5 Fantastic Ways to See Ireland by Rail

Ireland is known for captivating landscapes in forty shades of green, but did you know that its cities are just as engaging? Exploring the Emerald Isle by rails allows travelers to enjoy it all: rolling green hills, historic bridges, and jaw-dropping architecture. Here's our easy guide to rail travel so that you can see Ireland's best destinations without the stress of driving.

Dublin to Belfast

The spectacular scenery will make your 2+ hour journey fly by. It winds through charming towns like Dundalk and Newry then traverses the eastern coast, giving you plenty of time to soak in stunning views of the cliffs and sea.

Be sure to see the Titanic Museum, just a 15-minute walk from the train station. The self-guided experience recounts the vessel's building in Belfast and what it was like to be a passenger on the doomed ship.

Belfast is in Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom, so its currency differs from the rest of the Republic of Ireland. Rather than euros, the British pound sterling (£) is used here.

Getting There: Take Intercity Irish Rail/Northern Ireland Railways from Dublin Connolly Station to Belfast Station.

Dublin to Galway

The intercity route winds through the hilly inland and along the coast. The stretch that passes alongside Galway Bay gives you a perfect vista to snap vacation photos.

You'll cross the River Shannon, then Lough Atalia, a lake in Galway's City Center. When you arrive, marvel at Galway Cathedral or learn about the city's rich history at the Galway City Museum.

Getting There: Ride the Intercity Irish Rail from the Dublin station to Galway (Ceannt).

Galway to Limerick

Perched on the mighty River Shannon, historic Limerick is a beautiful and fascinating stop just two hours by express train from Galway.

Your trip will take you through the towns of Craughwell, Ennis, and Sixmilebridge. Begin your visit at ancient King John's Castle to learn how Limerick grew into a bustling fortified port town. Make time for St. Mary's Cathedral, a 12th-century structure still in daily use.

Getting there: Take Intercity Irish Rail from Galway station to Limerick Station.

Killarney to Cork

Spend a day in Cork, the Republic's second-largest city and its "Maritime Haven."

The 90-minute trip from Killarney winds through cities like Banteer and Mallow and takes in plenty of scenic countrysides. Check out Blarney Castle, Elizabeth Fort, and Fota Wildlife Park in Cork, and for a peek into the city's history, stop by the Cork City Gaol and the Butter Museum.

Getting there: Take the Intercity Irish Rail from the Killarney station to Cork (Kerry).

Cork to Cobh

When you're staying in Cork, consider a train ride to the bustling port city of Cobh! The picturesque journey takes less than 25 minutes, but there's a good reason it's one of the most popular rail routes in Ireland!

Onboard you'll traverse the Belvelly Channel's glassy waters and roll past the verdant grounds of Fota Wildlife Park. Drop by the Cobh Heritage Centre to learn about the history of this maritime town, which played a prominent role in Ireland's emigration history.

Before you leave, head to West View Park to see the famous view of the colorful Deck of Cards houses with St. Colman's Cathedral looming in the background.

Getting there: Board the Irish Rail Cork to Cobh train at Cork Kent Station. Trip length: Under 25 Minutes

We have a passion for creating itineraries that match our clients' travel styles and preferences. If you're ready to explore Ireland, but you're looking for alternatives to driving, a rail adventure might be for you. Contact Grand Journeys Travel so we can get your adventure started.