Dublin Airport opened its doors in 1972 with a mission to serve roughly 5 million passengers each year. It grew dramatically during the “Celtic Tiger” days, when most of the facilities that you see today were added. With the advent of Terminal 2, this original terminal will begin focusing more on regional connections and flights to other EU cities.
Departing passengers proceed to the first floor for check-in. As you’re walking through the entrance, Pier A is to the right, Pier C is to the left and Pier B is straight ahead and beyond the check-in counters.
Terminal 1 has all the facilities that modern travellers require, from left luggage to car hire in Dublin Airport. Wireless internet is available throughout the terminal, with wired kiosks in the common areas as well as Piers A, B and D. If you have a particular question or need to map your way to a specific location, look for the mobile Customer service assistants (CRAs), who patrol the terminal donning pink polo shirts.
On the commercial front, there is a book store, snack stand and pharmacy landside, but most of the major retailers and restaurants are farther on in the terminal. The shopping prospects in Terminal 1 are spectacular thanks to The Loop, a commercial concourse where the retailers make a point of beating prices seen in downtown Dublin. Look for major brands including Calvin Klein, L Copelands and Boggi Milano.
You’ll also find eateries in The Loop, though the best choice of restaurants and pubs are in the Mezzanine Food Court. The more up-market establishments are sprinkled across Terminal 1, such that you’re never far from a meal and a pint. For landside dining and drinking, stop by Jameson or Skyview.
Getting to and from Terminal 1 is a breeze. Drivers can leave their car in one of 3,600 short-term parking spots in the adjoining car park. Buses are also in full supply, working out networks connecting the terminal to the entire metropolitan area. While taxis are on hand, plan on using a Dublin Airport hire car for anything more than 30 kilometres, as most drivers won’t go farther than that.