Traveling in Ireland by train offers a unique way to explore its rolling landscapes, historic towns, and bustling cities. Limerick, positioned in the heart of the Shannon region, is a city perfectly suited for rail exploration. Over several visits, I’ve relied on trains to navigate not only the city itself but also nearby destinations, discovering the charm of both rural and urban Ireland from the window of a moving carriage.

Using Limerick as a base, I have mapped out practical train routes, recommended itineraries, and firsthand tips for travelers seeking a smooth and enjoyable journey. Along the way, I share my personal impressions of stations, onboard experiences, and nearby attractions accessible via rail. I also include suggestions for booking accommodations, meals, flights, and tickets to attractions to make the overall travel experience seamless.

1. Limerick’s Train Stations: Understanding the Network

Limerick has two primary railway stations:

Limerick Colbert Station

Location: Parnell Street, Limerick City Centre

The main hub for intercity and regional trains, Limerick Colbert Station is a modern facility with historical touches. Arriving here, I am always struck by the blend of contemporary amenities and hints of old-world charm in the architecture. The station is conveniently located within walking distance of the city center, making it easy to combine rail travel with visits to Limerick’s boutique hotels, restaurants, and historic landmarks.

Facilities include ticket offices, automated kiosks, a small café, and luggage storage. On my first morning here, I enjoyed a cup of locally roasted coffee while watching early commuters navigate the platforms.

Limerick Junction Station

Location: Approximately 20 km east of Limerick City, County Tipperary

Limerick Junction is primarily a transfer point connecting trains from Dublin, Cork, and Waterford. I often pass through this station en route to destinations outside the immediate Limerick area. It is smaller and less busy than Colbert, but efficient, and signage is clear for first-time visitors.

Booking & Platforms: I usually book tickets via IrishRail.ie, which provides clear timetables, pricing, and seat reservation options. For combined travel packages, including accommodation and attraction tickets, I sometimes use Expedia.ie or Booking.com, which occasionally offer rail-inclusive deals.

2. Intercity Routes from Limerick

Limerick serves as a hub for intercity travel, connecting with major cities across Ireland. I’ll share my personal experiences and recommendations for three key intercity routes.

Dublin – Limerick Intercity

Route: Limerick Colbert ↔ Dublin Heuston

Traveling between Limerick and Dublin is one of the most popular train journeys I take. The train departs from Limerick Colbert Station and arrives at Dublin Heuston, traveling approximately 200 kilometers through the Irish countryside. I enjoy watching rolling green fields, rivers, and occasional castles passing by.

Duration & Frequency: The journey takes roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes. Trains run several times daily, which makes it easy to plan day trips or extended stays.

Tickets & Costs: Standard tickets range from €25–€40, depending on advance booking. IrishRail.ie offers online discounts for early purchases. For a more comfortable experience, I sometimes opt for first-class seating, which provides extra legroom and a quieter environment for reading or working.

Personal Experience: One of my favorite trips was early morning, when soft sunlight bathed the countryside, and I sipped coffee while reading about Irish history. The gentle rocking of the train and the scenic views make this route particularly relaxing.

Nearby Attractions in Dublin: Upon arrival at Heuston Station, I can easily connect to Dublin’s historic sites, including the Guinness Storehouse and Trinity College. I often book nearby hotel stays via Booking.com or Hotels.com to extend my exploration.

Cork – Limerick Route

Route: Limerick Colbert ↔ Cork Kent Station

For those wanting to explore the south, Cork is an ideal destination. The train passes through charming towns like Charleville and Mallow. The scenery is a mix of farmland, river valleys, and small villages. I recall a trip in autumn when golden fields and misty mornings created a postcard-like experience outside my window.

Duration & Frequency: Approximately 3 hours, with daily departures.

Tickets & Costs: Tickets range from €30–€45, with discounts available online via IrishRail.ie for early bookings. Skyscanner and Kayak.ie also occasionally offer combined rail and flight packages for visitors arriving via Shannon or Dublin Airport.

Personal Experience: I love departing early morning to arrive in Cork by mid-morning, allowing for a full day of exploration. I usually pack a light snack from local cafés near Colbert Station, enjoying it onboard with scenic views.

Nearby Attractions in Cork: Blarney Castle and the English Market are easy to reach from the station. I often use OpenTable to reserve lunch at local restaurants after arriving.

Galway – Limerick Route

Route: Limerick Colbert ↔ Galway Ceannt Station

Traveling westward, Galway is known for its vibrant arts scene, Atlantic views, and colorful streets. The train ride takes me through the Shannon Estuary and inland hills, offering a mix of river views and pastoral landscapes.

