The 26.2-mile race is expected to bring thousands of participants and spectators into the capital, while generating approximately €9 million annually for charitable causes. However, extensive road closures and changes to public transport services are expected to cause significant disruption across the city.
Dublin Bus has released details of diversions affecting numerous routes over the weekend, with changes beginning on Friday, October 23, due to preparations around Merrion Square. Closures affecting Merrion Square South and East are scheduled to remain in place until 6pm on Monday, October 26.
Routes 15a, 15b, 19, 23 and 24 will be among those affected by the initial closures, with buses diverted to alternative stops around Merrion Square West and the Natural History Museum.
Further disruption is expected on marathon day, Sunday, October 25, when extensive diversions will begin from 8am and remain in place until roads reopen. Routes serving the city centre, south Dublin, the west of the city and surrounding suburbs will operate altered services at different stages of the race.
Several services will face particularly significant changes. Route 11 will not operate before 11am, while routes 82 and S2 will also experience temporary suspensions or altered operating arrangements. Route 99 is scheduled to remain suspended until 1.30pm.
Other services, including routes 4, 7, 7a, 13, 14, 15, 16, 27, 44, 47, 60, 68, 69 and 80, will operate diversions depending on the time of day and the roads affected by the marathon.
Commuters travelling through the city centre should also expect changes to routes serving College Green, O'Connell Street, Pearse Street, D'Olier Street and the surrounding quays. Several buses will terminate at alternative locations, while others will use different roads to reach their destinations.
Express services E1, E2, F1, F2, F3, G1 and G2 will also be affected, with diversions and temporary changes to their termini during the morning. A dedicated E2 shuttle service will operate between Dún Laoghaire and Stillorgan Shopping Centre from 6am until 11am.
Meanwhile, DoDublin City Tours will resume their routes through Phoenix Park and past Kilmainham Gaol from 11am, once the race has finished in those areas.
Passengers are advised to plan journeys in advance, allow extra travel time and check the latest Dublin Bus service updates before setting off. With widespread changes expected throughout the bank holiday weekend, checking individual route information will be essential for anyone travelling around Dublin.
