Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Belfast International Airport (BFS) to Antrim is the direct Ulsterbus Service 109A. The journey takes 20-25 minutes and costs only £3-£4 one-way. It departs from outside the main terminal and arrives at Antrim Bus Station in the town centre. For door-to-door convenience, a pre-booked taxi takes 10-15 minutes and costs £15-£25.
The Bus: Best & Cheapest Public Transport
The Ulsterbus Service 109A, operated by Translink, is the direct and most economical public transport link between Belfast International Airport (BFS) and Antrim. It's the go-to choice for solo travelers, couples, and anyone on a budget.
Key Details at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Service Number | 109A (Airport Express) |
| Operator | Translink (Ulsterbus) |
| Journey Time | 20-25 minutes |
| Single Fare (Adult) | Approx. £3.00 - £4.00 (Cash/Contactless) |
| Frequency | Every 30-60 minutes, daily |
| First/Last Bus from Airport | ~6:00 AM / ~11:30 PM (Check current timetable) |
| Departure Point at BFS | Bus stop directly outside the main terminal building. |
| Arrival Point in Antrim | Antrim Bus Centre (Town Centre) |
| Accessibility | Low-floor, wheelchair-accessible buses. |
Step-by-Step Guide & Buying Tickets
1. Find the Bus Stop: After collecting luggage, exit through the main arrivals doors. The bus stop is clearly signed and located just a few meters to the left.
2. Boarding & Payment:
- You can pay the driver directly with exact change in cash (Sterling) or, more conveniently, by contactless debit/credit card or Apple/Google Pay.
- If you plan further travel in Northern Ireland, consider purchasing an mLink (weekly) or iLink (smartcard) zone-based travel card from the Translink website or kiosks.
3. The Journey: The route is straightforward, traveling south via the A26. Key stops before Antrim may include the International Airport Park & Ride. Simply stay on until the bus announces its termination at Antrim Bus Centre.
4. At Antrim Bus Centre: This is the central hub. From here, you can walk to many town centre hotels, catch connecting local buses, or get a short taxi to your final destination.
Pros, Cons & Who It's For
Pros: Very cheap, direct, frequent service, eco-friendly, no need to pre-book, accessible.
Cons: Can be busy during peak times, limited space for very large luggage, subject to road traffic delays.
Best for: Budget travelers, solo explorers, those without excessive luggage, and anyone arriving during daytime/evening operating hours.
Taxi & Private Transfers: Door-to-Door Convenience
For the ultimate in convenience, especially after a long flight, with heavy bags, a family, or a group, taxis and pre-booked private transfers are the best choice from Belfast International Airport to Antrim.
Taxi Options & How to Get One
- Official Airport Taxi Rank: Located directly outside the terminal. Licensed taxis operate on a fixed-meter basis for the journey. This is the most expensive on-demand option.
- Pre-Booked Private Transfer: The recommended method. Book online in advance with a reputable local company. Your driver will meet you in arrivals with a name sign. This often secures a fixed price, avoiding meter surprises, and guarantees availability.
Cost Breakdown & Key Companies
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (to Antrim Town) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Metered Airport Taxi | £18 - £30 | Immediate, no booking needed. Price varies with time/traffic. |
| Pre-Booked Private Car | £15 - £25 (Fixed) | Fixed price, driver meet & greet, often cheaper than rank. |
| Larger Vehicle (6-8 Pax) | £30 - £45 | Ideal for families or groups. |
Recommended Pre-Book Companies:
- Fonacab: One of Northern Ireland's largest firms, reliable app and online booking.
- Value Cabs: Popular and often competitive fixed rates.
- Hotel-Arranged Transfer: Contact your Antrim hotel; they often partner with local firms for discounted rates.
Journey Details & When to Choose a Taxi
Journey Time: 10 to 15 minutes via the A26/M2 motorway, depending on your exact destination in Antrim.
Choose a Taxi If: You arrive late at night/early morning (outside bus hours), are in a group of 3+, have mobility issues or lots of luggage, value time and convenience over cost, or are traveling for business.
Train: The Indirect Route (For Connecting Journeys)
Important Note: There is no train station at Belfast International Airport. To use rail services, you must first reach Antrim Train Station by bus or taxi.
Why Use the Train from Antrim?
Antrim Station is a key stop on the Northern Ireland Railways line connecting Belfast Great Victoria Street to Derry~Londonderry. You would only use this option if your final destination is not Antrim town, but a city further along the rail line (e.g., Ballymena, Coleraine, Derry).
How to Get to Antrim Train Station from the Airport
- Step 1: Airport to Antrim Town. Take the Ulsterbus 109A (as detailed above) to Antrim Bus Centre. The train station is an 8-10 minute walk from the bus centre. Alternatively, take a taxi from the airport directly to Antrim Station (approx. £18-£22).
- Step 2: Train from Antrim Station. Purchase tickets at the station via machine or online via Translink. Trains are modern and comfortable.
Sample Train Journey Times & Fares from Antrim
| Destination | Approx. Journey Time | Approx. Single Fare (Adult) |
|---|---|---|
| Belfast (Great Victoria St) | 35-40 mins | £7.00 - £9.00 |
| Ballymena | 15 mins | £4.00 - £5.00 |
| Derry~Londonderry | 1 hr 20 mins | £12.00 - £15.00 |
Conclusion: For reaching Antrim town itself, the train is not a practical option. It is only relevant as part of a longer, multi-leg journey to other Northern Irish cities.
Car Rental: For Maximum Flexibility
Belfast International Airport is a major hub for car rentals, ideal for travelers planning to explore Northern Ireland extensively.
At the Airport
All major rental companies (e.g., Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Enterprise) have desks in the main terminal arrivals hall. It is highly advisable to book online in advance for the best rates and to guarantee vehicle availability.
