1map logoGo to main page

Belfast, County Antrim to Cork, County 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

Traveling From Belfast to Cork

Traveling from Belfast to Cork offers a delightful contrast, with Belfast’s vibrant urban energy and rich history juxtaposed against Cork’s charming streets, lively markets, and local traditions.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cork

Cork boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct character and charm.

Ballintemple
• Scenic views along the River Lee.
• Close to the famous Blackrock Castle.
Cork City Centre
• Bustling shopping and dining options.
• Home to the historic English Market.
Shandon
• Iconic Shandon Bells and St. Anne's Church.
• Quaint streets dotted with colorful shopfronts.

Best Times To Visit Cork's Attractions

Strategizing your visit can make a big difference in your Cork experience.

Cork City Gaol
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and a more intimate experience.
Blarney Castle
Weekdays in the shoulder seasons help you avoid overwhelming tourist groups.
English Market
Mornings on weekdays provide a serene atmosphere to enjoy local delicacies.

Cork Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cork experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers, making it a pleasant destination year-round. The best times to explore are late spring and early fall, as these seasons typically offer drier days and comfortable temperatures, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Cork

Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Café Paradiso, where vegetarian dishes burst with flavor and creativity, showcasing local ingredients in unexpected ways. This contrasts with Belfast's hearty, traditional cuisine, offering a refreshing atmosphere and a focus on plant-based dining that reflects Cork's embrace of innovation and freshness.

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 a scenic road trip from Belfast to Cork, covering a distance of 263 miles. Enjoy the picturesque countryside views along the way as you journey from Northern Ireland to the southern coast of Ireland. 💸 Experience budget-friendly travel with car prices ranging from £67 to £103 for the journey from Belfast to Cork. This economical option allows you the flexibility to explore both cities at your own pace, with the convenience of a road trip. 🍀 Discover the rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere awaiting you in Cork after a comfortable 4-hour and 8-minute drive from Belfast. Immerse yourself in the charm of this coastal city, known for its historic sites, culinary delights, and friendly locals.
Average price
£66 - £101
🚂 The journey from Belfast to Cork by train is an exciting adventure with a total travel time of approximately 5 hours and 23 minutes. 🌍 Despite there being no direct train route, passengers will transfer at Connolly and Dublin Heuston stations before reaching their final destination in Cork. 🚉 Both the Belfast to Cork train services are operated by Irish Rail, providing a comfortable and scenic ride. 🚆 Route 1 covers a distance of 453 km and takes about 6 hours and 21 minutes to reach Cork from Belfast. 🌄 The first step involves boarding the train towards Connolly, a 2-hour and 5-minute journey departing from Lanyon Place in Belfast. 🌟 The second step requires passengers to switch trains towards Cork Kent, a 2-hour and 42-minute ride departing from Dublin Heuston station. 💷 The prices for a train ticket between Belfast and Cork can range from £32 to £48, offering an affordable and convenient mode of transportation. 🚊 Travelers can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Ireland during the journey and experience a seamless transfer process at Connolly and Dublin Heuston stations. 🌟 For more information and bookings, passengers can visit the website of Enterprise at http://www.translink.co.uk/Services/Enterprise/ and Irish Rail at http://www.transportforireland.ie/.
Departure Point
Belfast station
Arrival Point
Cork station
🛫 Flying from Belfast City Airport to Cork Airport requires a stopover, with popular airlines such as EasyJet, British Airways, Ryanair, and Aer Lingus serving this route. The quickest flight duration is 3 hours and 35 minutes. 🌍 Travelling from Belfast to Cork by plane is a convenient option, taking around 3 hours and 34 minutes to reach your destination. Despite the necessity of a layover, the journey offers a seamless transition between the two cities. 💸 Flight prices between Belfast and Cork typically range from £73 to £205, offering travelers a variety of options depending on their budget and preferences. Booking in advance can sometimes lead to better deals on this route.
Departure Point
Belfast City Airport
Arrival Point
Cork Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 35m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Since there are no direct flights from Belfast City Airport to Cork, consider booking with Aer Lingus for a quicker stopover, often through Dublin, which can provide a smoother connection to ensure you maximize your travel time.
• Upon arrival at Cork Airport, be prepared for a straightforward navigation process: the terminal is compact, allowing for quick access to baggage claim, and airports signs are clearly marked. Look out for the 'Information Desk' if you need assistance or directions.
• Expect to pay approximately €20-€25 for a taxi from Cork Airport to the city center; it's a quick 15-minute ride, so you can easily grab a taxi at the designated taxi ranks outside the terminal for a hassle-free transfer.
🚌 The journey from Belfast to Cork by bus takes approximately 5 hours and 38 minutes, with transfers along the way. There is no direct bus service for this route. 🌍 Route 1 involves taking a bus towards Dublin City, followed by a transfer to another bus towards Cork. The total distance covered is 425 km, and the entire journey consists of two steps with a total travel time of 5 hours and 42 minutes. 📍 The first step includes a bus ride from Europa Buscentre to Dublin Airport with Aircoach, lasting about 1 hour and 50 minutes. The second step is a 3-hour and 35-minute bus journey from Dublin Airport to Cork, specifically Lower Glanmire Road, also operated by Aircoach.
Departure Point
Glengall Street station
Arrival Point
Lower Glanmire Rd station

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 215 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes around 5 hours and 55 minutes to travel from Belfast to Cork by train, 6 hours and 30 minutes by taking a bus to Dublin and then flying to Kerry, and 5 hours and 40 minutes by plane. Conversely, it takes about 4 hours and 8 minutes to travel from Cork to Belfast by car, and 6 hours and 11 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Belfast to Cork is by train. It takes approximately 5 hours and 55 minutes and costs around £32-£51. Alternatively, driving is the quickest way to reach Cork, taking approximately 4 hours and 8 minutes, but it is slightly more expensive with costs ranging from £67-£103. Overall, taking the train is a great combination of affordability and convenience for this journey.
The prices for a train journey from Belfast to Cork vary between £32 and £48. This range in price allows travelers to choose an option that suits their budget. It is advisable to book in advance to secure the best fares.
To get from Belfast to Cork without using public transportation, you can drive yourself. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 263 miles, and it takes around 4 hours and 8 minutes to drive from Belfast to Cork. Renting a car would be a convenient option, and the prices range from £67 to £103.
The best way to travel from Belfast to Cork without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 55 minutes and tickets cost between £32 and £51. Another option is to take a bus, which takes about 6 hours and 11 minutes. Lastly, you can also fly, which is the fastest option, taking around 5 hours and 40 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from £51 to £190.
No, there is no direct link between Belfast and Cork by train or bus. The most convenient option is to take a train from Belfast to Dublin, then transfer to another train that goes to Cork, which takes approximately 5 hours and 55 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Belfast to Dublin, then transfer to another bus that goes to Cork, which takes approximately 6 hours and 11 minutes. There is no direct bus or train service between the two cities.
The flight duration between Belfast and Cork can vary depending on the number of stopovers, but the quickest option takes around 4 hours with one stopover. The cost of a flight between Cork and Belfast typically ranges from £55 to £184. It's important to check with airlines for current prices and schedules as they may vary.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Cork. With over 165 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Cork start at around £54 per night, providing affordable options for visitors. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there are plenty of choices available to ensure a comfortable stay near Cork.