Getting Around County Antrim. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation System

Metro (Belfast City Services): Belfast has an extensive bus network called Metro. These services cover the entire city, giving frequent connections to various neighborhoods and attractions.

Ulsterbus: This service links Belfast to towns and villages throughout County Antrim and the rest of Northern Ireland. Ulsterbus also has local services within larger towns like Antrim, Ballymena, and Larne. These buses are a good option for reaching more rural areas or smaller coastal communities.

NI Railways: This rail network connects Belfast to main towns in County Antrim along two main lines:
Larne Line: Runs from Belfast to Larne Harbour, serving towns like Carrickfergus, Whitehead, and Larne. This line has scenic coastal views.
Coleraine/Portrush Line: Links Belfast to Coleraine and Portrush, with stops in Antrim, Ballymena, Ballymoney, and the Causeway Coast area. This line reaches popular tourist destinations in the north.

Transit Details

Europa Bus Centre (Belfast) is the main bus hub.
Great Victoria Street and Lanyon Place are main Belfast railway stations.
Tickets: Cash (exact fare), Smartlink Card (not for short-term visitors), Day Tickets.
Hours: Generally 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM/midnight; reduced Sundays/holidays.

Translink NI App

Download for real-time information, journey planning, and ticket buying.

Accessibility

Modern buses/trains are increasingly accessible (low floors, ramps). Check Translink website.

Cost Savings

Consider day tickets or "iLink" passes for extensive public transport use.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Belfast: Black cabs (hailable) and private hire (pre-book).
Outside Belfast: Private hire common, pre-booking almost always needed.
Fares are metered in Belfast (£7-£15 for short ride).

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Uber operates in Belfast and is widely used.
Value Cabs (local company) has its own booking app.
Use licensed taxis. Verify driver/vehicle with app info for ride-sharing.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Offers flexibility, especially for rural areas. Major companies at airports.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Less common for tourists; limited availability from specialty rentals.

Belfast Bikes

Public bike-sharing scheme in Belfast city center; registration needed.

Bike Rental Shops

Available in Belfast and some coastal towns for day or multi-day rentals.

Walking & Cycling

Exploring County Antrim on foot or by bicycle gives intimate connections with its landscapes and urban environments.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Belfast city center has extensive pedestrianized zones.
Lagan Towpath offers pleasant riverside walks.
Causeway Coast Way: renowned long-distance coastal walking trail.
Glens of Antrim: many walking trails through valleys and forests.

Walking Tours & Safety

Guided walking tours in Belfast (history, murals, Titanic, food).
Self-guided options available via apps and online resources.
No specific "no-go" areas. Exercise common sense and awareness.
Be mindful of photography in politically affiliated residential areas.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Belfast has a growing network of cycle lanes.
Causeway Coast Cycle Route is a popular option.
Some sections can be hilly; prepare for varied terrain.

Always wear a Helmet when cycling.
Ensure you are visible to drivers, especially in low light.
Be aware of traffic, notably on rural roads without dedicated cycle lanes.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Belfast has City Sightseeing and Hop-On Hop-Off tours. Day tours to Giant's Causeway are common.

Boat Services

River Lagan cruises. Ferry from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island. Lough Neagh offers private charters.

Accessibility Services

Translink works to make public transport accessible. Many major attractions have accessibility features.

Mobility Insight

County Antrim offers varied transport options, from extensive public networks in Belfast to the freedom of a rental car for rural exploration.

Choose the option that best suits your itinerary for a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Getting Around County Antrim