If you are planning a trip to Dublin and are also curious about visiting Belfast, you are in for a real treat. I have done this journey myself, and it never disappoints because each city has its own character, and the road between them shows you some beautiful parts of Ireland you might not expect. What makes it even better is how simple it is to travel, with different options that suit all kinds of travellers.
Some people enjoy the comfort of the Dublin to Belfast train, while others like turning it into a relaxed day trip from Dublin to Belfast by car or bus. I have tried the different ways, figured out what actually works, and I am here to make sure you can do it without stress.
Keep reading and trust me on this one. By the time you finish, you will know exactly how to make the trip fit your style!
How Far is Dublin to Belfast, and How Long
Before you decide on the best way to travel, it helps to start with the basics.
The distance between Dublin and Belfast by road is about 168 kilometres, while the train route stretches a little further. In most cases, the travel time from Dublin to Belfast falls between two and two and a half hours.
That means you can plan a quick Dublin to Belfast day trip if your schedule is tight, or take things slower with an overnight stay to enjoy both cities at a relaxed pace.
Train Travel Dublin to Belfast by Rail
Taking the train is one of the easiest and most comfortable ways to move between the two cities. The service is known as the Enterprise line and is operated by both Irish Rail and Northern Ireland Railways.
Trains leave from Dublin Connolly Station and bring you directly into Belfast Grand Central, which many locals still call Lanyon Place. The Enterprise train from Dublin to Belfast usually takes just over two hours, making it a fast and reliable option.
Trains run almost every hour on weekdays and Saturdays. Sundays have a lighter timetable but still give you plenty of choices. The prices depend on how early you book. If you plan ahead, you can sometimes find Dublin to Belfast train tickets starting around €12–€20. Though last-minute fares are usually higher.
Onboard, the experience is pleasant. You get comfortable seating, free WiFi, and power outlets at most seats. Some services even include a café car, while Enterprise Plus seating gives you extra space if you like a little more comfort. Many travellers enjoy the fact that you can sit back, watch the Irish countryside glide past, and forget about road traffic altogether.
The only drawback is that trains can be more expensive than buses, especially if you do not book early, and peak times sometimes mean crowded coaches. Even so, for a smooth ride with scenic views, the train remains one of the top choices.
Bus and Coach Travel Aircoach 705X and Others
If you want something affordable without giving up comfort, the bus is a smart choice. The well-known Aircoach Dublin to Belfast service, especially the 705X line, links Dublin City Centre and Dublin Airport directly with Belfast. This is a big plus if you are arriving by plane or leaving straight after your trip.
The journey by coach usually lasts around two hours and twenty minutes, although heavy traffic can add a little extra time. With about thirty-four daily departures, you will almost always find a schedule that matches your plans. Buses run early in the morning, throughout the day, in the evening, and even at night, so flexibility is never an issue.
Prices are one of the main reasons many travellers choose this option. By booking online in advance, you can often grab a cheap bus Dublin to Belfast ticket for as little as eleven to thirteen pounds, which is roughly twelve to thirteen euros. Onboard, you get reclining seats, WiFi, toilets, and secure luggage storage. Since the service is direct, there is no need to worry about transfers or complicated connections.
The bus stands out for its affordability and frequency. You know you will have a comfortable seat and your bags will be safely stored. The only downside is traffic, especially when leaving Dublin or approaching Belfast during rush hours. Still, if you want a reliable seat at a budget-friendly price, the Dublin to Belfast bus makes a lot of sense.
Driving Yourself from Dublin to Belfast by Car
If independence and freedom are what you value most, driving from Dublin to Belfast can be a rewarding experience. The motorway connects the two cities directly, and in normal conditions, the trip takes between one hour and forty-five minutes and two hours. When the road is clear, it can be even faster, though traffic and weather can quickly add extra time.
The cost of driving depends on fuel, tolls, parking, and car rental fees if you are hiring a vehicle. What makes driving appealing is the freedom to stop whenever you like, explore small towns, or take in scenic countryside views. On the flip side, some rural roads are narrow, and if you are not used to driving in Ireland, it may take a little time to adjust.
Although there are no border checks between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, it is always a good idea to carry valid identification. Many travellers see the drive as part of the adventure, but it does come with more responsibility and higher costs compared to the train or the bus.
Choosing Between Train, Bus and Car for Dublin to Belfast
Each of the main Dublin to Belfast transport options has its own characteristics, and the best choice really depends on the kind of trip you want.
The train is quick and comfortable, perfect if you like to sit back and enjoy the scenery while someone else does the work. The bus is usually the cheapest option and comes with frequent departures, so it is great if you are keeping an eye on your budget. Driving gives you the freedom to stop along the way and explore, but it can be more tiring and usually ends up costing more once you factor in fuel, tolls, and parking.
The easiest way to decide is to think about your priorities. If time matters most, the train is hard to beat. If saving money is important, the bus makes sense. If you want flexibility and the chance to go off the main route, then driving is the way to go.
Airport Transfers
Many visitors first land in Dublin before heading north, and the connection is simple. The Dublin Airport to Belfast bus, operated by Aircoach 705X, takes you directly from the airport to the city. Coaches stop right outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which makes it easy to continue your journey without extra steps.
If you are flying through Belfast International Airport, Aircoach also runs a direct service. Coaches pick up and drop off at the coach park outside the terminal, so you can head straight to your flight with no hassle.
Belfast Day Trips Starting in Dublin
A Dublin to Belfast day trip is definitely possible if your schedule is tight. Leaving early in the morning by train or bus gives you several hours to explore the city. You could visit museums, take a Black Cab tour, or simply wander through the streets before heading back in the evening. This usually gives you anywhere from eight to eleven hours in Belfast, which is enough to get a real feel for the city.
If you want to see even more, there are plenty of guided tours from Dublin to Belfast that also include the Antrim Coast. These tours often run twelve to fourteen hours and cover highlights like the Giant’s Causeway, the Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, and Bushmills Distillery. With transport and guides included, they offer excellent value even if it makes for a long day.
Of course, staying overnight gives you more time and less rushing, but even a single day can leave you with lasting memories of Belfast and its surroundings.
Final Tips for a Smooth Journey
Before you head out on your Dublin to Belfast journey, a few simple tips can make the trip much smoother. Booking your tickets ahead of time not only saves money but also ensures you get a good seat without any stress. It’s a good idea to peek at the timetable, especially on Sundays or public holidays, because services can be a bit quieter.
Make sure you have your identification with you since you are crossing into a different jurisdiction. Packing light makes everything easier, and leaving a little extra time for Dublin city traffic or airport connections can save you a lot of last-minute worry. Following these easy steps lets you relax and actually enjoy the journey instead of rushing through it.
Final Thoughts on Dublin to Belfast Trip
Travelling between Dublin and Belfast is surprisingly easy, and there are options to suit every kind of traveller. The train offers comfort and speed, the bus combines affordability with frequent departures, and driving gives you the freedom to explore along the way. Airport connections are well-covered, and even a Dublin to Belfast day trip is completely doable if you plan ahead.
Both cities are full of history and culture, and the journey itself is short but packed with scenic moments. With these Dublin to Belfast travel tips in mind, you can focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about logistics.
It doesn’t matter if you choose the train, bus or car from Dublin to Belfast, the experience is always rewarding and memorable. Heading to London next? Don’t miss our blog on Dublin to London before you go!
In addition, you can also find detailed blogs about different attractions in Dublin and nearby areas on our Facebook and Instagram.