Quick answer
Belfast International Airport (BFS, also known as Aldergrove) is 20km northwest of Belfast city center, and the trip takes about 30 minutes. The Airport Express 300 bus costs £8 and takes 30-40 minutes. Taxis cost £30-45 (~€35-52). A pre-booked transfer runs £40-60 (~€47-70). There is no train from this airport.
What actually happens after landing
BFS is a medium-sized airport — one terminal, straightforward layout. After landing, you'll clear immigration (UK border control — you need a passport even from Ireland), collect bags, and enter the arrivals hall.
The terminal is simple and well-signed. The main hall has car rental desks, an ATM, and basic shops. Ground transport is right outside the door.
Important: Belfast has TWO airports. Belfast International (BFS) is the larger one, 20km from the city. Belfast City Airport (BHD/George Best) is much closer at 5km. Make sure you know which one you're flying into.
Transport options explained honestly
Taxi — Available outside arrivals. Fares to Belfast city center are £30-45, typically agreed in advance (Belfast airport taxis often quote a fixed price rather than using a meter). The drive takes 25-35 minutes.
Pre-booked transfer — Driver meets you in arrivals, fixed price £40-60. Worth it for families, late arrivals, or groups.
Uber — Available in Belfast but less established than in mainland UK cities. Typical fare: £25-40.
Rental car — Available at the airport. Belfast is easy to drive in and parking is cheaper than most UK cities (£5-10/day in the city center). A car is useful if you're exploring Northern Ireland.
There is no train from BFS. The airport has no rail connection. The bus is the public transport option.
Realistic pricing expectations
| Destination | Distance | Taxi estimate | Transfer estimate | |---|---|---|---| | Belfast city center | 20 km | £30-45 / ~€35-52 | £40-60 / ~€47-70 | | Titanic Quarter | 22 km | £33-48 / ~€38-56 | £42-63 / ~€49-73 | | Derry/Londonderry | 100 km | £90-130 / ~€105-151 | £90-130 / ~€105-151 | | Giant's Causeway | 95 km | £85-120 / ~€99-140 | £85-120 / ~€99-140 | | Dublin | 170 km | Not practical | £150-220 / ~€175-256 | | Portrush/Portstewart | 90 km | £80-110 / ~€93-128 | £80-115 / ~€93-134 |
Late night arrivals
The Airport Express 300 runs until about midnight, with the last bus around 11:45 PM. After that, taxis and pre-booked transfers are your options.
Taxis are available at the airport around the clock, though the supply is thinner after midnight. A pre-booked transfer is the safest bet for very late arrivals.
The airport terminal stays open while flights are operating. No overnight facilities.
Families and luggage
The Airport Express bus has under-floor luggage storage, so it handles suitcases well. With kids and a stroller, it's manageable but not ideal.
Belfast taxis are standard sedans — they'll fit a family of 4 with 2-3 bags. For larger families, pre-book a minivan transfer.
Child car seats follow UK law (required until 12 years or 135cm). Taxis are exempt. Transfers can provide seats on request.
Where you meet the driver
Taxi: Official taxis are outside arrivals. Agree on a price before getting in.
Uber: Pick-up from the short-stay car park area.
Pre-booked transfer: Driver meets you in the arrivals hall with a name sign.
Decision helper
- Going to Belfast city center: Airport Express 300 (£8, reliable, frequent)
- Going to Derry or the Causeway Coast: Pre-booked transfer or rental car
- Family with kids and luggage: Taxi or pre-booked transfer
- Late night (after midnight): Taxi or pre-booked transfer
- Planning to explore Northern Ireland: Rental car
- Budget priority: Airport Express bus
- Going to Dublin: Pre-booked transfer or Aircoach (check if running)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a train from Belfast International Airport?
No. Belfast International Airport has no rail connection. The Airport Express 300 bus is the main public transport option. Belfast City Airport (BHD) has a rail connection, but it's a different airport.
What's the difference between Belfast's two airports?
How much is a taxi from Belfast International Airport?
Expect to pay £30-45 (~€35-52) to Belfast city center. Most airport taxis quote a fixed price rather than using a meter. Agree on the price before getting in.
Can I get from Belfast International to Dublin?
Yes. A pre-booked transfer costs about £150-220 and takes 1.5-2 hours. You can also take the Airport Express to Belfast, then a bus or train to Dublin (about 4 hours total, ~£20-30). Some direct bus services may operate — check Aircoach or Translink.
What currency does Northern Ireland use?
Northern Ireland uses British Pounds Sterling (GBP/£), not Euros. Some businesses near the border accept Euros, but at poor exchange rates. Use ATMs for GBP cash.