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Question
Hello,
I would like to buy a first class rail pass for unlimited trips throughout Ireland for 6 days. I have done some checking on the Internet but am confused. Is there a rail that services entire country of Ireland? Or do I have to buy a separate pass for Northern and Southern Ireland?
Thank you
Hi Kirsten,
There is two train companies operating within Ireland; Irish Rail in the South and NIR/Translink in the North. Both companies operate a Dublin-Belfast service. NIR services are commuter only so there isn't any first class accommodation except on Dublin-Belfast services; personally speaking first class isn't worth the excess but if you wish you can upgrade on the day on Irish Rail services.
The best value train ticket to suit you is probably the new Irish Rail Trekker ticket. It cost €100 and allows you 4 days unlimited train travel in standard class on Irish Rail trains and it cover you to and from Belfast. Interrail tickets will also cover you for the same journeys but they are somewhat dearer although they offer a 6 day ticket. Interrail is only available to certain European citizens; check their website for details.
Some Irish Rail tickets are available online with heavily discounted rates so it may work out cheaper for you to book some tickets this way; you will also get a reserved seat at no extra cost.
I hope this helps; feel free to ask me more if you need to.
David
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David Walsh
Expertise
I am one of two Ireland Expert's on this site resident in the country and and a citizen of Ireland. I have travelled all over Ireland and I have been in every county at least once and have seen a lot of what happens in this country. A lifelong resident of Dublin, I know the city very very well and have seen all sorts of interesting nuggets and corners; wee shops in funny places and pubs that have the best beer and food. I also write table and pub quizzes so I know a little bit about everything, so to speak, including some of the quirky stuff! If it's about Dublin, I'll be hard pressed not to know something about it; the pubs, sights, history, stories and more so try your luck on me!
Experience
I have been working as a taxi driver for several years so I know every nook and cranny of Dublin. As somebody who studied media, I am also interested in transport and current affairs and am passionate about Ireland, Irish affairs and Irish life. I've traveled the country over the years and have seen many of Ireland wonderful sites and sights, some well known; others less so!
I've also done some tour guide work taking people around the country so I'm well travelled and well sussed as to what's where.
Education/Credentials
I have an Irish Leaving Certificate; I also undertook the first year of a H Dip in Radio with Journalism, so it goes without saying that my communication skills are up there.
While I lack latin certs on my wall, life experience has left me with a lot of common sense experience that no institution can teach you.
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