When people think of Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, its rich historical heritage and industrial legacy often come to mind. But another standout feature is its convenient transport system, which makes it a major gateway to Northern Ireland and the northern part of the island of Ireland. Belfast is served by two main airports: George Best Belfast City Airport and Belfast International Airport. While both serve the same city, they differ significantly in terms of location, accessibility, flight routes, and passenger services.
I’ll compare Belfast’s two airports in terms of transport, facilities, flight network, passenger experience, shopping and dining, and traveller suitability to help you choose the best airport for your travel needs.
I. Airport Overview: Location & Background
1. George Best Belfast City Airport
- Location: About 5 km from Belfast city center, roughly 10 minutes by car.
- Name: Named after George Best, a legendary footballer from Northern Ireland.
- Features: A small airport focused on short-haul and business flights, known for its high frequency and fast processing.
- Main Airlines: Aer Lingus, British Airways, Loganair, etc.
2. Belfast International Airport
- Location: Located about 22 km northwest of Belfast in Aldergrove; travel time is around 30-40 minutes by car.
- History: Originally a military airbase, it was later converted for civilian use and is now Northern Ireland’s largest airport.
- Features: Offers a wider network of routes, including the UK, Europe, and select destinations in the Middle East.
- Main Airlines: easyJet, Jet2, Ryanair, TUI Airways, etc.
II. City Transport Comparison: Which Airport Is More Convenient?
1. Getting to the City Airport
- Taxi: A taxi ride from the city center to George Best Belfast City Airport takes around 10 minutes, with fares typically ranging from £10 to £15, depending on traffic. Taxis are readily available at designated pick-up points around the city, offering a quick and comfortable ride, especially for travelers with heavy luggage or tight schedules.
- Bus: The Metro Line 600 offers a regular bus service, running every 15 to 20 minutes. The journey to the City Airport takes approximately 15 minutes, making it a very convenient option for those looking for an affordable and efficient way to reach the airport. Tickets cost about £2.60, and buses are equipped with free Wi-Fi, making it a good choice for travelers who need to catch up on emails or relax before their flight.
- Advantages: The City Airport is highly accessible and offers low-cost, quick transportation options. The short commute time makes it especially convenient for business travelers, last-minute flights, and those on short stays who want to avoid the hassle of a longer trip. Its proximity to the city center also allows for a more relaxed departure process, reducing the stress of traveling to the airport.
2. Getting to the International Airport
- Taxi: The journey from the city center to Belfast International Airport takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Taxis typically cost between £35 and £45. While this is a longer ride, it can be a good choice for those traveling in a group, with luggage, or during times when public transport might be less frequent. Taxis are available at various locations around the city, and booking one in advance ensures you won’t have to wait during peak times.
- Airport Bus: The Airport Express 300 provides frequent daily bus services to the International Airport. The journey lasts about 40 minutes, and the one-way ticket costs around £8. The buses run regularly throughout the day, making it an affordable and reliable choice for travelers. These buses are comfortable, with ample seating and luggage space, and they are a popular option for both locals and visitors heading to the airport.
- Driving/Rental: For families, larger groups, or travelers planning a road trip around Northern Ireland, driving to Belfast International Airport is an ideal option. The airport offers a variety of car rental services, with multiple rental agencies available on-site. There is also plenty of parking, both short-term and long-term, making it a convenient choice for those who need to leave their car during their travels. Renting a car also provides flexibility and the ability to explore the area at your own pace.
III. Flight Network & Destination Coverage
1. City Airport Routes
Primarily serves domestic UK destinations like London (Heathrow and London City Airport), Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham, and more. Some flights also operate to Edinburgh, Leeds, and Southampton. International flights are limited, often requiring a transfer in London or Manchester.
Best for: Business travelers, weekend city hoppers, and those connecting to multiple UK cities.
2. International Airport Routes
Offers a wide range of destinations, covering:
- Spain (Malaga, Alicante, Barcelona)
- Italy (Milan, Rome)
- Other vacation spots in Greece, Portugal, France, etc.
- Seasonal routes: Special holiday flights to Turkey, Tunisia, and parts of the Middle East & North Africa.
Best for: Long-distance travelers, beach vacationers, and backpackers exploring multiple European countries.
