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Dublin to Athlone from $13: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Dublin, Ireland
to
Athlone, Ireland

How to Get from Dublin to Athlone: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$13 by trainBest price
112.65 kmDistance
1h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Dublin to Athlone with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Irish Rail
Train
Average Duration
1h  20m
Estimated price
$13-19
Recommended
Company
Irish Rail
Train
Average Duration
1h  20m
Estimated price
$13-19
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 112.65 km
Duration: 1h 17m

See more options

Company
Bus Éireann
Bus
Average Duration
1h  6m
Estimated price
$10-14
Company
Bus Éireann
Bus
Average Duration
1h  45m
Estimated price
$11-16
Company
Aircoach
Bus
Average Duration
1h  26m
Estimated price
$13-21
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  17m
Estimated price
$24-35
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Traveling From Dublin to Athlone

The journey from Dublin to Athlone presents you with a transition from the vibrant urban life of Ireland’s capital to the charming, laid-back atmosphere of a historic town nestled by the River Shannon.

Best Neighbourhoods in Athlone

Athlone boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own character and charm.

Town Centre
• Bustling shops and cafes at your doorstep.
• Close proximity to historical landmarks.
Ballymahon Road
• Scenic riverside views for leisurely strolls.
• Family-friendly vibe with parks nearby.
Coosan
• Peaceful residential area with natural beauty.
• Perfect for those seeking tranquility.

Best Times To Visit Athlone's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Athlone by visiting attractions at optimal times.

Athlone Castle
Early mornings on weekdays provide a quieter atmosphere for exploration.
Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
Visit during late afternoons for fewer tourists and stunning sunset views.
Lough Ree
Weekdays in spring offer serene boating experiences and fewer visitors.

Athlone Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Athlone experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers, making it a pleasant destination throughout the year. While summer brings the warmest weather ideal for outdoor activities, spring and autumn offer a quieter charm, so dressing in layers can help you enjoy the varied conditions.

Dining in Athlone: A Unique Culinary Experience

When in Athlone, try the traditional Irish boxty at The Fatted Calf, where you can savor local ingredients in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. This dish contrasts with Dublin’s more cosmopolitan offerings, providing a genuine taste of home-cooked flavors that reflect the heart of rural Irish cuisine.

Dublin - Athlone operators

Explore transport companies operating between Dublin and Athlone, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+353 1 836 6222
Website
https://www.irishrail.ie/

Train from Dublin Heuston to Athlone

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$13-19
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+353 0 1 844 7118
Website
https://www.aircoach.ie/

Bus from Aston Quay to Arcadia SC

Average Duration
1h 26m
Estimated price
$14-20
Contact phone
+353 91 564 164
Website
https://www.citylink.ie/

Bus from Crampton Quay to Arcadia SC

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$13-21
Contact phone
+353 1 836 6111
Website
https://www.buseireann.ie/

Bus from Wellington Quay to Castle Street

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$11-16

Bus from Castle Street to Athlone Station

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$10-14
Contact phone
+353 87 330 6563
Website
https://m4direct.ie/

Bus from Wellington Quay to Castle Street

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
044 9340801
Website
http://locallinklwr.ie/

Bus from Austin Friar Street to Athlone Station

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
0-0

Dublin to Athlone: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Dublin and Athlone offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Dublin to Athlone, covering a driving distance of 123.9 km. 💰 Explore budget-friendly options with prices to travel from Dublin to Athlone by car ranging from €22 to €32. ⏱️ Enjoy a smooth and convenient drive, reaching Athlone in approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes.
Average price
€22 - €32
🚆 Experience a smooth journey from Dublin Heuston to Athlone station by train. Services are available hourly, and the trip lasts approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. 🌄 Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic route as you travel the 129 km distance between Dublin and Athlone in Co. Westmeath. Irish Rail operates the train services, ensuring a comfortable and efficient ride.
Departure Point
Dublin Heuston station
Arrival Point
Athlone station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Dublin to Athlone, you will be traveling with Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann), which offers catering services including a café car featuring fresh snacks, sandwiches, and hot drinks. Make sure to grab a coffee or snack before reaching your destination to enhance your travel experience.
• The train offers various seating options, but typically you'll find Standard Class (Economy) and First Class on the Dublin to Athlone route. First Class seats provide extra legroom and complimentary refreshments, making it a more comfortable option if you're looking to enjoy an upgraded experience during your journey.
• The primary operator for your journey is Irish Rail. You can check schedules and book tickets on their website: Irish Rail. Other operators, like Bus Éireann, provide connections from Athlone but are not direct train services. Also, visit Transport for Ireland for additional transport schedules and options.
🚌 The journey from Dublin to Athlone by bus takes approximately 1 hour and 26 minutes. Services operate daily with departures every 30 minutes from Aston Quay to Arcadia SC, operated by Aircoach. 🗺️ The distance of the route is approximately 127 kilometers, and the prices vary from €12 to €19 for a ticket from Dublin to Athlone. Aircoach is the agency responsible for the bus services between the two destinations, offering a convenient and efficient travel option. 🕒 Whether you choose Route 1, Route 2, Route 3, Route 4, Route 5, or Route 6, you can expect a comfortable journey with a duration ranging from 1 hour 41 minutes to 3 hours 20 minutes.
Departure Point
Aston Quay station
Arrival Point
Arcadia SC station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your ticket in advance using the Aircoach website to secure a lower price, as tickets range from €12 to €19, and discounts may apply for online purchases: aircoach.ie
• When arriving at Arcadia Shopping Centre in Athlone, be sure to familiarize yourself with the area by checking out their map online, as the bus stop is well-connected to various local amenities including shops and restaurants: arcadiashoppingcentre.ie
• The bus from Aston Quay typically runs every 30 minutes, so if you miss your intended departure, don’t worry too much; you can catch the next one without having to wait long - just check the schedule at aircoach.ie for real-time updates.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Dublin to Athlone.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Dublin and Athlone in Ireland is 112.7 km by road, while the road distance is 124.7 km. If you prefer to take the train, it takes approximately 1 hour and 19 minutes to reach Athlone from Dublin. By car, the journey from Dublin to Athlone takes around 1 hour and 17 minutes, whereas the bus journey takes slightly longer, about 1 hour and 26 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Dublin to Athlone is by train. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 19 minutes and costs between €12-€17. This is a convenient choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and hassle-free journey. Alternatively, if time is a priority, driving from Dublin to Athlone is the quickest option, taking just 1 hour and 17 minutes.
The prices for traveling from Dublin to Athlone by train range from €12 to €17. On the other hand, the prices for traveling from Athlone to Dublin by bus range from €12 to €19.
To travel from Dublin to Athlone without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 123.9 km, which takes around 1 hour and 17 minutes. The cost of traveling by car varies between €22 and €32, depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll fees.
To travel from Dublin to Athlone without a car, the best option is to take a train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 19 minutes, and the ticket prices range from €12 to €17.
Yes, there is a direct link between Dublin and Athlone. Irish Rail operates a direct train service that departs from Dublin Heuston and arrives at Athlone, with trains departing hourly and taking approximately 1 hour and 19 minutes. Additionally, there is a direct bus service operated by Aircoach that departs from Aston Quay in Dublin and arrives at Arcadia SC in Athlone, with buses departing hourly and taking around 1 hour and 26 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Athlone. With 41+ hotels to choose from, there is something to fit every budget and preference. Prices for these hotels start at €47 per night.