Airlines that Use Terminal 1
For short trips or flights within Europe, you’ll go through Terminal 1. Many well-known airlines operate here, but Dublin Airport Terminal 1 Ryanair flights stand out as the main airline in T1. It’s popular for its affordable ticket options and services.
Ryanair runs tons of daily flights from this terminal, covering destinations from Spain’s beaches to exotic European getaways. You can also find these airlines in Terminal 1:
Norwegian Air
Shuttle Eurowings
Transavia and etc.
Make sure to check your booking details or airline app from time to time when you arrive at the airport. Airlines sometimes change terminals because of operational needs during busy times.
Getting Around In Terminal 1
Let’s be honest, Terminal 1 at Dublin Airport can feel a bit hectic, especially during the early morning rush. Crowds are everywhere, and the layout isn’t as shiny or modern as Terminal 2. But once you figure out how to get around Dublin Airport Terminal 1, it’s not that bad.
You’ll first step into the check-in floor, where counters line up in several rows. Signs are decent but not super clear, so keep an eye out, especially if you’re flying Ryanair. Their blue bag-drop signs are easy to spot, though the area can get crowded fast. After dropping your luggage, head up to security using the escalator or elevator. Terminal 1 Dublin Airport guide tip: the terminal isn’t huge, so even when it’s busy, you can usually get to your gate in 10 to 15 minutes.
What to Expect at Security
Going through security can be rough, but as a local who’s gotten through several flights, you’ll be okay. It’s pretty simple. The security checks at Terminal 1 go pretty smoothly when you compare them to larger airports.
However, security wait times at Dublin Airport Terminal 1 can get longer in the early mornings and on Friday afternoons. If your flight falls during these busy periods, it’s a good idea to show up at least two hours before takeoff to make sure you have enough time to get through everything.
The security team works well, and while they’re strict, they’re quite helpful. Remember that you have to take out any liquids You must remove your liquids (100ml or less) and you’ll find trays ready to carry. You can also pay a few euros for a Fast Track option to get through quicker.
Where to Park In Terminal 1
For parking, you’ve got options. The short-term car park is just a quick walk from the entrance, perfect for pick-ups or drop-offs. If you’re leaving your car for a few days, the long-term car parks are connected by frequent shuttle buses and taxis.
I always book parking online ahead, it saves time and sometimes gets you a cheaper rate. Trust me, avoiding that last-minute parking hunt is one of the smartest things to know before flying from Dublin Airport.
Transport Options for Terminal 1
Now that we are in the topic of transportation, there are many options to choose from. Terminal 1 provides quick and easy access to Dublin city centre. Several bus choices stop right outside, including the Dublin Bus Airlink Express and private coaches like Aircoach and GoBus.
Most routes come every 15 to 30 minutes, and you can buy your ticket before you arrive or at the airport. If you need to go somewhere faster or in comfort, you can grab a cab. Some taxis stand right outside the terminal. You can expect to pay between 25 and 35 euros for a ride to downtown, depending on how busy the roads are.
How Far Is Terminal 1 from Terminal 2?
Tourists at Dublin Airport often ask me how long it takes to walk from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 in Dublin because it can be hard to locate at times. Well, here’s the best part. The two terminals connect and stand close enough to walk between.
You don’t need to worry about catching a shuttle or figuring out a complex transfer system. The walk takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Your speed and the amount of luggage you carry affect this time. If you walk fast and know your way, you can make it in five minutes.
In any case, you’ll find the walk easy. It is indoors, and clear signs guide you throughout the journey. The terminals connect through a sheltered walkway, and the route stays inside the airport structure. You don’t need to go outdoors or cross any roads.
All you have to do is follow the overhead signs. After you leave the security area in Terminal 1, move towards the main concourse and watch for signs directing you to Terminal 2. To assure you, employees and pilots use the same route too so you’re in good company.
Some Tips for a Smooth Journey
Travelling can be nerve-wracking, especially when you’re in a new place. So, here are some of my tried and tested tips that will hopefully take some of the stress away when going through the terminals. Here’s what I’ve learned over the years, navigating Dublin Airport Terminal 1 like a pro.
Arrive Early
A key rule for Terminal 1 departures is to show up ahead of time for early morning flights. Security lines can extend across the check-in area, and while the airport operates, it’s preferable to arrive and stay calm rather than cut it close. If you’re flying during the weekends, take more time than you think.
