Essential insights for train travel in Ireland

Exploring Ireland by train is one of the country’s wonderful yet often underrated delights.

Being a small island with a limited rail network means that no trip is particularly long—but traveling by train offers a charming way to experience the picturesque countryside.

While Irish trains may not rival those in Europe, they serve their purpose well: you travel at speeds up to 160km/h (99mph), and soon enough, you find yourself on the opposite side of the island.

The demographics of Ireland influence its train travel patterns: with about a quarter of the population residing in the greater Dublin area, it’s logical that most train journeys start or conclude there. Similarly, in Northern Ireland, Belfast serves as the primary hub.

While Irish trains may not boast high speeds or luxury, they provide an effective and eco-friendly way to discover the island—especially if your journey focuses on the main cities and towns. Here’s your essential guide to train travel in Ireland.

The essentials of rail travel in Ireland

Irish trains are reliable, relatively frequent, and generally punctual. The entire train network in the Republic is managed by Irish Rail/Iarnród Éireann, which includes intercity trains connecting major urban hubs and a busy commuter system servicing the greater Dublin area.

Two primary rail lines head west and three go south and southwest, with branches connecting many smaller towns across the country. Additionally, there's a line to Belfast, where Translink links the city to the scenic Antrim Coast and Derry (Londonderry).

In the greater Dublin area, a network of commuter trains connects the capital to numerous suburbs and towns in the nearby counties. The coastline from Howth to Malahide and down to Greystones in County Wicklow is serviced by DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transport) trains.

There are significant gaps in the rail network, with no services available in counties Donegal, Monaghan, and Cavan, and no train access to West Cork. Some towns, such as Buttevant in Cork and Annacotty in Limerick, are on the rail line but lack functional stations.

Ireland's major train stations—including Cork, Limerick, Galway, Sligo, Belfast, and the two in Dublin—are well-equipped for travelers, offering a variety of supplies and snacks. Most smaller stations typically feature a small shop.

Train fares offer great value

The positive aspect of train travel in Ireland is its affordability compared to other regions, like the UK. For example, an online one-way ticket from Dublin Heuston to Kent Station in Cork ranges from €30 to €35, while first-class tickets cost about €55.

Purchasing tickets online is the most advantageous method for train travel in the Republic of Ireland. You can find the best prices (with discounts up to 50% off station prices), and you can book tickets up to 90 days ahead, reserving your seat at the same time.

You can either collect your purchased ticket from a machine at the station when boarding or download a QR code upon purchase. If you choose to buy your ticket at the station, expect to pay significantly more and arrive early to queue at the ticket kiosk.

For travel within Northern Ireland, it's advisable to purchase your ticket directly at the station since only a limited selection is available online. Arrive a little before your scheduled departure to buy your ticket on-site.

While only a few services provide first class, upgrading is fairly affordable. Generally, expect to pay an extra €20–25 for first class seating. There are three types of first class services on Irish trains. CityGold is available on direct routes from Dublin to Cork, featuring an onboard host and complimentary newspapers on select early morning trains. The Enterprise service between Dublin and Belfast includes similar perks plus a delicious breakfast. Premier Class offers a comparable experience but is limited to direct routes between Dublin and Tralee, as well as some Dublin to Cork trains.

Various discounts and special offers are available

Discounted tickets are available for children and young adults aged 19 to 25 with a valid discount card. Children under five and seniors aged 66 and older can travel for free.

In the Greater Dublin area, the commuter network has a fare cap of €6 for travel between the capital and various nearby towns.

Two rail passes are designed for visitors. The Trekker Four Day pass (€88) allows unlimited travel for adults on all Irish Rail services for four consecutive days. The Explorer pass (€128 for adults, €64 for children) permits five days of travel on all services within a 15-day period.

Before purchasing either pass, ensure you can maximize its value. The limited rail network means connections can be sparse, and traveling between some destinations may require backtracking: for instance, to get from Cork to Waterford, you must first go to Limerick, and although Sligo and Westport are only 140km apart, a train journey between them will necessitate traveling through Dublin, located on the opposite side of the country.

In Northern Ireland, the Sunday Fun Day Tracker ticket offers unlimited train travel on Sundays for £9 (£4.50 for children). These tickets can be purchased at all ticket offices, via the mLink ticketing app, or from the conductor on board the train.

These are peak travel times for train passengers

As expected, peak train travel times align with rush hour. Early morning trains heading to Dublin from cities like Cork, Galway, and Limerick can get quite crowded, especially if they are scheduled to arrive in Dublin around the start of the workday. Similarly, Friday evening trains leaving Dublin tend to be busy. However, booking online allows you to reserve a seat, ensuring you won't have to stand.

The commuter network experiences its highest traffic on weekdays from 7am to 9am and 4:30pm to 6:30pm as thousands commute to and from work. Since you cannot reserve seats on these trains, many passengers find themselves standing. Pay attention to schedule changes, particularly during weekends and holidays, when service frequencies may drop.

