- Must visit
National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
Flagship archaeology museum with prehistoric gold, Viking finds, and the famous bog bodies central to Ireland’s ancient story.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Belfast to Dublin
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Belfast to Dublin among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 14m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $15, and a train costs an average of $28.
Distance: 87 miles (141 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$28 Average price | $22 Average price Cheapest | $48 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 44m Average total duration Fastest 2h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 50m Average total duration 2h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Belfast to Dublin is a bus with an average price of $22 (€18).
This is compared to other travel options from Belfast to Dublin:
A bus is $6 (€5) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Belfast to Dublin costing on average $28 (€23).
The fastest way to travel from Belfast to Dublin is by train with an average journey time of 2h 14m.
Other travel options to Dublin take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Belfast and Dublin including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Belfast to Dublin among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with Translink.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Belfast to Dublin train times
The table below shows live departures for Belfast to Dublin trains for today, Wednesday, July 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 3:00 PM Belfast | 2h13 | 5:13 PM Dublin | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:00 PM Belfast | 2h13 | 6:13 PM Dublin | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:00 PM Belfast | 2h13 | 7:13 PM Dublin | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Belfast to Dublin by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Belfast to Dublin
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
Short journey timeFree wifiComfortPunctualSuper serviceDisadvantages
NothingThe journey from Belfast to Dublin on the InterCity 100 was really enjoyable. The journey time was only 2 hours and 6 minutes, which emphasised a super fast and comfortable train. The seats were comfortably reclined, so there was plenty of room for legs and luggage. The quieter atmosphere of the train was particularly pronounced in relation to the journey. This was also thanks to the free wifi, which was always stable and allowed me to work or simply relax during the journey. The service on board was very good, as most of the staff were always friendly and had information material for passengers. The punctuality of the train was another advantage, also very important for me. Everything was well organised in terms of the journey and reliable. I would definitely recommend this direct connection between Belfast and Dublin, especially for travellers who want to use the most comfortable way of transport between the two cities, travelling and temporary fast.
Advantages
reliabilityPunctualityCleanlinessDisadvantages
UtilisationThe interior of the train was very comfortable. There were armrests, power sockets and USB ports. You could also lean your head back comfortably.
The cleanliness was impeccable. There was toilet paper and also soap to wash your hands.
All the staff were very friendly and there was also the option to buy snacks and drinks on the train.
The destination is reached without changing trains, in a time of 2:15h.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Belfast to Dublin
United Kingdom
Ireland
Trains from Belfast to Dublin run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $28 (€23) but you can travel from only $15 (€12) by bus.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 21:00. The fastest train covers the 87 miles (141 km) distance in 2h 10m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $15 (€12)
Distance 87 miles (141 km) |
Average train duration 2h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 (€23) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 2h 10m |
First train 6:00 AM |
Last train 9:00 PM |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $15 (€12)
Train companies: Translink from Belfast to Dublin trainsTranslink trains will get you between Belfast and Dublin from $15 (€12). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Translink
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
Translink frequency
18 a day
Complete guide to Dublin
Things to do in Dublin
Discover the best of Dublin — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dublin trip today.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Ireland
National gallery with Irish and European masters, rotating exhibitions, and one of the city’s finest free cultural collections.
- Must visit
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
Engaging museum on Irish emigration, social change, and family history inside a restored Georgian house on St Stephen’s Green.
- Must visit
St Stephen's Green
Prestigious Georgian square and garden, ideal for architecture, sculpture, and a central stroll near museums and shopping streets.
- Must visit
Temple Bar
Lively cultural quarter known for cobbled lanes, street performers, galleries, and nightlife, making it a classic Dublin walk.
- Must visit
Trinity College Dublin Campus
Historic university campus with elegant squares, Book of Kells access, and one of the city’s most atmospheric pedestrian spaces.
- Gluten-free
Irish Stew
A hearty stew of lamb or mutton, potatoes, onions, and carrots. It is a classic Irish comfort dish long tied to home cooking and pub menus.
Full Irish Breakfast
A traditional breakfast with sausages, rashers, eggs, black and white pudding, tomatoes, and toast. It is a staple Irish morning meal.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Colcannon
Mashed potatoes blended with butter and kale or cabbage. This beloved side is strongly linked to Irish family meals and seasonal cooking.
Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud
Celebrated fine dining restaurant known for polished Irish cooking, tasting menus, and an elegant Georgian setting near St Stephen's Green.
The Old Spot
Well-known gastropub for refined Irish comfort food, seafood, and an excellent drinks list in a stylish but relaxed space.
The Brazen Head
Historic literary pub serving oysters, chowder, Guinness, and classic Irish dishes in atmospheric Victorian rooms.
Euro (€)
Dublin is pricey versus many European cities, with high hotel rates, restaurant prices, and pub costs. Public transport is reasonable but overall tourist spending is often high.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is not always included. In restaurants, 10% is common for good service. Round up or add a little for taxis. Tipping in cafes is optional.
FAQs: Trains from Belfast to Dublin
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Belfast to Dublin by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Dublin, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Belfast to Dublin can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $28 (€23), while the average price is around $28 (€23).
The train from Belfast to Dublin takes 2h 10m and runs 12 per day.
The first train from Belfast to Dublin leaves at 6:00 AM.
The distance by train from Belfast to Dublin is 87 miles (141 km).
The last train from Belfast to Dublin leaves at 9:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Belfast to Dublin.
Yes, there is a direct train from Belfast to Dublin. This service operates 12 times per day, provided by Translink.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Belfast to Dublin.
The cheapest way to get from Belfast to Dublin is by bus, with a cost of around $15 (€12).
The train journey from Belfast to Dublin is considered scenic, offering views of the lush Irish countryside, rolling hills, and occasional glimpses of the coast, making it a pleasant and picturesque experience.
A day trip from Belfast to Dublin is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 10m. However, trains run frequently with 10 trips per day.
In Dublin, you can explore the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's iconic beer and enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop bar. Delve into Ireland's political history at Kilmainham Gaol or admire the extensive art collection at the National Gallery of Ireland. Experience the excitement of Gaelic games at Croke Park Stadium and enjoy a Dublin Literary Pub Crawl through the city's famous pubs. For sightseeing, visit Trinity College to see the Book of Kells, explore the historic Dublin Castle, and appreciate the Gothic architecture of St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Temple Bar or relax in Phoenix Park, which houses Dublin Zoo and the President's official residence.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Dublin is typically enough to explore its main attractions, including Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and the Temple Bar area, while also enjoying the city's vibrant culture and dining scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Belfast to Dublin.
Since neither Belfast nor Dublin are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and Ireland. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Belfast to Dublin among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Ireland uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find using cards more convenient and widely accepted for payments, though carrying some cash can be helpful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Dublin, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, popular tourist sites, and nightlife districts. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers who do not use the meter and distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets or phones. It is advisable to use official taxis or rideshare services and remain vigilant in busy locations to ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
More options for your journey from Belfast to Dublin
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Dublin and Belfast
Most popular train connections to Dublin
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