Getting to Northern Ireland

With excellent fast ferry links from the UK and three airports with frequent low-cost flights from all over Europe, Northern Ireland is very easy to get to. There is also an open border with the Republic of Ireland and a fantastic rail link with Dublin. 

If arriving from the Republic of Ireland by Car

There are many roads leading between Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland with most major towns and cities linked by dual carriageways. As in the Republic of Ireland cars in Northern Ireland drive on the left side of the road however drivers must be aware of the changes in road signage was you cross the border. Most notably distances and speed limits in Northern Ireland are indicated in miles not kilometres.

If arriving from the Republic of Ireland by Bus or Rail

There are many bus routes between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland with one main train line linking Belfast with Dublin. Mountain Bikes are carried for free on all Translink buses, Goldline Express coaches and trains however no bikes will be carried before 09:30 and space is restricted to 2 full-sized bikes on buses and 4 full-sized bikes on trains, allocated on a first come, first served basis. Some conditions apply to this service. For more information, download the Bike It with Translink leaflet. 

If arriving by Ferry

Northern Ireland has first-class ferry connections with Scotland, England and the Isle of Man.

Stena Line offer frequent sailings from Liverpool and Cairnryan direct to Belfast Port. 

P&O Ferries operate up to 7 sailings per day from Cairnryan to Larne with online prices starting from just £69 single, car plus driver. There are also daily crossings from Liverpool to Dublin including an overnight sailing. 

If arriving by Air

With two city airports and one international airport operating all year round it has never been easier to get to Northern Ireland by plane. There are many scheduled air services operating from nearly every major UK airport as well as a number of direct flights from major European cities to Northern Ireland. Visit www.discovernorthernireland.com/information/travel.aspx for up to date information on flights operating in and out of Northern Ireland.