Travelling to Belfast & Derry/Londonderry
We'd love it if you travelled here as sustainably as possible - there are ferry and rail options from Scotland, Wales and England and buses and trains throughout the country. Many of the NI Science Festival events are held in Belfast and Derry/Londonderry. Here's some helpful information for travelling to these cities.
By Air
Flights from all major UK and European cities arrive at either of Belfast’s two airports. Belfast International is 19 miles from the city centre, and George Best Belfast City Airport three miles from the city centre.
By Boat
Stena Line sails up to six times a day between Belfast and Cairnryan, and up to twice a day between Belfast and Liverpool. P&O sails up to nine times a day from Cairnryan to Larne, and twice a day from Troon to Larne from the end of March to end of September.
By Bus
Translink Metro buses are very regular throughout the day. A single journey bus ticket starts at £1.60. Smartlink day tickets start at £3.00 off peak or £3.50 unlimited See translink.co.uk
By Train
Lines run between Belfast and Dublin, Larne, Londonderry and points in between. For routes and fares, visit translink.co.uk. Contact Translink 028 90 66 66 30 or visit translink.co.uk for up-to-date timetable information.
By Bike
In Belfast you can avail of the Beryl Bike scheme to cycle across the city. With hundreds of Frank and Honest Belfast Bikes by Beryl across the city, getting around Belfast has never been easier. Cycle along the River Lagan, explore the bustling Cathedral Quarter, or head to Queen’s University without the hassle of traffic or parking. Take a ride to St George’s Market for a weekend wander, or follow one of the city’s scenic routes to see sights like the Titanic Quarter and the Botanic Gardens.
Things To Do
If you have time during your visit, or are staying in Ireland, you may want to soak in some more Irish culture, by visiting some popular tourist destinations. You can find guides to accessible venues here at sites all across Northern Ireland. Here are some of our suggestions.
Belfast City Hall
One of Belfast's most iconic buildings, Belfast City Hall first opened its doors in August 1906 and is Belfast's civic building.
Botanic Gardens
Botanic Gardens is an important part of Belfast's Victorian heritage and a popular meeting place for residents, students and tourists.
Armagh Observatory & Planetarium
Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is Ireland’s leading centre for astronomical research and education, and one of the top attractions in the City of Armagh.
Marble Arch Caves
Marble Arch Caves is the most active river cave in Ireland and the UK.
Ulster Museum
The Ulster Museum in Belfast is Northern Ireland's national museum, offering free entry to 5 floors covering arts, science and history.
Cave Hill
Cavehill is a basaltic hill offering sweeping views of Belfast & Scotland, plus caves and also home to Belfast Castle.
Longer Stays
Looking for more?
Both Discover Northern Ireland and Discover Ireland are excellent sources of information on what to do and see during your stay here.
Places to Stay
Make it a Weekend
To view the full range of hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses and hostels Northern Ireland has to offer visit Discover Northern Ireland from our Festival partner Tourism Northern Ireland. We've also included a selection of some of our favourite cafes and restaurants.
Room 2, Belfast
Northern Ireland's first hometel consists of 175 rooms, modern event spaces, a trendy restaurant & bar, a tea room and a welcoming lobby. Whether you’re visiting Belfast for a family getaway, a fun city break or an overnight work trip, they have a room to suit you. Everyone’s welcome here, and that includes your pets. Their award-winning commitment to sustainability has a positive impact. Their Belfast hometel runs on 100% electric and low carbon renewable energy and has a zero waste to landfill policy.
Hustle
A 100% plant-based café in Belfast City Centre. Offers hot food, sandwiches, teas, coffees, traybakes, milkshakes and more - home to exhibitions and events.
Café Husk
Café located in the Crescent Arts Centre, offering hot food, drinks, soups, sandwiches and more. Also home to The Crescent's Little Library - a free community library where you can come along and borrow a book.
The Black Box
Performance and arts venue with music, theatre, comedy, film, visual art, circus, cabaret and bar located in Belfast City Centre. The Black Box is a not-for-profit charity, with a particular focus on accessibility and supporting artists.
The Naughton Gallery
Situated at the heart of Queen’s University Belfast on the first floor of the Lanyon Building, the Naughton Gallery is one of Northern Ireland’s leading visual arts destinations. Amplifying fresh voices and vital perspectives from around the world, the gallery is a crucial platform for innovative artistic expression.
