train trips northern ireland

Northern Ireland

Aug 17, 2020 | Countries

Northern Ireland by Train

A Travel Guide For Train Travel In Northern Ireland.

Here you will find information for Northern Ireland about trains, routes, tours, connections, where to buy train tickets, and more.

Useful Information

Population: 1 .88 million

Currency: Pound Sterling

Language: English, Irish

Capital: Belfast

Country Code: +44

Time Zone: Western European Time

Train Companies | Tickets | Rail Passes | Train Types | Routes   | Main Stations | Good To Know

Train Companies

All of the country’s trains are operated by Northern Ireland Railways (NI Railways ); however, in Ireland rail services are operated by Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) .

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Train Tickets

Buy your tickets for Northern Ireland at the train station; however, if you are buying tickets for Dublin – Belfast routes , use the official Irish Rail page.

Buy your train tickets online at OMIO and compare trains, buses & flights.

Rail Passes

Interrail / eurail pass.

Do you want to travel throughout Europe flexibly and comfortably? Then the Interrail Pass is perfect for you. With the Interrail Pass, you can visit 40,000 destinations in 33 countries in Europe. You can travel for up to 3 months by train.

TrAIN tYPES

• National Trains
• International Trains
• Night Trains
• Special Trains

Regional Trains

The major rail network in Northern Ireland is composed of the following trains:

InterCity trains connect Belfast to Derry/Londonderry.

• 2nd Class (Standard): Rows of four seats (2+2)
• No reservation required, buy a ticket at the station, ticket purchase unavailable online.

Enterprise is co-run by Northern Ireland Railways and Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail).

• 1st Class: Rows of three seats (2+1)
• No reservations required
• Trains are equipped with WiFi, electrical plug-ins, and air conditioning. Trains are also equipped with a buffet car offering a range of food and drinks.

There are no night trains in Northern Ireland.

Belmond Grand Hiberian

Frequently Travelled Routes In Northern Ireland

International, northern ireland travel routes, main train stations.

• Belfast Lanyon Place Station
• Londonderry

Good to know

Best time to travel to northern ireland.

We recommend traveling to Northern Ireland anytime from May to September. The Emerald Isle’s climate is rainy but less so in the spring, summer, and fall. Be prepared for cooler temperatures, at all times of the year, and don’t forget your umbrella! Visit the extensive Titanic museum in Belfast or walk around on the impressive Giant’s Causeway. Northern Ireland has plenty to do and see, rain or shine.

• High Season : June – August
• Low Season : September – May

Accommodation In Northern Ireland

The best place to find cheap hotels for is to book by www.booking.com . There you will find a large selection of cheap hotels, hostels, and apartments. > BOOK HERE

Hostelworld

If you are looking for a low budget accommodation, then go on www.hostelworld.com . They have the best choice of cheap hostels for backpackers and low budget travelers. > BOOK HERE

Guidebooks For Northern Ireland

Travel with a guidebook ease your journey to find best sights and things to do. Buy it on Amazon.

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Overlooked for too long, Northern Ireland is a country of stunning scenery, from the Antrim Coast's Giant's Causeway to the gentle waters of Lough Neagh, a coastal 'Great Railway Journey' and the majestic Mountains of Mourne.

Here is our recreation of Palin's second "Great Railway Journey" from 'Derry to Kerry'! Experience the fabulous line from Coleraine to Londonderry and the scenic East Coast Line from Dublin to Wexford, enjoy the contrasts of Belfast, Dublin, Waterford, and Tralee, and wonder at the natural beauty of the Causeway Coast and the Ring of Kerry, all rounded off with a final shindig in Dublin. Cead Mile Failte!

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Train travel in Northern Ireland

A guide to Northern Ireland for train travellers

Where to buy tickets for Northern Ireland

The trainline, booking platform.

The Trainline is a British digital rail and coach technology platform operating across Europe.

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Taking the train in Ireland – what you need to know

Apr 19, 2024 • 11 min read

A train travels along the Rosslare, Wexford to Dublin line in Ireland © Irish Rail

Traveling by train is one of Ireland ’s great, if under-appreciated, pleasures.

It’s a small island and the rail network is limited, so no journey is especially long – but riding the rails across the country is one of the loveliest ways to enjoy the rolling countryside.

Compared to its European counterparts, Irish trains aren’t especially spectacular, but this is a country that doesn’t need high-speed or sleeper trains: you roll along at a maximum of 160km/h (99mph) and before you know it you’re on the other side of the island.

The particular nature of Irish demographics has shaped train travel in Ireland: with around a quarter of the population clustered in the greater Dublin region, it makes sense that most train journeys begin or end in the capital. In Northern Ireland the same is true of Belfast .

Irish trains might not be especially quick or super luxurious, but they’re an efficient and eco-friendly way of exploring the island – so long as your explorations are focused on the major cities and towns. Here is our essential guide to train travel in Ireland.

The lowdown on rail travel in Ireland

Irish trains are efficient, relatively frequent and usually on time.  Irish Rail/Iarnród Éireann operates the entire network of trains in the Republic, from intercity trains linking the major urban centers to the busy commuter network that services the greater Dublin region.

There are two main lines into the west and three into the south and southwest; spurs off the main lines connect to a host of smaller towns throughout the country. There’s also a line to Belfast, from where  Translink services connect the city with the Antrim Coast and Derry (Londonderry) .

Within the greater Dublin region, a network of commuter services connects the capital with a host of suburbs and dormitory towns in the surrounding counties. Dublin’s coastline between the northside suburbs of Howth and Malahide, and Greystones in County Wicklow is served by DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transport) trains.

There are some notable gaps in the country’s rail network, with no services in counties Donegal , Monaghan and Cavan , and no trains into West Cork . Some towns – like Buttevant in Cork or Annacotty in Limerick – are on the rail line but they’re bypassed as they have no functioning station.

