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Cork to Belfast from $30: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cork, Ireland
to
Belfast, United Kingdom

How to Get from Cork to Belfast: 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.

$30 by busBest price
346.3 kmDistance
3h 33m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cork to Belfast 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
Bus
Average Duration
5h  37m
Estimated price
$31-38
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  37m
Estimated price
$30-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 346.3 km
Duration: 3h 33m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
5h  51m
Estimated price
$42-61
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
6h  10m
Estimated price
$45-63
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
4h  7m
Estimated price
$85-130
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  33m
Estimated price
$91-258

Traveling From Cork to Belfast

Journeying from Cork to Belfast offers a fascinating contrast, where Cork's picturesque streets and vibrant arts scene meet Belfast's rich industrial history and dynamic cultural revival.

Best Neighbourhoods in Belfast

Belfast boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct charm and experiences.

Titanic Quarter
• Home to the Titanic Belfast visitor center.
• Enjoy waterfront walks and modern architecture.
Cathedral Quarter
• Center for art, music, and nightlife.
• Features stunning street art and historic pubs.
Lisburn Road
• Known for boutique shopping and cafes.
• Offers a lively restaurant scene.

Best Times To Visit Belfast's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Belfast's popular sites.

Titanic Belfast
Early mornings on weekdays offer a quieter experience for exploration.
Belfast City Hall
Visit during lunch hours for a lively atmosphere but fewer crowds.
St. George's Market
Arrive on Friday mornings for a more relaxed shopping experience.

Belfast Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Belfast experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers, making it a year-round destination. While rain can occur at any time, the best periods to visit are late spring and early autumn, when the weather tends to be more favorable for exploring the city.

Dining in Belfast: A Culinary Adventure

A visit to Belfast isn't complete without indulging in a hearty bowl of Irish stew at The Crown Liquor Saloon, where the rich flavors and historical ambiance create a distinct dining experience. This contrasts with Cork's emphasis on fresh seafood and artisanal products, as Belfast's cuisine showcases its rural heritage and preference for robust, comforting dishes.

Cork - Belfast operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+353 0 1 844 7118
Website
https://www.aircoach.ie/

Bus from Lower Glanmire Rd to Dublin Airport

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$21-30
Contact phone
+353 1 903 9508
Website
https://www.dublinexpress.ie/

Bus from Dublin Airport to Glengall Street

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$9-9
Contact phone
+353091 564600
Website
https://gobus.ie/

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

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$18-24
Contact phone
+44 28 9066 6630
Website
https://www.translink.co.uk/

Bus from Dublin Airport to Europa Buscentre

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$26-40
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+353 1 836 6222
Website
https://www.irishrail.ie/en-ie/

Train from Cork to Dublin Heuston

Average Duration
2h 31m
Estimated price
$23-35

Train from Dublin Connolly to Belfast

Average Duration
2h 13m
Estimated price
$17-25
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.aerlingus.com/

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

Average Duration
4h 57m
Estimated price
$340-1000
Website
https://www.britishairways.com/

Plane from Cork Airport to Belfast City Airport

Average Duration
4h 22m
Estimated price
$340-1000
Website
https://www.easyjet.com/

