Dublin & Galway by Rail
East & West – experience the culture and history of Ireland
Explore two of Ireland's most famous cities, and enjoy scenic train rides through the Emerald Isle's countryside along the way. Visit ancient ruins one day, then learn how to pour the perfect pint of Guinness the next - the days are yours to spend as you see fit!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- 2 nights in Dublin at the Ashling Hotel or similar
- Standard-class rail fare from Dublin (Heuston Station) to Galway (Ceannt Station)
- 3 nights in Galway at Hardiman Hotel or similar
- Standard-class rail fare from Galway (Ceannt Station) to Dublin (Heuston Station)
- 1 night in Dublin at the Ashling Hotel or similar
- Dublin Pass (2-Day)
- Daily breakfast
Great Ways to Explore
-
Treat yourself to a pint of Guinness in one of Dublin's pubs, many of which offer live music!
- Along with convenience, the Irish Rail offers you some of the finest scenic views of Ireland.
-
Travel in comfort via high-speed train from city to city as stunning scenery rolls by.
-
Treat yourself to a plate of Galway's famous locally-caught oysters!
-
Learn how to pour the perfect pint at the Guinness Storehouse, if you'd like.
Begin in Dublin, Ireland's vibrant capital! Here you can explore historic castles, have a pint at Ireland's oldest pub, or discover its history rooted in rebellion.
You'll then continue onto Galway, Ireland's "most Irish" city. Spend days shopping for handmade goods, sampling homemade treats, or exploring the surrounding natural wonders. Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets and visit St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church and Galway Cathedral. In the evenings, Galway's lively nightlife beckons!
Complete your getaway in Dublin. Do some shopping on Grafton Street, grab a pint at Temple Bar, or simply stroll through St. Stephen's Green. Included with your vacation is a 2-day Dublin Pass, granting you free entry to over 33 of Dublin's most famous sights, as well as access to a Hop-On/Hop-Off bus pass. You'll see the best of Dublin and Galway with this getaway!
VERY IMPORTANT: The Irish Rail vouchers must be printed out prior to your travel time. You will take the printed out vouchers to the booking office at each station you depart from (Heuston Station in Dublin and Ceannt Station in Galway) and will be given an actual rail ticket. The vouchers may only be exchanged at the booking office.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Enhance your vacation with:
- Upgraded hotels in all locations!
- Private roundtrip airport transfers!
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- 2 nights in Dublin at the Ashling Hotel or similar
- Standard-class rail fare from Dublin (Heuston Station) to Galway (Ceannt Station)
- 3 nights in Galway at Hardiman Hotel or similar
- Standard-class rail fare from Galway (Ceannt Station) to Dublin (Heuston Station)
- 1 night in Dublin at the Ashling Hotel or similar
- Dublin Pass (2-Day)
- Daily breakfast
-
Treat yourself to a pint of Guinness in one of Dublin's pubs, many of which offer live music!
- Along with convenience, the Irish Rail offers you some of the finest scenic views of Ireland.
-
Travel in comfort via high-speed train from city to city as stunning scenery rolls by.
-
Treat yourself to a plate of Galway's famous locally-caught oysters!
-
Learn how to pour the perfect pint at the Guinness Storehouse, if you'd like.
Begin in Dublin, Ireland's vibrant capital! Here you can explore historic castles, have a pint at Ireland's oldest pub, or discover its history rooted in rebellion.
You'll then continue onto Galway, Ireland's "most Irish" city. Spend days shopping for handmade goods, sampling homemade treats, or exploring the surrounding natural wonders. Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets and visit St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church and Galway Cathedral. In the evenings, Galway's lively nightlife beckons!
Complete your getaway in Dublin. Do some shopping on Grafton Street, grab a pint at Temple Bar, or simply stroll through St. Stephen's Green. Included with your vacation is a 2-day Dublin Pass, granting you free entry to over 33 of Dublin's most famous sights, as well as access to a Hop-On/Hop-Off bus pass. You'll see the best of Dublin and Galway with this getaway!