Ireland’s bigger train stations – including Cork , Limerick , Galway , Sligo, Belfast and the two in Dublin – are all pretty well stocked when it comes to picking up supplies and other assorted sundries for your journey. Most other stations will have a small shop.

Train tickets are relatively good value

The good news about traveling by train in Ireland is that it is relatively inexpensive compared to train travel in some places, such as the UK, for example. If you buy it online, a standard one-way fare between Dublin Heuston and Kent Station in Cork costs €30–35, and around €55 in first class.

Online is the best place to buy your tickets for train travel in the Irish Republic. Not only do you get the best fares (with savings of up to 50% compared to buying the ticket at the station), but you can purchase your ticket up to 90 days in advance and reserve a seat when you do.

You have the option of collecting your bought ticket from a machine at the station as you’re boarding, or downloading a QR code at the point of purchase. If you wait to buy your ticket at the station, you’ll pay significantly more and have to get there early to queue up at the ticket kiosk.

For travel in Northern Ireland, you’re better off buying the ticket at the station as only a limited number of tickets are available online. Show up a short time before your intended departure time and just buy your ticket there.

Only a handful of services offer first class, but upgrading is relatively inexpensive. On average, expect to pay around €20–25 more to sit in first. There are three kinds of first class service on Irish trains. CityGold is on direct Dublin to Cork services, and includes an onboard host and a complimentary newspaper on selected early morning services. The Enterprise service between Dublin and Belfast offers the same, plus a fine breakfast. Premier Class is similar, but is only available on direct services between Dublin and Tralee and some Dublin to Cork trains.

Some discounts and offers apply

There are discounted fares for children and young adults aged between 19 and 25, as long as they have a valid discount card. Under fives and those aged 66 and over travel for free.

The commuter network in the Greater Dublin area has a fare cap of €6 for travel between the capital and a host of towns in the surrounding counties.

There are two rail passes aimed at visitors. The Trekker Four Day (€88) offers unlimited travel for adults on all Irish Rail services on four consecutive days from the date of issue. The Explorer (adult/child €128/64) provides five days of travel on all services in a 15-day window.

However, before investing in either, be sure that you plan on making the most out of it. The limited rail network means that connections are limited and traveling between some destinations involves backtracking: Cork and Waterford are both on the south coast, but to get from one to the other means travelling to Limerick, while Sligo and Westport are only 140km (87 miles) apart along the west coast, but to go between them by train you’ll have to travel through Dublin – which is on the other side of the country.

In Northern Ireland, the Sunday Fun Day Tracker ticket gives passengers unlimited train travel on a Sunday for £9 (£4.50 for children). Tickets are available from all ticket offices, the mLink ticketing app and from the conductor on the train.

These are the busiest times to travel by train

Unsurprisingly, peak times for train travel coincide with busy rush hour periods. Early morning services to Dublin from cities including Cork, Galway and Limerick can be busy, especially if the train is due to arrive in Dublin around the start of the working day. Friday evening trains departing Dublin can also be quite busy. However, as online bookings also include the option of booking a seat, you’ll never have to stand.

The commuter network is busiest on weekdays from 7am to 9am and from 4:30pm to 6:30pm as thousands of people travel in and out of work. You can’t prebook seats on these services, so plenty of people do end up standing. Keep an eye out on changing schedules, especially for weekend and holiday travel, as frequencies diminish.

The train network is limited, but it has some benefits over road travel

There are no rail links to any Irish airport, which means you’re relying on taxis, private cars or buses once you arrive in the country. Irish ferry ports are better connected to rail lines, however, and you can catch trains in Rosslare, Dublin and Larne; there is no rail link to Belfast Port.

If you want to reach the more remote corners of the island, then the Irish rail network is quite limited, and a car will give you the flexibility you need. However, rental fees can be very expensive and fuel is another considerable cost, with the price of unleaded and diesel hovering between €1.75 and €2 a liter. Parking is also pricey in all urban centers, especially Dublin.

Traveling by bus is the cheapest way to get around, but it can be a slow business, as most make lots of stops along the way. There are some direct express services, but they are at the mercy of traffic, which can also add considerable time to a journey compared to traveling by train. Plus, buses don’t have bathrooms, with those traveling longer distances relying entirely on rest stops.

On board facilities vary depending on the type of train

There are two kinds of Irish trains: InterCity and commuter. InterCity trains are all the same – relatively modern with comfortable seats in standard class and fancier recliners in first – and they travel at speeds of up to 160km/h (99mph). There’s no journey in Ireland that is longer than 2½ to 3 hours. Commuter trains are slightly older, with less comfortable seats; older trains are used on some small-distance spur lines in rural areas and are very basic (facilities include seats and a toilet).

While Ireland’s flagship service is the one between Dublin and Cork, the fanciest train is the Enterprise service between Dublin Connolly and Belfast Lanyon Place, which is a joint venture between Irish Rail and Translink. This train is on a par with most services you’ll find in mainland Europe and first class is the most luxurious of any in the country.

All InterCity trains have three-pin sockets at every row where you can plug in a charger or a laptop. Most commuter trains in the greater Dublin area also have sockets. All trains have toilets and there is a cross-network wi-fi service operated by Irish Rail, but it is patchy and inconsistent. Translink has its own wi-fi network, which is accessible on all bus and rail services in the north, but, like in the Republic, you’re at the mercy of signal strength and contention levels.

Food options are pretty limited. There is a trolley service on the Dublin to Cork service, while the Enterprise between Dublin and Belfast operates a full service menu in a dedicated dining car; first class passengers also get a pretty good breakfast as part of their ticket.

Some trains on the Dublin to Cork route have a “quiet carriage” (usually Carriage G, marked in purple when booking) where the use of phones is prohibited and passengers are encouraged to keep noise levels down.

