By Car in Belfast

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By Car

Many roads from the Irish Republic into Northern Ireland were once closed for security reasons, but all are now reinstated, leaving you with a choice of legitimate crossing points. Army checkpoints at approved frontier posts are rare, and few customs formalities are observed. The fast N1/A1 road connects Belfast to Dublin in 160 km (100 mi) with an average driving time of just over two hours. In general, roads here are in much better shape and signposted more clearly than in the Irish Republic.

Parking

Belfast has many parking garages, as well as street meter-ticket parking. Before parking on the street, check the posted regulations: during rush hours many spots become no-parking.

Traffic

Bad rush-hour delays can occur on the West Link in Belfast joining M1 (heading south or west) and M2 (heading east or north). Major roadworks will be underway in Belfast during 2007 and detours may be in place. On the whole, driving is quicker and easier in the north than in areas south of the border.