Download the Dublin Airport App
The Dublin Airport mobile app stands out as a digital tool that delivers on its promises. You should download it before your journey and turn on alerts. The app provides up-to-the-minute information about your flight such as gate shifts, takeoff times, and even current wait time estimates at security checkpoints.
The terminal map is also part of the app. This comes in handy when you don’t know your way around or you’re trying to find specific things like a spot to sit and relax. It’s genuinely one of the most useful apps for navigating a busy airport, and it’s saved me more than once from unnecessary stress.
Look For the Family Security Lane
When you’re traveling with kids, head for the family security lanes. These are set up with parents in mind, giving you a more relaxed pace as you go through screening. The people working these lanes go out of their way to help, and you’ll notice a big difference in how it feels compared to the regular lines.
Even if the queue seems longer, it’s more laid-back, and you won’t feel rushed. This can be a huge weight off your shoulders when you’re trying to manage strollers, luggage, and little ones all at once. It’s a small thing that helps make the airport more welcoming for families.
Use the Free WiFi and Charging Points
Dublin Airport offers free fast WiFi in all of Terminal 1, and it works well. You can stream, download stuff for your flight, or check your emails without any issues.
To get online, you just need to connect; no sign-ups or extra steps required. You’ll also find lots of USB charging spots all over the terminal near the gates. If you’re flying from a less busy area, you have a better chance of getting a seat close to a charging point. I always pack a long charging cord just in case the nearest outlet isn’t right next to me.
Look for Quieter Places
Terminal 1 has its bustling areas, but it also has some quiet spots that most travelers miss. If you want to sit away from the masses, go to the gates at the far end of the terminal in the 100 series gates.
These spots have fewer people, and you can often grab a row of empty seats even when it’s busy. It’s a good place to unwind if you’ve had a tough check-in or need to make a call without interruptions.
Take the Fast Track Security
If you’re not a fan of waiting in long queues, the Fast Track security option is a good one to go for. You can book it online before your trip or even on the day of your flight. It allows you to skip the main queue and breeze through a dedicated line, often cutting your wait time significantly.
During peak hours, it’s a real game-changer. The Fast Track also includes access to a dedicated lane at immigration for returning flights, so if you’re someone who wants to get ahead, this is a small investment worth trying. Trust me, I have used it multiple times and I don’t regret it at all.
Where to Stay If You’re Flying Early
When your flight from Terminal 1 takes off at daybreak, or you land in Dublin late at night and don’t want to deal with getting into the city right away, staying close to the airport makes sense. Dublin Airport has several good hotel options nearby that help with tricky flight times.
The Maldron Hotel Dublin Airport stands out as a top pick just a three-minute stroll from Terminal 1. You can spot it as you exit the terminal. Its location can’t be beat if you aim to sleep more and stress less. The hotel offers modern, clean, and cozy rooms, with early breakfast choices and a front desk that never closes. For those who prefer not to walk with luggage, they provide a free shuttle to both terminals, dropping you off right at Departures.
The Radisson Blu Hotel Dublin Airport is another excellent choice. It’s located just minutes from the airport and provides a complimentary shuttle service that operates 24/7. I loved my stay here while waiting for my flight to Scotland. The rooms were nice, with a restaurant where you can dine in too.
There’s also Premier Inn Dublin Airport, a bit farther away in Swords, about a 5-minute drive from the airport. Though you can’t walk there, it’s less expensive and still quite handy because of its frequent shuttle services.
However, one key takeaway from here will be that, don’t think Terminal 1 won’t be crowded in the morning. Staying close by can help you relax and avoid the headache of Dublin traffic at 4 in the morning. If you’re someone who likes to be at the gate with time to spare, getting a hotel nearby is a good option.
No matter what you do, whether you’re flying out or landing late at night, or just want to avoid rushing at the last minute, get a hotel near Terminal 1. But then again, you don’t have to rely on it if you’re a frequent flyer who got the hang of the airport chronicles.
Final Words on Terminal 1
And there you go, everything you need to know to get around Dublin Airport Terminal 1 with ease. With these pointers, you can easily make your way to the airport without any worry. Lastly, enjoy the trip and let new experiences guide you.
What are some of your tips for navigating through Dublin Airport Terminal 1? Let us know! Thank you for reading.