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We all know Europe has the upper hand when it comes to exploring any given destination by rail.

But if there’s one country that’s more known for snagging a barstool in a dim-lit bar over a window seat, it’s gotta be Ireland.

That’s not to say there aren’t amazing destinations outside of Dublin. In fact, many travelers rave about Cork, Galway, and the Cliffs of Moher more than the sprawling (and very pricey) capital.

That said, Dublin is arguably the most appealing gateway into Europe geographically, but the question is do you use it as a springboard to other European countries or stick to the script in Ireland.

One new train journey may answer just that, especially if you’re the type who loves to peel back the curtain on the lesser-known instead of cookie-cutter destinations that almost feel as if you’ve already been there, being so widely publicized.

While there’s no doubt this new route is a huge benefit to commuters, travelers can — and should — take advantage too.

Boasting unknown castles and unspoiled beaches, this practically unknown city that even AI couldn’t name-drop is one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets.

But before you travel to Ireland or beyond, remember, it’s always wise to check Travel Alerts and Entry Requirements.

Dublin To Drogheda: Ireland’s Exciting New Adventure 🚆

Set to launch Monday April 20, Dubliners and tourists alike can now venture into Ireland’s little-known corners of wondrous castles and footprint-free coastline.

The city of Drogheda, home to roughly 50,000 people, is a midsize city far more known by Dubliners as a place many workers come from, not vice versa, where hordes of visitors flock to.

Located just an hour or so away by train, this virtually unheard-of getaway is perfect for an easy add-on while enjoying a week in Dublin or can make a base for a few days all on its own, depending on your travel style.

Drogheda defines “hidden gem”, an overused term, but apropos in this case.

Operated by Irish Rail, this new morning train between Dublin and Drogheda was designed to bring passengers into the capital, but it also highlights just how easy it is for travelers to flip the script and make Drogheda a must-visit.

All in all, this new option gives travelers a more direct ride between Dublin and Drogheda with only a handful of stops along the way.

You can make a full day out of it and be back to your ritzy Dublin hotel in a jiffy if a day trip is more your jam, especially since one-way tickets are only about $11.

Castles Galore In And Around Drogheda 🏰

Drogheda is the type of Irish gem travelers too often breeze past on the way to somewhere more obvious, 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 in that department.

Unlike some destinations that slap a castle on a brochure and call it a day, Drogheda serves up the good stuff right in town, with medieval landmarks like St. Laurence’s Gate in the heart of the city and Millmount perched above the River Boyne, giving the place an unmistakably etched-in-time feel as if you’ve been immersed in a Brothers Grimm scene.

On the outskirts, if you want to level up your trip, Slane Castle (next to a whiskey distillery, I might add) is a nearby add-on rather than an in-town attraction, while Trim Castle — Ireland’s largest Anglo-Norman castle — works best as an easy day trip, not something you’ll stumble upon in between pub-hopping.

A Gateway To Spacious, Untouched Shores 🌊

Drogheda is not a beach town per se — it’s actually straddling the River Boyne.

But that very river flows into the Irish Sea, where you’ll find incredible beaches scattered along the coast that nobody ever seems to talk about.

Even Dubliners might not be able to help with directions.

For example, there’s Bettystown just south of the river mouth, where the few in the know rave about its shallow, swimmable waters and gleaming sunsets.

Plus, it’s earned a Blue Flag for its pristine conditions.

North of the river, beyond gorgeous golf courses, lies a treasure trove of more beaches you’ve surely never heard of, such as Termonfeckin Beach.

Equally fun to visit as it is to pronounce, this ultimate hideaway is beloved for its photo-worthy shipwreck, dog-friendly shores, and seemingly endless strolls in this windswept oasis.

These are just a couple to get you started. It’s a rare spot in Ireland, especially being so close to Dublin, where you can scour a map on the edges of Drogheda and know you’re bound to uncover a beach that still feels like a true local secret.

Travel tip: Scouring reviews, there were multiple mentions of jellyfish. Don’t say we didn’t warn ya! 🪼

Ireland Is One Of Europe’s Safest Countries ✅

Not only is Ireland currently designated as Level 1 (the lowest designation) by the U.S. State Department, you rarely hear a peep of anything bad happening to travelers across the entire country.

Obviously, larger cities tend to be the most likely spot to find yourself victim of a crime, but most recent visitors are saying they felt completely safe in Dublin.

See below for real-time data showing both Dublin and Ireland as a whole, with the former scoring 80/100 followed by 84/100 on our safety index.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Senior Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 44 countries and written over 1500 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.