Why Belfast International Airport Is Northern Ireland’s Largest Airport
Belfast International Airport transfers are an important part of many journeys to and from Northern Ireland. Located near the town of Antrim, approximately 30 kilometres northwest of Belfast, the airport serves as Northern Ireland’s largest airport and handles millions of passengers every year.
While George Best Belfast City Airport is known for its proximity to Belfast, Belfast International Airport offers a wider range of routes and serves as the primary base for many leisure and low-cost airlines. Carriers including easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2.com and others operate flights to destinations across Europe, Great Britain, and beyond.
One of the most important things visitors should understand before arrival is that Belfast International Airport does not have its own railway station. Unlike George Best Belfast City Airport, which benefits from nearby rail connections, passengers arriving at Belfast International must rely on buses, coaches, taxis, private transfers, or hire cars to continue their journey.
Fortunately, excellent coach services connect the airport with Belfast city centre, while direct road links provide easy access to destinations throughout Northern Ireland. Whether you’re heading into Belfast for a city break, travelling onwards to Derry/Londonderry, exploring the Causeway Coast, or connecting to ferry services at Belfast Port, the airport offers straightforward onward transport options.
For many visitors arriving in Northern Ireland, Belfast International Airport serves as the starting point for exploring one of the most scenic and historically fascinating regions of the United Kingdom.
Transfer Options at a Glance
| Destination | Best Option | Typical Journey Time |
|---|---|---|
| Belfast City Centre | Airport Express 300 | 30–45 minutes |
| Belfast Grand Central Station | Airport Express 300 | 30–45 minutes |
| Belfast Lanyon Place Station | Bus + Taxi | 40–55 minutes |
| Belfast Port | Taxi | 35–45 minutes |
| George Best Belfast City Airport | Taxi | 35–45 minutes |
| Derry/Londonderry | Coach | 1.5–2.5 hours |
| Bangor | Bus + Train | 60–90 minutes |
| Newry | Coach or Train Connection | 1–2 hours |
For most visitors heading to Belfast, the Airport Express 300 provides the best combination of convenience and value. Travellers with large amounts of luggage or those heading directly to hotels may prefer taxis or private transfers.
Airport Buses to Belfast
For most passengers, the Airport Express 300 is the easiest and most cost-effective way to complete Belfast International Airport transfers. Operated by Translink, this dedicated airport coach service links the airport directly with central Belfast and operates throughout the day and night.
The buses depart from clearly marked stops immediately outside the terminal building. After leaving arrivals, passengers simply follow the signs towards buses and coaches, where the Airport Express services are easy to locate.
The Airport Express 300 operates up to every 15 to 30 minutes during much of the day and normally runs 24 hours a day, making it suitable even for early-morning departures and late-night arrivals. The service travels directly to Belfast Grand Central Station, which is Northern Ireland’s main rail and coach hub.
The journey usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. During quieter periods, journeys can be quicker, while weekday commuter traffic may occasionally extend travel times.
Tickets can be purchased online before travel, through the Translink mobile app, from ticket machines where available, or directly from the driver. Contactless card payments are widely accepted, making the service convenient for international visitors.
One of the major advantages of the Airport Express is that it eliminates the need to navigate Belfast’s local bus network immediately after arrival. The service is designed specifically for airport passengers, provides dedicated luggage space, and delivers travellers directly to the heart of Belfast.
For most first-time visitors, Airport Express 300 remains the recommended public transport option between Belfast International Airport and the city centre.
Taxis to Belfast
For travellers seeking a direct and hassle-free journey, taxis remain one of the most popular Belfast International Airport transfer options. Official taxi services operate from ranks located immediately outside the terminal building, allowing passengers to continue their journey as soon as they leave arrivals.
Because Belfast International Airport is located approximately 30 kilometres from the city centre, taxi journeys are naturally longer than those from George Best Belfast City Airport. Under normal traffic conditions, most journeys to central Belfast take between 30 and 45 minutes, although travel times can increase during weekday rush hours or periods of motorway congestion.
Taxis are particularly attractive for families, groups, business travellers, and passengers carrying significant luggage. The convenience of travelling directly to a hotel, railway station, ferry terminal, or visitor attraction often outweighs the higher cost compared with public transport.
Popular destinations such as Belfast City Hall, Cathedral Quarter, Titanic Belfast, Victoria Square, Belfast Grand Central Station, and Belfast Port can all be reached directly without the need to change vehicles. This makes taxis especially useful for visitors arriving late at night when public transport options may be less frequent.
