How to Get around Northern Ireland

When planning a Northern Ireland road trip itinerary, there are several transportation options to consider. This section will cover two of the main options: rental cars and buses, as well as the alternative option of trains.

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Rental Cars

A rental car is often the most convenient and flexible choice for a road trip. You can rent cars from various providers, with Discover Cars being a popular option. Renting a car makes it easy to explore Northern Ireland on your own schedule, stopping at the many sights and attractions along the way. While driving in a foreign country can be a bit daunting, roads in Northern Ireland are well-maintained, and driving is on the left-hand side of the road.

Some things to consider when renting a car include:

Insurance coverage
Type of car (automatic or manual transmission)
Rental location and drop-off point

Buses

Buses are a budget-friendly option, and the public transport system in Northern Ireland is reasonably reliable. You can travel by bus between major cities like Belfast and Derry/Londonderry, as well as to some of the smaller towns and attractions. However, this option may be less convenient for those looking to stop at multiple locations along the way.

When using buses for your road trip, remember to:

Plan your route in advance
Check bus timetables
Purchase tickets ahead of time if possible

Trains

Trains in Northern Ireland are another option for traveling between major destinations. While the train network is limited compared to countries like England or France, there are services between larger cities like Belfast and Derry/Londonderry, as well as to smaller towns in the region.

Trains can be more comfortable and faster than buses, but they may not service all the points along your chosen itinerary.

Here are a few tips for traveling by train in Northern Ireland:

Check train schedules and purchase tickets in advance
Be aware of the limited train network
Consider combining train travel with one of the other transport options such as renting a car, for greater flexibility

How to Get to Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland, a land of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, attracts visitors from all over the world. When it comes to getting here, there are a few options to consider.

The region is well-served by three airports – Belfast International Airport, George Best Belfast City Airport and City of Derry Airport. They offer a range of direct flights from cities across Europe and beyond. We flew in and out of George Best Belfast City Airport and it was a really quick and pain-free experience, being just 3 miles from the city center. You could also fly to Dublin airport in the Republic of Ireland.

If you’re looking for a particularly scenic route, the ferry is a popular choice for those traveling from Scotland, England, and Wales. Sailings depart regularly from ports in Liverpool, Cairnryan, and Holyhead, and arrive at Belfast or Larne. Whichever way you choose to embark upon your Northern Ireland adventure, you are guaranteed a warm welcome upon arrival.