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Belfast to Cork from $40: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Belfast, United Kingdom
to
Cork, Ireland

How to Get from Belfast to Cork: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$40 by busBest price
346.5 kmDistance
3h 34m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Belfast to Cork with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
5h  23m
Estimated price
$41-61
Recommended
route map
Distance: 346.5 km
Duration: 3h 34m

See more options

Company
Dublin Express, Aircoach
Bus
Average Duration
5h  38m
Estimated price
$44-59
Company
GoBus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  43m
Estimated price
$44-59
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  8m
Estimated price
$85-130
Company
Aer Lingus, British Airways, Ryanair
Plane
Average Duration
3h  34m
Estimated price
$92-259
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Belfast to Cork

Traveling from Belfast to Cork offers a fascinating contrast between Belfast's rich industrial history and contemporary culture, and Cork's vibrant artistic scene and charming river views.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cork

Cork boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

Elizabeth Fort
• Historic site with panoramic city views.
• Once a military stronghold, now a cultural venue.
The English Market
• A foodie haven with local produce and artisanal goods.
• Diverse food stalls showcase Cork's culinary heritage.
Cork City Centre
• Bustling heart with shops, cafes, and cultural attractions.
• Easy access to landmarks like St. Finbarre's Cathedral.

Best Times To Visit Cork's Attractions

Timing your visit to Cork's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Blarney Castle
Visit early in the morning to enjoy the gardens and castle without the crowds.
Cork City Gaol
Weekdays are quieter, allowing you to explore at a relaxing pace.
St. Patrick's Street
Early afternoon is ideal for shopping and people-watching in a bustling atmosphere.

Cork Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cork experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and cool summers, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are late spring and early autumn, as this is when you'll enjoy more pleasant weather while avoiding peak tourist crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Cork

The fresh seafood chowder at The Fish Wife provides a delightful contrast to the hearty dishes often found in Belfast, featuring local ingredients that reflect Cork’s coastal heritage. Enjoying this dish in a cozy, authentically Irish setting enhances the experience, allowing you to savor both the flavors and the warm hospitality that Cork has to offer.

Belfast - Cork operators

Explore transport companies operating between Belfast and Cork, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+353 1 836 6222
Website
https://www.irishrail.ie/en-ie/

Train from Belfast to Dublin Connolly

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$17-25

Train from Dublin Heuston to Cork

Average Duration
2h 33m
Estimated price
$23-35
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+353 1 903 9508
Website
https://www.dublinexpress.ie/

Bus from Glengall Street to Burgh Quay

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+353 0 1 844 7118
Website
https://www.aircoach.ie/

Bus from Aston Quay to Lower Glanmire Rd

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$21-29
Contact phone
+44 28 9066 6630
Website
https://www.translink.co.uk/

Bus from Europa Buscentre to Dublin Airport Terminal 1

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$26-40
Contact phone
+353091 564600
Website
https://gobus.ie/

Bus from Dublin Airport Arrival Terminal 1 to Cork Lower Glanmire Rd

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$18-24
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.aerlingus.com/

Plane from Belfast City (BHD) to Cork (ORK)

Average Duration
3h 46m
Estimated price
$340-1000
Website
https://www.britishairways.com/

Plane from Belfast City (BHD) to Cork (ORK)

Average Duration
3h 43m
Estimated price
$340-1000
Website
https://www.ryanair.com/

Plane from Belfast City (BHD) to Cork (ORK)

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$29-210

Plane from Belfast City (BHD) to Cork (ORK)

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$30-210

Plane from Belfast City (BHD) to Cork (ORK)