VERY IMPORTANT: The Irish Rail vouchers must be printed out prior to your travel time. You will take the printed out vouchers to the booking office at each station you depart from (Heuston Station in Dublin and Ceannt Station in Galway) and will be given an actual rail ticket. The vouchers may only be exchanged at the booking office.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Prices From:
Enhance your vacation with:
- Upgraded hotels in all locations!
- Private roundtrip airport transfers!
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Dublin!
Arrive in the vibrant capital city of Dublin! Once you're settled you may want to start taking advantage of your 2-day Dublin Pass, which includes (amongst many other things!) a hop-on/hop-off bus; use it to explore the city, and hop off at such iconic sites as Christ Church Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral, or visit the Dublin Zoo or Little Museum of Dublin!
There are so many different sites and experiences included in your Dublin Pass - so use it to create your own special itinerary!
The Alex was the third of O'Callaghan Hotel Group's Dublin hotels on this corner of Merrion Square. This thoughtfully designed contemporary hotel welcomes you into its spacious lobby where the team will give you a great welcome, excellent service and will be more than happy to show you everything on our doorstep.
The Alex is close to Dublin city's Georgian squares where business and culture meet as neighbors. Grafton Street, the flagship location for many shops, is just a minutes' walk from the hotel. For the adventurous visitor, there is a Dublin Bike station on Merrion Square and you can join the other enthusiastic cyclists in Dublin traveling from one point of interest to another.
Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin is a 288 room hotel within walking distance from some of Dublin's top attractions. Located on famed O'Connell Street, the hotel provides modern rooms with excellent amenities to guarantee a comfortable stay. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, television, and free WiFi. For those seeking a more spacious accommodation, the hotel offers a penthouse suite with incredible city views. Additional hotel amenities include Toddy's Brasserie, which features classic Irish cuisine and beverages, and the Writer's Lounge where guests can enjoy afternoon tea in a classic and sophisticated setting. Take advantage of the hotel's location right near the Abbey Street tram, making the entire city easily accessible throughout your stay.
The Chancery Hotel in Dublin is a 4-star hotel with a 24-hour front desk to ensure a comfortable stay for all guests. The hotel features Fawn restaurant that serves breakfast and dinner with something for everyone. There is also an on-site bar for delicious evening cocktails, and a cafe with sweet treats and coffee.
The hotel also has an immersive relaxation area with a whirlpool, Turkish Bath , sauna, and massage shower. Guests also have access to the hotel's 24-hour gym.Â
Guest rooms are bright and spacious with black-out curtains to help guests get a good night sleep. Amenities include a private bathroom with a walk-in shower, air-conditioning, an in-room safe, free Wi-Fi, a TV, coffee maker, and fridge with complimentary water.Â
The Chancery Hotel is close to many attractions in Dublin. Dublin Castle, the Irish Whiskey Museum, Book of Kells, and The Little Museum of Dublin are all within a 15-minute walk from the hotel. Additionally, Dublin Airport is closest to this hotel.
Parking
The Grafton Hotel is a 4-star hotel located in central Dublin. An elegantly designed and contemporary hotel that showcases the charm of the art deco era, The Grafton features a 24-hour front desk to make sure guests' needs are met around the clock. The hotel also features Bartley's Bar and Restaurant for cocktails, lunch, and dinner, as well as Bartley's Coffee Lounge and Terrace where guests can have coffee and pastries or place a to-go order.
Guest rooms are spacious and most have a view of the Dublin skyline. There is a private bathroom with a walk-in shower, and free Wi-Fi is available. Other amenities include a TV, mini-fridge, coffee maker, desk, and room service.Â
The hotel is just a short 5-minute walk from Grafton Street - one of Dublin's main shopping streets. Additionally, Trinity College and St. Stephen's Green are both within an 8-minute walk from the hotel. The Guinness Storehouse and Dublin Zoo are both within a 15-minute drive, and Dublin Airport is closest to this hotel.
Parking
The Dublin Pass (2 Days)
The 2-Day Dublin Pass is an easy-to-use digital pass which offers you free entry to 30+ iconic tourist attractions, magnificent landmarks and tours, including an informative 1-day hop-on-hop-off bus tour. Save time and money off the normal admission prices, and visit this incredible city at your own pace, while paying nothing at the gate. What’s more, a free digital guidebook is also included. The more you see, the more you save!
