Manchester to Belfast train

Sun, Sep 06
+ Add return
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus, flight, and ferry for Manchester to Belfast

Omio recommends booking the ferry as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Belfast among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the ferry, with an average ticket price of $65 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 8m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a ferry costs an average of $65, while a flight costs an average of $307.

Distance: 168 miles (271 km)

Compare ferry with

Most popular
Ferry
Flight
Bus
Driving

$65

Average price

Cheapest

$307

Average price

$74

Average price

$84

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 2m

Average total duration

8h 2m

Onboard

+

1h 0m

Additional time*

4h 8m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 8m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

11h 50m

Average total duration

11h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 3m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Stena Line

Most popular ferry company

British Airways

Most popular airline

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Belfast is a ferry with an average price of $65.

This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Belfast:

A ferry is $9 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Manchester to Belfast costing on average $74.

A ferry is $242 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Belfast costing on average $307.

The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Belfast is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 8m.

Other travel options to Belfast take longer:

Ferry takes on average 8h 2m.

Bus takes on average 11h 20m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Belfast including taking a bus, flight, and ferry.
We recommend using the ferry as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Belfast among Omio's users.

Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Belfast 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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Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to Belfast

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Take a train from Manchester to Belfast and enjoy the approximately 168 miles (271 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.

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
Ferry from $26
Distance
168 miles (271 km)
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Fri
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
Ferry from $26

Complete guide to Belfast

Things to do in Belfast

Discover the best of Belfast — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Belfast trip today.

  • Must visit

Titanic Belfast

Award-winning museum on the Titanic story, Belfast shipbuilding and ocean travel. Its immersive galleries are the city's signature experience.

  • Must visit

Ulster Museum

Northern Ireland's national museum with art, history, archaeology and natural sciences. A varied and essential stop near Queen's University.

  • Recommended

The MAC

Major contemporary arts venue showing local and international exhibitions in a striking riverside building in the Cathedral Quarter.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for UK city breaks: hotels and dining are mid-priced, pubs are reasonable, and local buses are affordable for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
£18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is often not included. Tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and tipping in cafes is optional.

FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Belfast

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Belfast by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Belfast, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The distance by train from Manchester to Belfast is 168 miles (271 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Belfast.
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Belfast is by flight, with a cost of around $32.
The journey from Manchester to Belfast by train is not considered particularly scenic, as it primarily involves traveling to a coastal city like Liverpool and then taking a ferry to Belfast, rather than direct train views.
In Belfast, you can explore Crumlin Road Gaol with guided tours, take a Black Taxi Tour to learn about the city's political history, and enjoy a scenic walk along the Lagan Towpath. Visit the Cathedral Quarter for its arts scene and nightlife, and hike in Cave Hill Country Park for stunning views. Don't miss Titanic Belfast for its interactive exhibits, Belfast Castle for panoramic views, and St. George's Market for local produce and crafts. The Ulster Museum offers art and history displays, while the Botanic Gardens provide a serene Victorian-era escape.
To explore the main attractions in Belfast, such as the Titanic Belfast, the Ulster Museum, and the Giant's Causeway, a visit of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
No, you cannot take the train from Manchester to Belfast.
Since neither Manchester nor Belfast 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 Manchester to Belfast among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
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 Belfast, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and tourist attractions. Be aware of unofficial taxi services and only use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep valuables secure. While violent crime is low, some neighborhoods may be less safe after dark, so it’s best to stay in well-lit, populated areas. Travelers should also be cautious of street scams involving overcharging or misleading offers.
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.

Most popular train connections to Belfast

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We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

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