Quick Answer
There is no single direct public transport from Belfast International Airport (BFS) to Derry. The most recommended and balanced option for most travellers is taking the Aircoach 705 express bus, which provides a direct, comfortable service with a journey time of ~2 hours 15 minutes and a cost of around £18-£25 one-way. The cheapest method involves a combination of local buses (total ~£15), while the fastest door-to-door option is a pre-booked taxi or private transfer (~1h15m, £120-£180).
Direct Express Bus: Aircoach Service 705 (Most Recommended)
The Aircoach 705 service is the only direct public transport link between Belfast International Airport and Derry City, making it the most straightforward and popular choice. It bypasses Belfast city centre entirely, taking a more direct route via the M2 and A6.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Operator | Aircoach |
| Route Number | 705 |
| Journey Time | Approx. 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Frequency | Up to 10 services per day |
| First/Last from BFS | ~06:00 / ~23:30 (check schedule) |
| One-Way Fare | £18-£25 (online advance cheaper) |
| Key Stops in Derry | Ulsterbus Station (central), Magee Campus |
| Luggage | Two suitcases + hand luggage included |
| Amenities | Free WiFi, USB charging, onboard toilet |
Booking & Boarding Process
You can book tickets online in advance via the Aircoach website for the best price and guaranteed seat. The bus stop at Belfast International Airport is located directly outside the main terminal arrivals hall, clearly signposted. In Derry, the primary stop is the modern Ulsterbus Station on Foyle Street, a short walk from the city walls and most hotels.
Pros, Cons & Verdict
Pros: Direct, no changes required. Comfortable coaches with amenities. Competitive pricing. Frequent schedule. Centrally located arrival point in Derry.
Cons: Slightly longer travel time than a theoretical direct car journey. Traffic on the A6 can cause delays. Not the absolute cheapest option.
Verdict: The best all-rounder for solo travellers, couples, and small groups seeking a balance of cost, convenience, and comfort. Highly recommended for first-time visitors.
Train Option: Combining Shuttle & Rail
While scenic, the train journey requires multiple steps. There is no railway station at Belfast International Airport, necessitating a transfer to a main Belfast station first.
Step-by-Step Journey
- Step 1: Airport to Train Station. Take the Airport Express 300 bus (£8 single) to Belfast Europa BusCentre (adjacent to Great Victoria Street Station) or a taxi (~£35, 20 mins) to Belfast Lanyon Place Station.
- Step 2: Train to Derry~Londonderry. Board a Translink NI Railways service from either Great Victoria Street or Lanyon Place to Derry~Londonderry station. The train journey takes about 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 40 minutes.
Train Service Details & Tips
Trains on this route are modern CAF 4000 class units. They run roughly every two hours. The route is famously scenic, particularly along the shores of Lough Foyle. Booking train tickets in advance on the Translink website can offer savings. A Zone 4 iLink card may offer value if combining with other travel in Northern Ireland.
Total Journey Time: 3 - 3.5 hours+ (including transfer). Total Estimated Cost: £25 - £45+ one-way.
Best For: Travellers who enjoy scenic rail journeys, are not in a hurry, and have manageable luggage for the bus/train transfer.
Local Bus Combination: The Most Economical Route
For budget-conscious travellers, combining Translink's local bus services is the cheapest public transport method, though it involves at least one change in Belfast.
The Standard Budget Route
- 109A or Airport Express 300 Bus from BFS to Belfast Europa BusCentre. (Fare: ~£8).
- Ulsterbus Service (212, 213, 214, etc.) from Europa BusCentre to Derry's Ulsterbus Station. (Fare: ~£10-£12 if booked online in advance).
Total Cost: As low as £15-£22 one-way. Total Time: Approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours, highly dependent on traffic and connection timing.
Critical Considerations
- Schedule Planning: Use the Translink Journey Planner. Services are less frequent than the Aircoach, especially on evenings and Sundays.
- Ticketing: An mLink card or a Day Tracker ticket can provide unlimited travel within zones and may offer savings for extensive same-day travel.
- Luggage: Standard bus luggage allowances apply. Space is more limited than on the dedicated Aircoach.
Best For: Backpackers, students, and anyone prioritising absolute lowest cost over convenience and directness.
Taxi & Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Convenience
This is the most convenient but also the most expensive option, providing a direct, private ride from the airport terminal to your exact address in Derry.
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (One-Way) | Journey Time | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metered Airport Taxi | £120 - £180+ | 1h15m - 1h45m | Available on rank; price varies with traffic/time; no booking needed. |
| Pre-Booked Private Transfer | £110 - £160 | 1h15m - 1h45m | Fixed price, meet & greet, booked in advance via company or app. |
| Executive Private Hire | £180+ | 1h15m - 1h45m | Luxury vehicles (e.g., Mercedes V-Class), bottled water, premium service. |
When Does a Taxi Make Sense?
- Late-Night/Early-Morning Arrivals: When public transport is not operating.