The Dublin Pass includes:
• Free Entry to 30+ attractions
• 1-day Hop-on-Hop-off bus tour
• Discounts & exclusive offers on restaurants, tours, shopping & more
• Ultimate flexibility in planning your own vacation
• Access to your Pass, digital guidebook, map, attraction information and more, all from your smartphone with the Dublin Pass app
There is no need to select which attractions you'd like to see before you purchase the Pass; you can pick and choose any of the attractions as you go. This allows you to change your mind and wait and see how you feel in the moment. You'll receive the Pass digitally in your client portal after you've purchased, and you'll then have the option to print off your Pass at home or download it onto the free Dublin Pass app and use it straight from your phone. Once you have your Pass, it's ready to use. All you have to do is turn up at your first chosen attraction and get your Pass scanned for admission (please check individual attractions for reservation details, in case you need to book beforehand). The Dublin Pass app is free and available for both Apple and Android devices. The app includes your Pass(es), guidebook, itineraries, and more.Â
Please refer to the Dublin Pass app for the complete listing of attractions and tours, and for any special instructions needed to gain entry. Most attractions do not require a reservation, however, some may need to be reserved in advance. It also recommended that you check the website of an individual attraction prior to arriving, for the most current hours of operation, in order to avoid disappointment. Your Dublin Pass is valid for two consecutive calendar days, so it is recommended that you start using your pass first thing in the morning to get the most usage of it. Additionally, passes are valid at each attraction only once per pass duration, which means you can’t visit the same attraction twice. Â
Day 2. Dublin
Continue using your Dublin Pass today. Take a deep dive into the drinking culture of Ireland by exploring the factories of your favorite Irish sips and spirits!
You can pay a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, or discover the secrets of a fully-functioning whiskey factory at the Teeling Whiskey Distillery.
A Tip For Your Trip: Please note: Some of the attractions and experiences included in your Dublin Pass need to be pre-booked to guarantee availability.
Day 3. Dublin - Galway
Next, you'll board the comfortable Irish Rail at Heuston Station in Dublin and head to Galway. Be sure to look out the window during your ride as you'll get scenic views of the picturesque Irish countryside!
Celebrate your first night in Galway by treating yourself to a platter of their most famous locally-caught dish: oysters!
Train ride to Galway!
The Hardiman Hotel is ideally located on Galway's Eyre Square. Mere footsteps from the city's top shopping, bars, theaters, and historic sights, the hotel is the ideal base for visiting the city or taking excursions on the Wild Atlantic Way. Enjoy close proximity to the main transportation hubs that provide convenient access to the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, the Aran Islands, and Connemara.
Over its half-century history, the property has hosted several notable guests and special occasions. The luxurious hotel offers peerless service, charming guestrooms, several restaurant options, and spa treatments.Â
The Clayton Hotel is only minutes from Galway city center, with 195 spacious & luxurious bedrooms, and complimentary parking and Wi-fi for all guests. At the Clayton Hotel Galway you are guaranteed a warm welcome and professional service delivered with a friendly smile throughout your stay. A great day starts with a great night's sleep! Relax at this Galway hotel in one of our contemporary and chic bedrooms and enjoy the comfort of a pillow topped mattress, complete with crisp white linen, fluffy duvets and comfy pillows.
Located on its own private grounds, this elegant and romantic 4-star hotel is just a 15 minute walk from Galway’s city center and a 5 minute walk from the nearest shopping center. The property is within easy access from main roads, making it easy to see Connemara and Burren if you have your own rental car.
Menlo Park Hotel features 70 stylish guest rooms including spacious bathrooms and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests will not be disappointed with the tempting choice of delicious eating options available. The Bia Beo Restaurant offers an extensive wine list and hearty food made with fresh, locally sourced produce. For something more relaxed, The Bar Beoga serves fresh coffee and an extensive bar food menu in a traditional Galway pub atmosphere.
Day 4. Galway
While in the eclectic city of Galway you are going to be within walking distance of the stunning St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church and the Galway Cathedral. Take advantage of the bustling art scene and pop into a gallery or two.
