Explore Dublin & Galway by Rail
Icons of Ireland by scenic train
Experience the magic of Ireland with a seamless city-to-city getaway through Dublin and Galway. Immerse yourself in rich history and vibrant culture with 4-star hotel stays, effortless rail travel, and a 2-day Dublin Sightseeing Pass to unlock the capital's top attractions.
What's Included
- Return flights 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)
- 2 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
Check out Dublin's Guinness Storehouse.
Sit back and relax on the Irish rail.
Explore Trinity College and Christ Church Cathedral.
Try Galway's locally-caught oysters.
Explore Dublin at ease with a sightseeing bus pass.
Your holiday begins in Dublin, Ireland's capital, where castles, rebellion-steeped history, and the country's oldest pub all wait to be discovered. Spend a few days exploring with your included Dublin Pass, which opens the doors to more than 40 attractions, along with a Hop-On/Hop-Off bus to help you get around.
From Dublin, the Irish Rail carries you west to Galway, widely regarded as Ireland's most Irish city. Wander the cobbled streets past St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church and Galway Cathedral, browse shops selling handmade goods, and sample the local food. When evening comes, Galway's pubs and music venues keep things lively.
The final night brings you back to Dublin, where Grafton Street, Temple Bar, and St. Stephen's Green offer a last taste of the capital before you head home.
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 holiday with:
- Upgraded hotels in all locations.
- Private roundtrip airport transfers.
- Return flights 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)
- 2 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
Check out Dublin's Guinness Storehouse.
Sit back and relax on the Irish rail.
Explore Trinity College and Christ Church Cathedral.
Try Galway's locally-caught oysters.
Explore Dublin at ease with a sightseeing bus pass.
Your holiday begins in Dublin, Ireland's capital, where castles, rebellion-steeped history, and the country's oldest pub all wait to be discovered. Spend a few days exploring with your included Dublin Pass, which opens the doors to more than 40 attractions, along with a Hop-On/Hop-Off bus to help you get around.
From Dublin, the Irish Rail carries you west to Galway, widely regarded as Ireland's most Irish city. Wander the cobbled streets past St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church and Galway Cathedral, browse shops selling handmade goods, and sample the local food. When evening comes, Galway's pubs and music venues keep things lively.
The final night brings you back to Dublin, where Grafton Street, Temple Bar, and St. Stephen's Green offer a last taste of the capital before you head home.
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 holiday with:
- Upgraded hotels in all locations.
- Private roundtrip airport transfers.
Day 1. Welcome to Ireland!
Arrive in Dublin, head to your hotel and settle in, then take the afternoon at your own pace. A walk across the Ha'Penny Bridge is a fine way to get your bearings, or simply wander through the city's cobbled lanes and let the warmth of the place wash over you.
Just steps from bustling O'Connell Street and a short walk from Dublin's other iconic sites, Maldron Hotel Parnell Square offers contemporary comfort in a fabulous location. Step into a bright, naturally lit lobby and admire the modern, colorful decor. Check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then head up to your spacious room. Open the door to crisp air conditioning, complimentary WiFi, flat-screen TV, plush bedding, and much more.
Once you settle in, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the onsite Stir Cafe & Bar! Enjoy traditional Irish cuisine paired with a perfect pint. Too cozy to leave your room? Order room service!
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.
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.
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 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 travelling from one point of interest to another.
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 holiday
• 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.
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.
Day 2. Dublin
Utilise your included sightseeing pass! Hop aboard the included Hop-On/Hop-Off bus to take in landmarks such as Christ Church Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral, or step inside the Dublin Zoo and the Little Museum of Dublin at your own pace.
When evening arrives, head to the Temple Bar district and pick a pub — many have live music, and all of them pour a decent pint.
Temple Bar, Dublin
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
This morning, make your way to Heuston Station and board the Irish Rail to Galway.
Once you arrive, check into your hotel and get your bearings in the city. Tonight is the perfect occasion to order a platter of Galway's most celebrated local produce: freshly caught 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.
Ardilaun Hotel is a 4-star luxury hotel nestled in the lush greenery of Taylors Hill.
The hotel features five restaurants, including a bar and a cafe, all serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests have access to the hotel's fitness center which features a sauna and wellness classes such as yoga. There are also two pools and a gorgeous garden.
Guest rooms are designed with comfort in mind, and are very spacious. Amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, a private bathroom with hair dryer, TV, phone, iron, air-conditioning, and round the clock room service.
The Spanish Arch and Galway City Museum are both within a 6-minute drive from the hotel, while Dunguaire Castle is a 35-minute drive.
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 car hire.
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.
Ideally located just minutes from the city centre, Maldron Hotel Sandy Road Galway offers comfortable and spacious accommodation in Galway, delicious dining, and generous meeting room space. All rooms come fully equipped with air-conditioning, with guests also having complimentary access to a quaint fitness suite. The hotel also provides free underground parking and WiFi to all guests within the hotel. Whether you’re travelling to Galway for business or pleasure, Maldron Hotel Sandy Road is the perfect choice.
Day 4. Galway
St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church and Galway Cathedral are both within easy walking distance of the city centre, and both are well worth an hour of your time. Galway also has a lively arts scene — pop into a gallery or two as you make your way through the streets.
For the evening, consider making the short trip to the village of Doolin, long known as the heartland of traditional Irish music. It's the kind of place where a session in the pub feels genuinely special.
Galway Cathedral
Day 5. Galway - Dublin
Board the Irish Rail for your final journey back to Dublin.
Back in the capital, spend the afternoon exploring on foot. Christ Church Cathedral, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and St. Stephen's Green make for a pleasant walking route through the city's religious and green spaces. If time allows, Grafton Street is ideal for last-minute shopping.
Train to Dublin!
Just steps from bustling O'Connell Street and a short walk from Dublin's other iconic sites, Maldron Hotel Parnell Square offers contemporary comfort in a fabulous location. Step into a bright, naturally lit lobby and admire the modern, colorful decor. Check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then head up to your spacious room. Open the door to crisp air conditioning, complimentary WiFi, flat-screen TV, plush bedding, and much more.
Once you settle in, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the onsite Stir Cafe & Bar! Enjoy traditional Irish cuisine paired with a perfect pint. Too cozy to leave your room? Order room service!
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.
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.
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.
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 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 travelling from one point of interest to another.
Day 6. Depart Ireland
Make your way to the airport for your return flight home.
Fly home!
Advertised Great Value Holiday prices are per person based on two people travelling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised Great Value Holidays are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, where available via the Great Value Holidays website and may not represent current prices.
Great Value Holidays are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date, and may be restricted to certain hotel room categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required to fully confirm reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only.
Promo Code Offer Details (where applicable): All promotions are subject to availability, valid for new bookings only, cannot be combined with any other promotion, discount, voucher or any other offers, and are not redeemable for cash. Promotional codes may be input online on the payment screen. Discounts will apply only once per passenger and are not valid for any other products or services.
Go to our Booking Terms and Conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy.