Belfast City Airport, also known as George Best Airport, is situated just under 9 km from central Belfast. Its central location means that in light traffic, it’s just a 10-minute drive from the city. There are four different modes of transport to choose from when getting from Belfast Airport to the city center: a Belfast City Airport taxi, a private transfer, a train, or a bus.

The fastest and most direct ways to travel are by taking a taxi and private transfer, as either of these options will take you straight to the door of your hotel in around 10 minutes. Taking the train is the cheapest alternative and takes around 25 minutes in total, while the bus is another wallet-friendly choice and reaches the center in approximately 15 minutes.

 

4 options from Belfast City Airport to the city center

PRICE FOR
OPTION
PRICE
TIME
AVAILABILITY
Welcome Pickups Private Transfer
€32 10min 24/7
Convenience
Book
Taxi
€19.30 10min 24/7
Convenience
Book
Train
€5.40 25min 05:30–22:00
Convenience
Read more
Bus
€5.60 15min 05:30–22:00
Convenience
Read more
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How to get a taxi from Belfast City Airport to city center

Taking a Belfast City Airport taxi from Belfast City Airport to the city center is among the most popular and convenient ways to travel. It’s also one of the fastest, as it takes just 10 minutes to reach the center, depending on the traffic conditions. Cabs range from standard sedans to large minivans, and all official taxis have a sign on the roof that displays the word ‘TAXI’ or the company name. Taxis depart from the rank or airport parking lots 24/7.

Cost of a taxi from Belfast City Airport to Belfast city center

Taxis at Belfast City Airport are metered, and therefore, the fares are calculated according to the distance traveled or the time it takes to reach your destination. Prices are higher at night or on weekends, as separate tariffs are applied for different times and days. On average, however, the journey from Belfast City Airport to the city center usually costs around £16 (€19.30).

Where do I get a taxi from?

Value Cabs, which is the official taxi partner of Belfast City Airport, has exclusive use of the sheltered taxi rank directly across the road from the exit of the Arrivals Hall. Other taxi companies also operate from this airport but must depart from one of the car parks instead.

Convenience

If you choose a taxi from Belfast Airport to the city center, you’ll be guaranteed privacy, comfort, and direct service to your destination. No matter how early or late you arrive, you’ll have no problem securing a ride, as taxis run 24/7. As convenient as this option is, keep in mind that there can be extensive lines at the taxi rank during busy periods.

Useful Tips

Double-check that the driver is using the correct tariff for the time of day you're traveling.
Although tipping isn't expected, rounding up the final fare is always a welcome gesture.
A surcharge may be added to your fare, depending on the pickup point you choose.
Most taxi companies accept both cash and card payments.
Wheelchair-accessible taxis are available at Belfast City Airport, but it's advisable to book ahead to avoid a potentially long wait.

How to get from Belfast Airport to city center by train

Traveling from Belfast Airport to the city center by train is a popular choice for budget-conscious visitors. The nearest station is Sydenham Train Station, which is a 15-minute walk from the airport. From here, you can take the Line 1 train to Lanyon Place Station in central Belfast. This part of the journey takes about 10 minutes, meaning the total travel time is around 25 minutes.

How much is the train from Belfast City Airport to Belfast city center?

The train from Belfast Airport to the city center costs £2.20 (€2.70) for a one-way ticket, making it the most inexpensive option. Tickets are available from the train conductor but may also be purchased online using the mLink App.

Cost
£2.20 (€2.70)
Trip Duration
25 Min.
Trains Line 1 runs every 30 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

The train from Belfast Airport to the city center operates from 05:30 to 22:00.

Where do I get the train from?

The train departs from Sydenham Train Station, which is approximately 15 minutes on foot from Belfast City Airport. When you leave the airport, turn right, and you’ll get to Sydenham By-Pass. Continue walking to the right until you spot the footbridge that connects to the station.

Convenience

Although the train itself is quick and runs quite frequently, the 15-minute walk to the station isn’t ideal if you’re carrying a lot of bags or traveling with kids. However, it’s the cheapest mode of transport, making it a practical option if you don’t mind taking a short walk or have light luggage.

Timetables

Translink

Line 1 Schedule

Useful Tips

If you buy your ticket from the conductor, you can do so using cash or a card.
It's worth downloading the mLink App if you plan to use public transport throughout your stay.
Those of you traveling further afield can connect to various other destinations from either Lanyon Place Station or Belfast Grand Central Station.
Because this option involves taking stairs to cross the footbridge, it's not recommended for travelers with reduced mobility.
Train Line 1 continues onto Belfast Grand Central Station, which may be closer to your accommodation than Lanyon Place Station.

How to get from Belfast Airport to the city center by bus

Hoping on the bus from Belfast Airport to the city center is a great option, as it takes just 15 minutes, departs regularly, and stops at various points in the city. The Airport Express 600 is efficient and affordable, making it the most convenient way to reach the center using public transport.