You can bring a bike on any Irish Rail train for free, although there are some restrictions during busy periods (such as sporting fixtures and concerts). The Dublin to Cork line is the only one to have a dedicated bike storage area; all other InterCity trains have (very) limited bicycle spaces within the passenger compartment – it’s not unusual for only two bikes to be allowed into the compartment, so be sure to book in advance. Bikes are not allowed on commuter and DART services during peak hours – before 10am and from 3:30pm to 7pm Monday to Friday.

There are many scenic train routes: here are the best

No matter where you are in Ireland you’re going to find a beautiful landscape or two, but some journeys are worth keeping your eyes wide open for.

Dublin to Sligo

Once you’ve gone past the huge suburban sprawl of the greater Dublin area, the landscapes get quite gentle; beyond Mullingar the train skirts alongside the edge of beautiful Lough Owel. For the best views, sit on the left-hand side of the train.

Dublin to Belfast

The Enterprise service is the best in the country, with the most comfortable seats and the best food options – especially in first class. The train skirts alongside the Irish Sea between Malahide and Balbriggan, so be sure to sit on that side as you travel (on the right-hand side if you’re traveling to Belfast).

Derry (Londonderry) to Coleraine

The Translink service between Northern Ireland’s second city and Coleraine is a stunner, a 40-minute journey along the Causeway Coast that comes with beautiful beaches, huge cliffs and unimpeded views out over the North Sea.

Downpatrick to Inch Abbey

It’s only a 10-minute journey, but the trip from Downpatrick in County Down to the monastic ruins of Inch Abbey takes place in a vintage steam train (or a 1960s diesel train) that chugs its way along the line, over the River Quoile and past the drumlin-specked landscape.

Cork to Cobh

One of Ireland’s most scenic trips is the 25-minute trip from Cork City to the seaside town of Cobh , which takes you along the river (sit on the right for the best views), past marshy Harper’s Island and over the bridges on Lough Mahon and the Slatty Water. You can always stop off at Fota and visit the  wildlife park  there.

Book in advance for wheelchair access to trains

All InterCity services are nominally accessible, but if you do need assistance you will need to book it in advance so that suitable arrangements can be made. This usually means that a conductor will have a ramp ready for wheelchair access, but we have also heard plenty of anecdotal evidence of staff simply lifting a wheelchair onto a train, which depending on the individual can either be a help or an annoying hindrance. Whatever you do, make sure to communicate your requirements before you travel as assistance is not guaranteed otherwise.

For passengers with learning difficulties or any issue where there may be a challenge with communication (such as autism) Irish Rail staff are trained to recognize visual cue cards such as the  JAM card , which inform the interlocutor of the holder’s condition. JAM cards are available online or at mainline train stations in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford and Sligo.

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With 6 overnight stays in some of Ireland's most beautiful sites, the All-Ireland tour provides all the elements of a comfortable and relaxing vacation. Enjoy a full Irish breakfast in your hotel each morning before being whisked across the country on a train. Our tour covers all top attractions of Ireland from The Giant's Cauesway to The Ring of Kerry.

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The Man in Seat 61

A beginner's guide to

Train travel in ireland.

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Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, a great way to get around ireland....

Trains are a pleasant and relaxing way to get around Ireland.  Modern air-conditioned intercity trains were introduced a few years ago as part of a massive investment programme, allowing frequencies to be increased.  This page will get you started...

Where do the trains go ?  Route map

As you'd expect, most rail lines radiate out of Dublin, see Irish Rail's map of the Irish rail network .

How to check times & buy tickets

To check train times & fares in the Republic of Ireland and from the Republic to Belfast, use the Irish Railways website www.irishrail.ie .

To check train & bus times in Northern Ireland and from Belfast south to Dublin, use the journey planner at www.translink.co.uk .  Translink is the Northern Ireland transport organisation which includes Northern Ireland Railways (NIR) and Ulsterbus.

You can call Irish Rail enquiries on 01 836 6222 when in Ireland or on 00 353 1 836 6222 from outside Ireland.

If you are prepared to pay for a full-price ticket you can just buy at the station on the day, there's no need to book in advance.  Full-price tickets cannot sell out, they have a fixed price and unlimited availability.  Reservation is optional on Irish intercity trains and not possible at all on local & suburban trains (including all Northern Irish domestic trains), if you choose not to reserve a seat you just board the train and sit where you like, in any empty unreserved seat. just as on trains in Great Britain.

However, for longer journeys if you are prepared to book in advance and commit to a specific train with limited or no refunds or changes to travel plans allowed, you can save money by buying a cheap advance-purchase ticket at www.irishrail.ie .  You collect tickets at the self-service ticket machines at any main station.

Tip:   How to travel 1st class, cheaply.   Irish Rail has no 1st class semi-flex or advance fares, only 1st class full-flex.  But you can buy an upgrade to 1st class for the difference in price between full-flex standard and full-flex 1st, which can be used with any standard class ticket, even an advance-purchase one.  Simply buy a cheap standard class ticket, then use www.irishrail.ie again, this time clicking the Free travel pass or valid ticket link beneath the journey planner.  Read the advice here (external website, please let me know if that link stops working).  This works from Dublin to Belfast, too.

Which station in Dublin ?

Dublin heuston.

Heuston station is the terminus for trains heading west & southwest from Dublin to Cork, Limerick, Galway, Kilkenny, Waterford, Tralee, Westport & Ballina.  Opened in 1846 as Dublin Kingsbridge station, it was renamed Heuston in 1966 after Seán Heuston, a young railway worker who commanded a nearby post in the 1916 Easter Rising.  It's located 3km (2 miles) west of Dublin city centre so it's best to take the frequent Luas tram ( www.luas.ie ) which links Heuston station with the city centre and Connolly station every few minutes from early morning to late at night.  It has 9 platforms.  As it's a terminus, there is easy level access between tram stop/taxi rank/street, concourse and all platforms.  For more about the station's history see en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heuston_railway_station .

