Here’s a short, practical primer on train travel in Ireland (Irish Rail / Iarnród Éireann).
What Irish Rail is
- National rail operator for most services in the Republic of Ireland, including InterCity, commuter and DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) services. It also runs cross‑border services in cooperation with NI Railways (the Enterprise between Dublin and Belfast).
Main InterCity destinations (examples)
- Dublin — major city hub (stations include Dublin Connolly and Dublin Heuston)
- Cork
- Galway
- Limerick Colbert
- Waterford
- Sligo
- Westport and Ballina
- Rosslare Europort
- Cross‑border: Belfast
Buying tickets
- Online or app: buy at irishrail.ie or the Irish Rail app (best for Advance fares and e‑tickets).
- At stations: ticket desks and machines.
- Leap Card: pay‑as‑you‑go smartcard is used across Dublin public transport (DART, commuter rail, LUAS trams, buses) — not a nationwide rail pass.
- Advance/cheaper fares: available on popular InterCity routes (e.g., Dublin–Cork) if you book early.
Timetables & real‑time info
- Check irishrail.ie or the app for schedules, platform info, and service updates.
Onboard & practical info
- Facilities vary by route: intercity trains offer more seating and sometimes buffet/tea service; commuter/DART are shorter‑haul.
- Bikes: allowed on many services but spaces are limited — check rules and reserve if required.
- Luggage: no formal strict limits but keep items stowed.
- Accessibility: Passenger Assist is available—book in advance to get help at stations and boarding.
Airport connections
- There is currently no direct heavy rail link into Dublin Airport. Use Airlink buses, taxis, or transfers between Dublin Airport and city rail stations (e.g., Dublin Connolly). Some regional airports have shuttle connections to the nearest rail station.
Cross‑border travel
- The Enterprise service connects Dublin and Belfast; fares and operations are coordinated with NI Railways.
Useful tips
- For busy travel days (weekends, holidays, bank holidays), book early on InterCity routes.
- Keep an eye on engineering works and revised timetables (commonly posted in advance).
- If you want a route map or a specific timetable, tell me your origin/destination and travel date and I can pull details.
Want anything specific — fares, schedules for a particular route, or how to get from an airport to a city center?
Last updated: Mon Aug 18, 2025