Belfast International is a manageable airport for families. The main consideration is that the airport has no rail station of its own.
UK child car seat rules
UK government guidance says children must normally use a child car seat until they are 12 years old or 135cm tall, whichever comes first. If you need a seat for the transfer, ask for it when you book and confirm it before travel; do not assume a taxi from the rank will have one.
Best transport for families
Pre-booked transfer (recommended for families)
- Cost: fixed when you book; sedans and minivans priced separately
- Why: child seats can be requested at booking, door-to-door, luggage help
- Best for: families with young children and lots of luggage
Airport Express 300
- Cost: £8.00 adult single, £4.00 child single (Translink mLink ticket types)
- Works for: families with older kids and manageable luggage
- Downside: you will still need to get from the city centre drop-off to your hotel
Taxi
- Cost: metered under the regulated maximum tariff (see below)
- Good for: smaller families
- Child seats: do not assume one will be available
Taxi tariff
Northern Ireland taxis are metered, and the Department for Infrastructure sets the maximum fares. Since 5 December 2023: Rate 1 (Mon-Fri 06:00-20:00) has an initial charge of £3.20, about £4.20 for the first mile and £1.86 for each additional mile; Rate 2 (Mon-Thu 20:00-06:00) has an initial charge of £4.00, about £5.10 for the first mile and £2.03 per additional mile; Rate 3 (Fri 20:00 to Mon 06:00 and specified days) has an initial charge of £5.00, about £6.10 for the first mile and £2.03 per additional mile. These are maximums, not fixed prices, and drivers may charge less. The Department's page shows no later change, but check the current fare card before you travel.
Luggage reality
| Family size | Luggage | Best transport |
|---|---|---|
| 2 adults + 1 child | 2 bags + stroller | Taxi or bus |
| 2 adults + 2 children | 3 bags + stroller | Taxi or transfer |
| 2 adults + 3+ children | 4+ bags + gear | Minivan transfer |
Fixed-price private transfer
BFS Belfast City Center
From€94for 2 passengers
4 passengers: €110 per vehicle, about €28 per person
- Fixed price, no meter
- Flight tracked
- 60 min free waiting
- Driver meets you at arrivals
- Free cancellation up to 24 h before pickup
Other destinations
Family road trips from Belfast
Northern Ireland's best-known family sights, such as the Giant's Causeway and the Antrim coast, are spread out, so a rental car or a pre-arranged driver gives you the most flexibility.
Sources (checked 2026-10-17)
- Airport Express 300 adult single £8.00, child £4.00, monthly return £11.00 (Translink ticket types): https://www.translink.co.uk/our-apps/mlink-ticketing-app/ticket-types
- Northern Ireland maximum taxi fares, Rates 1-3, effective 5 December 2023: https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/news/maximum-taxi-fares-increase
- Child car seat rule, 12 years or 135cm: https://www.gov.uk/child-car-seats-the-rules
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Belfast airport taxis have child car seats?
Do not assume so. A taxi from the rank is not something you can reserve a child seat on in advance. If you need car seats, book a private transfer and request them specifically.
Is the airport bus OK with kids?
The Airport Express 300 is a coach service with child fares (£4.00 single on Translink's ticket page). The main inconvenience is getting from the city centre drop-off to your specific hotel.
Should we rent a car for Northern Ireland with kids?
If you plan to visit the Giant's Causeway, the Antrim coast, or other attractions beyond Belfast, a rental car gives you flexibility, since the best sights are spread out.