Dublin Connolly

Ireland's busiest station, Dublin Connolly is the station for Belfast, Sligo, Wicklow, Wexford, Dun Laoghaire & Rosslare, sitting on the north-south tracks which pass through Dublin on a viaduct.  Concourse & platforms are one floor up from street level.  Platforms are numbered from east to west, platforms 1-4 are north-facing terminus platforms (trains to Belfast use these), platforms 5-7 are through platforms (DART suburban trains & southbound trains to Wicklow, Wexford & Rosslare use these).  The station opened in 1844 as plain Dublin Station , later renamed Dublin Amiens Street .  It was renamed Dublin Connolly in 1966 after Irish revolutionary James Connolly.

Dublin to Cork by InterCity train

These smart modern trains link Dublin & Cork virtually every hour in 2h50, via Limerick Junction (for Tipperary) and Mallow (for the line to Tralee).  Change in Cork for the local train to Cobh.  These trains have 1st & standard class with a catering car and free WiFi.  The full Irish breakfast on morning trains from Dublin is as good a breakfast as you'll have on any train anywhere!  They were introduced in 2005-2006.  Catering is suspended in 2022, may return in 2023.

Dublin to Galway , Limerick, Waterford, Sligo, Wexford, Rosslare by InterCity railcar

These smart modern air-conditioned railcars are the new face of Irish Railways, built by Hyundai and introduced in 2008 onto all intercity routes from Dublin, other than the Dublin-Belfast and Dublin-Cork routes.  Trains run roughly every 2 hours from Dublin to Galway, Limerick, Sligo, Kilkenny, Waterford, Wicklow, Wexford & Rosslare.  Dublin to Galway takes 2h45, Dublin to Limerick 2h45.

Dublin to Belfast by Enterprise

Fast, modern Enterprise trains link Belfast Lanyon Place (formerly known as Belfast Central) and Dublin Connolly in about 2 hours, with departures every 2 hours.  The service is jointly run by NIR and Irish Railways.  It has standard class, first class (also known as Enterprise Plus class) and a cafe-bar.

You can buy cheap tickets from as low as €13.99 each way if you book online in advance.

Buy one-way or round-trip tickets starting in Dublin at www.irishrail.ie , you must collect hard-copy tickets from Irish Rail ticket machines in Dublin.

Buy one-way or round-trip tickets starting in Belfast at www.translink.co.uk , you must exchange the confirmation email for a hard-copy ticket at Belfast Central station or another staffed NIR station.

Tip 1:   Belfast's Great Victoria Street station is often more convenient than Belfast Lanyon Place, as it's next to the main bus station and the excellent Europa Hotel , and just across the road from the equally excellent National Trust-owned Crown Bar .  If you hold a ticket for the Enterprise train between Belfast Lanyon Place & Dublin, you are entitled to a free transfer by regular local train between Belfast Lanyon Place and Belfast Great Victoria Street at no extra charge.

Tip 2:   On the Enterprise, find a seat on the left hand side going south to Dublin, right hand side going north to Belfast, for the sea views north of Dublin.

Belfast Central was named after the Belfast Central Railway , not because of its location!  It was renamed Belfast Lanyon Place in September 2018.

Video guide:   Dublin to Belfast by Enterprise

Belfast to londonderry (derry) & giant's causeway by train.

Smart modern air-conditioned trains link Belfast Great Victoria Street and Belfast Lanyon Place (formerly Belfast Central) stations with the historic walled city of Londonderry, or Derry if you prefer, every hour, journey time around 2 hours 12 minutes.

To check train times, use the journey planner at www.translink.co.uk/Services/NI-Railways .  These new trains have revolutionised rail travel in Northern Ireland, increasing in passengers by over 60% in the last few years.  With comfortable seats, carpet, toilets, air-conditioning and a scenic route through the countryside and alongside the sea approaching Londonderry, it's definitely the way to go.

I recommend a seat on the right hand side of the train going north to Londonderry, as that's where the best scenery will be, alongside Belfast Lough and along the Foyle estuary.

Belfast Central was named after the Belfast Central Railway , not for its location!  It was renamed Belfast Lanyon Place in September 2018.

For Belfast to the Giant's Causeway, see the Giant's Causeway page

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Day trips from Dublin by train

Railtours ireland, railtoursireland.com.

If you want to kiss the Blarney Stone, drive the Ring of Kerry or walk on the Giant's Causeway as a stress-free day trip from Dublin, Railtours Ireland deserves a special mention.  They run daily tours from Dublin using a unique train-based concept that makes the famous sights & scenery of remote western & northern Ireland accessible as a day trip.  They work closely with Iarnrod Eireann (Irish Railways).

You are whisked from central Dublin to Limerick, Galway, Cork or Belfast by comfortable air-conditioned intercity train, leaving around 7:00-7:30 am.

A coach meets the train and takes you on a guided tour into the countryside.

The range of tours includes kissing the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle, driving around the Ring of Kerry, or to see the Giant's Causeway, or to Bunratty Castle and the Cliffs of Moher, and more...  There's stops for lunch & photographs;

In the early evening the coach takes you back to the station and puts you on a fast intercity train back to Dublin, arriving (depending on the tour) 8:00-10:15 pm.

As well as 1 day tours they now also offer longer tours of Ireland, up to 11 days.

Railtours Ireland have now been established for over 20 years and get great reports.  I've known them for over a decade and have used them myself on a couple of occasions, both memorable. 

Book online at railtoursireland.com , or by phone.  Please mention seat61.com when booking.

