Why go
Checking the arrival station prevents a common planning error. Connolly sits near the northeast center and DART; Heuston is farther west near Phoenix Park and Kilmainham. Your onward route should follow the station, not a generic “Dublin center” assumption. It also makes luggage handling considerably easier.
The full story
Dublin’s main intercity terminals divide services by corridor. Heuston handles many trains from the west and south, including routes useful for a Kilkenny trip, while Connolly serves northern and southeastern lines as well as DART. Both have urban transport connections, but neither is equally convenient for every address. From Heuston, Luas or a short taxi often beats walking with luggage. From Connolly, O’Connell Street and the north quays are comparatively close, and DART continues along the coast. Tickets, platforms and engineering changes belong in live operator information, not a fixed guide. Check the final service on a day trip before committing to dinner or evening tickets. At arrival, follow signed exits because station forecourts can place you on a different street than expected.