The first time I stepped off the bus in Belfast, I was excited—until I realized I had gotten off at the wrong stop and was staring at sprawling fields instead of city streets.
As I wandered, half-lost and half-amused, I couldn’t help but think how easy it is to misstep in a new city without a solid plan. That little adventure taught me the importance of knowing your transport options, especially when you’re eager to explore!
Now that I’ve navigated those initial hiccups, I’m here to share the best public transport options to help you travel around Belfast like a pro—so stick around, and let’s dive into my ultimate guide!
1. Bus
In Belfast, you’ll come across Translink, the lifeblood of public transport in the area. They run everything from buses to Glider services. Now, the Metro and Glider are the stars of this show in Belfast.
The Metro has been around since the late ’80s, and it’s all about those high-frequency routes that’ll zip you across different neighborhoods right into the city’s heart. Seriously, it’s super handy if you’re commuting or just exploring.
The Glider service is a cool twist on traditional buses. Launched in 2018, these buses look like trams and run on dedicated lanes so that you can get around without the usual traffic jam hassle. They also have neat features like USB charging ports and Wi-Fi.
Belfast’s bus network is designed to make things easy for everyone. With the Metro boasting 12 main routes, you won’t have trouble navigating Greater Belfast. The Glider has two key routes (G1 and G2) that take you from east to west.
A single ticket in the inner zone costs just £1.60. Locals and visitors can purchase tickets on the bus or at the vending machines at Glider stops, making life much easier.
Pro tip:
Purchase an off-peak day ticket can save you money if you plan to travel multiple times throughout the day.
2. Train
Translink runs Northern Ireland Railways, which connects Belfast to cities and towns throughout the region. If you’re in Belfast, you’ll want to check out the main train stations: Belfast Grand Central Station and Lanyon Station.
If you’re from Dublin, the Enterprise Train is your ticket between the two cities. It’s a collaborative effort between Translink and Irish Rail, so you know it’s well coordinated.
Interestingly, this rail service has a rich history dating back to the 19th century! It has evolved beautifully over the years and has even earned praise for its focus on passenger comfort and sustainability.
If you’re considering a trip, the user-friendly fare system offers various options like single and return tickets. One cool thing I love is the Sunday Day Tracker—it allows you to travel within Northern Ireland on a Sunday for a flat fee.
You can easily buy tickets at stations or download the Mlink mobile app, which is a lifesaver when you’re on the go.
Pro tip:
Consider purchasing your ticket online to secure the best fares and avoid queues at the station. Additionally, check the schedule beforehand, as some routes may have limited services during off-peak hours or weekends.
3. Bike
Have you heard about Belfast’s bike-sharing scheme? It’s pretty cool. Over thirty docking stations are scattered throughout the city, making it easy to hop on a bike whenever you want.
You can sign up as a casual user or go for an annual membership for just £5. And get this—the first 30 minutes of each trip are completely free! Belfast Bikes, which kicked off in 2015, offers a unique and eco-friendly way to get around.
You can grab a bike, ride wherever you like, and then drop it off at a different station. This option is perfect for locals and visitors who want to zip around without traffic or parking.
These docking stations are strategically placed in great spots, so whether you’re near Queen’s University, the Titanic Quarter, or just wandering through the city, there’s usually a bike nearby waiting for you.
If you decide to ride after the first half-hour, it’s only a pound for each additional half-hour. I especially love how bike routes are linked to the broader transport options in Belfast, like the Metro buses and the Glider.
Day passes are also available, allowing unlimited travel after 9:30 AM for just £3. So, if you’re planning a day out, you can mix and match transport modes without breaking the bank.
Pro tip:
Plan your route using a cycling map or app highlighting bike lanes and quieter streets. This will help avoid busy roads and ensure a safer ride.
4. Taxi
Taxis have been a part of the city’s fabric for ages, evolving from old-school hackney carriages to modern rides loaded with tech that makes getting around much smoother. If you need to roll in style, you can access wheelchair-friendly taxis.
The taxi network is well-established, with dedicated ranks throughout the city and even at the major airports—Belfast International and George Best City Airport. Just a heads up: fares are usually calculated using a taximeter.
A trip from the city center to the airport can cost you between £28 and £30, depending on which company you choose. It’s pretty clear-cut, but checking the estimated fare before you hop in is always a good idea.
And the best part? Taxis are available 24/7, so whether you’re heading out for a late-night adventure or coming in from a flight, they’ve got you covered.
One of the big players in town is Value Cabs. They’re one of the largest taxi services in Belfast, and they handle everything from routine rides to sightseeing tours. They offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and seven-seaters for when you’re traveling with family.
Pro tip:
When you’re at a taxi rank, always go for the vehicle at the top and double-check your destination and estimated fare before getting in. This way, you can avoid any awkward surprises on the way.
5. Car Hire
You’ll find car hire services at key spots like Belfast International Airport and various places in the city center, making it super easy to hop in a car and hit the road. Usually, car rental rates start around £21.00 a day, depending on the type of car/
If you’re considering popping down to the Republic of Ireland while you’re here, it’s worth checking if any extra cross-border charges might catch you by surprise.
Belfast itself has so much character – it’s steeped in history, and remember, this is the city where the Titanic was born! With a car, you can explore the city and its stunning landscapes at your own pace.
Pro tip:
Consider downloading a navigation app to help you navigate the city efficiently, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local roads and traffic patterns.