General Information » Getting Around » Bicycle

Cycling is an economical, healthy and practical way to get around the city. Hundreds of kilometres of cycle tracks cut across the city and new facilities continue to be developed in conjunction with bus priority schemes. The Ranelagh route, in particular, is an example of good design, complete with wide lanes and safe crossings. In recent years, awareness campaigns have promoted cycling as a mode of transport, but even though Dublin city is relatively compact and mostly flat, the majority of Dubliners have taken rather slowly to the idea. Although bike stands now dot the city, parking your two-wheeler safely can be somewhat of a challenge. Lonely locks or random bike parts hanging from the metal posts are hardly an uncommon sight, and serve as a reminder that not much is safe from the long fingers of thieves, especially your trusty bicycle. Take all detachables with you wherever possible. Bike hire remains expensive at €80 per week or €20 a day (www.cycleways.ie). To get your own, see Shopping on p.279.