getting to belfast from Dublin airport

Kristine, You'll need to get from Dublin Airport to Connolly Station. There are trains from other stations in Dublin, but I believe most of those require a change at Connolly. Given the late hour of arrival, I'd suggest taking a Taxi from the airport. Under the current schedules, there's a train departing at 19:00, but it's doubtful you'd be able to connect with that one. The next train (and possibly the last one of the night) departs Connolly at 20:50, arriving Belfast Central at 22:57. If you can't make that one, you'll likely be spending the night in Dublin. Check This Website for the details. They offer tickets for sale on the website, but I've never purchased in advance so not sure whether you need to pick up a paper copy of the ticket when you arrive at the station (I can't recall where I bought my ticket for that trip?). It's quite a pleasant journey, but unfortunately at that time of night you won't be able to enjoy the scenery. Happy travels!