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$35-230

Belfast to Cork: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Belfast and Cork offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an exciting road trip from Belfast to Cork, spanning a distance of 423.3 km. 💸 The cost of traveling by car from Belfast to Cork typically ranges from £67 to £103, offering a budget-friendly option for exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Ireland. 🌟 Set out on a 4-hour and 8-minute journey from Belfast to Cork, immersing yourself in the rich history, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine that await you in this enchanting destination. Discover the beauty of the Emerald Isle at your own pace on this unforgettable drive across Ireland.
Average price
£66 - £101
🚂 Traveling from Belfast to Cork by train requires a transfer in Dublin. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 5 hours and 23 minutes. 🛤️ The route covers a distance of 453 km and involves two train steps. The first step is a train towards Connolly with a duration of around 2 hours and 5 minutes. The second step is a train towards Cork Kent with a travel time of about 2 hours and 42 minutes. 💷 Prices for the train journey between Belfast and Cork typically range from £32 to £48. It's advisable to check with Irish Rail for the most up-to-date information on schedules and ticket prices.
Departure Point
Belfast station
Arrival Point
Cork station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your journey from Belfast to Cork include the availability of a café car that offers a selection of light snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. You can also enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi on certain services, so you're free to work or relax online during your trip.
• The primary operator for this route is Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann), which provides comfortable seating in three classes: Standard Class (Economy), First Class, and Business Class. First Class seats provide more legroom and complimentary refreshments, while Standard Class offers sufficient comfort for budget travelers. Experience Premium Train Travel at its best with Business Class, which features reclining seats and dedicated service. Check the official website for booking options: Irish Rail Website
• Upon arriving at Cork's Kent Station, you'll find that it is a well-equipped facility with luggage storage options available near the main entrance. Restrooms are accessible, but there are currently no shower facilities on site. To navigate your way, simply follow the clear signage to arrive at the outgoing transport options available.
• The fastest way to get from Kent Station in Cork to the city center is via bus. The number 205 bus provides a direct connection and runs frequently throughout the day, taking approximately 10-15 minutes to reach the city center. You can check the bus schedules at Cork City Bus.
🛫 Flying from Belfast City Airport to Cork Airport involves a one-stopover flight with a duration of 3 hours and 35 minutes. EasyJet, British Airways, Ryanair, and Aer Lingus are among the airlines providing this route. 🌍 The total travel time from Belfast to Cork by plane is approximately 3 hours and 34 minutes. 💸 Ticket prices for the Belfast to Cork flight typically range from £73 to £205, offering travelers flexibility in choosing their preferred airline and fare.
Departure Point
Belfast City Airport
Arrival Point
Cork Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 35m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When booking your flight from Belfast to Cork, consider connecting flights through cities like London or Glasgow, as this can sometimes yield lower fares and more scheduling options, especially with carriers like British Airways or EasyJet.
• Upon arriving at Cork Airport, be prepared for a quick check of your travel documents, as customs can be busy due to both domestic and international flights; having your boarding pass and ID readily accessible can save you time.
• Once you've landed at Cork Airport, expect taxi fares to the city center to be around €20-€25, and make sure to have cash on hand as some taxi services may not accept card payments—alternatively, consider using local bus services for a more economical option.
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Belfast to Cork, travelers can still reach their destination in approximately 5 hours and 38 minutes with transfers. 🛣️ The journey spans 425 kilometers and involves a transfer in Dublin City. Passengers can board the first leg of the journey with an Aircoach bus departing from Glengall Street station. 📍 The final stop in Cork is reached after a total of 5 hours and 38 minutes of travel time. Travelers can trust Aircoach for a seamless and reliable bus service throughout their journey.
Departure Point
Glengall Street station
Arrival Point
Lower Glanmire Rd station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to book your tickets in advance with both Aircoach and Dublin Express as the buses can get fully booked, especially during peak travel times. You can find more information and book at aircoach.ie and dublinexpress.eu
• Allow yourself plenty of time for transfers at Dublin Airport; the journey from Belfast to Dublin Airport may take around 1 hour 50 minutes, so plan accordingly to ensure a smooth transition to your next bus to Cork, which is approximately 3 hours 35 minutes.
• Upon arriving at Cork's Lower Glanmire Road station, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the nearby amenities, including cafes and the bus stop for local transportation, as well as the helpful information desk for any additional travel inquiries you might have.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Belfast to Cork.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Belfast and Cork is approximately 346.0 km by air. By train, it takes around 5 hours and 55 minutes to reach Cork from Belfast. Alternatively, taking a bus to Dublin and then flying to Kerry, it takes about 6 hours and 30 minutes. By car, it takes roughly 4 hours and 8 minutes to travel from Cork to Belfast, while a bus journey from Belfast to Cork can take around 6 hours and 11 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Belfast to Cork is by train which takes approximately 5 hours and 55 minutes and costs between £31-£51. This option provides a comfortable and convenient way to reach your destination. However, if time is of the essence, driving would be the quickest option, taking around 4 hours and 8 minutes, but it is also more expensive, costing between £66-£102.
The prices for a train journey between Belfast and Cork can range from £32 to £48, depending on various factors such as the class of ticket and time of travel.
To get from Belfast to Cork without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The distance between the two cities is approximately 423.3 km, and it takes around 4 hours and 8 minutes to drive from Belfast to Cork. You can rent a car or use your own vehicle for this journey. The prices for car rentals vary but generally range from £66 to £102.
To travel from Belfast to Cork without a car, the best option is to take the train. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 55 minutes and costs £31-£51. Alternatively, you can also take a bus, which takes a bit longer at 6 hours and 11 minutes. If you prefer to fly, there are flights available which take around 5 hours and 40 minutes and cost £51-£188.
There is no direct link between Belfast and Cork by train. However, there is a train route that involves transfers at Busáras and Dublin Heuston, taking approximately 5 hours and 55 minutes. Similarly, there is no direct bus route, but there is a bus service that requires transfers at Aston Quay, taking approximately 6 hours and 11 minutes.
The flight between Belfast and Cork typically takes around 4 hours with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight from Belfast City Airport to Cork Airport. The cost of a flight between Cork and Belfast can range from £54 to £182, depending on the airline and booking time.
There are numerous accommodations available in Cork with over 165 hotels to choose from. Prices for these accommodations start at £53 per night, providing options for different budgets. Some popular hotel options in Cork include The River Lee Hotel, Maldron Hotel Shandon Cork City, and The Metropole Hotel Cork.

Trips from Belfast