Best Places to Go in Ireland by Train

Co. Kerry, Ireland

Rugged Coastlines

1/5

Co. Kerry

Ireland as an independent country is relatively young, and more still it only joined the European Union in 1973. With this status change came new funding and support for infrastructure across the island, including improved rail service. Today, much of Ireland is well connected by a rail network that is also supplemented by coaches and ferries. The more than 7 million annual visitors (that’s about as much as the country’s resident population) can enjoy exploring Ireland safely and sustainably by taking advantage of these transportation opportunities.

Europe Travel Tips

Prepared By:

Shannon Lowery

Travel Content Creator

Ireland by Rail

Destinations

Dublin, Co. Dublin

Westport, Co. Mayo

Galway, Co. Mayo

Cork, Co. Cork

Wexford, Co. Cork

Killarney, Co. Kerry

Belfast, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland

Suggested Seasons

All Seasons

#UnfollowtheCrowd

Did you know that some of the best places to go in Ireland can be reached by train? Ireland’s rail system is designed like a bicycle spoke with Dublin, the capital city, as the origin for most routes. While in Dublin, make the most of the city’s trains and public transit services for getting around the city. Keep reading for everything you need to know about seeing Ireland by train.

What You Should Know About Ireland Trains

WHY YOU SHOULD TAKE THE TRAIN IN IRELAND

If you’re wondering why you should explore Ireland by rail instead of by car, there are several pragmatic reasons to consider.

It’s easier. As mentioned above, much of Ireland’s infrastructure is relatively new. Once you get outside of major cities and towns, roads can be narrow and difficult to navigate. Not to mention, Ireland drives on the left side of the road. Take it from us, if you’re an American or European driver, it can be disorienting at best and downright dangerous at worst.
It’s cheaper. Just about ay way you cut it, the train is cheaper than renting a car and driving.
It’s sustainable. It’s no secret that trains are a more sustainable travel option than private cars.
It’s faster. Because of the road system in Ireland, trains are more direct, making them as fast if not faster than driving a car.

IRISH RAIL TICKETS & INFORMATION

Can I buy Irish rail tickets online?

Yes! You can purchase tickets online on the official Irish Rail website.

Where can I find Irish rail train times?

The official Irish Rail website includes a journey planner as well as maps, timetables, and live train updates.

How far in advance should I book Irish rail tickets?

You can book tickets 90 days in advance of travel. It’s advised to book tickets as soon as possible to secure your preferred seat. You can opt for random seat selection, as well. Be advised that day-of tickets can only be purchased in an Irish Rail station.

What are trains in Ireland like onboard?

Trains in Ireland include Wifi, USB-charging ports, and bathrooms. Most trains do not have snack cars, but some have refreshment trolleys as well as designated quiet cars.

Does Ireland have speed trains?

No, Ireland does not have speed trains.

GETTING AROUND IN DUBLIN

Dublin, Ireland, has a public transit system including commuter trains (the DART), a light rail system (the LUAS), and lots of buses. Information about all of these services can be found on the Transport for Ireland website. However, like many cities walking is also one of the best ways to get around Dublin.

6 of the Best Places to See in Ireland by Train from Dublin

WESTPORT, CO. MAYO

Train from Dublin to Westport

First up on the list of best places to go in Ireland by train is Westport, County Mayo. Located on the Wild Atlantic Way on Ireland’s West Coast, the journey from Dublin takes less than three hours. Westport is the quintessential coastal village, loaded with equal parts history and incredible scenery. From pirates to the imposing peak of Croagh Patrick, Westport pretty much guarantees a great time no matter when you visit.

Westport is one of the best places to visit in Ireland by train from Dublin

GALWAY, CO. GALWAY

Train from Dublin to Galway

Galway is one of the most popular places to visit in Ireland outside of Dublin. Renowned for its musical scene and colorful streets, it’s a great launching point for exploring the Connemara region of western Ireland. Take a day trip out to the Aran Islands, which includes bonus views of the Cliffs of Moher from the ferry. While in Galway city, explore beyond Eyre Square to the edges of town for a more authentic, local experience.

Connemara National Park in winter, Co. Galway Ireland

KILLARNEY, CO. KERRY

Train from Dublin to Killarney

County Kerry is home to what many regard as some of the most picturesque landscapes in all of Ireland. The largest town of the county, Killarney, is nestled on the shores of Lough Leane and surrounded by the rugged terrain of Killarney National Park. It’s the gateway to the Ring of Kerry, a popular scenic drive the encircles the Iveragh Peninsula.

Co. Kerry is one of the most beautiful places in Ireland

CORK CITY, CO. CORK

Train from Dublin to Cork

Rizz. Swagger. Attitude. Whatever you call it, Cork’s got it. Known as the Rebel County, Cork prides itself on standing apart from the rest of Ireland. Greater Cork is the bread basket of the country while Cork City is the country’s cultural epicenter. A thriving music, arts, and culinary scene easily make Cork one of the best places to see in Ireland by train.

Cork is one of the best places to go in Ireland by train from Dublin

WEXFORD TOWN, CO. WEXFORD

Train from Dublin to Wexford

If you want to stay in Ireland’s Ancient East, pop down to Wexford, just south of Dublin. Wexford town boasts a rich Viking and Norman heritage, evident in its historical sites like Selskar Abbey and the ruins of the old town walls. After you’ve explored the lively streets lined with quaint shops and inviting pubs, catch a ferry to Spain, France, or Great Britain from nearby Rosslare Harbor. For a shorter journey on the water, visit Great Saltee Island, where you can observe Atlantic puffins up close during the late spring and summer months.

Atlantic Puffins in Great Saltee in Co. Wexford, Ireland

BELFAST, CO. ANTRIM, NORTHERN IRELAND

Train from Dublin to Belfast

Cross into Northern Ireland, officially part of the United Kingdom, aboard a train from Dublin to Belfast. The history of Belfast is rich and complex, where events of The Troubles are within living memory. Visit with respect and an open mind to learn about how the conflicts affected not just residents of Belfast, but shaped the future of Ireland as a whole. From here, you can also extend your trip and hop up to Derry, made famous by the hit Netflix series, Derry Girls. This medieval walled town straddles the Irish border and is a hidden gem in the Northwest corner of Ireland.

Take the train from Belfast to Dublin

Note: As of summer 2024, Irish Rail announced an expansion plan for several of their services over the coming years and decades, including westerly extension of the DART commuter service trains, an all-island rail network development, and the addition of high-speed trains.