If you are in good health and want to experience the best of the Irish countryside, consider renting a bicycle for a few days during your next leisure or business trip to Ireland. Bike rental companies across the country give visitors the freedom to explore at their own pace, combining cycling with Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann) for convenient point-to-point travel.
Ardpatrick, Co. Limerick © Tourism Ireland
Local bike hire companies know Ireland’s routes well and can answer practical questions about terrain, bike types and local regulations. Many of these firms also offer a discount—often up to 10 percent—if you plan to take your rented bike on an Irish Rail service, whether you hire for an hour, a day or a week.
For trips beyond Dublin, Irish Rail lists recommended bicycle rental partners around the country and explains how to reserve bike space when purchasing train tickets. If you plan to stay mainly in Dublin, DublinBikes is the simplest option: the city’s bike-share program provides an easy-to-use app and daily or multi-day subscriptions, with docking stations conveniently placed around the city.
© Irish Rail
Some of Ireland’s most enjoyable rides are along its Greenway network, with many off-road cycling trails that follow disused railway lines. The Waterford Greenway, Ireland’s longest, offers a spectacular 28-mile route from Waterford City to Dungarvan, ideal for leisurely cycling and scenic stops along the way.
Another attractive option is the Great Southern Limerick Greenway, an off-road walking and cycling route linking Rathkeale, Newcastlewest and Abbeyfeale in West Limerick. These greenways are well surfaced and family-friendly, making them popular choices for all levels of cyclists.
Cahore Pier, Co. Wexford © Tourism Ireland
Taking bicycles on Irish Rail trains is straightforward as long as you avoid peak commuter times. For example, a typical intercity journey such as Dublin to Galway takes around 2.5 hours and fares vary by ticket type, with concessions for students and seniors. When booking, reserve bicycle space online along with your ticket—bicycle carriage is generally free, but confirmation of space is required.
Whether you choose short urban rides on a city bike-share or longer trips along rural greenways, combining cycling with Ireland’s rail network is a flexible and enjoyable way to see the country. Local rental firms and rail staff can help plan routes, advise on luggage arrangements and suggest scenic stops to get the most from your cycling trip.