For passengers travelling beyond Belfast, taxis can also provide direct transfers to destinations across Northern Ireland. While this can become expensive over longer distances, some visitors find the convenience worthwhile, particularly when travelling in groups.
For those prioritising speed, simplicity, and door-to-door convenience, taxis remain one of the easiest ways to complete a Belfast International Airport transfer.
Car Hire at Belfast International Airport
With its location close to Northern Ireland’s motorway network, Belfast International Airport is an excellent place to collect a hire car and begin exploring the island of Ireland. Whether you’re heading to the vibrant streets of Belfast, following the famous Causeway Coastal Route, visiting the Giant’s Causeway, touring the Glens of Antrim, or crossing into the Republic of Ireland, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to travel well beyond the routes served by public transport.
Belfast International Airport is home to a wide range of international and local car hire companies, with rental desks situated in the Arrivals area of the terminal. Vehicle collection is located nearby, making the process straightforward once you’ve completed the necessary paperwork. During the busy summer season and school holidays, demand for rental cars can be high, so booking ahead is recommended to secure the best prices and ensure your preferred vehicle is available.
Before confirming your reservation, it’s worth comparing offers from several suppliers rather than choosing the first option available. Rental prices, insurance packages, fuel policies and mileage limits can differ considerably, and optional extras can make a noticeable difference to the final cost. Comparing providers before you arrive is one of the easiest ways to save money while finding a vehicle that suits your trip.
A hire car is particularly worthwhile if you’re planning to tour Northern Ireland’s coast, visit attractions spread across the countryside, or continue your journey into counties such as Donegal, Monaghan or Cavan. If your visit is limited to Belfast city centre, however, the airport’s express bus services provide a simple and affordable alternative. For anyone planning a wider tour of Northern Ireland or the island as a whole, hiring a car from Belfast International Airport offers the flexibility to discover far more than the capital alone.
Check Car Rental Prices in Belfast
For travellers planning to drive around Belfast, comparing rental prices in advance can help you find a vehicle that matches both your itinerary and budget.
Checking Discover Cars alongside EconomyBookings gives you two comparison sources rather than relying on a single set of results.
Private Transfers from Belfast International Airport
Travellers looking for the most seamless arrival experience may wish to book a private transfer from Belfast International Airport. These services are arranged in advance and typically include a professional driver waiting in the arrivals hall ready to assist with luggage and escort passengers directly to their vehicle.
Private transfers are particularly popular with business travellers, families with young children, cruise passengers connecting to Belfast Port, and visitors planning to explore Northern Ireland immediately after landing. Because everything is organised before arrival, passengers can avoid queues, ticket purchases, and uncertainty about onward transport.
Most providers monitor incoming flight information and automatically adjust collection times if flights are delayed. This provides additional peace of mind, especially during winter weather disruptions or busy holiday travel periods.
Private transfers can be booked to destinations throughout Belfast, including hotels, conference venues, railway stations, ferry terminals, and major attractions. Many operators also offer direct transfers to locations such as Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills, Portrush, Derry/Londonderry, Newry, and even Dublin.
Larger vehicles are often available for families, groups, and passengers travelling with substantial luggage. Some providers also offer executive vehicles for business travellers seeking a premium arrival experience.
Although private transfers generally cost more than buses or standard taxis, they offer the highest level of convenience and are often excellent value for groups travelling together.
Travel from Belfast Airport with Welcome Pickups
Welcome Pickups provides pre-booked private transfers for travellers arriving in Belfast, allowing you to organise the airport-to-accommodation journey in advance.
Rather than arranging transport after landing, you can meet your driver and continue directly to your destination.
Compare your Belfast airport transfer choices. You can also check another transfer provider before booking.
Reaching Belfast’s Railway Stations
Because Belfast International Airport does not have its own railway station, passengers travelling onwards by train must first travel into Belfast before connecting with Northern Ireland’s rail network.
For most visitors, the primary destination is Belfast Grand Central Station, Northern Ireland’s largest transport hub. Conveniently, the Airport Express 300 terminates directly at Grand Central, making it the easiest station to reach from the airport. Journey times are normally between 30 and 45 minutes, and no additional transfers are required.