Tip:  There's a full cooked breakfast available in the restaurant car of some of the Irish Rail intercity trains they use out of Dublin, costing around €17 (£14).  It's as good a cooked breakfast as you'll have on any regular scheduled train, so treat yourself!

Click the images to buy at Amazon.co.uk

Hotels in dublin, belfast & ireland, the gresham hotel, dublin   click here to check prices & book.

Perfectly located on Upper O'Connell Street in the heart of central Dublin, 10 minutes walk from Connolly Station, The Gresham is an iconic hotel, a Dublin landmark since 1817.  The impressive facade is matched by a marble-floored foyer and bar, and comfortable carpeted lounges.  Yet you can find rates from £90 for a double room, 4-star comfort at a remarkably good price.  To check room rates & availability click here .

The Europa Hotel, Belfast   Click to check prices & book

For comfort and location, stay at the Europa.  Opened in 1971, Belfast's famous Europa Hotel has more history than many hotels three times its age.  It was the hotel used by journalists such as Trevor MacDonald, Kate Adie, John Simpson during the Troubles in the 1970s and 80s, when it earned the title of Most Bombed Hotel in Europe.  Indeed, it suffered so many bomb attacks and had so many windows boarded it up, it was also known as the Hardboard Hotel.  Yet it stayed open in spite of everything, a true survivor.  And today it's a fabulous place to stay, ideally located next to Great Victoria Street Station and across the road from the famous Crown Bar .  You'll find a book about the history of the hotel in your room for you to read, and a display case on the first floor near the piano with some hotel memorabilia.  There's also a railway connection, as it was built on the site of the Great Northern Railway terminus, the ancestor of today's Great Victoria Street station.

Backpacker hostels: www.hostelworld.com

If you're on a tight budget, don't forget the hostels.  For a dorm bed or an ultra-cheap private room in backpacker hostels in most European cities use www.hostelworld.com .

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5 Scenic Train Rides to Take in Ireland

• Post author: colette
• Post published: August 23, 2021
• Post category: Getting Around Ireland / Train Journeys Across Ireland / Transportation
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Have you thought about seeing parts of Ireland by train? One way to do that is to take one of these 5 scenic train rides that show off parts of the island’s beautiful coastline.

From the Coastal Causeway in Northern Ireland to the Waterford and Suir Valley Railway in the southeastern part of the country, there is a lot to see and experience on these 5 rail excursions.

Table of Contents

Downpatrick to Inch Abbey

You’ll need to make your way to Downpatrick in Co. Down to begin your journey.

Downpatrick is about 21 miles (34 km) from Belfast and is known as the burial place of Saints Patrick , Columba, and Brigid .

Downpatrick takes its name from a fort that once stood on a hill overlooking the town. Today it is the site of Down Cathedral.

Before taking the train at Downpatrick Station, be sure to visit the Saint Patrick Visitors Centre a fascinating tourist attraction that retells the story of Ireland’s patron saint.

Fly to Ireland with Aer Lingus

In the churchyard of Down Cathedral, you’ll find a boulder that marks the place where St. Patrick died during the 5 th century. A few miles away, Patrick is said to have converted the first person to Christianity at Saul.

The Catholic church in Downpatrick is St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which is close to the train station.

The steam engine journey will take you through the rolling County Down countryside, with magnificent views of the Mourne Mountains in the distance.

In no time at all (10 minutes to be exact), you’ll be at Inch Abbey, a ruined monastic site where Saint Patrick’s mission to spread Christianity in Ireland began.

The abbey was established as a Cistercian monastery in the 12th century by the Norman knight John de Courcy.

The abbey’s main feature is its chancel (the space around the altar), which has three high windows.

It is believed that de Courcy commissioned one of the monks to rewrite the legends of Saint Patrick, and some believe that this is where the legend of the saint banishing the snakes from Ireland originated.

The site of the abbey was one of several locations used to film scenes for the hit HBO series Game of Thrones.

Admission to Inch Abbey is free.

Read More: A Self-Guided Tour of Northern Ireland's Famous Game of Thrones Attractions

Derry to Coleraine

This train ride has been described by Michael Palin of Monty Python fame  as “one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world.”

You’ll begin your 40-minute journey in Derry (also known as Londonderry), where there’s a lot to explore, including the city’s 400-year-old walls, Guildhall, the Tower Museum, the Bogside Murals, and more.

Take the train at the Waterside Railway Station, sit back and enjoy the incredible views.

Some of the highlights include glimpses of the 7-mile Benone Strand with mountain and clifftop scenery that stretches across to neighboring County Donegal .

The beach is a favorite destination for not only swimming but also watersports, walking, picnicking, and fishing.

The track runs right along the beach, so you’ll get spectacular views all-round.

Look on the other side of the train and you’ll spot the impressive Binevenagh Mountain, used as the backdrop for several scenes in the Game of Thrones series.

The surrounding sand dunes and cliffs that you’ll see in this part of the country are home to a variety of wildlife and serve as a habitat for many birds, including the peregrine falcon.

The journey continues on to the pretty seaside village of Castlerock and through the longest tunnel on the island of Ireland, which runs beneath the famous Mussenden Temple.

The striking building sits on a 120-foot (36-meter) clifftop, with spectacular views in all directions.

The temple was built in 1785 by Frederick Augustus Hervey, bishop of Derry, as a summer library for his cousin, Frideswide Mussenden. It was inspired by the Temple of Vesta in Tivoli near Rome.

Past Castlerock, the train ride will take you along the River Bann and to your destination, Coleraine.

Howth to Greystones

If you’re staying in the Dublin area, be sure to hop on the DART, Dublin’s rapid transit system that runs from North Dublin to Co. Wicklow.

The rail line is about 53 km long (32 miles), starting in Howth and ending in Greystones, County Wicklow, and is one of 5 scenic train rides you could take while visiting Ireland.

Before hopping on the train at Howth, you might want to take the Howth Cliff Walk , the start of which is conveniently located at the DART station.

