About Rail.Ninja
Rail Ninja is a reservation service for booking train tickets online. It is not a rail carrier, does not own or operate any trains, and does not represent an official website of any railway company. It is a commercial business that makes it easier for you to book train tickets online.
Departure Schedule
Morning departures
Fastest trip2 hrs 10 min
Longest trip2 hrs 10 min
Earliest08:50
Latest10:50
Departures2
Afternoon departures
Fastest trip2 hrs 10 min
Longest trip2 hrs 10 min
Earliest12:50
Latest16:50
Departures4
Evening departures
Fastest trip2 hrs 10 min
Longest trip2 hrs 18 min
Earliest18:50
Latest20:50
Departures2
Travelling from Dublin to Belfast by Train
The Dublin to Belfast train is one of the finest rail journeys in Ireland — a fast, direct connection between two of the island's most vibrant cities. The Enterprise service runs directly from Dublin Connolly Station to Belfast Grand Central Station in just over two hours, with scenic views of the Irish countryside along the way. With approximately 15 departures daily from Monday to Saturday and 8 services on Sundays, it is easy to plan a day trip or a longer visit to Northern Ireland. Make your travel plans more far-reaching with the Ireland itinerary planner — explore the most popular attractions and build your own unforgettable trip.
The Enterprise is operated jointly by Irish Rail and Translink, providing a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable journey. It offers Standard and First Class seats, with First Class offering more spacious seats and additional services. Passengers can enjoy free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a dining car serving snacks and beverages on board.
Select your tickets in advance to find the best fares — at this moment, with Rail Ninja you can book up to a year ahead. Compared to travelling by bus, the direct train provides convenient city centre to city centre access, with no airport transfers needed.
Dublin to Belfast trains Information
Dublin
Connolly station, IrelandHeuston station, IrelandBusaras Bus Station, IrelandCustom House Quay Bus Stop, Ireland
180 km
Belfast
Lanyon Place Station, United KingdomEuropa Buscentre, United KingdomGlengall Street Bus Stop, United KingdomGrand Central Station, United KingdomUpper Queen Street Bus Stop, United KingdomLaganside Buscentre, United KingdomHigh Street, United KingdomDonegall Square West, United Kingdom
2 h 10 m
Shortest travel time:
$32
Lowest ticket cost:
8
Avg. daily departures:
08:50
Earliest departure:
20:50
Latest departure:
Popular questions about trains from Dublin to Belfast
The Dublin to Belfast train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 8 minutes. The Enterprise service runs several times a day between Dublin Connolly Station and Belfast Grand Central Station — the first departure is at 05:50 and the last at 20:50. It is one of the fastest ways to travel between the two cities, making it a popular choice for day trips and weekend visits.
Unfortunately, giving a one-size-fits-all answer is impossible — the cost of a Dublin to Belfast train ticket depends on many factors. Last-minute tickets cost more than advance bookings. First Class is a bit pricier than Standard. Even the time of departure can influence the price. Tickets start from around €26 if booked in advance, with an average price of around €26 ($33). Book early for the cheapest fares.
As mentioned above, the route is served by the Enterprise — operated jointly by Irish Rail and Translink. It is a modern, clean service that works smoothly throughout the journey. The free Wi-Fi works reliably, the staff are friendly and helpful, and the sanitary facilities are well maintained.
Yes — the direct train is faster than the bus and goes city centre to city centre. The train takes around 2 hours and 8 minutes. The bus typically takes around 2 hours and 39 minutes, depending on traffic and stops. Trains also offer 20–30% more space than buses, with greater legroom and comfort. The train is easy to book in advance online and runs smoothly with no road traffic delays.
Dublin to Belfast trains depart from Dublin Connolly Station, located in the city centre and easily accessible by DART, bus, and Luas. In Belfast, trains arrive at Belfast Grand Central Station. Both stations are centrally located, making onward travel straightforward.
Yes — the Enterprise service makes Dublin to Belfast an easy day trip. With multiple departures throughout the day, you can take a morning service to Belfast, spend the day exploring the city, and return to Dublin in the evening. Journey time is around 2 hours and 8 minutes each way.
The rail distance from Dublin to Belfast is approximately 180 km (112 miles). The route passes through scenic parts of Ireland and Northern Ireland, crossing the border between the two countries, with stops including Drogheda, Dundalk, and Newry along the way.
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