How much is the bus from Belfast Airport to the city center?

The Belfast Airport to city center bus costs just £2.30 (€2.80). Tickets are available directly from the driver or from vending machines located inside the Arrivals Hall and at the bus shelter.

Cost
£2.30 (€2.80)
Trip Duration
15 Min.
The average waiting time for the Airport Express 600 bus is 20 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

The bus runs between 05:30 and 22:00.

Where do I get the bus from?

The bus from Belfast City Airport to the city center departs from the bus stop outside the terminal building. When you exit the Arrivals Hall, look out for the sheltered bus stop and the sign for the Airport Express 600.

Convenience

The bus is generally a fast and convenient way to reach the city center, and it’s also among the most inexpensive. However, it can get crowded during peak hours and may not be a viable option if you arrive late at night.

Timetables

Translink

Airport Express 600 Schedule

Useful Tips

Cash and card payments are accepted whether you buy your tickets from the vending machines or the driver.
If you're paying in cash, try to use small notes where possible.
The Airport Express 600 is wheelchair-accessible and offers plenty of space for passengers with reduced mobility.
Departures are slightly less frequent at weekends.
Check out the different stops in advance to ensure you disembark at the one closest to your hotel.

How to get from Belfast Airport to the city center by private transfer

Booking a private Belfast City Airport transfer from Belfast City Airport to the city is the best way to reach the center. Not only will you enjoy the same direct service and privacy of a taxi, but you’ll also unlock some fantastic extras when you choose Welcome Pickups, including:

  • Personalized meets and greets
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Free flight monitoring
  • Guarantee on-time pickups
  • Fixed, competitive prices

To secure all of these perks and more, simply log on to our website or app and fill in your transfer details on our booking form. In seconds, you’ll receive a fixed quote that includes all fees and charges. From here, you just need to make a secure online payment, and we’ll take care of the rest.

How much is a private transfer from Belfast City Airport to the city center?

By arranging a transfer from Belfast Airport to the city center, you’ll eliminate the need to fret about uncertain prices. Because you can pay online in advance, you won’t have to worry about a thing on the day.

Our prices start from £26.50 (€32) for up to three passengers, increasing to £41.60 (€50) for parties with up to nine people. Up to 12 travelers can secure one of our spacious minibuses for £59.80 (€72).

All of our prices are fixed and aren’t subject to change. They’re free from any hidden extras, meaning you won’t pay anything more than the quoted price.

Cost
£26.50 (€32)
Trip Duration
10 Min.
*Booking your private transfer from BHD Airport in advance is the best way to ensure a seamless experience.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Private transfers are available 24/7 from Belfast City Airport (BHD).

Where do I get a private transfer from?

When you reach the Arrivals Hall at Belfast City Airport, your driver will be waiting for you. They’ll be waiting to greet you, holding a sign with your name on it so you can easily identify them. After you’ve gotten acquainted, they’ll assist you with your bags and show you to your vehicle.

Convenience

Getting from Belfast Airport to the city center by private transfer ensures you enjoy the most convenient and seamless experience. With this option, you’ll travel with an easy mind, knowing you’ve paid a fixed price in advance and won’t have to join the lengthy queues at the taxi rank. Our tailor-made services also include practical extras like free waiting time and flight monitoring, making them a reliable choice for any type of traveler.

Useful Tips

By downloading our app before your flight, you'll have access to our instant messaging function, allowing you to contact your driver quickly.
Private transfers are perfect for big groups, as waiting times for large vehicles can be quite long.
Our app also gives you the option to tip your driver if you wish, though it's not mandatory.
If you require a baby or child seat, be sure to make a request during the booking process.
It's best to schedule your pickup time for around 20 minutes after your expected landing.

Belfast Airport private transfers

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Book Sedan
Sedan

Sedan up to 3 passengers

€43Starting from 14.3 EUR / passenger

Skoda Octavia, Mercedes-Benz S-class, Mercedes-Benz E-class
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Minivan

Minivan up to 8 passengers

€67Starting from 8.4 EUR / passenger

Mercedes-Benz V-class
Book Minibus
Minibus

Minibus up to 8 passengers

€67Starting from 8.4 EUR / passenger

Ford Tourneo Custom

Frequently asked questions

How to get from Belfast City Airport to city center?

When traveling from Belfast Airport to Belfast city center, you can choose between taking a Belfast City Airport taxi, private transfer, the train, or the bus. Taxis and transfers offer door-to-door service and are typically quicker and more comfortable, but catching the train or bus is much more economical.

How much is a taxi from Belfast City Airport to Belfast city center?

How far from Belfast City Airport to city center?

How far from Belfast Airport to city center?

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Transfer Options in Belfast