IV. Airport Facilities & Passenger Experience
1. City Airport Highlights
- Fast security: Queues rarely exceed 15 minutes—ideal for tight schedules.
- Business-friendly: Offers several lounges and fast-track options.
- Compact layout: Just a 5–7 minute walk from entrance to gate.
- Free Wi-Fi: Stable and fast enough for video calls and remote work.
2. International Airport Highlights
- Spacious design: Well-organized terminal with multiple gates.
- Diverse services: Includes luggage wrapping, currency exchange, and kids’ play zones.
- International support: Multilingual signage and service desks available.
- VIP lounges: Available for airlines like Jet2 and Ryanair.
V. Dining & Shopping: Travel Perks
City Airport Recommendations
- Café Bar: Serves traditional Northern Irish breakfasts and local beers.
- WHSmith Bookstore: Good for magazines, books, and travel essentials.
- Souvenir Corner: Sells George Best memorabilia and Northern Irish crafts.
International Airport Recommendations
- Starbucks & Costa Coffee: Great for quick refreshments and snacks.
- The Lagan Bar: Irish pub atmosphere, offering Guinness and local bites.
- Duty-Free: Wide selection of perfumes, alcohol, tobacco, and chocolates at reasonable prices.
- HMSHost Market: Modern food court with pizza, vegetarian, and grab-and-go options.
VI. Best Fit by Traveler Type
| Traveler Type | Recommended Airport | Why |
| Business Travelers | City Airport | Close to city, fast security screening |
| Short-Stay Tourists | City Airport | Time-saving, frequent domestic flights |
| Families | International Airport | Easy parking, wide range of flights |
| European Vacationers | International Airport | Extensive routes, better value for money |
| Budget Travelers | International Airport | Low-cost carriers like easyJet and Ryanair |
| Time-Sensitive Travelers | City Airport | Quick access, efficient boarding process |
VII. Tips & Practical Advice
- Allow extra time during peak seasons: During high-traffic periods like summer holidays and the Christmas season, airports tend to experience a surge in passengers. The International Airport, in particular, can get very busy due to the large number of both domestic and international flights. To avoid unnecessary stress, it’s advisable to arrive 2 to 2.5 hours before your flight during these peak periods. This extra time will help you navigate the longer security lines, check in smoothly, and still have time to relax before your flight.
- Pre-book transportation: If you’re planning to use the Airport Express bus to get to the International Airport, it’s a smart idea to pre-book your tickets online. This not only guarantees you a seat, especially during rush hours when buses can fill up quickly, but it also saves you from waiting in long lines at the ticket counters. Additionally, some bus operators offer discounts for advance bookings, which can save you a few pounds compared to purchasing tickets on the day of travel.
- Check baggage policies: Many low-cost airlines, such as easyJet, Ryanair, and others, have strict baggage policies that could lead to hefty fees if not followed. These airlines often impose limitations on both carry-on and checked luggage sizes and weight. To avoid being caught off guard, always review the baggage rules before you pack and consider purchasing additional baggage allowance in advance if you know you’ll need it. This way, you can ensure you won’t face last-minute charges or delays at check-in.
- Online check-in: Save valuable time at the airport by checking in online 24 hours before your flight. Most airlines offer this feature, and it allows you to select your seat, pay for any additional luggage, and receive your boarding pass all from the comfort of your home. By doing this, you can skip long queues at the check-in counter and head directly to security, giving you more time to relax or shop. Be sure to have a digital or printed version of your boarding pass ready for a smooth airport experience.
- Airport switch considerations: If you’re arriving at one airport and departing from the other—such as flying into George Best Belfast City Airport but leaving from Belfast International Airport—be sure to allow enough time for the transfer. The drive between the two airports typically takes about 30-40 minutes, but you should account for potential traffic delays, especially during rush hours. A minimum of 3 hours between your scheduled landing and departure times is recommended, so you have ample time to travel between airports, check in for your next flight, and go through security.
VIII. Choose the Right Airport for a Smoother Journey
Whether it’s your first time visiting Belfast or you’re a frequent flyer, knowing which airport suits your travel plans can greatly enhance your experience.
- If your itinerary focuses on UK domestic travel, and time is of the essence: George Best Belfast City Airport is the ideal choice.
- If you’re planning an international getaway, working with a tighter budget, or need access to a broader network: Belfast International Airport is your best bet.