While the train network in Ireland is somewhat limited, it offers advantages over traveling by road.

There are no train connections to any airports in Ireland, so once you land, you'll need to rely on taxis, private vehicles, or buses. On the other hand, Irish ferry ports have better access to train lines, with services available in Rosslare, Dublin, and Larne; however, there is no rail service to Belfast Port.

If you aim to explore the island's more remote areas, the Irish rail network may not suffice, and a car will provide the necessary flexibility. Keep in mind, though, that rental costs can be quite high, and fuel prices for unleaded and diesel hover between €1.75 and €2 per liter. Additionally, parking in major cities, particularly Dublin, can be quite expensive.

Traveling by bus is the most economical option for getting around, but it can be quite slow due to numerous stops along the route. While some express services offer direct routes, they are subject to traffic delays, making train travel often faster. Moreover, buses lack restroom facilities, forcing long-distance passengers to rely on rest stops.

The onboard amenities vary depending on the train type.

Irish trains are categorized into two types: InterCity and commuter. InterCity trains share similar features, boasting modern interiors with comfortable standard seats and plush recliners in first class, reaching speeds of up to 160km/h (99mph). No journey in Ireland exceeds 2½ to 3 hours. Commuter trains are somewhat older, offering less comfort; some routes utilize very basic older trains with just seats and a toilet for short distances in rural areas.

While the flagship service operates between Dublin and Cork, the most luxurious option is the Enterprise service connecting Dublin Connolly and Belfast Lanyon Place, a collaboration between Irish Rail and Translink. This train matches many services found across mainland Europe, with first class providing the utmost luxury available in the country.

All InterCity trains come equipped with three-pin sockets at each row for charging devices or laptops. Most commuter trains in the Dublin area also feature sockets. Every train has toilets, and there is a cross-network wi-fi service managed by Irish Rail, although its reliability can vary. Translink offers its own wi-fi network on all northern bus and rail services, but, as in the Republic, the quality of connection can fluctuate based on signal strength and user demand.

Dining options are somewhat limited. The train service from Dublin to Cork features a trolley service, while the Enterprise service connecting Dublin and Belfast offers a full menu in a dedicated dining car; first class passengers enjoy a complimentary breakfast included in their fare.

Certain trains on the Dublin to Cork route include a 'quiet carriage' (typically Carriage G, marked in purple when booking), where phone usage is banned and passengers are encouraged to maintain a low noise level.

You can take a bike on any Irish Rail train at no extra charge, although there are some restrictions during peak times (like major sporting events and concerts). The Dublin to Cork line is the only route with a dedicated bike storage area; other InterCity trains have very limited space for bicycles within the passenger compartment—often only two bikes can fit, so advance booking is recommended. Bikes are not permitted on commuter and DART services during rush hours—before 10am and from 3:30pm to 7pm, Monday to Friday.

Explore the most picturesque train journeys in Ireland

Wherever you find yourself in Ireland, breathtaking landscapes await, but some routes are particularly stunning and deserve your full attention.

Dublin to Sligo

After leaving the vast suburbs of greater Dublin, the scenery becomes wonderfully serene; past Mullingar, the train runs alongside the stunning Lough Owel. For the best views, make sure to sit on the left side of the train.

Dublin to Belfast

The Enterprise service is unmatched in Ireland, featuring the most plush seating and exceptional dining options, particularly in first class. As the train glides along the Irish Sea between Malahide and Balbriggan, be sure to secure a seat on that side for stunning views (the right side if you're heading to Belfast).

Derry (Londonderry) to Coleraine

The Translink route from Northern Ireland’s second city to Coleraine is a breathtaking 40-minute ride along the Causeway Coast, showcasing gorgeous beaches, towering cliffs, and sweeping views of the North Sea.

Downpatrick to Inch Abbey

Though it’s a brief 10-minute journey, the ride from Downpatrick in County Down to the historic ruins of Inch Abbey takes place aboard a vintage steam train (or a 1960s diesel) that leisurely travels over the River Quoile and through a picturesque, drumlin-dotted landscape.

Cork to Cobh

One of the most picturesque journeys in Ireland is the 25-minute ride from Cork City to the charming seaside town of Cobh. This route meanders along the river, and for the finest views, sit on the right side. You'll pass by the marshy Harper’s Island and cross the bridges spanning Lough Mahon and Slatty Water. Don't forget to stop at Fota to explore the nearby wildlife park!

Book in advance for wheelchair access to trains

While all InterCity services are generally accessible, it's essential to book assistance ahead of time to ensure proper arrangements. This often means a conductor will have a ramp ready for wheelchair users, but there have been instances where staff simply lift wheelchairs onto the train, which can be either helpful or frustrating. Always communicate your needs before traveling, as assistance isn't guaranteed otherwise.

For travelers with learning difficulties or communication challenges (like autism), Irish Rail staff are trained to recognize visual cue cards, such as the JAM card, which indicate the holder's condition. JAM cards can be obtained online or at major train stations in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford, and Sligo.