Plane from Cork Airport to Belfast City Airport

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
$30-210

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

Traveling between Cork and Belfast 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 a picturesque journey from Cork to Belfast by car, covering a distance of 423.3 km. Enjoy the scenic drive through the stunning landscapes of Ireland and Northern Ireland. 💰 Explore the various travel options with prices ranging from €78 to €120 for the journey from Cork to Belfast by car. 📍 Set aside approximately 4 hours and 7 minutes for your drive from Cork to Belfast.
Average price
€78 - €120
🚉 The journey involves transferring at both Heuston and Dublin Connolly stations before reaching your final destination in Belfast. The total travel time, including all transfers, is estimated to be around 5 hours and 51 minutes. 💸 Ticket prices for the train journey from Cork to Belfast typically range from €39 to €56, offering a convenient and scenic way to travel between these two vibrant cities in Ireland and the United Kingdom.
Departure Point
Cork station
Arrival Point
Belfast station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Cork to Belfast, you'll travel with either Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) or Translink. The onboard catering services include a refreshments trolley with light snacks and beverages available for purchase. Be sure to check out their menu for any local specialties.
• The journey offers Economy Class and First Class seating options on Iarnród Éireann trains, with comfortable seating in both categories. First Class passengers enjoy added amenities such as more spacious seating, power outlets, and complimentary refreshments, ensuring a more relaxed travel experience.
• Upon arrival at Belfast Lanyon Place station, you can easily navigate to the city center. The fastest way is to catch Metro bus number 12 or 9 directly outside the station, which takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Additionally, you can leave your luggage at the station's left luggage office if needed, and restrooms are also available for your convenience.
🛫 Flying from Cork to Belfast involves a 4 hour and 20-minute journey with one stopover since there are no direct flights available between the two cities. 🌍 The flight duration from Cork to Belfast is approximately 3 hours and 33 minutes, making it a convenient and time-saving option for those looking to travel between these two vibrant cities. Prices for these flights typically range from €84 to €238, depending on the airline and time of booking.
Departure Point
Cork Airport
Arrival Point
Belfast City Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 20m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book a connecting flight with sufficient layover time; since there are no direct flights from Cork to Belfast, a layover of at least 1.5 hours is advisable to account for potential delays or gate changes.
• Upon arriving at Belfast City Airport, head to the designated arrivals area and follow the signs for ground transportation; there are clearly marked zones for taxis, which are typically a flat rate of around £10 to £15 to reach the city center.
• For the best dining options while waiting for your flight, check the Cork Airport's website for updates on local eateries and grab-and-go options; major airlines like EasyJet and British Airways also offer online meal pre-order services that you can use ahead of time to ensure you have your preferred meal during transit.
🚌 Despite the lack of a direct bus from Cork to Belfast, travelers can still make the journey with services departing from Lower Glanmire Rd, making a transfer at Dublin Airport. 🌉 The overall travel time for the bus journey from Cork to Belfast, including transfers, is approximately 5 hours and 37 minutes. 💰 The cost of a bus ticket between Belfast and Cork ranges from €29 to €35, providing an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two cities.
Departure Point
Lower Glanmire Rd station
Arrival Point
Glengall Street station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cork to Belfast.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Cork and Belfast is approximately 346.0 km by air, and 422.8 km by road. Travel times by various modes of transportation vary. By train, it takes around 6 hours and 7 minutes to reach Belfast from Cork. By taking a train to Kerry and then flying to Dublin, followed by a flight to Belfast, it takes approximately 7 hours and 23 minutes. By car, the journey from Belfast to Cork takes about 4 hours and 7 minutes, and by bus, it takes around 6 hours and 10 minutes to reach Belfast from Cork.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Cork to Belfast is by bus, which takes approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes. This option offers a good balance between price and convenience. However, if time is of the essence, driving is the quickest option, taking around 4 hours and 7 minutes.
When traveling from Cork to Belfast the prices for a train ticket range from €38 to €54. Alternatively, the prices for a bus ticket between Belfast and Cork range from €33 to €47.
To travel from Cork to Belfast without using public transportation, you can drive the distance which is approximately 423.3 km. The journey takes about 4 hours and 7 minutes by car. The prices for this option vary from €78 - €119 depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll fees.
The most convenient way to travel from Cork to Belfast without a car is by train, which takes approximately 6 hours and 7 minutes and costs between €37 and €55. Alternatively, you can also take a bus, which takes about 6 hours and 10 minutes and costs between €32 and €50. If you prefer to fly, there is a direct flight option available that takes about 6 hours and 13 minutes, with prices ranging from €64 to €220.
There is no direct train or bus link between Cork and Belfast. The fastest option by train is to take a train from Cork to Dublin and then another train from Dublin to Belfast, which takes approximately 6 hours and 7 minutes. Similarly, by bus, you would need to transfer in Dublin and the journey takes around 6 hours and 10 minutes.
The flight between Cork and Belfast typically takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes, including one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available, so you may have to change planes. The cost of a flight between Belfast and Cork can vary from €65 to €214, depending on factors such as the airline, the class of service, and the time of booking.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Belfast with over 719 hotels to choose from. Prices for these hotels start at a reasonable €47 per night, offering a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences.