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We all know that Europe has the upper hand when it comes to exploring a particular destination by rail.
But if there’s one country more known for holding a bar stool in a dimly lit bar over a window seat, it’s Ireland.
That’s not to say there aren’t great destinations outside Dublin. In fact, many travelers are more enthusiastic about Cork, Galway and the Cliffs of Moher than the sprawling (and very expensive) capital.
That said, Dublin is perhaps geographically the most attractive gateway to Europe, but the question is whether you use it as a springboard to other European countries or stick to the script in Ireland.
One new train journey can provide exactly that answerespecially if you’re the type who likes to pull back the curtain on the lesser-known destinations instead of the cookie-cutter destinations that almost make you feel like you’ve already been there because they’re so widely publicized.
While there is no doubt about that new route is a huge benefit for commuters; travelers can – and should – also benefit from this.
With little-known castles and pristine beaches, this virtually unknown town, which even AI couldn’t name, is one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets.
But before traveling to Ireland or beyond, remember that it is always wise to check travel warnings and entry requirements.
Dublin to Drogheda: Ireland’s exciting new adventure 🚆
Scheduled for launch on Monday 20 April, Dubliners and tourists alike can now venture into the little-known corners of Ireland, with its wondrous castles and footprint-free coastline.
The town of Droghedahome to around 50,000 people, is a medium-sized city that is much better known to Dubliners as a place where many workers come from, rather than the other way around, attracting hordes of visitors.
Only about an hour away by train, this virtually unheard of getaway is perfect for an easy addition while enjoying a week in Dublin or it can provide a base for a few days all in itself, depending on your travel style.
Drogheda defines ‘hidden gem’, an overused term, but appropriate in this case.
Performed by Irish railwaythis new morning train between Dublin and Drogheda is designed to bring passengers into the capital, but also highlights how easy it is for travelers to flip the script and make Drogheda a must-visit.
All in all, this new option offers travelers a more direct journey between Dublin and Drogheda, with only a handful of stops along the way.
You can make a full day of it and be completely with yourself again chic hotel in Dublin in a pinch if a day trip is more your thing, especially since single tickets only cost about $11.
Castles abound in and around Drogheda 🏰
Drogheda is the type of Irish gem that travelers all too often pass by on the way to a more obvious spot, which is a shame because it’s practically a cheat code for castle lovers.
And who doesn’t love castles and ruins?
One of Europe’s biggest draws is its Old World charm, and let’s just say Drogheda isn’t slacking on that front.
Unlike some destinations that put a castle in a brochure and then don’t settle for it, Drogheda serves up the good stuff right in the middle of the city, with medieval sights such as St. Laurentius Gate in the heart of the city and Mill assembly situated above the River Boyne, giving the place a distinctly time-etched feel, as if you are immersed in a Brothers Grimm scene.
On the Edge, if you want to take your journey to the next level, Slane Castle (next to a whiskey distillery, I might add) is a nearby addition rather than a city attraction, while Trim Castle – Ireland’s largest Anglo-Norman castle – works best as an easy day out, not something to be stumbled upon in between pub hopping.
A gateway to spacious, unspoilt coastlines 🌊
Drogheda is not a seaside resort per se; it is actually on the River Boyne.
But it is precisely that river that flows into the Irish Sea, where there are incredible beaches scattered along the coast that no one ever seems to talk about.
Even Dubliners may not be able to help you with directions.
There is for example Bettystown just south of the river mouth, where the few experts rave about the shallow, swimmable waters and beautiful sunsets.
In addition, it has been awarded a Blue Flag for its impeccable conditions.
North of the river, past beautiful golf courses, lies a wealth of beaches you’ve probably never heard of, such as Termonfeckin Beach.
This ultimate hideaway is as fun to visit as it is to pronounce, but is beloved for its photo-worthy shipwreck, dog-friendly shores and seemingly endless walks in this windswept oasis.
These are just a few to get you started. It’s a rare place in Ireland, especially as it’s so close to Dublin, where you can search a map on the outskirts of Drogheda and know you’re bound to discover a beach that still feels like a real local secret.
Travel Tip: When searching reviews there were several mentions of jellyfish. Don’t say we didn’t warn you! 🪼
Ireland is one of the safest countries in Europe ✅
Not only is Ireland currently designated as Level 1 (the lowest designation) by the US Department of State, you rarely hear a peep of anything bad happening to travelers across the country.
Clearly larger cities are the most likely place to become a victim of crime, but most recent visitors say they felt completely safe in Dublin.
See below for real-time data on both Dublin and Ireland as a whole, with the former achieving a score of 80/100, followed by 84/100 on our safety index.