Soak up the views of Lambay Island , Ireland’s Eye , and the entire Dublin Bay region.

If you’d like to get a sense of Howth’s history, including its importance as a trading port from the 14 th century on, take the Howth Peninsula Hiking Tour , a 4-hour trek of the area courtesy of experienced guides from Shane’s Howth Adventures.

The nearby Howth Castle is worth exploring, too.

While it isn’t open to the public, the grounds of this 16 th -century building are free to explore.

Before reaching Dublin’s city center DART stations, you’ll see North Bull Island in the distance.

The island is located in Dublin Bay and is home to Dollymount Strand, which runs the entire length of the 5-km-long (3-mile) island, which is designated a National Bird Sanctuary.

On your DART journey, you’ll discover the seaside suburb of Clontarf, which is where the famous Battle of Clontarf was fought in 1014.

On April 23 rd of that year, the Vikings launched an attack on Brian Boru, the High King of Ireland. Boru was victorious but was unfortunately killed himself in the battle.

About 5 minutes from Dublin’s Grand Canal Dock station, you’ll reach the affluent suburb of Sandymount.

From the train, you’ll be able to see the Sandymount Strand, a Blue Flag beach that is also home to the infamous Poolbeg Chimneys (seen from the plane as you make your descent into Dublin Airport).

During the summer months, kitesurfing is a popular activity on the beach.

The village itself has lots of cool cafes, restaurants, and artisan shops to explore.

Continuing south, you’ll pass the delightful towns of Sandycove, Dalkey, and Killiney.

Killiney Bay is particularly beautiful and has long been compared to the Bay of Naples, so don’t take a nap while you’re passing through this beautiful seaside village!

Bray, Co. Wicklow, is a mere 10 minutes from Greystones.

The Dublin and Kingstown Railway opened in 1834, turning Bray into a popular seaside resort.

The promenade designed during the Victorian era and the bandstand are both signature attractions in Bray.

Read More: Learn All About Dublin's Free Attractions

Cork City to Cobh

The 23-minute train journey from Cork City’s Kent Station to Cobh (pronounced “Cove”) is a very pleasant one, with scenic views of the nearby Belvelley Channel and the Atlantic Ocean.

Along the way, you can make stops at  Little Island  and the  Fota Island Wildlife Park .

St. Colman’s Cathedral is the first thing you’ll notice when arriving in Cobh, seconded by its colorful row houses that have been photographed time and time again.

The town was originally known as Queenstown (named after Queen Victoria). Its harbor, the largest natural one in the world, was where millions of emigrants left for North America between 1848 and 1950.

The Cobh Heritage Centre is the main draw for tourists. Its exhibition, the Emigration and Maritime Story, has become an integral part of Cobh’s history and legacy.

The exhibition, which is housed in a beautifully restored Victorian railway station, retraces the journey of the Irish people who left from Cobh on coffin ships, early steamers, and ocean liners.

You’ll learn about the conditions they faced on the coffin ships and on the convict ships that left from Cobh for Australia at the beginning of the 19 th century, as well as the untold stories of earlier emigrants who were sent to the West Indies during the Cromwellian period of the 17 th century.

Kilmeadan to Waterford City

The Kilmeadan to Waterford City train trip is part of the Waterford & Suir Railway , Ireland’s longest narrow-gauge railway line.

On the 50-minute journey, you’ll travel over 10 km (6 miles) of railway track. The banks of the River Suir and the Waterford Greenway are visible along the way.

The beautiful scenery includes 11 bridges, three viaducts, and a 400-meter tunnel in an area known as the Copper Coast.

The journey is particularly popular with families.

Perhaps you've already taken one of these 5 scenic train rides described above. Let me know in the comments below.

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There are two rail networks operating in Ireland: Irish Rail in the Republic of Ireland and Translink in Northern Ireland. Dublin and Belfast are the key rail hubs, connecting travellers with cities and towns all over the island. The fast, efficient Enterprise train runs between Dublin (Connolly) and Belfast (Lanyon Place) and is generally the quickest way of travelling between the two cities.

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Train journeys around Ireland

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The DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) train runs from Howth and Malahide in north Dublin right into the heart of the city, stopping at pretty coastal towns and villages, such as Dalkey in south Dublin and terminating in Greystones in County Wicklow.

Hop aboard the Luas , the swift tram service with two lines (red and green) that travel within the city. It’s a quick and hassle-free way to tour Dublin, and also venture outside of the city centre to discover charming suburban spots such as Ranelagh and Phibsborough.

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Ireland by rail – highlights

One of the most stunning rail journeys on the island follows the south-east coast from Dublin down to the Rosslare Europort, and takes you through Ireland’s Ancient East .

The 45-minute route between the Walled City of Derry~Londonderry and Coleraine along the Causeway Coastal Route was hailed by comedian and travel documentary-maker Michael Palin as the "one of the most beautiful in the world".

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This 2 centre Rail tour of Ireland is the ideal introduction to both Dublin and the Southwest of Ireland.

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Discover Kerry, Galway and Dublin on this 7 night rail tour of Ireland. Explore the scenic Ring of Kerry, the vibrant city of Galway and travel to the Aran Islands.

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Discover Kerry, Galway and Dublin on this rail tour of Ireland. Explore the scenic Ring of Kerry, the city of Galway and travel to the Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher.

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The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Days in Northern Ireland Itinerary

Last Updated on February 12, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning out a Northern Ireland itinerary is an excellent option for those who want to see more of this area than a simple day trip along the Causeway Coastal Route or a day or two exploring Belfast.

If you have 3, 4 or 5 days to dedicate to exploring Northern Ireland, you can see a lot of the country and experience some of the island of Ireland’s most incredible scenery and learn about the heartbreaking recent history.