Journey to Antrim by Car
Route: The drive is simple and quick. Exit the airport following signs for the A26/M2 towards Antrim/Belfast. The journey to Antrim town centre is approximately 7 miles (11 km) and takes 10-15 minutes in normal traffic.
Costs & Considerations
- Rental Cost: Varies widely by season, duration, and vehicle type. Expect from £25-£60 per day, excluding fuel and insurance extras.
- Parking in Antrim: Most hotels have limited or paid parking. Public car parks are available (e.g., at the Bus Centre or Castle grounds). Check parking arrangements with your accommodation.
- Best For: Travelers planning day trips to the Causeway Coast, Glens of Antrim, or rural areas not well-served by public transport.
Cost & Time Comparison: Best Way from BFS to Antrim
This table summarizes all options to help you decide the best transport from Belfast International Airport to Antrim based on your priorities.
| Transport Method | Approx. Travel Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Key Advantage | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ulsterbus 109A | 20-25 min | £3 - £4 (Cheapest) | Extremely low cost, direct to town centre. | Budget travelers, solo/duo, daytime arrivals. |
| Pre-Booked Taxi/Transfer | 10-15 min | £15 - £25 (Fixed) | Door-to-door convenience, no waiting. | Families/groups, lots of luggage, late-night arrivals. |
| Metered Airport Taxi (Rank) | 10-15 min | £18 - £30 | Immediate, no pre-booking. | Urgent travel, those who haven't pre-planned. |
| Car Rental | 10-15 min (drive) | £25+ per day + fuel | Total freedom for wider exploration. | Travelers touring beyond Antrim. |
| Train (via Bus to Station) | 40+ min total | £7+ (Bus + Train) | Connects to wider NI rail network. | Only if your final destination is NOT Antrim town. |
Verdict: For value and efficiency, the Bus 109A wins. For hassle-free comfort, especially in groups, a pre-booked taxi is the best choice.
Traveler Tips & Local Advice for a Smooth Journey
General Tips
- Currency: Have some British Pounds Sterling (£) in small notes/coins for bus fare if not using contactless. ATMs are available in the airport arrivals hall.
- Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available at Belfast International Airport. Consider purchasing a local SIM or using an eSIM for data on the go.
- Timetables Change: Always check the latest bus schedule on the Translink 109A route page before you travel.
For Late-Night or Early-Morning Arrivals
The last bus 109A departs around 11:30 PM. If your flight is delayed or arrives after midnight, your only realistic option is a taxi. Pre-booking is strongly advised to avoid long waits or premium charges.
Luggage Advice
Bus 109A has standard luggage racks suitable for suitcases and backpacks. If you have exceptionally large or bulky items (e.g., sports equipment, multiple large cases), a taxi or private transfer will be far less stressful.
If You're Staying Near the Airport
Several hotels (e.g., Holiday Inn Express, ibis Belfast International Airport) are within a 5-minute drive. Most offer a complimentary shuttle service. Confirm this with your hotel prior to arrival and look for the shuttle pick-up point outside the terminal.
FAQs: Belfast International Airport to Antrim Transport
What is the best way to get from Belfast International Airport to Antrim?
The best overall way for most travelers is the direct Ulsterbus Service 109A. It's the most cost-effective, runs frequently, and takes you directly to Antrim town center and the bus station in about 20-25 minutes. For ultimate convenience, especially with lots of luggage or a group, a pre-booked taxi or private transfer is the best option.
Is there a direct train from Belfast International Airport to Antrim?
No, there is no direct train. Belfast International Airport (BFS) does not have its own train station. To travel by train, you must first take a bus (like the 109A) or taxi to Antrim Train Station, which is about a 10-minute drive from the airport. From there, trains connect to other parts of Northern Ireland.
How much is a taxi from Belfast Airport to Antrim?
A metered taxi for the 10-15 minute journey typically costs between £15 to £25. Prices can be higher late at night, on weekends, or if pre-booked for a fixed price. For the best value, consider pre-booking online with a local company like Fonacab or Value Cabs.
How long does the bus from Belfast Airport to Antrim take?
The Ulsterbus Service 109A takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes to reach Antrim town center (Antrim Bus Station). Travel time can vary slightly depending on traffic, especially during peak commuting hours. Buses run every 30-60 minutes throughout the day. Check the latest timetable on the Translink website.
What should I do if I arrive at Belfast Airport late at night?
If your flight arrives after the last scheduled bus (around 11:30 PM), your only practical options are a taxi or pre-arranged private transfer. It is highly recommended to pre-book this service to ensure availability and a fixed price. Some hotel shuttle services may also operate for specific accommodations—check with your hotel in advance.
Is the bus from the airport to Antrim wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Ulsterbus Service 109A operated by Translink uses modern, accessible buses with low-floor entry and designated spaces for wheelchairs. Drivers are trained to assist. For the most seamless experience, it's advisable to notify the driver when boarding. You can confirm accessibility details directly with Translink's Accessibility Services.
Can I use a day pass or travel card for the journey to Antrim?
Yes. The most relevant pass is the iLink smartcard from Translink. You can load a 'Zone 2' day pass (covers the airport to Antrim area) which offers unlimited travel on buses and trains within that zone for a day. For a single journey, you can simply pay the driver with cash or contactless card. Fares and pass information are available on the Translink Tickets page.
Is it cheaper to take a bus or a taxi from Belfast Airport to Antrim?
The bus is significantly cheaper. A single adult bus ticket costs around £3 - £4. In contrast, a taxi costs a minimum of £15-£25. Therefore, for a solo traveler or couple, the bus is the clear budget winner. A taxi becomes more cost-competitive for groups of 3 or 4 sharing the fare, offering door-to-door convenience for a similar total price.