taxi Fares and Journey Times
While the provided information gives bus costs (e.g., €4 - €7 for Ashbourne to DUB, €2 - €7 for Dublin to Ashbourne by bus) and journey times, taxi fares and precise timings can vary. Several factors influence the cost of a taxi journey:
- Time of Day: Peak hours (morning and evening commutes) and late-night travel may incur higher fares due to increased demand or specific night-time rates.
- Traffic Conditions: Heavy traffic can increase journey time and, consequently, the metered fare.
- Number of Passengers and Luggage: While standard fares apply, larger vehicles for more passengers or excessive luggage might sometimes affect the price, though usually, this is factored into the vehicle type chosen.
- Booking Method: Pre-booked taxis might offer fixed rates, which can sometimes be more competitive than a metered fare, especially for airport transfers. App-based services often provide upfront fare estimates.
Given the 19 km distance, a taxi from Ashbourne to Dublin Airport would likely take less than the 32 minutes stated for the bus, assuming clear traffic. A reasonable estimate could be in the range of 20-25 minutes. Similarly, from Dublin to Ashbourne, a taxi would likely be quicker than the 35-minute bus journey, potentially taking 25-30 minutes, depending on the exact start and end points within Dublin city.
Regarding costs, while bus tickets are generally budget-friendly, a taxi offers a premium service. For these distances, you could expect taxi fares to typically be in the region of €30-€50, though this is a broad estimate and highly dependent on the factors mentioned above. It is always advisable to get a quote from a local taxi company or through a ride-hailing app before your journey.
How to Book Your Taxi
Booking a taxi for your journey between Ashbourne, Dublin Airport, or Dublin city is straightforward:
- Local Taxi Companies: Ashbourne and Dublin both have numerous reputable local taxi services. A quick online search for "Ashbourne taxis" or "Dublin Airport taxis" will yield several options. It's often best to call and book in advance, especially for airport transfers, to ensure availability and potentially secure a fixed price.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Services like Free Now (Ireland's prominent app) allow you to book and pay for taxis directly from your smartphone. These apps often provide fare estimates before you confirm your ride, offering transparency.
- Airport Taxi Ranks: Upon arrival at Dublin Airport, there are clearly marked taxi ranks outside the terminals where licensed taxis are readily available. These operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and fares are metered.
- Hotel Concierge: If staying at a hotel in Dublin or Ashbourne, the concierge can usually arrange a taxi for you.
When booking, always confirm your destination, the estimated fare, and the number of passengers and any specific luggage requirements to ensure the correct vehicle type is dispatched.

Comparison: Taxi vs. Bus
| Feature | Taxi Service | Bus Service |
|---|---|---|
| Distance Ashbourne-DUB | 19 km | 19 km |
| Typical Journey Time Ashbourne-DUB | 20-25 minutes (estimated, direct) | 32 minutes (includes transfers) |
| Typical Journey Time Dublin-Ashbourne | 25-30 minutes (estimated, direct) | 35 minutes (includes transfers) |
| Cost (Ashbourne-DUB) | €30-€50 (estimated, varies) | €4-€7 |
| Cost (Dublin-Ashbourne) | €30-€50 (estimated, varies) | €2-€7 |
| Convenience | Door-to-door, on-demand, private | Fixed stops, fixed schedule, shared |
| Comfort | High; private vehicle, ample space | Moderate; shared seating, can be crowded |
| Luggage Handling | Easy; driver assistance, dedicated boot space | Potentially challenging; self-handling, limited space |
| Flexibility | Highly flexible; 24/7 availability, adapts to your schedule | Limited; operates on fixed timetables |
| Privacy | Excellent; personal space for travel | None; shared with other passengers |
| Availability at Airport | Dedicated ranks, pre-booking options | Designated bus stops, fixed schedules |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How far is Ashbourne from Dublin Airport (DUB)?
The distance between Ashbourne and Dublin Airport (DUB) is 19 kilometres. The road distance is 19.3 kilometres.
How long does a taxi take from Ashbourne to Dublin Airport?
While the bus takes approximately 32 minutes, a taxi journey from Ashbourne to Dublin Airport is typically faster, often taking between 20 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the exact pick-up/drop-off points.
How much does a taxi cost from Ashbourne to Dublin Airport?
Taxi fares are variable. While bus tickets cost €4-€7, a taxi for this route could typically range from €30 to €50. It's always best to get a quote from a local taxi company or through a ride-hailing app before your journey for the most accurate pricing.
Can I book a taxi in advance for my airport transfer?
Yes, it is highly recommended to pre-book your taxi, especially for airport transfers. This ensures availability, particularly for early morning or late-night travel, and you may be able to secure a fixed price.
Are taxis available 24/7 at Dublin Airport?
Yes, licensed taxis are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from dedicated taxi ranks outside both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at Dublin Airport.

Is a taxi a good option for group travel between Dublin and Ashbourne?
Absolutely. For groups or families, a taxi can be a very cost-effective and convenient option. When the fare is split among several passengers, it can often be comparable to or cheaper than individual bus tickets, with the added benefits of directness and comfort.
What should I do if I have a lot of luggage?
If you have a significant amount of luggage, inform the taxi company when booking so they can dispatch a suitable vehicle, such as an estate car or a larger saloon, to comfortably accommodate your bags.
How long does a taxi take from Dublin city to Ashbourne?
While the bus from Broadstone to Ashbourne takes 35 minutes, a taxi journey from Dublin city to Ashbourne is generally quicker, often taking around 25 to 30 minutes, depending on your exact departure point in Dublin and traffic conditions.
Conclusion
Whether you're travelling for business, leisure, or simply commuting, the choice of transport significantly impacts your overall experience. While buses provide an economical option for journeys between Ashbourne, Dublin Airport, and Dublin city, the comfort, convenience, and speed offered by a taxi service are often invaluable. For those seeking a stress-free, direct, and private journey, especially with luggage or specific timing requirements, a taxi stands out as the premier choice. Plan your journey wisely, consider your priorities, and enjoy a seamless travel experience across these key Irish routes.
If you want to read more articles similar to Ashbourne & Dublin Airport: Your Premier Taxi Guide, you can visit the Transport category.
