Dublin to Galway by train: an Irish weekend escape
Start with a train from Dublin Heuston to Galway and let the weekend unfold on foot. A simple Irish rail escape can be the easiest place to begin travelling more slowly.
Start at the right Dublin station
Irish Rail’s Dublin to Galway route departs from Dublin Heuston. If you arrive in the city at another station, build in time to transfer. Use Irish Rail’s journey planner for your actual date, rather than assuming that a remembered timetable still applies.
Keep the weekend simple
Our suggested plan is two nights in Galway, with a light first day and time to explore the city on foot. Look for accommodation you can comfortably reach from the arrival station. If you add a coastal excursion, check the onward bus or tour arrangements separately: a railway ticket does not include them.
Book around your needs
Compare the available fare conditions before paying. Check whether the ticket allows changes, what luggage you can manage and whether you need accessibility support. For a bicycle, check the operator’s current carriage and reservation rules before booking. Flexible plans are useful, but a flexible ticket has specific conditions.
Check before you travel
Route inspiration is not a live timetable or fare quote. Check current availability, ticket conditions, engineering works and assistance arrangements for your travel date.
Irish Rail Dublin–Galway information ↗Source checked 5 October 2026.