Getting to Belfast  

Getting to Belfast couldn’t be easier. With two airports, great road and rail links, and daily ferry services, the city is well connected from across the UK, Ireland and beyond. Whether you’re planning a weekend city break, a cultural getaway or a longer stay to explore Northern Ireland, getting here is simple and straightforward.  

By Air  

Belfast has two airports offering regular services from major UK and European cities.  

Belfast City Airport (BHD) is just 10 minutes from the city centre, with frequent flights from London, Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh and other major UK hubs. Translink’s Airport Express 600 service runs between the airport and the city centre throughout the day, and taxis are readily available outside the terminal.  

Belfast International Airport (BFS) is around 30 minutes from the city. It serves a wide range of routes across the UK, Europe and beyond, including popular low-cost carriers. The Airport Express 300 bus connects directly with Belfast city centre, and car hire is available on site.  

By Ferry  

Daily ferry routes connect Belfast Harbour and nearby Port of Larne with Scotland and northern England, making it easy to travel by car or on foot.  

Stena Line operates services between Belfast and Cairnryan, with onboard facilities and crossings of around two hours.  

P&O Ferries sail between Larne and Cairnryan several times daily.  

Both ports are within easy reach of the city by car, coach or train.  

By Rail  

Travelling to Belfast by train is scenic, comfortable and convenient.  

NI Railways operate regular services linking Belfast with Derry~Londonderry, Bangor, Lisburn, Newry, and other towns across Northern Ireland.  

The Enterprise Service connects Belfast Grand Central Station with Dublin Connolly in just over two hours, offering an easy and relaxing cross-border journey.  

Main stations include Belfast Grand Central Station and Lanyon Place (East Belfast), both centrally located and close to major hotels and attractions.  

By Bus / Coach  

Translink’s Goldline coach network offers express services between Belfast and other major towns and cities, including Derry~Londonderry, Coleraine, Enniskillen and Newry.  

From Dublin, both Translink and Bus Éireann operate frequent services to Belfast city centre, with a journey time of around two hours. Long-distance operators such as Aircoach and Expressway also serve the city.  

By Car  

Belfast is well connected by motorway and main road routes:  

• From Dublin – approx. 2 hours via the M1/A1.  
• From Derry~Londonderry – approx. 1 hour 30 mins via the A6.  
•  From Enniskillen – approx. 2 hours via the A4/M1.  

There are several multi-storey car parks in the city centre, along with on-street parking and electric vehicle charging points.  

Getting Around  

Belfast is compact and easy to explore on foot. The city also has an excellent public transport system, including Metro bus services, Glider, Belfast Bike Hire, taxis, and guided tours.  

You’ll find plenty of ways to discover the city from the historic Cathedral Quarter to the vibrant Titanic Quarter at your own pace.  

Plan Your Trip  

Now that you know how to get here, it’s time to plan your stay. Discover top attractions, unique experiences, and where to eat, drink and stay in Belfast.

Discover the best ways to get to Belfast by exploring the travel options available in our planner map below.