- Small Groups (3-4 people): Cost can be comparable to multiple bus/train tickets.
- Large/Heavy Luggage or Special Needs: When door-to-door service is a necessity.
- Business Travel or Tight Schedules: For maximum reliability and time efficiency.
Important Tip: Always pre-book a private transfer for the best fixed rate and guaranteed availability. Agree on the price clearly before the journey if using a rank taxi. Reputable local Derry/Belfast firms often offer better value than international apps for this specific route.
Ticket & Cost Comparison Table: Belfast Airport to Derry
Use this table to quickly compare all your options at a glance.
| Transport Method | Approx. Journey Time | Approx. One-Way Cost | Number of Changes | Best For | Rating (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aircoach 705 (Direct Bus) | 2h 15m | £18 - £25 | 0 (Direct) | Most travellers, best balance | ★★★★★ |
| Train via Belfast | 3h - 3.5h+ | £25 - £45+ | 1-2 | Scenic travel, rail enthusiasts | ★★★☆☆ |
| Local Bus Combo | 2.5h - 3.5h | £15 - £22 | 1 | Budget travellers, lowest cost | ★★★☆☆ |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | 1h 15m - 1h 45m | £110 - £180+ | 0 (Direct) | Groups, late night, convenience | ★★★★☆ (for convenience) |
Key Takeaways: The Aircoach 705 offers the best value-for-money for a direct service. The Local Bus Combo is the clear winner on price. Taxi/Transfer wins on speed and convenience but at a significant premium.
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
Beyond schedules and fares, here are practical insights for a smoother journey from Belfast Airport to Derry.
Luggage Strategy
- If you have very large or heavy bags, the direct Aircoach or a private transfer will save you significant hassle on stairs and during changes.
- Bus drivers will usually assist with storing luggage in the under-carriage holds.
Navigating Connections
- If taking the train route, Belfast Lanyon Place station is smaller and often less crowded than Great Victoria Street, making the transfer from a taxi easier.
- Allow a minimum of 45-60 minutes between your flight landing and your booked bus/train departure to account for passport control, baggage reclaim, and finding the bus stop.
Money & Connectivity
- Ensure you have a UK debit/credit card or some Sterling (GBP) cash. Contactless payment is widely accepted on buses and at stations.
- Purchase a local SIM or ensure your roaming is activated. The Aircoach WiFi is reliable for basic browsing.
Peak Season & Events
- During major events in Derry (e.g., Halloween Carnival, Jazz Festival) or Belfast, book all transport well in advance. Private transfers and specific bus times can sell out.
- Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings see heavier traffic on the roads to/from Belfast.
FAQs: Belfast International Airport to Derry Transport
Is there a direct train from Belfast International Airport to Derry?
No, there is no direct train service from Belfast International Airport (BFS) to Derry/Londonderry. All train journeys require a combination of a shuttle bus or taxi to reach a railway station (typically Belfast Lanyon Place or Belfast Great Victoria Street) followed by a train to Derry~Londonderry.
What is the cheapest way to get from BFS to Derry?
The most economical way is by combining the Airport Express 300 bus to Belfast Europa BusCentre followed by a Translink Ulsterbus service to Derry. Total cost can be as low as £15-£25 one-way if booked in advance online.
What is the fastest way to get from Belfast Airport to Derry?
The fastest door-to-door option is a pre-booked private transfer or taxi, taking approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes depending on traffic. The fastest public transport option is a taxi to Antrim train station + the train, which can take around 2 hours total.
How do I get to Derry from Belfast Airport late at night?
Options are very limited after public transport services end (typically around 11 PM). Your only reliable options are a taxi or a pre-booked private transfer, which are expensive but necessary. It is highly recommended to book these in advance for late-night arrivals.
Is it easy to travel with large luggage from BFS to Derry?
It can be challenging on public transport. Trains have luggage racks but space can be limited during peak times. Buses have under-carriage storage. Taxis and private transfers offer the easiest luggage handling. For a smooth journey with lots of bags, consider a direct private service.
Can I use a travel pass for the journey from Belfast Airport to Derry?
Yes, the Translink mLink smartcard or day/week passes can be used on most bus services (Airport Express 300 and Ulsterbus services to Derry). For trains, you would need to purchase a separate ticket or use a Railcard if eligible. There is no single pass covering the entire multi-modal journey.
Is flying from Belfast to Derry City Airport a good option?
No, this is not a viable option. While Derry has City of Derry Airport (LDY), there are no commercial flights from Belfast. The only air connection would involve flying via another UK hub like London or Manchester, which is prohibitively time-consuming and expensive for this short distance.
How far in advance should I book transport from BFS to Derry?
For public transport (bus/train), booking 1-3 days in advance is sufficient to secure a seat, especially for specific train times. For taxis or private transfers, booking at least 24-48 hours ahead is strongly advised, particularly for early morning, late night, or peak season travel to guarantee availability and a fixed price.