Duration & Frequency: About 3 hours 15 minutes, with multiple daily services.

Tickets & Costs: Standard fares range from €30–€50. Booking in advance through IrishRail.ie secures the best prices.

Personal Experience: I enjoy traveling in the afternoon to arrive in Galway just before sunset. Walking through Galway’s Latin Quarter after disembarking, the city feels alive with street musicians, colorful shop fronts, and the scent of fresh seafood from local eateries.

Nearby Attractions in Galway: I often pair train travel with accommodation booked via Booking.com and make dining reservations at restaurants through TheFork.

3. Regional and Commuter Routes

Limerick also serves as a hub for regional travel. These routes connect smaller towns, making day trips or rural exploration convenient.

Ennis – Limerick

Route: Limerick Colbert ↔ Ennis Station

The short 40-minute ride to Ennis provides access to quaint streets, artisan shops, and historic churches. I enjoy stepping off the train and immediately feeling the slower pace of a traditional Irish town.

Tickets & Costs: €10–€15. Booking via IrishRail.ie or purchasing tickets at the station works equally well.

Nearby Attractions: From Ennis, I often travel onward to the Cliffs of Moher via local buses.

Nenagh – Limerick

Route: Limerick Colbert ↔ Nenagh Station

Nenagh offers a charming glimpse of rural Ireland, with its castle ruins and riverside walks. The journey is scenic, passing farmland and small villages.

Duration & Costs: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes, with tickets around €12–€18.

Personal Experience: Traveling on a weekday, I often have the carriage nearly to myself, allowing quiet reflection on Ireland’s landscapes and the rhythm of local life.

Nearby Attractions: Local pubs and cafés offer hearty Irish fare, bookable through OpenTable for lunch stops.

4. Planning a Multi-Day Limerick Rail Itinerary

Using Limerick as a base, I often create itineraries that combine intercity and regional routes. One of my favorites is:

Day 1: Arrival at Limerick Colbert, check into No.1 Pery Square Hotel & Spa, dinner at The Locke Bar.

Day 2: Morning train to Dublin Heuston, visit Trinity College and Guinness Storehouse, overnight in Dublin.

Day 3: Return to Limerick, explore King John’s Castle and St. Mary’s Cathedral, dinner at The French Table.

Day 4: Train to Ennis, day trip to Cliffs of Moher, return in the evening.

Day 5: Train to Galway, explore Latin Quarter, overnight in Galway.

Day 6: Return to Limerick, evening riverside walk, light dinner, and pack for departure.

Booking accommodations via Booking.com or Hotels.com in advance ensures central locations close to stations. For intercity tickets, IrishRail.ie is reliable and often cheaper when purchased early. Flights into Shannon Airport can be booked via Skyscanner or Kayak.ie, while attraction tickets in Dublin, Galway, and Limerick can be reserved via GetYourGuide or Tiqets.

5. Onboard Experience and Practical Tips

Traveling by train in Ireland is comfortable, scenic, and often quieter than buses or car travel. I usually opt for a window seat on the right side of the carriage when heading west for optimal countryside views. Carriages are well-maintained, with Wi-Fi and power outlets on intercity services.

Packing Tips: Light luggage makes boarding and disembarking easier. A reusable water bottle, light snacks, and a guidebook or e-reader enhance the journey.

Timing & Crowds: Early morning trains are ideal for commuters and quiet scenery, while mid-afternoon services are perfect for photography as the light softens over the landscape.

Safety & Comfort: Ireland’s train network is generally safe, but I keep personal belongings secure and remain aware of stops. First-class seating is worth considering for longer trips for extra comfort.

6. Connecting Trains with Local Attractions

I often plan rail journeys in conjunction with walking tours, museums, or dining experiences. For instance:

• After arriving at Limerick Colbert, I walk to King John’s Castle or the Hunt Museum.
• Following the Dublin train, I book a guided tour of Trinity College Library.
• In Galway, I combine train arrival with a walking tour of the Latin Quarter.

Reservations for tours and restaurants can be made through TheFork, OpenTable, or official attraction websites. I find this coordination ensures seamless transitions from rail to city exploration.

7. Train Travel in Limerick

Using Limerick as a rail hub has transformed my approach to Irish travel. I can experience both city and countryside at a relaxed pace, observing the subtle rhythms of rural life, stopping in charming towns, and indulging in authentic local cuisine. The comfort and reliability of trains, combined with thoughtful planning and booking platforms, make this approach ideal for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers.

Traveling by train also encourages a slower, more mindful engagement with Ireland’s landscapes. Watching rivers, hills, and historic villages pass by, I often feel more connected to the country than if I were driving or flying.