03/01/2019
Navigating your arrival or departure from Belfast can be a breeze with the right information. Whether you're heading to or from Belfast City Airport (BHD) or Belfast International Airport, understanding your transport options is key to a stress-free experience. This guide will delve into the specifics of travelling between the city centre and its aviation hubs, focusing on practical advice for those without a car, including bus services and approximate journey times.
Belfast City Airport (BHD) Transfers
Belfast City Airport (BHD), often referred to simply as City Airport, is conveniently located a short distance from the city centre. For travellers looking for the most direct and time-efficient routes, understanding the proximity and available transport is crucial.
Distance and Journey Time
The distance between Belfast city centre and Belfast City Airport (BHD) is approximately 3 miles. This relatively short distance translates into a quick journey. By taxi or private car, the trip typically takes around 8 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This makes it an ideal option for those with limited time or who prefer a direct, door-to-door service.
Car-Free Travel to BHD
For those travelling without a car, public transport offers a viable and often economical alternative. One of the most convenient options is the direct bus service. A bus departs from the City Airport and terminates at Oxford Street in the city centre. These services are frequent, running every 30 minutes, and operate daily, ensuring you have a reliable option regardless of the day or time of your travel.
The bus journey itself is remarkably swift, mirroring the taxi travel time at approximately 7 minutes. This efficient service makes the bus a strong contender for car-free travel between the airport and the heart of Belfast.
Proximity to Key City Locations
The convenience of Belfast City Airport extends to its proximity to popular city destinations. For instance, the distance from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to the vibrant Cathedral Quarter is also around 3 miles. This means that upon arrival, accessing one of Belfast's most cultural and social hubs is a straightforward affair, easily achievable by a short taxi ride or a slightly longer bus journey followed by a walk.
Belfast International Airport Transfers
Belfast International Airport (BFS) serves a wider range of airlines and destinations, and while it is located further from the city centre than BHD, there are still efficient transport links available.
Bus Services from BFS
Similar to City Airport, Belfast International Airport offers a direct bus service for travellers. This bus departs directly from the airport and arrives at the Europa Bus Centre in Belfast. The frequency of this service is less than that for BHD, with services departing every two hours. However, it also operates daily, providing a consistent link for passengers.
The journey from Belfast International Airport to the Europa Bus Centre is considerably longer due to the greater distance. This trip typically takes approximately 40 minutes. This makes it a more time-consuming option compared to travelling to BHD, but it remains a practical choice for those seeking a car-free commute.
Connecting to Grand Central Station
For travellers needing to reach Belfast Grand Central Station, understanding the connection from Belfast International Airport is important. While the direct bus goes to Europa Bus Centre, Grand Central Station is a major transport hub within the city. The distance from Belfast International Airport to Belfast Grand Central Station is further than to the city centre, requiring a bus journey of around 40 minutes to Europa Bus Centre, from where you would then need to make your way to Grand Central Station, likely via a short walk or local bus. It's advisable to check the most up-to-date public transport schedules for seamless transfers within the city.
Inter-City Travel: Dublin to Belfast
For those travelling to Belfast from further afield, such as from Dublin, understanding the inter-city transport options is essential. Without a car, the most recommended and efficient method of travel between Dublin and Belfast is by train.
Train Travel from Dublin to Belfast
The train journey from Dublin Connolly to Belfast Grand Central is a popular and convenient way to travel between the two capital cities. The trip takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, including any necessary transfers. Services are frequent, with trains departing hourly, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
The cost for this train journey typically ranges between £17 and £25. This price point offers good value for the speed and comfort provided by the rail service. Catching the Dublin to Belfast train is straightforward from Dublin Connolly Station, a major transport hub in the Irish capital.
Bus Travel from Dublin to Belfast
While the train is highly recommended, bus services also operate between Dublin and Belfast. These can sometimes be a more budget-friendly option, though they may take slightly longer than the train. It's always worth comparing prices and journey times for both train and bus services to find the option that best suits your needs and budget.
Summary of Key Transfer Information
To help you plan your journeys, here's a quick comparison of the transfer options discussed:
| Route | Distance | Approx. Time (Car/Taxi) | Approx. Time (Bus) | Frequency (Bus) | Key Transit Hub |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Belfast City Centre to BHD | 3 miles | 8 min | 7 min | Every 30 min | Oxford Street |
| Belfast City Centre to BFS | (Further than BHD) | (Longer than 8 min) | 40 min | Every 2 hours | Europa Bus Centre |
| Dublin to Belfast | (Inter-city) | N/A | (Varies) | (Varies) | Dublin Connolly to Belfast Grand Central |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long does it take to get from Belfast to Belfast City Airport (BHD) by taxi?
A: The journey typically takes around 8 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic conditions.
Q2: Is there a direct bus from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to the city centre?
A: Yes, there is a direct bus service from City Airport to Oxford Street, running every 30 minutes.
Q3: What is the distance between Belfast and Belfast City Airport (BHD)?
A: The distance is approximately 3 miles.
Q4: How long does the bus take from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Oxford Street?
A: The bus journey takes approximately 7 minutes.
Q5: How do I travel from Belfast International Airport (BFS) without a car?
A: You can take a direct bus from Belfast International Airport to the Europa Bus Centre, which runs every two hours and takes about 40 minutes.
Q6: What is the best way to travel from Dublin to Belfast without a car?
A: The train is the recommended method, taking approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes and costing between £17-£25.
Q7: How often do trains run from Dublin to Belfast?
A: Trains depart hourly from Dublin Connolly to Belfast Grand Central.
Planning your airport transfers in Belfast is straightforward with this information. Whether you opt for the quick and convenient bus to BHD or the train from Dublin, you're well-equipped to make your journey smoothly and efficiently.
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