- Must visit
Science and Industry Museum
Leading museum of science, industry, transport, and computing on a historic railway site. Essential for understanding Manchester's global impact.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Belfast to Manchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 07
Cheapest price on Sep 07
$74
Average ticket price on Sep 07
$74
Fastest journey on Sep 07
13 h 45 m
Average journey duration on Sep 07
13 h 45 m
Buses on Sep 07
2
Distance
271 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Belfast to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Belfast to Manchester will cost around $74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $74.
Fast buses
On Mon, Sep 07, we found 2 buses from Belfast to Manchester, including 2 direct services.
On Mon, Sep 07 the direct buses cover the 271 km distance in an average of 13 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 13 h 45 m .
On Mon, Sep 07 the slowest buses will take 13 h 45 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
2:20 PM13h45Belfast4:05 AMManchester$741One-way0 transfers- 1:20 PM13h45Belfast3:05 AMManchester$741One-way0 transfers
- 2:20 PM13h45Belfast4:05 AMManchester$741One-way0 transfers
- 1:20 PM13h45Belfast3:05 AMManchester$741One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, flight, and ferry for Belfast to Manchester
Omio recommends booking the ferry as it is the most popular option from Belfast to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the ferry, with an average ticket price of $68 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 2m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a ferry costs an average of $68, while a flight costs an average of $332.
Distance: 168 miles (271 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Ferry | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$74 Average price | $68 Average price Cheapest | $332 Average price | $2 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 39m Average total duration 11h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 4m Average total duration 8h 4m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 4h 2m Average total duration Fastest 2h 2m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 59m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular ferry company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Belfast to Manchester is a ferry with an average price of $68 (€55).
This is compared to other travel options from Belfast to Manchester:
A ferry is $6 (€5) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Belfast to Manchester costing on average $74 (€60).
A ferry is $264 (€214) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Belfast to Manchester costing on average $332 (€269).
The fastest way to travel from Belfast to Manchester is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 2m.
Other travel options to Manchester take longer:
Ferry takes on average 8h 4m.
Bus takes on average 11h 9m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Belfast and Manchester including taking a bus, flight, and ferry.
We recommend using the ferry as it is the most popular way to get from Belfast to Manchester among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $74 (€60) compared to roughly $2 (€2) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-71.62 (€-57.90). The journey takes 11h 9m versus 6h 59m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Belfast to Manchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 03:05AM | Duration 13h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 04:05AM | Duration 13h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $74 |
Live departures
Belfast to Manchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Belfast to Manchester buses for tomorrow, Monday, September 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:20 PM Belfast | 13h45 | 3:05 AM Manchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:20 PM Belfast | 13h45 | 4:05 AM Manchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Belfast to Manchester by bus, flight, or ferry
Compare bus, flight, and ferry prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Belfast to Manchester buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Belfast to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Belfast to Manchester.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are bus, flight and ferry to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Belfast to Manchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, flight and ferry to find the ideal travel option from Belfast to Manchester.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Belfast to Manchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Belfast to Manchester run on average 1 times per day, taking around 11h 9m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $72 (€58) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:45, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 168 miles (271 km) distance in 11h 5m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $24 (€20)
Distance 168 miles (271 km) |
Average bus duration 11h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $72 (€58) |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 11h 5m |
First bus 12:45 AM |
Last bus 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $24 (€20)
Bus providers: National Express from Belfast to ManchesterYou can travel by bus between Belfast to Manchester with National Express for as low as $24 (€20). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average National Express Duration
11h 5m
Cheapest National Express Price
$72 (€58)
National Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Complete guide to Manchester
Things to do in Manchester
Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.
- Must visit
Manchester Art Gallery
Major art museum with Pre-Raphaelite works, design, and changing exhibitions. A central cultural stop with broad appeal.
- Must visit
Manchester Museum
The University of Manchester museum spans dinosaurs, Egypt, nature, and anthropology. Recently renewed and excellent for varied interests.
- Must visit
Castlefield
Historic canal-side district with Roman remains, warehouses, and walkable towpaths. One of Manchester's most atmospheric urban areas.
- Must visit
Albert Square
Central square framed by grand civic buildings, museums, and monuments. A classic starting point for exploring the city centre.
- Must visit
Northern Quarter
Creative quarter of street art, music history, indie shops, and nightlife. It is one of Manchester's most characterful neighborhoods.
