We will be taking the Best of Ireland trip in May. We are planning on taking the train from Belfast to Dublin at the end of the trip and spend a few more days in Dublin before returning. I have heard different opinions on buying the train ticket online beforehand, or buying at the station. What has your experience been? Are there any issues with waiting to buy at the station? Is there any reason to purchase a first class ticket. Thanks in advance.
We bought ahead of time but there were many buying at the station. To me, there was no advantage of buying a first class seat.
The lowest fare class can sell out prior to the date of travel. If you are willing to pay a bit more, day of travel should be fine.
First Class tickets have no real advantage for this short ride and have a fairly large markup.
Check the train ticket prices vs the bus prices. At times, the bus can be cheaper and you can look at leaving and arrival times. You could go out on a bus and back on a train or do the reverse, depending on when you wish to leave and arrive.