Dear travellers, fasten your seatbelts… er, no, unfasten them instead! Travelling by train in Ireland means enjoying freedom, comfort and a breathtaking view of the countryside, all without the hassle. fear of driving on the left ! If you too prefer greener, safer public transport, then you’ve come to the right place! Travelling to Ireland by train is particularly easy, provided you plan your journey in advance. Here are our tips for an incredible stay in Ireland!
Ireland’s rail network, managed by Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann if you want to show off with some Gaelic), is your passport to discovering the country.
In Northern Ireland, the main train company is Translink, which operates under the name NI Railways (Northern Ireland Railways).
With routes stretching from Dublin, Belfast, Cork and Galway to the remotest corners of the world, you can literally travel through picture-postcard panoramas while sipping a steaming cup of tea. Seductive, isn’t it?
Irish Rail covers a large part of the country, including many major tourist destinations. This makes trains convenient for exploring various parts of Ireland.
What’s more, trains on the Irish network offer a higher level of comfort than other means of transport. You can sit back, relax, read a book or simply enjoy the scenery as it passes by without worrying about driving or traffic… All this in a generally calm environment, conducive to relaxation and escape!
Booking a train ticket in Ireland is child’s play. You can do this online on the Irish Rail website, via their mobile app, or directly at the station for the more adventurous who aren’t afraid to get to grips with the English language.
Friendly tip: book in advance for prices that are sweeter than a frothy Guinness!
Fares vary according to distance, train type and class. There are often special offers, especially out of season. For globetrotters, consider train passes such as the Irish Explorer Rail Card, which allow you to travel at will without breaking your piggy bank.
But beware: the train is clearly more expensive than the bus. Rates are often even higher than in countries such as France, Belgium, Germany and Spain.
Trains are usually on time, but it’s always a good idea to leave a little margin. This allows you to discover the station, how it works, the track to get to and, of course, settle in without having to chase after your carriage.
Some trains offer catering services, but if you bring your own snacks, you won’t break the bank. Food sold in stations and on board Irish trains is generally more expensive than elsewhere.
So don’t hesitate to make yourself a good sandwich or buy one in a convenience store before your trip. You’ll make substantial savings.
All travelers prefer to be seated window-side. It’s a unique opportunity to discover the Irish landscape, with its breathtaking views of nature and the countryside… as well as its cities.
For long-legged passengers, we recommend aisle seats.
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