Train Belfast → Dublin

Where you quickly make a new friend When one thinks of Ireland, images of rolling green hills, leprechauns, pints of Guinness and jovial jigs come to mind. And most travelers head to the Emerald Isle to experience this rainbow of beauty and culture. But just north you'll find another pot o' gold. Belfast may not be on your travel radar, but it should be. Kissing the Blarney stone and driving the Ring of Kerry is all well and good, but, this Belfast is a gem of a city for the tourist who's got a "been there, done that" attitude. Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland and the second largest city in all of Ireland. Dublin has a direct rail line to Belfast with eight trains daily. Belfast Central Station is a short 10-minute walk to city center, or with your train ticket – take the bus for free. Learn more about Belfast

There’s good reason eyes are smiling The city of James Joyce, U2 and smiling Irish Eyes, Dublin is one of those perfect introductory cities to Europe for someone who's never been. English-speaking, friendly locals, great shopping, prized pubbing and centuries of history make for a memory-filled first visit. The city is easily walkable. The Temple Bar might seem like a place to enjoy a pint, when in fact it's "Dublin's cultural quarter." The area has a preserved its medieval street pattern, with narrow, cobblestone streets (you know, the charming kind.) Tourists and locals come for the incredible nightlife. One can't (or can) sample stout all day, which is why the erudite can seek solace downtown at Trinity College. Founded in 1592, it's a focal point for the Irish art scene and home to the book of Kells. This world-famous manuscript produced by Celtic Monks in 800 AD is a prime example of Insular Art. This style from Ireland and Britail was completely different than that of mainland Europe, and takes its name from the Latin insula – meaning “island.” Ireland has its share of renowned writers: Oscar Wilde, William Yeats, Jonathan Swift, Bernard Shaw to name a famed few. But none are more loved than native son James Joyce, who devoted his masterwork novel to the city he loved. The James Joyce Centre is a must visit, and dedicates itself to promoting an understanding of the life and works of the author. Visit Dublin on June 16th when the city observes "Bloomsday." Cultural activities range from readings to full-on re-enactments of Ulysses, Joyce's seminal work, and, depending on whom you ask, the best book of modernist literature. Learn more about Dublin