Cork

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Ticketing

Ticketing systems and options for using public transport in Cork, including smartcards.

Sections

1. Types of Tickets Available

Cork offers a variety of ticketing options to suit different travel needs. These include single tickets, return tickets, and multi-journey passes. Here's a breakdown:

a. Single Tickets

  • A single ticket allows you to travel one way on a specific route.
  • Prices vary depending on the distance traveled (see costs below).

b. Return Tickets

  • A return ticket allows you to travel to your destination and back on the same day.
  • Typically, return tickets are slightly cheaper than buying two single tickets.

c. Leap Card

  • The Leap Card is a reusable, preloaded smart card that offers discounted fares compared to cash tickets.
  • It can be used on Bus ร‰ireann services in Cork, as well as other public transport systems in Ireland (e.g., Dublin and Limerick).
  • Leap Cards are ideal for frequent travelers or those staying in Cork for an extended period.

d. Travel Passes

  • Day Saver Tickets: Unlimited travel for one day on Bus ร‰ireann city services in Cork.
  • Weekly and Monthly Tickets: Unlimited travel for a week or a month, respectively, on Cork city services. These are great for commuters or long-term visitors.

e. Student and Child Tickets

  • Discounted tickets are available for students (with valid student ID) and children under 19 years old.
  • Leap Cards also offer additional discounts for students and children.

2. Costs

Ticket prices depend on the type of ticket and the distance traveled. Below is an approximate guide to fares (as of 2023):

Cash Fares (Paying on the Bus)

  • Adult Single Ticket: โ‚ฌ2.10โ€“โ‚ฌ2.80 (depending on the distance).
  • Adult Return Ticket: โ‚ฌ3.90โ€“โ‚ฌ5.30.
  • Child Single Ticket: โ‚ฌ1.00โ€“โ‚ฌ1.40.
  • Child Return Ticket: โ‚ฌ1.70โ€“โ‚ฌ2.40.

Leap Card Fares

  • Adult Single Fare: โ‚ฌ1.68โ€“โ‚ฌ2.24 (up to 30% cheaper than cash fares).
  • Child Single Fare: โ‚ฌ0.88โ€“โ‚ฌ1.12.
  • Daily Cap (Maximum Leap Card Charge Per Day): โ‚ฌ5.00 for adults, โ‚ฌ2.80 for children.
  • Weekly Cap (Maximum Leap Card Charge Per Week): โ‚ฌ20.00 for adults, โ‚ฌ8.20 for children.

Day Saver Tickets

  • Adult Day Saver: โ‚ฌ5.40 (unlimited travel for one day).
  • Child Day Saver: โ‚ฌ2.70.

Weekly and Monthly Tickets

  • Weekly Ticket: Approximately โ‚ฌ20โ€“โ‚ฌ25 for unlimited travel.
  • Monthly Ticket: Approximately โ‚ฌ80โ€“โ‚ฌ100.

3. Where to Purchase Tickets

You can purchase tickets in several ways:

a. On the Bus

  • You can pay cash directly to the driver when boarding the bus.
  • Exact change is required, as drivers do not provide change.

b. Leap Card

  • Purchase a Leap Card at:
    • Local convenience stores (e.g., Spar, Centra, or other shops displaying the Leap Card logo).
    • Bus ร‰ireann ticket offices (e.g., at Parnell Place Bus Station in Cork City).
  • Top up your Leap Card online (via the Leap Card website or app) or at designated retail outlets.

c. Online

  • Weekly and monthly tickets can be purchased online through the Bus ร‰ireann website or the Leap Card portal.

d. Mobile Apps

  • The TFI Go App (Transport for Ireland) allows you to purchase single journey tickets for Bus ร‰ireann services in Cork. Tickets are stored digitally on your phone.

4. How to Use Tickets

a. Cash Tickets

  • If you pay cash on the bus, the driver will issue a paper ticket. Keep this ticket with you for the duration of your journey.

b. Leap Card

  • Tap your Leap Card on the card reader when boarding the bus. The fare will be automatically deducted from your card balance.
  • If youโ€™re using a Leap Card for a return journey, youโ€™ll need to tap again when boarding the bus for the return trip.

c. Mobile Tickets

  • If youโ€™ve purchased a ticket via the TFI Go App, show the digital ticket to the driver when boarding.

5. Local Tips and Considerations

  • Exact Change for Cash Fares: If youโ€™re paying cash, ensure you have the exact fare, as drivers do not give change.
  • Leap Card Savings: Using a Leap Card is significantly cheaper than paying cash. Itโ€™s highly recommended for anyone staying in Cork for more than a day or two.
  • Daily and Weekly Caps: Leap Cards have daily and weekly fare caps, meaning you wonโ€™t be charged more than a certain amount, no matter how many trips you take. This is a cost-effective option for frequent travelers.
  • Bus Schedules: Check the Bus ร‰ireann website or the TFI Real-Time Ireland App for up-to-date schedules and live bus tracking.
  • Student Discounts: If youโ€™re a student, apply for a Student Leap Card to access even greater discounts.
  • Children Under 5: Children under 5 years old travel for free on Bus ร‰ireann services.
  • Peak Hours: Buses can get crowded during peak hours (7:30โ€“9:30 AM and 4:30โ€“6:30 PM). Plan your travel accordingly.
  • Regional Travel: If you plan to travel outside Cork City (e.g., to Kinsale or Cobh), check the specific fares and schedules for regional Bus ร‰ireann routes.

6. Additional Resources

  • Bus ร‰ireann Website: www.buseireann.ie
  • Leap Card Website: www.leapcard.ie
  • TFI Real-Time Ireland App: Download for live bus tracking and schedules.
  • TFI Go App: Download for purchasing mobile tickets.

By understanding the ticketing system and using tools like the Leap Card, you can navigate Corkโ€™s public transportation system efficiently and affordably. Let me know if you need further assistance!