I will be in Dublin in September for 4 days. Should I purchase leap pass or pass for transportation around Dublin? Want to see Dublin on foot and bus or whatever is offered.
I didn't get a Leap pass because I primarily walked everywhere. I think it would come in handy if you needed public transport everyday to get into town. The only public transportation I used were the express buses back and forth to the airport and a train out to Howth one day.
Hi! I am living in Dublin currently as a student and can recommend the Leap Card if you think you will use the trams (Luas) at all. It is easy to use (tap on/tap off) and you can preload as much or as little money as you want onto it. It is also a cheaper fare to use the Leap card compared with buying with cash/card. It also maxes out how much it will charge you per day (€4 ish) if you plan to make a few trips. However, Dublin is very walkable and if you are staying in the city center, you probably will not need to go on the Luas much. However, it can be pretty convenient if you want to get from the Northside (of the Liffey) down South relatively quickly. The Leap Card also works on the buses which are often frequent (but not usually on time).
We love the LEAP visitor card. This summer we purchased the 3 day and topped it up for a 4th day. And while Dublin is very walkable you will be walking. My fitbit logged 7.5 miles one of our Dublin days. However If you are thinking about visiting Glasnevin Cemetery, Kilmainham Goal or taking the DART to Howth or Bray the LEAP card will get you there and it's easier than searching for change for the bus or having to by tickets for the DART. Added bonus riding the LUAS is more fun that the People Mover at Disney World (and I love that ride). And the transportation to and from the airport is a huge plus (we didn't use that this trip as we had a family member drop us off at the airport).
If/when it's pouring down rain having the ability to hop on the bus and get to your next destination not soaking wet is a potential day saver. We downloaded the Trip Planning app and the Bus arrival time app and used both to get from point A to B with no issues (we had a TESCO SIM card for local phone and data)
We bought the visitor LEAP card for the convenience and not to save money but in adding up our various trips around town we did end up with some savings so we were happy with that. And did I mention how much fun the LUAS is?
If you decide to go with walking but are interested in a bus tour, the Vintage Tea Tour is a great way to see Dublin and enjoy an afternoon tea sitting on a restored double decker bus.
Yes, Dublin is very walkable: lots of side-alleys - performers and music everywhere, esp. in the evenings. I found the pavements very crowded but everyone was good-natured.