Grand Central Station serves rail routes throughout Northern Ireland, including services towards Derry/Londonderry, Portadown, Newry, Bangor, and many other destinations. It also acts as the main coach hub for long-distance services across both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Passengers travelling to Dublin should normally continue to Lanyon Place Station, which serves the popular Enterprise service linking Belfast and Dublin Connolly. The easiest option is usually to travel first to Grand Central and then continue by taxi, local bus, or local rail service. Depending on connections, total journey times from the airport to Lanyon Place are usually between 40 and 55 minutes.
Travellers connecting to long-distance trains should allow additional time when planning their journey. Unlike airports with integrated railway stations, Belfast International requires a road transfer before reaching the rail network. Allowing at least 90 minutes between a scheduled flight arrival and an important rail departure is generally advisable.
Despite the additional transfer, Northern Ireland’s rail network remains one of the most comfortable and scenic ways to explore the region, offering easy access to many of the country’s most popular destinations.
Getting to Belfast Port
Passengers connecting between Belfast International Airport and Belfast Port have several options available, although most travellers will find a taxi to be the simplest solution.
The port is located on the eastern side of Belfast, approximately 35 kilometres from the airport. Under normal traffic conditions, journeys usually take between 35 and 45 minutes, making Belfast Port easily accessible for passengers connecting with ferry services to Scotland and England.
A taxi provides the most direct transfer and is particularly useful for travellers carrying luggage or working to a ferry departure schedule. Official taxi services are available directly outside the terminal building and can take passengers straight to the appropriate ferry terminal.
Passengers travelling with Stena Line services to Cairnryan or Liverpool Birkenhead should allow extra time for ferry check-in procedures. Foot passengers and motorists are often required to arrive before departure, especially during busy holiday periods.
Public transport is possible but generally involves travelling first to Belfast Grand Central Station on the Airport Express 300 before connecting to local transport serving the port area. While this can reduce costs, it significantly increases total journey times and may be less practical for travellers carrying luggage.
For most ferry passengers, particularly those travelling as families or groups, a direct taxi remains the quickest and most convenient transfer option. If you’re travelling by sea, our dedicated Belfast Port Transfers Guide provides detailed information about ferry terminals, transport options, and onward connections.
Car Hire at George Best Belfast City Airport
If you’re planning to explore more than just Belfast, hiring a car at George Best Belfast City Airport is a great way to see the rest of Northern Ireland. The airport is ideally located just a few minutes from the city centre, while attractions such as the Causeway Coastal Route, Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the Mourne Mountains, and Fermanagh Lakelands are all within comfortable driving distance. Having your own vehicle also makes it easy to cross the border and continue into the Republic of Ireland if your itinerary includes Donegal, Dublin or the Wild Atlantic Way.
Several well-known car hire companies operate from George Best Belfast City Airport, with rental desks conveniently located in the Arrivals Hall. Once you’ve completed the paperwork, the collection area is just a short walk from the terminal, allowing you to get on the road quickly. As the airport is popular with both business and leisure travellers, it’s worth reserving your vehicle before you travel, particularly during the summer months and major events.
It’s always a good idea to compare several rental providers before booking. Prices, insurance cover, mileage allowances and fuel policies can vary significantly between companies, while optional extras such as additional drivers or child seats can quickly increase the total cost. Spending a few minutes comparing offers can often result in better value and a wider choice of vehicles.
If you’re planning a city break in Belfast, you may find that public transport, taxis and walking are all you need. However, if you want to experience the spectacular scenery of Northern Ireland, visit historic castles, explore the dramatic Antrim coastline or enjoy the flexibility of travelling wherever and whenever you choose, hiring a car from George Best Belfast City Airport is an excellent option.
Check Car Rental Prices in Belfast
For travellers planning to drive around Belfast, comparing rental prices in advance can help you find a vehicle that matches both your itinerary and budget.
Checking Discover Cars alongside EconomyBookings gives you two comparison sources rather than relying on a single set of results.
Onward Journeys Across Northern Ireland
One of the biggest advantages of arriving through Belfast International Airport is the ease with which visitors can continue their journey across Northern Ireland. Thanks to the airport’s position close to the region’s motorway network, many of the country’s most popular destinations can be reached without needing to spend time in Belfast first.
Visitors travelling to Derry/Londonderry can use direct coach services or travel via Belfast Grand Central Station before connecting to rail services. Journey times generally range between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, depending on the route selected. As Northern Ireland’s second-largest city, Derry offers historic city walls, museums, and access to some of the most dramatic scenery in the northwest.
