I'm trying to book a ticket from Dublin to Portrush. Using the Northern Ireland Translink site, their journey planner shows multiple options throughout a day, changing trains in Belfast. Both trains are on NIRailways. However, When I go to book, It doesn't recognize Dublin and says I have to use Irish Rail. The Irish Rail site doesn't recognize Portrush as a destination. Do I have to book a ticket on Irish rail for the Dublin to Belfast leg and a second ticket on Translink for Belfast to Portrush-- or is there a way to do it as one purchase??
Eventually I want to go from Portrush to Edinburgh. Again the journey planner shows routes but I'm wondering ....should we just train to Belfast and fly to Edinburgh? Otherwise It's a train, ferry, bus and two trains. But if we fly we'll mainly see the airport and I'm asking if the scenery is worth it? What do you think?? We're well traveled ( just not in Ireland) and pack light. All suggestions welcome - thanks!!