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Cardiff, South Glamorgan to Belfast, County Antrim from $74: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cardiff, United Kingdom
to
Belfast, United Kingdom

How to Get from Cardiff 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.

$74 by busBest price
394.3 kmDistance
1h 44m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cardiff 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
Aer Lingus
Plane
Average Duration
1h  44m
Estimated price
$110-320
Recommended
Company
Megabus UK, Translink UK
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
19h  10m
Estimated price
$74-110
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 394.3 km
Duration: 1h 44m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
First Great Western Service, easyJet
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  15m
Estimated price
$85-367
Company
First Great Western Service, various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  28m
Estimated price
$90-365
Company
Transport for Wales, Irish Ferries
Train
Drive
Average Duration
12h  58m
Estimated price
$164-238
Company
Transport for Wales, Irish Ferries, Translink UK
Train
Drive
Bus
Average Duration
13h  39m
Estimated price
$164-240
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
9h  15m
Estimated price
$205-215

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Fly $92 $70 $50 $58 $37 $49 $49
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Traveling From Cardiff to Belfast

The journey from Cardiff to Belfast offers an intriguing shift from the vibrant, coastal culture of Wales to the bustling streets filled with rich history and fresh perspectives in Northern Ireland.

Best Neighbourhoods in Belfast

Belfast boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Titanic Quarter
• Home to the iconic Titanic Museum.
• Boasts waterfront dining and entertainment options.
Cathedral Quarter
• Known for vibrant arts and nightlife scene.
• Features stunning architecture and art galleries.
Lisburn Road
• Offers upscale shopping and trendy cafes.
• Popular among locals for its relaxed atmosphere.

Best Times To Visit Belfast's Attractions

Timing your visit to Belfast's attractions can improve your experience significantly.

Titanic Museum
Visit early morning on weekdays to avoid long lines and enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
Black Taxi Tours
Late afternoon tours provide a more personal experience with fewer tourists.
St. George's Market
Visit on Friday mornings for a lively yet manageable crowd and fresh produce.

Belfast Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Belfast experiences a temperate maritime climate, featuring mild summers and cool winters, with rain possible throughout the year. Visiting during late spring and early autumn generally offers the most pleasant weather, enhancing your experience while exploring the city's attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Belfast

Try the traditional Irish stew at The Crown Liquor Saloon, a historic pub that combines rich flavors with a lively atmosphere, showcasing Belfast's culinary heritage. This experience offers a distinct contrast to Cardiff's culinary scene, providing hearty, local ingredients served in a setting steeped in history.

Cardiff - Belfast operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+44 28 9066 6630
Website
https://www.translink.co.uk/

Bus from Dublin Busaras Bus Station to Europa Buscentre

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$27-40

Bus from Glasgow Buchanan to Belfast Europa Bus Centre

Average Duration
6h 10m
Estimated price
$30-45
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Cardiff North Road to Manchester Airport Bus Station

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
$21-30

Bus from Manchester Airport Bus Station to Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$22-35
Train
Contact phone
+44 3457 000 125
Website
https://www.gwr.com/

Train from Cardiff Central to Bristol Temple Meads

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$22-55
Contact phone
03333 211 202
Website
https://tfw.wales/

Train from Cardiff Central to Holyhead

Average Duration
4h 57m
Estimated price
$100-160
Contact phone
+353 1 836 6222
Website
https://www.irishrail.ie/en-ie/

Train from Dublin Connolly to Belfast

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

Plane from Cardiff (CWL) to Belfast City (BHD)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$65-270
Website
https://www.easyjet.com

Plane from Bristol to Belfast (Aldergrove)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$55-430
Ferry
Contact phone
+353 818 300 400
Website
https://www.irishferries.com/uk-en/Travel-to-Ireland

Ferry from Holyhead to Dublin Terminal 1

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$40-55
Contact phone
+44 844 770 7070
Website
https://www.stenalinetravel.com/

Ferry from Holyhead to Dublin Terminal 1

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
0-0

Ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
0-0

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

Traveling between Cardiff 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.

🛫 Experience a convenient and quick journey from Cardiff to Belfast by taking a direct flight that lasts only 1 hour and 20 minutes. Aer Lingus provides flights from Cardiff Airport to Belfast City Airport, ensuring a smooth and comfortable travel experience. 🌍 Enjoy the picturesque views from the sky as you fly from Cardiff to Belfast in just 1 hour and 44 minutes. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, the short flight time allows you to make the most of your time in both cities. 💸 The prices for flights between Belfast and Cardiff can vary, ranging from £87 to £252. Plan ahead to secure the best deals and take advantage of the convenient air connection between these vibrant cities.
Departure Point
Cardiff Airport
Arrival Point
Belfast City Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Arrive at Cardiff Airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your flight, especially if you're flying with Aer Lingus, to allow enough time for security checks and any potential delays in boarding.
• Upon arrival at Belfast City Airport (BHD), follow the signs for baggage claim and customs, and remember that the airport is relatively compact, making navigation straightforward, so don’t hesitate to ask airport staff for assistance if needed.
• Expect taxi fares from Belfast City Airport to the city center to be around £10-£15; consider using the official taxi service available just outside the arrivals hall, or check out local transport schedules on the airport’s website at belfastcityairport.com for public transport options.
🚌 Despite no direct bus route, travelers can journey from Cardiff to Belfast by making transfers in Manchester Airport Bus Station and Glasgow Buchanan. The total travel time averages around 19 hours and 10 minutes. 🚌 Tickets for the Cardiff to Belfast bus range between £58 and £87. Despite the lengthy journey, travelers can enjoy the scenic routes and explore multiple cities along the way.
Departure Point
Cardiff North Road station
Arrival Point
Belfast Europa Bus Centre station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cardiff to Belfast.

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The distance between Cardiff and Belfast is 245 miles. The typical travel times depend on the mode of transportation chosen. By taking a train to Bristol and then flying to Belfast, the journey can take approximately 4 hours and 32 minutes. Alternatively, traveling by bus from Cardiff to Belfast can take around 18 hours and 10 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Cardiff to Belfast is by taking the bus and ferry combination, which costs £67-£102 and takes approximately 18 hours and 10 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, then the quickest option is to take a combination of a train and a flight, which costs £59-£282 and takes around 4 hours and 8 minutes. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time efficiency will depend on individual preferences and priorities.
The prices for a bus ticket from Cardiff to Belfast range from £67 to £99. It is important to note that prices may vary depending on the time of year and availability. It is recommended to check with different bus operators or websites to compare prices and find the best deal for your journey.
To travel from Cardiff to Belfast without a car, the best option is to take a train and car ferry combination. The journey takes approximately 13 hours and 2 minutes. The train will take you from Cardiff to Holyhead, where you can then board a car ferry to Belfast. This option provides a scenic and enjoyable journey, allowing you to relax and enjoy the views along the way.
There is no direct link between Cardiff and Belfast by bus. However, there are bus services available which involve transfers at Shudehill Interchange in Manchester and Glasgow Buchanan in Scotland. The journey takes approximately 18 hours and 10 minutes, including transfers. The bus services are operated by Megabus UK and Translink UK.
The flight between Cardiff and Belfast typically takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. The quickest option is a direct flight from Bristol Airport to Belfast Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability, but it is usually in the range of £50-£150. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best price for your specific travel dates.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Belfast. With over 719 hotels available, travelers have a wide range of choices. Prices start at £40 per night, providing options for various budgets. From luxury hotels to budget accommodations, there is something suitable for every traveler near Belfast.

Trips to Belfast