Bus Dublin to Belfast

Not sure about the bus but we took the train from downtown Dublin to Belfast and back. You could book ahead and buy a ticket that is refundable or changeable in case you are late or check to see if you even need to buy ahead.

I would recommend the train as I think it's a nicer journey, unless there's a specific reason you prefer the bus. Info on the train is here: https://www.translink.co.uk/usingourservicesandproducts/ourservices/enterprise

Also.as a reminder you will.need the new ETIAS sorry about spelling to enter Northern Island and if you want cash it will be in UK pounds. We really !liked the train when we did this several years ago.We went for several days after spending a week in Dublin then we had four days in Belfast.

On the Dublin Express to Belfast-

On our Dublin City to Dublin Airport services, you can buy your ticket directly from the driver*, however, this will be subject to availability as services may be full with pre-booked customers, so it is always advisable to purchase your ticket in advance. On our Belfast to Dublin services, you need to prebook your ticket online, this can be done through our website, or you can also book from our desk in Terminal 1 at Dublin Airport.
* If you would like to purchase a ticket from our drivers, please be aware that drivers can accept card payments only.

For Translink- on any Translink service you can pay by cash or contactless or (on internal Northern Ireland services) many people use the I-card.

Don't book ahead because you don't know what time your flight will actually arrive.

Thank you everyone for your help! Happy travels.

There are three different companies operating buses directly from Dublin Airport to Belfast, which will be more convenient than taking the train if, as you imply, you intend to travel directly to Belfast without visiting the city of Dublin. https://www.dublinairport.com/to-from-the-airport/by-bus/all-ireland-bus-routes

I have been to Dublin before and want to devote my time to the north, so I will just fly in and grab a bus. Good to know there are three options. Thank you!

you need an ETA to enter Northern Ireland https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
Translink are the Public Transport company in Northern Ireland (www.translink.co.uk) they operate cross border services to and from Dublin city and Dublin airport, there is no train station at the airport, there is two other companies who operate the route alongside translink dublin express and air coach , the only difference is the translink service goes into the Bus and Railway Station Grand Central Station and the private operators operate from a bus stop on a main city centre street , if you book the Translink service my advice is book the X2 service as the X1 service stops at a few places on the way up to Northern Ireland , were the X2 service is express , the other two operators are express as well

That is great information and a timely reminder about the ETA. Thank you so much!!

currency wise remember in NI as it is part of the UK it is Pounds not euro