- Vegetarian
Manchester Curry Pie
A flaky pastry pie filled with spiced potatoes, onion and often chickpeas. Created by Manchester’s South Asian community and now a city staple.
Steak and Onion Pudding
A comforting Northern pudding of suet pastry filled with beef and onion, traditionally steamed and served with gravy. Common in Greater Manchester pubs.
Fish and Chips
Manchester’s classic order of battered fish with chips, often served with mushy peas and curry sauce. A long-standing local takeaway favourite.
Slattery
Iconic market bakery and café known for Manchester tarts, Eccles cakes and hearty lunches. Casual, busy and deeply rooted in local food culture.
Mana
Refined modern British fine dining in a restored townhouse. Known for tasting menus, polished service and one of Manchester’s top culinary reputations.
Mughli
Lively Indian restaurant famous for bold curries, grills and chaat. A long-established Rusholme favourite with a casual, energetic atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost less than London, while dining and transit are manageable for tourists with many mid-range options.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common for good service. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.
FAQs: Bus from Belfast to Manchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Belfast to Manchester by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Belfast to Manchester can start from as little as $72 (€58) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Belfast to Manchester is $74 (€60) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Belfast to Manchester is 11h 5m to travel the 168 miles (271 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Belfast to Manchester leaves at 12:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Belfast to Manchester leaves at 11:35 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from Belfast to Manchester which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Belfast to Manchester, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Manchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Belfast and Manchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Manchester from Belfast is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 11h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Belfast to Manchester is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Belfast and Manchester including taking a bus, flight, and ferry.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Belfast to Manchester:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Belfast to Manchester for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Manchester are:
- Manchester Art Gallery, a public art museum housing an extensive collection of fine art and decorative pieces
- Science and Industry Museum, an interactive museum exploring Manchester's industrial heritage and scientific achievements
- Manchester Cathedral, a historic Gothic-style cathedral known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere
- The John Rylands Library, a neo-Gothic library with an impressive collection of rare books and manuscripts
- Castlefield, a historic area with Roman ruins and picturesque canals, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The best things to do in Manchester include:
- Old Trafford, the iconic football stadium and home to Manchester United, offering tours and a museum dedicated to the club's history
- The Northern Quarter, a vibrant district known for its independent shops, cafes, and street art
- Visit the Manchester Opera House for a captivating performance
- Explore the vibrant nightlife at Deansgate Locks, a popular area with bars and clubs
- Enjoy a relaxing day at Heaton Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Europe, offering beautiful landscapes and recreational activities.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Belfast to Manchester depends on the bus companies:
- National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Belfast to Manchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Belfast to Manchester:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Belfast to Manchester:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Belfast to Manchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Belfast to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Belfast to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Belfast to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Belfast nor Manchester are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the ferry as it is the most popular way to get from Belfast to Manchester among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Manchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Staying aware of surroundings, particularly at night, helps reduce safety risks.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Belfast to Manchester
Most Belfast to Manchester buses use the Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street to Manchester, Coach Station station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester, Airport. Use this guide to compare Belfast and Manchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Belfast
Arrival bus stations in Manchester
Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington StreetUpper Queen Street, Belfast BT1 6PU, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street from Belfast city centre
Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street is 1 km from Belfast city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3G, 3H, 3J, 4C, 4D, 4E, 5A, 5B, 5C, 6A, 6D, 6E, 12, 511 · 7m · every ~36 min
Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street bus station facilities and services
Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street. ATMs are available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street: Accessibility features not detailed.
Which Manchester station do buses from Belfast arrive at?
Buses from Belfast to Manchester most often arrive at Manchester, Coach Station. Some services arrive at Manchester, Airport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Manchester arrival station.
Manchester, Coach StationChorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Coach Station from Manchester city centre
Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 33, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 1m · $2 · every ~231 min
Manchester, Coach Station bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located within the station for cash withdrawals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Coach Station: Ramps, assistance.
Manchester, AirportManchester Airport, Manchester M90 3RR, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Airport from Manchester city centre
Manchester, Airport is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · $6 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · $1 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · $2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · $2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · $5 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · $5 · every ~8 min
Manchester, Airport bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King (in the station), Giraffe (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering multiple currency options.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Airport.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Airport: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Most popular bus connections from Belfast
More options for your journey from Belfast to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Manchester and Belfast
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