In the evening, consider paying a visit to the nearby village of Doolin, Ireland's home of traditional Irish music for a truly authentic experience.Â
Day 5. Galway
Today, consider taking the ferry from Galway out to the Aran Islands! Explore scenic cliffs, ancient ruins, and hear Gaelic spoken by locals throughout. This cluster of three islands is known for its karst landscape, dating back to prehistoric times.Â
Day 6. Galway - Dublin
Today you'll board the luxurious Irish Rail in Galway for one last ride back to Dublin.
Use today to visit the religious highlights of the city, including Christ Church Cathedral, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and St. Stephen's Green. Walking this city is the best way to get the most authentic experience.
Time willing, you can also visit Grafton Street and do some last-minute souvenir shopping or check out the famous former-prison, Kilmainham Gaol.
Train to Dublin!
The Alex was the third of O'Callaghan Hotel Group's Dublin hotels on this corner of Merrion Square. This thoughtfully designed contemporary hotel welcomes you into its spacious lobby where the team will give you a great welcome, excellent service and will be more than happy to show you everything on our doorstep.
The Alex is close to Dublin city's Georgian squares where business and culture meet as neighbors. Grafton Street, the flagship location for many shops, is just a minutes' walk from the hotel. For the adventurous visitor, there is a Dublin Bike station on Merrion Square and you can join the other enthusiastic cyclists in Dublin traveling from one point of interest to another.
Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin is a 288 room hotel within walking distance from some of Dublin's top attractions. Located on famed O'Connell Street, the hotel provides modern rooms with excellent amenities to guarantee a comfortable stay. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, television, and free WiFi. For those seeking a more spacious accommodation, the hotel offers a penthouse suite with incredible city views. Additional hotel amenities include Toddy's Brasserie, which features classic Irish cuisine and beverages, and the Writer's Lounge where guests can enjoy afternoon tea in a classic and sophisticated setting. Take advantage of the hotel's location right near the Abbey Street tram, making the entire city easily accessible throughout your stay.
The Chancery Hotel in Dublin is a 4-star hotel with a 24-hour front desk to ensure a comfortable stay for all guests. The hotel features Fawn restaurant that serves breakfast and dinner with something for everyone. There is also an on-site bar for delicious evening cocktails, and a cafe with sweet treats and coffee.
The hotel also has an immersive relaxation area with a whirlpool, Turkish Bath , sauna, and massage shower. Guests also have access to the hotel's 24-hour gym.Â
Guest rooms are bright and spacious with black-out curtains to help guests get a good night sleep. Amenities include a private bathroom with a walk-in shower, air-conditioning, an in-room safe, free Wi-Fi, a TV, coffee maker, and fridge with complimentary water.Â
The Chancery Hotel is close to many attractions in Dublin. Dublin Castle, the Irish Whiskey Museum, Book of Kells, and The Little Museum of Dublin are all within a 15-minute walk from the hotel. Additionally, Dublin Airport is closest to this hotel.
Parking
The Grafton Hotel is a 4-star hotel located in central Dublin. An elegantly designed and contemporary hotel that showcases the charm of the art deco era, The Grafton features a 24-hour front desk to make sure guests' needs are met around the clock. The hotel also features Bartley's Bar and Restaurant for cocktails, lunch, and dinner, as well as Bartley's Coffee Lounge and Terrace where guests can have coffee and pastries or place a to-go order.
Guest rooms are spacious and most have a view of the Dublin skyline. There is a private bathroom with a walk-in shower, and free Wi-Fi is available. Other amenities include a TV, mini-fridge, coffee maker, desk, and room service.Â
The hotel is just a short 5-minute walk from Grafton Street - one of Dublin's main shopping streets. Additionally, Trinity College and St. Stephen's Green are both within an 8-minute walk from the hotel. The Guinness Storehouse and Dublin Zoo are both within a 15-minute drive, and Dublin Airport is closest to this hotel.
Parking
Day 7. Depart Ireland
In accordance with your departure flight, make your way to Dublin airport (DUB) for your flight home.
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.
Vacation packages include round-trip economy class airfare on valid international carriers as noted in specific package inclusions and as indicated on booking engine calendar, which may also include code share flight agreements between carriers as indicated during the booking process. Carriers may vary based on city of origin.
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