Dublin

๐Ÿš†

Trains

Train services connect Dublin to other cities in Ireland as well as suburban and regional areas.

Sections

1. Types of Train Services in Dublin

Dublin's train network is operated by Iarnrรณd ร‰ireann (Irish Rail) and includes the following services:

A. DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit)

  • Description: The DART is a suburban rail service that runs along the coast of Dublin Bay, connecting the city center to coastal towns and suburbs.
  • Route: It stretches from Malahide/Howth (north of Dublin) to Greystones (south of Dublin).
  • Key Stops: Malahide, Howth, Clontarf Road, Connolly Station, Tara Street, Pearse Station, Blackrock, Dun Laoghaire, Bray, and Greystones.

B. Commuter Trains

  • Description: These trains connect Dublin to nearby towns and cities in the Greater Dublin Area and beyond.
  • Routes: Includes services to areas like Maynooth, Drogheda, Kildare, and Portlaoise.
  • Key Stops: Maynooth, Drogheda, Balbriggan, Newbridge, and others.

C. Intercity Trains

  • Description: These are long-distance trains connecting Dublin to major cities and towns across Ireland.
  • Routes: Includes services to Cork, Galway, Limerick, Belfast, Waterford, and more.
  • Key Stops: Heuston Station and Connolly Station are the main hubs for intercity services.

2. Ticket Costs

Ticket prices vary depending on the type of service, distance traveled, and whether you purchase a single, return, or season ticket. Below is a general breakdown:

A. DART and Commuter Trains

  • Single Ticket: Starts at around โ‚ฌ2.00 for short journeys and increases with distance.
  • Return Ticket: Typically costs slightly less than two single tickets.
  • Leap Card Fare: Using a Leap Card (a prepaid travel card) is cheaper than buying paper tickets. Fares start at โ‚ฌ1.70 for short journeys.
  • Weekly/Monthly Tickets: Available for regular commuters and offer significant savings.

B. Intercity Trains

  • Single Ticket: Prices vary based on the destination. For example:
    • Dublin to Cork: Starts at โ‚ฌ21.49 (advance booking).
    • Dublin to Galway: Starts at โ‚ฌ18.99 (advance booking).
  • Return Ticket: Usually costs about 1.5 times the single fare.
  • Student and Child Discounts: Available with valid ID.

3. How to Purchase Tickets

You can purchase train tickets in several ways:

A. Online

  • Visit the Irish Rail website (www.irishrail.ie) to book tickets in advance, especially for intercity services.
  • Advance booking often offers discounts.

B. Ticket Machines

  • Found at all major train stations. Accepts cash and card payments.

C. Ticket Counters

  • Available at larger stations like Connolly and Heuston.

D. Leap Card

  • A Leap Card is a reusable, prepaid travel card that can be used on DART, commuter trains, buses, and trams (Luas). It offers discounted fares and is highly recommended for visitors and residents.
  • Where to Buy: Leap Cards can be purchased at ticket machines, convenience stores (e.g., Spar, Centra), or online (www.leapcard.ie).
  • Top-Up: You can top up your Leap Card at ticket machines, online, or at participating stores.

4. Main Train Stations in Dublin

Dublin has several key train stations that serve different routes:

A. Connolly Station

  • Location: Amiens Street, Dublin 1.
  • Services: DART, commuter trains (northbound), and intercity trains to Belfast and Sligo.
  • Facilities: Ticket counters, machines, shops, restrooms, and cafes.

B. Heuston Station

  • Location: St. Johnโ€™s Road West, Dublin 8.
  • Services: Intercity trains to Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford, and Killarney.
  • Facilities: Ticket counters, machines, shops, restrooms, and cafes.

C. Pearse Station

  • Location: Westland Row, Dublin 2.
  • Services: DART and commuter trains.
  • Facilities: Ticket machines, restrooms, and a small shop.

D. Tara Street Station

  • Location: Tara Street, Dublin 2.
  • Services: DART and commuter trains.
  • Facilities: Ticket machines and restrooms.

5. Operating Hours

  • DART and Commuter Trains: Typically operate from 5:30 AM to midnight, with reduced services on weekends and public holidays.
  • Intercity Trains: Timetables vary by route, but most services start around 6:00 AM and end by 9:00 PM.

Itโ€™s advisable to check the Irish Rail website or app for the most up-to-date schedules.

6. Relevant Apps and Websites

  • Irish Rail Website: www.irishrail.ie โ€“ For timetables, ticket booking, and service updates.
  • Irish Rail App: Available on iOS and Android for real-time train information, ticket purchases, and journey planning.
  • Leap Card Website: www.leapcard.ie โ€“ For managing your Leap Card account and topping up.
  • Transport for Ireland (TFI) App: Offers journey planning across all public transport modes in Dublin, including trains, buses, and trams.

7. Local Tips and Considerations

  • Plan Ahead: For intercity travel, book tickets in advance to secure the best fares and ensure availability, especially during peak times.
  • Use a Leap Card: Itโ€™s the most cost-effective and convenient way to travel on DART and commuter trains.
  • Avoid Peak Hours: Trains can be crowded during rush hours (7:30 AMโ€“9:30 AM and 4:30 PMโ€“6:30 PM).
  • Mind the Gap: Be cautious when boarding and alighting trains, as there is often a gap between the train and the platform.
  • Check for Delays: Occasionally, services may be delayed due to weather or maintenance. Use the Irish Rail app or website for real-time updates.
  • Accessibility: Most stations and trains are wheelchair accessible, but itโ€™s a good idea to check in advance if you require assistance.
  • Bikes on Trains: Bicycles are allowed on DART and commuter trains during off-peak hours but may require a fee on intercity services.

By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to navigate Dublinโ€™s train system efficiently and enjoy your travels in and around the city. Safe travels!