If you’re planning on visiting Northern Ireland and are curious about what to see and do here, this route will help you map out up to five days of exploring this corner of the United Kingdom.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Northern Ireland?

Before jumping into this route, you’re likely wondering how many days to spend in Northern Ireland. This can really depend on what kind of trip you’re after, however, if you’re interested in spending time in the city along with seeing the iconic natural sites, then plan to spend at least 3 days in Northern Ireland.

With 3 days, you will have the time to explore Belfast and learn about that city while also having time to get to take in the basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway and some of the other highlights of the Antrim Coast.

However, if you have 4 days in Northern Ireland, you will have more time to take your time on the Causeway Coast and to spend time at attractions other than the Giant’s Causeway.

For those who want quite a holistic experience, then plan to spend 5 days. This will allow you to add on a visit to the city of Derry and learn about the history here.

Getting To & Around Northern Ireland

There are a range of options available for you when it comes to arriving in Northern Ireland. First and foremost, Belfast is home to its own international airport that connects it to a number of destinations within the UK, Europe and further afield.

Though flying into Belfast is certainly an option, you will find that there are far more flight options going into Dublin airport. Dublin is located only about a 2-hour drive from Belfast and there are also lots of stops along the way . The two cities are also well-connected by bus or train.

It’s worth noting that there is no hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland and it is likely you won’t even notice that you’ve crossed. However, if you are driving, keep in mind that speed limits in Northern Ireland are listed in miles per hour while they’re listed in kilometres per hour in the republic.

It’s also possible to arrive into Belfast via ferry from Liverpool in England and from the village of Cairnryan in Scotland.

Once in Northern Ireland, you’ll be wondering how to get around whilst there. In Belfast and Derry, you can certainly plan to get around on foot and via public transport – in fact, it’s probably easier than planning on driving.

Those venturing outside of the cities have a couple of options. The easiest and most convenient option to get around is by having your own vehicle as it will give you the flexibility to visit where you want when you want without having to reckon with bus timetables and routes. Doing a Northern Ireland road trip is easygoing, fun and incredibly scenic and generally the most recommended option.

And if you’ve decided that a Northern Ireland road trip itinerary is the choice for you, you can browse car hire options on Rentalcars.com to compare prices across major companies.

However, you can also get around regional Northern Ireland by bus and train, where applicable. For instance, there is a regional bus system connecting the sites along the coastline so it is possible to travel independently in this area even if you don’t drive.

3, 4 or 5 Days in Northern Ireland Itinerary

Without further ado, here is how to spend 3 to 5 days exploring Northern Ireland. This route is meant to be built upon each day so if you’re only seeing Northern Ireland in 3 days, then plan to spend the first 2 in Belfast before heading onto the Causeway Coast. And if you’re spending 4 days, it’s best to leave a visit to Derry for another time.

Day 1 – Belfast

Begin your time in Northern Ireland in the capital city of Belfast . Though this city has a bit of a dark reputation and something of a rough-around-the-edges vibe, it’s very much worth exploring and it has a lot to offer visitors – especially for those interested in learning more about its recent history.

On your first day in Belfast, make sure to learn as much about the history of the city as possible by embarking on a black cab tour . On these tours, you can learn about the Troubles from knowledgeable guides and also get a good feel for the geography of this divided city.

After your tour, head to Belfast City Hall and then visit the historic Crumlin Road Gaol before rounding out your day.

Where to Stay in Belfast

The Warren Belfast – Those looking for luxury will love this plush, centrally-located hotel in the heart of Belfast. They have several luxe rooms to choose from, great amenities, breakfast each morning and an unbeatable location in the Queen’s Quarter

Central Belfast Apartments: Citygate – If you’re looking for a self-catering option while visiting Belfast, then these apartments are the perfect choice. Centrally located, they have many fully-furnished flats available along with free parking for guests.

Vagabonds – Budget and solo travellers will love this cool, highly-rated hostel in Belfast. Offering both private rooms and dorms, there are also clean facilities and great common areas making it easy to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Belfast hotels!

Day 2 – Belfast

On day 2, it’s time to visit one of the Northern Irish capital’s top museums – the Titanic Belfast. The infamous ocean liner was actually constructed in Belfast before it embarked on its fateful 1912 journey across the Atlantic.

This iceberg-shaped museum will take you through a range of exhibits explaining all there is to know about the Titanic and the history surrounding both the construction of the ship itself and also some information about the crash and its repercussions. It’s truly a great experience to have while in Belfast. You can book tickets in advance here.

Spend the rest of your day in Belfast exploring some of the sites that you didn’t make it to the first day. For instance, you can grab a bit to eat at St George’s Market, get the views from the Victoria Square Dome or even head to CS Lewis Square to take in some statues dedicated to the late children’s author and theologian.

Day 3 – Causeway Coast

On day 3 of this trip, it’s time to head out of the city and make your way to the north of the country – to the iconic Causeway Coast. We highly recommend leaving Belfast as early as possible to make it to the Giant’s Causeway before the tour buses arrive – it takes about an hour to drive here from the capital.

If you don’t have a car, there are a number of guided tour options such as this full-day tour or this full-day tour that will pick you up from Belfast in the morning.

The Giant’s Causeway is the name for a collection of roughly 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns that were likely formed as part of an ancient volcanic eruption.

However, in Irish myth, it is said to have been formed when an Irish giant built a causeway in order to fight a Scottish giant — there are similar rock formations on the island of Staffa just off the Hebridean Isle of Mull in Scotland.

Note that the Causeway is free to enter, however, it is not free to park at the visitor’s centre or go inside unless you’ve paid for that. If you’re up for a bit of a (beautiful) walk, we recommend parking at the Salmon Rock Beach car park in the town of Portballintrae and walking to the Giant’s Causeway – that way you can visit entirely for free!

