Title: Getting Around in Ireland | Frommer's
Headings: Getting Around in Ireland
Ireland
Getting Around in Ireland
By Car
By Train
Money Saving Bus and Rail Passes
By Bus
By Plane
By Bike

Content: In an effort to rein in Irish drivers, the Republic now uses a penalty “points” system similar to that in the U.K. and the U.S. Although visitors won’t have points added to their licenses, they may still be fined if they speed or commit driving infractions. advertisement
All distances and speed limits on road signs in the Republic of Ireland are in kilometers, while in Northern Ireland they are in miles. Take care if you’re driving around the borderlands—the border is unmarked, so you can cross over from one side to the other without knowing it. It’s easy to get confused and speed accidentally. Getting used to left-side driving, left-handed stick shift, narrow roads, and a new landscape all present a challenge, especially if you’re driving solo—it’s helpful if you can have somebody along to navigate. Some people even use tricks such as sticking a big arrow to the dashboard reminding you that the left is your default lane. A GPS navigation device can be invaluable in finding your way around, especially in the remote countryside. Nearly all rental firms offer them. advertisement
Roundabouts (what Americans call traffic circles or rotaries) are found on most major roads and take a little getting used to. Remember always to yield to traffic coming from the right as you approach a roundabout and follow the traffic to the left, signaling before you exit the circle.