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Train trips in Ireland

Posted by Clara (Dayton, OH, USA) on 03/02/10 10:31 AM

Which train routes have the best overall views/scenery?

My mom is going to Ireland and wants to take at least one train trip. Would like to make sure I get a scenic one for her.

Arrives Dublin.

Will be headed down to Cork & Kerry (Killarney/Kenmare/Blarney areas)- is the coastal route to Wexford worth the extra time/ connections it would take to get her on to her destination around Blarney? Or is the inland route prettier?

Also, she will be going up to Giants Causeway, either with a private driver or on the train... Is that route picturesque?

My brother will be traveling with her, so she won't be dealing with her own luggage and such.

Thanks for any tips on the nicest train rides and which ones might have a nice meal service enroute (not sandwiches).

Appreciate it!

Posted by Tim

Minneapolis, MN, USA

03/02/10 11:45 AM

8700 posts

I've only driven in Ireland so I have no personal recommendations for scenic train rides. A good place to begin your search might be here.

Posted by Nancy

Bloomington, IL, USA

03/02/10 11:54 AM

9371 posts

Like Tim, I have only driven in Ireland. I do know that travel by train becomes less possible the more you travel west. There is better train service on the eastern side of the country, and a fast train between Dublin and Belfast. Beyond that (particularly down into the southwest) it might not be possible.

Posted by Mike

Tampa, FL, USA

03/05/10 07:53 AM

417 posts

This website may help:

http://www.irishrail.ie/home/

The trains in Ireland are well developed, easy to use, but not extensive. Mixing driving with trains is very doable and fun. Buses also work.

Posted by Pat

wichita, kansas

03/05/10 11:14 AM

484 posts

The train trip from Dublin to Belfast is very scenic-takes about two hours. Personally I think all of Ireland is scenic-even the midlands.

Posted by Ty

CA, USA

03/15/10 08:04 AM

333 posts

Irish rail system isn't very developed (or at least maintained from pre-1916 revolution days :)

If she is not going to drive herself there is a good coach-bus system in place but there will not be any food service.

She may want to consider a tour company that will take her to all of the sights.

Posted by Kay

Seattle

03/18/10 09:37 AM

22 posts

We took a train from Shannon to Dublin. It was nice to see Dublin and then take the train back for our flight home. This way you get to see a little of the interior part of the country. Very beautiful! I didn't see any train options with a meal service other than sandwiches. That would probably need to be booked through a tour company.

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