Limerick

1. Types of Tickets Available

Limerick’s public transportation system offers a variety of ticketing options to suit different needs. These include:

Single Tickets

• A one-way ticket for a single journey on a specific route.
• Ideal for occasional travelers or visitors making one-off trips.

Return Tickets

• Covers a round trip (to and from a destination) on the same day.
• Slightly cheaper than buying two single tickets.

Leap Card (Prepaid Smart Card)

• A reusable, contactless card that offers discounted fares compared to cash tickets.
• Can be used on Bus Éireann services in Limerick and other public transport systems across Ireland.
• Offers flexibility for frequent travelers or those staying for an extended period.

Weekly and Monthly Tickets

• Unlimited travel within a specific time frame (7 days or 30 days) on Bus Éireann services in Limerick.
• Cost-effective for commuters or those planning to use buses frequently.

Student and Child Tickets

• Discounted tickets are available for students (with valid student ID) and children under 16.
• Leap Cards also offer reduced fares for students and children.

Free Travel Scheme

• Irish residents who qualify for the Free Travel Scheme (e.g., senior citizens, certain individuals with disabilities) can travel for free on Bus Éireann services by presenting their Free Travel Pass.

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2. Costs

The cost of tickets depends on the type of ticket and the distance traveled. Below is a general breakdown:

Cash Fares (Approximate)

• Adult Single Ticket: €2.00–€3.50 (depending on the distance).
• Child Single Ticket: €1.00–€1.50.
• Return Ticket: Typically double the single fare, with a small discount.

Leap Card Fares

• Leap Card fares are approximately 20–30% cheaper than cash fares.
• Example: An adult single journey might cost €1.60–€2.50 with a Leap Card.

Weekly and Monthly Tickets

• Weekly Ticket: Around €20–€30 for unlimited travel within Limerick city.
• Monthly Ticket: Around €80–€100.

Student and Child Discounts

• Students and children pay reduced fares, both for cash tickets and Leap Card journeys.

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3. Where to Purchase Tickets

You can purchase tickets through the following methods:

Cash Tickets

• Pay directly to the bus driver when boarding. Exact change is required, as drivers do not provide change.

Leap Card

• Purchase a Leap Card at:
  • Local convenience stores (e.g., Spar, Centra) displaying the Leap Card logo.
  • Online at the official Leap Card website (www.leapcard.ie).
• Top up your Leap Card at:
  • Leap Card retailers.
  • Online via the Leap Card website or mobile app.
  • At ticket machines in some locations.

Weekly and Monthly Tickets

• Purchase at Bus Éireann ticket offices (e.g., Limerick Bus Station on Parnell Street).
• Some tickets may also be available online via the Bus Éireann website.

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4. How the Ticketing System Works

• Cash Tickets: If paying with cash, tell the driver your destination when boarding. The driver will issue a paper ticket. Keep this ticket as proof of payment.
• Leap Card: Tap your Leap Card on the card reader when boarding. The correct fare will be deducted automatically. No need to tap off when alighting.
• Prepaid Tickets: Show your weekly/monthly ticket or Free Travel Pass to the driver when boarding.

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5. Local Considerations and Tips

• Exact Change for Cash Tickets: If paying with cash, ensure you have the exact fare, as drivers do not give change.
• Leap Card Savings: If you plan to use public transport more than a few times, a Leap Card is highly recommended for convenience and savings.
• Bus Schedules: Check the Bus Éireann website or use the TFI (Transport for Ireland) Real-Time Ireland app for up-to-date bus schedules and live tracking.
• Peak Hours: Buses can be crowded during peak hours (7:30–9:00 AM and 4:30–6:00 PM). Plan your travel accordingly.
• Accessibility: Most buses in Limerick are wheelchair accessible. If you have specific accessibility needs, contact Bus Éireann in advance.
• Tourist Attractions: If you’re visiting popular sites like King John’s Castle or the Hunt Museum, check the bus routes in advance to ensure smooth travel.
• Intercity Travel: If you’re traveling outside Limerick (e.g., to Dublin or Galway), you may need to purchase separate intercity tickets, which are not covered by city-specific Leap Card fares.

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6. Useful Resources

• Bus Éireann Website: www.buseireann.ie – For route maps, schedules, and ticket purchases.
• Leap Card Website: www.leapcard.ie – For purchasing and managing Leap Cards.
• TFI Real-Time Ireland App: Download for live bus tracking and route planning.
• Limerick Bus Station: Located on Parnell Street, this is the main hub for Bus Éireann services in the city.

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By understanding the ticketing system and planning ahead, you can navigate Limerick’s public transportation with ease. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, feel free to ask!