Dublin Airport handles around 33 million passengers a year, and the parking you pay for at the terminal gate is among the priciest part of any trip through it. Booking an off-airport space ahead of time is almost always cheaper than turning up and paying the on-the-day rate — frequently by more than half. Here is how the options compare and how to land the lowest price.

The two ways to park at Dublin Airport

Park & Ride is the cheapest. You drive to a secure off-airport compound a short distance from the airport, park your own car, and a shuttle runs every 30 minutes to Zone 16 (the Coach Park), from where both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are a short walk. It is the lowest per-day rate and suits anyone happy to allow a little extra time.

Meet & Greet costs more but is the most convenient: a chauffeur meets you at the terminal — the designated point is Car Park A, Level 2 for Terminal 1, or the set-down zone for Terminal 2 — takes your keys and parks the car for you. On return they bring it back. Note that Dublin Airport charges a €5 levy each way (drop-off and pick-up), payable at the barrier, so budget for that on top of the parking price.

How to get the cheapest Dublin Airport parking

  • Book ahead. Prices climb as the date approaches and spaces sell out in summer and at Christmas. Two to three weeks out typically gets the best rate.
  • Choose Park & Ride for longer stays. The per-day saving compounds — on a 10-day trip it is the clear winner.
  • Factor in the €5 each-way levy for Meet & Greet so you are comparing like with like.
  • Skip the short-term car parks for anything longer than a quick drop — they are priced for hours, not days.

Compare live Dublin Airport parking prices — every option, live rates, a flat £2.29 booking fee and no hidden charges at the checkout.

Terminal tips before you book

Terminal 1 serves Ryanair and most short-haul European carriers; Terminal 2 serves Aer Lingus, American, Delta, United and most long-haul flights. If you are flying to the US, Dublin has US pre-clearance — you clear US immigration before boarding, so allow 30 to 60 minutes extra and factor that into when you need to be parked and on the shuttle.

Getting there: from the M1 northbound take exit 2 (the airport is signposted). Allow about 25 minutes from central Dublin off-peak.

See also our full Dublin Airport parking comparison with live prices, plus drop-off and terminal guidance for travellers flying from DUB.

Last fact-checked May 2026. Prices and the airport levy change; always confirm on your booking confirmation and the airport's own site before travel.