Many tourists continue directly towards the spectacular Causeway Coast, home to attractions including Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Bushmills, Portrush, and Portstewart. By car, many of these destinations can be reached within 60 to 90 minutes of the airport. Public transport journeys generally take longer but remain practical via Belfast or Coleraine.
Travellers heading towards Bangor can reach the town via Belfast’s rail network. Located on the shores of Belfast Lough, Bangor is known for its marina, coastal walks, and attractive seafront. Total journey times from the airport generally range between 60 and 90 minutes depending on connections.
Visitors travelling south towards Newry benefit from excellent road and rail links. The city acts as a gateway to the Mourne Mountains, one of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful natural areas. Depending on traffic conditions, journeys typically take around 1 to 1.5 hours.
Whether you’re exploring the Causeway Coast, visiting Derry/Londonderry, relaxing in Bangor, or hiking in the Mourne Mountains, Belfast International Airport provides one of the best starting points for discovering Northern Ireland.
Rupert’s Handy Travel Tips
Flying into Belfast International Airport? Here are a few useful tips to make your arrival smoother:
- Use the Airport Express 300: For most visitors heading into Belfast, this is the simplest and most cost-effective transfer option.
- Allow extra time for train connections: Belfast International Airport does not have a railway station, so you’ll need to transfer into Belfast before continuing by rail.
- Heading to the Causeway Coast? Consider collecting a hire car directly at the airport, as many coastal attractions are easier to explore independently.
- Know your airport: Belfast has two airports. Belfast International Airport is the larger airport, while George Best Belfast City Airport is much closer to the city centre.
Want to meet the reindeer behind our travel tips? Find out more in our page Who is Rupert?.
Frequently Asked Questions About Belfast International Airport Transfers
How far is Belfast International Airport from Belfast city centre?
Belfast International Airport is located approximately 30 kilometres northwest of Belfast city centre. Most journeys take between 30 and 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions and the transport option selected.
Does Belfast International Airport have a train station?
No. Unlike George Best Belfast City Airport, Belfast International Airport does not have a railway station. Passengers must first travel into Belfast by bus, taxi, or private transfer before connecting with rail services.
What is the best way to get from Belfast International Airport to Belfast?
For most visitors, the Airport Express 300 provides the best combination of cost, frequency, and convenience. The service operates directly between the airport and Belfast Grand Central Station.
Where does the Airport Express 300 stop?
The service terminates at Belfast Grand Central Station, Northern Ireland’s main rail and coach hub, providing easy onward connections throughout the region.
Can I get from Belfast International Airport to Belfast Port directly?
Yes. A taxi is normally the easiest option and typically takes between 35 and 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
How do I reach Belfast City Airport from Belfast International Airport?
The quickest option is normally a taxi. Typical journey times range from 35 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.
How do I get from Belfast International Airport to Dublin?
Most travellers use the Airport Express 300 to reach Belfast before connecting to the Enterprise train from Lanyon Place Station or using direct coach services to Dublin.
Can I reach Giant’s Causeway directly from the airport?
Yes. Visitors travelling by car can usually reach the Giant’s Causeway in around 60 to 90 minutes. Public transport options are also available via Belfast and Coleraine.
Which airport is better for Belfast city breaks?
For visitors staying in Belfast itself, George Best Belfast City Airport is generally more convenient due to its proximity to the city centre. However, Belfast International Airport offers a larger range of routes and destinations.
Can I explore Northern Ireland without hiring a car?
Yes. Northern Ireland’s rail and coach network provides access to destinations including Derry/Londonderry, Bangor, Newry, and parts of the Causeway Coast, although some rural attractions are easier to reach by car.
Further Reading & Related Guides
Flying into Belfast International Airport? Our George Best Belfast City Airport Transfers Guide is useful if you are comparing Belfast’s two airports, while our Belfast Port Transfers Guide and Belfast Ferry Terminal Guide help travellers connecting between flights, ferries and the city centre.
For wider travel across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, our Ireland Rail Network Guide explains the main routes linking Belfast with Dublin and other major destinations. If you are using a rail pass, our Interrail Ireland Guide is worth reading before you book onward journeys.
If Belfast is more than just your arrival point, our Best Things to Do in Belfast Guide will help you plan the city properly, including waterfront sights, museums, historic areas and day trips. For flight planning, our Aer Lingus Guide may also help, while our eSIM Apps Guide covers mobile data for navigation, tickets and transport apps.
