Belfast

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Ticketing

Overview of ticketing systems for public transportation and other mobility services in Belfast.

Sections

1. Public Transport Options in Belfast

Belfast's public transport system includes:

  • Metro Buses: City buses operating within Belfast.
  • Glider (G1 and G2): A modern rapid transit bus service connecting key areas of the city.
  • Ulsterbus: Regional buses connecting Belfast to other towns and cities in Northern Ireland.
  • NI Railways: Train services connecting Belfast to other parts of Northern Ireland and cross-border services to Dublin.

2. Ticket Options

Translink offers a variety of ticketing options to suit different travel needs:

Single Tickets

  • Metro/Glider: A single journey ticket for buses or Glider services within Belfast.
    • Cost: ยฃ2.10 (adult) if purchased on board.
  • Train: Single journey tickets vary depending on the distance. For example, a single ticket from Belfast to Bangor costs around ยฃ6.20.

Day Tickets

  • DayLink Card: Unlimited travel on Metro/Glider services for one day.
    • Cost: ยฃ4.50 (adult) / ยฃ3.00 (child).
  • Day Return (Train): A return ticket for train journeys on the same day, often slightly cheaper than two single tickets.

Weekly and Monthly Passes

  • SmartLink Weekly/Monthly Cards: Unlimited travel on Metro/Glider services for a week or a month.
    • Weekly: ยฃ17.50 (adult).
    • Monthly: ยฃ65.00 (adult).
  • Weekly/Monthly Train Tickets: Prices depend on the route. For example, a weekly pass from Belfast to Bangor costs around ยฃ30.50.

Travel Cards and Multi-Journey Tickets

  • SmartLink Multi-Journey Card: Preloaded with 10 journeys for Metro/Glider services.
    • Cost: ยฃ16.50 (adult).
  • iLink Card: Unlimited travel across Metro, Glider, Ulsterbus, and NI Railways for 1, 7, or 30 days.
    • 1 Day: ยฃ6.50 (Zone 1, Belfast only).
    • 7 Days: ยฃ23.00 (Zone 1).
    • 30 Days: ยฃ88.00 (Zone 1).

Discounted Tickets

  • Concessionary Fares: Available for seniors (aged 60+), students, and children.
    • Children (5-16 years): Half-price fares on most services.
    • Students: Discounted fares with a valid Translink yLink card (see below).
    • Seniors: Free travel for Northern Ireland residents aged 60+ with a Senior SmartPass.

3. How to Purchase Tickets

Tickets can be purchased through the following methods:

  • On Board: Single tickets can be purchased directly from the driver (cash only, exact change preferred).
  • Ticket Machines: Available at major Glider stops and train stations for purchasing single, return, and day tickets.
  • Translink App: Download the Translink app to purchase and store digital tickets for Metro, Glider, and train services.
  • Retail Outlets: SmartLink and iLink cards can be purchased and topped up at Translink sales outlets and participating retailers.
  • Online: Some tickets, such as train tickets, can be purchased in advance on the Translink website.

4. Discounts and Special Passes

  • yLink Card: For young people aged 16-23, offering 1/3 off bus and train fares and 50% off cross-border journeys to Dublin. The card costs ยฃ8 and is valid for one year.
  • Family and Friends Ticket: Unlimited travel for up to 2 adults and 4 children on Metro, Glider, and NI Railways services.
    • Cost: ยฃ23.00 (valid on weekends and public holidays).
  • Senior SmartPass: Free travel for Northern Ireland residents aged 60+.

5. Local Considerations and Tips

  • Exact Change: If purchasing tickets on board buses, ensure you have the exact fare as drivers do not provide change.
  • Peak Hours: Public transport can be busy during peak hours (7:30-9:30 AM and 4:30-6:30 PM). Plan your travel accordingly.
  • Glider Services: Glider services are faster and more reliable than regular buses, especially during rush hours.
  • Cross-Border Travel: For trips to Dublin, consider the Enterprise train service. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station, and discounts are available for yLink cardholders.
  • Accessibility: All Metro, Glider, and train services are wheelchair accessible.
  • Free Wi-Fi: Available on most buses, Glider services, and trains.

6. Useful Resources

  • Translink Website: www.translink.co.uk โ€“ For schedules, ticket prices, and online purchases.
  • Translink App: Download for real-time updates, journey planning, and mobile ticketing.
  • Customer Service: Call Translink at +44 (0)28 9066 6630 for assistance.

By understanding the ticketing options and planning ahead, you can navigate Belfastโ€™s public transport system with ease and make the most of your visit or stay in the city!