Plan to spend a couple of hours at the Giant’s Causeway as there is more here than just the rock formations. Take the time to walk on all of the trails and really take in the views of this gorgeous place. It’s a truly spectacular experience and an essential inclusion on any Northern Ireland road trip itinerary.

After visiting the Giant’s Causeway, you can take the time to take in some other sites on the Northern Ireland Coast. Head over to the town of Bushmills and tour the Bushmills distillery. You can also make your way over to some viewpoints and maybe even go on a few more walks.

If you’re only spending 3 days in Northern Ireland and want to maximise your time here, you can take in some of the other sites in this area, such as the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Dunluce Castle and the Dark Hedges. However, if you are planning a 4- or 5-day itinerary, then you can take your time more at go at a slower pace.

End your day in the town of Portrush. This makes a great base in the area and the town itself is a popular seaside resort complete with its own amusement park and lovely beach. There are also plenty of pubs and restaurants to unwind in at the end of the day with a pint of Guinness and a good meal.

Where to Stay on the Causeway Coast

Anvershiel House – Located in the town of Portrush, this bed and breakfast is an excellent mid-range option for those exploring this part of Northern Ireland. They offer several clean and bright rooms, an excellent breakfast available in the mornings, and a location within walking distance of the beach and town centre.

Elephant Rock Hotel – Those looking for a luxury hotel while on the Causeway Coast will love this chic hotel in Portrush. Centrally located, they have a range of lovely rooms to choose from, an on-site restaurant and bar along with plenty of other great amenities.

Causeway Hotel – If you’d like to stay within a stone’s throw of the Giant’s Causeway and see it without the tour buses, then this hotel is a great option. Located adjacent to the visitor’s centre, booking a night here will also grant you free entry to the centre along with plenty of other perks.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Causeway Coast hotels!

Day 4 – Causeway Coast

Those who have more time to devote to the Causeway Coast will be energised to hit the road early and start exploring again.

Start your day by touring the lovely and striking Dunluce Castle. This ruined castle is perched on striking cliffs not far at all from the town of Portrush and it makes for an excellent place to visit.

Next, you can make your way over to the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. This place was used as a filming location for the HBO series Game of Thrones and it is now very popular amongst visitors – so make sure to book your tickets online in advance and also to arrive relatively early if you want to beat the crowds.

You can spend a fair amount of time hiking around here and it’s worth doing this on your second day so that you don’t feel rushed.

Of course, no visit to this area of Northern Ireland is complete without heading to the Dark Hedges. Again, this was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones and it is an incredibly popular tourist attraction. It’s simply a country laneway that is lined with intertwining trees.

Keep in mind that it is definitely a lot more beautiful in the late spring and summertime when there are leaves on the trees and it can seem a bit lacklustre in the winter to about mid-May.

Day 5 – Derry

If you’ve got five days to devote to your Northern Ireland road trip, then make sure not to miss the city of Derry (Londonderry). As Northern Ireland’s second-largest city, Derry can be overlooked by visitors here, however, it has a lot to offer visitors and can provide important cultural context.

Though the city has been popularised as a destination because of the sitcom Derry Girls (you can even tour filming locations ), it doesn’t get the same amount of attention as Belfast.

Derry is a small city and you can certainly take in the majority of the sites and points of interest within the confines of a day. Take the time to walk the city walls – Derry is, in fact, the only walled city in Ireland and this is a great thing to do here.

Of course, no visit to Derry is really complete without taking the time to learn about the city’s more recent history and what life was like during the Troubles. You can visit the Bloody Sunday memorial to learn more about the 1972 massacre and you can also opt to take a walking tour of the Bogside murals with a knowledgeable local guide.

Those who want to learn even more about the city’s history will also find the Free Derry Museum interesting.

Another top Derry attraction is the Peace Bridge. The pedestrianised bridge connects the majority Unionist east side of the city to the majority Republican west side of the city and was meant to be an emblem of bridging the gap of a centuries-long political divide.

Have More Time?

If you have more time after this Northern Ireland itinerary, why not continue on from Derry into the Republic and visit County Donegal ?

If you’re coming from Northern Ireland and only have a day, then driving the Inishowen 100 is an excellent way to explore this part of northwestern Ireland. However, you could easily spend more time exploring this area, as well.

You can reach the town of Muff in County Donegal in about 15 minutes or you can drive north and take the ferry across Lough Foyle to the town of Greencastle. The latter option would also give you the opportunity to make a stop at Mussenden Temple.

For those who want to tour more of the Emerald Isle, then consider heading further south and enjoying some of (or the entirety of) the Wild Atlantic Wa y. County Donegal is absolutely gorgeous, but other highlights include Benbulben in County Sligo, Achill Island in County Mayo, Connemara in County Galway and more.

When planning a trip to Northern Ireland, you may not realise just how much this small country has to offer visitors. From vibrant and historic cities to some of the most spectacular natural scenery there is to offer in this world, spending a few days exploring Northern Ireland is never a bad idea.

Are you planning to visit Northern Ireland? Have any questions about this route? Let us know in the comments!

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Dublin or Belfast: Which Irish City to Visit?

The Perfect 1, 2, or 3 Days in Belfast Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi, I enjoy reading your travel blogs and find them informative. Living in Northern Ireland I’d like to let you know that not only do we have an airport some 20 miles away from the city centre but there is also George Best Airport less than 2 miles from the City Centre and is great for those arriving to the city for its convenience. Also please note that St George’s market is only open from Friday to Sunday . I have seen many disappointed tourists arrive to the market on other days only to find it closed. Finally if you are travelling from Britain and have a National Trust membership this will allow free entry at the Causeway centre and other attractions – their website would provide more detail.

Thanks for those insights, Barbara!

Thank you so much Barbara Would not have thought about our N T membership. We are thinking about driving, any suggestions??

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