Is there a direct train?

No, you must take a train to a port and then a ferry.

How long is the ferry?

The ferry journey from Holyhead to Dublin is about 3.5 hours.

There are no tolls on the route from Merthyr Tydfil to the ferry port.

Yes, flying is the most practical way to travel to Belfast.

What is the best way to travel?

Flying is the most practical and fastest way.

Merthyr Tydfil

Belfast

Flight Ship

Merthyr Tydfil to Belfast

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Merthyr Tydfil to Belfast involves crossing the Irish Sea. You can take a train to a port city like Liverpool or Holyhead, then catch a ferry to Belfast. Alternatively, you can fly from Cardiff or Bristol. This is a multi-modal journey. Expect a travel time of roughly 8 to 10 hours by train and ferry, or 4 hours by flight.

Total Distance: 450 km total distance including ferry, 320 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest, taking about 4 hours including airport time.

Cheapest Way

Advance flight tickets are often the cheapest and fastest way to travel.

Compare Merthyr Tydfil to Belfast Routes

	Flight Connecting	Ship Connecting
Duration	4 hours	10 hours
Avg Price	60-150 GBP	80-150 GBP
Operator	Aer Lingus, EasyJet	Stena Line
Route	Travel to Cardiff or Bristol airport, then fly to Belfast.	Train to Holyhead, then ferry to Dublin/Belfast.
Tip	Flying is significantly faster than the train and ferry combination.	Book your ferry in advance for the best prices.

Travel Tips

Booking
Use the Stena Line website for ferry bookings and airline websites for flights.
Passport
While not strictly required for UK citizens, it is recommended to carry a photo ID.
Traffic
Belfast city center is walkable, but public transport is available.
Currency
Northern Ireland uses the British Pound.
Dining
Try local Northern Irish dishes in the city center.