Belfast

๐ŸšŒ

Buses

Details on the bus system for public transportation across Belfast and surrounding areas.

Sections

1. Categories of Buses in Belfast

Belfastโ€™s bus network is divided into several categories to cater to different travel needs:

a. Metro Buses

  • These are the main city buses operating within Belfast.
  • Metro buses are color-coded by route and primarily serve the city center and surrounding suburbs.
  • Routes are numbered and grouped into corridors (e.g., 1A, 1B, 1C for the same corridor).

b. Glider Buses

  • The Glider is a modern, rapid transit bus service that connects East Belfast, West Belfast, and the Titanic Quarter via the city center.
  • Glider buses are sleek, purple-colored, and designed for faster boarding and travel.
  • Routes: G1 (East-West) and G2 (Titanic Quarter).

c. Ulsterbus

  • These buses connect Belfast to other towns and cities across Northern Ireland.
  • They are ideal for regional travel outside the city.

d. Airport Buses

  • Special services like the Airport Express 300/300A connect Belfast International Airport to the city center, and the Airport Express 600 connects George Best Belfast City Airport to the city center.

2. Ticket Costs

Ticket prices vary depending on the type of service, distance, and ticket type. Below are the main options:

a. Single Tickets

  • Metro Buses: ยฃ2.10 (adult) for a single journey within the city.
  • Glider Buses: ยฃ2.10 (adult) for a single journey.
  • Ulsterbus: Prices vary based on distance; for example, a trip to Lisburn costs around ยฃ3.50.

b. Day Tickets

  • DayLink Card: Unlimited travel on Metro and Glider services for one day. Costs ยฃ4.50 (adult) or ยฃ3.00 (child).
  • Family Day Ticket: ยฃ9.00 for unlimited travel for up to 2 adults and 4 children.

c. Weekly and Monthly Tickets

  • SmartLink Travel Card: Preloaded cards for unlimited travel on Metro and Glider services.
    • Weekly: ยฃ16.50 (adult).
    • Monthly: ยฃ60.00 (adult).

d. Concessionary Fares

  • Seniors (60+), students, and children under 16 are eligible for discounted or free travel. A Senior SmartPass allows free travel for residents aged 60+.

e. Contactless Payments

  • You can pay directly with a contactless debit/credit card on Metro and Glider buses. The daily cap for unlimited travel is ยฃ4.50.

3. How to Purchase Tickets

There are several ways to buy tickets for Belfast buses:

a. Onboard

  • You can pay the driver in cash for single tickets. Exact change is preferred as drivers may not have change for large notes.

b. Translink App

  • Download the Translink Journey Planner App to purchase tickets, check schedules, and plan routes. E-tickets can be scanned on the bus.

c. SmartLink Cards

  • Purchase and top up SmartLink cards at Translink stations, PayPoint outlets, or online. These cards are reusable and ideal for frequent travelers.

d. Ticket Machines

  • Glider stops have ticket machines where you can buy single or day tickets before boarding.

4. Procedures for Using the Buses

Hereโ€™s a step-by-step guide to using buses in Belfast:

a. Planning Your Journey

  • Use the Translink Journey Planner App or website to check routes, stops, and schedules.
  • Metro and Glider buses operate frequently, but schedules may vary during weekends and holidays.

b. Boarding the Bus

  • For Metro buses, wait at the designated bus stop and signal the driver by raising your hand as the bus approaches.
  • For Glider buses, board at the designated stops after purchasing a ticket or tapping your contactless card.

c. Paying for Your Journey

  • If paying onboard, tell the driver your destination and pay the fare. Keep your ticket as proof of payment.
  • For Glider buses, ensure you have a valid ticket or SmartLink card before boarding.

d. Exiting the Bus

  • Press the stop button in advance to alert the driver. Exit through the rear doors where possible.

5. Schedules

  • Metro Buses: Operate from approximately 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with reduced services on Sundays and public holidays.
  • Glider Buses: Operate from 5:30 AM to midnight, with buses every 7-8 minutes during peak times.
  • Ulsterbus: Schedules vary by route; check the Translink website or app for specific times.

6. Local Tips and Considerations

  • Peak Hours: Buses can get crowded during rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 4:30-6:00 PM). Plan your travel accordingly.
  • Exact Change: If paying cash, carry exact change for convenience.
  • Accessibility: All Metro and Glider buses are wheelchair accessible.
  • Cultural Etiquette: Greet the driver when boarding and thank them when exiting. This is a common courtesy in Northern Ireland.
  • Weather Preparedness: Belfast weather can be unpredictable, so dress appropriately if you need to wait at outdoor stops.
  • Late-Night Travel: Limited late-night services are available. Consider taxis or rideshares if traveling after midnight.

7. Additional Resources

  • Translink Website: www.translink.co.uk โ€“ For route maps, ticket prices, and service updates.
  • Translink App: Download for real-time bus tracking and ticket purchases.
  • Customer Service: Call Translink at +44 (0)28 9066 6630 for assistance.

By following this guide, you should find it easy to navigate Belfastโ€™s bus system. Enjoy your time in the city!