THE 10 BEST Belfast Sightseeing Tours

Sightseeing tours in belfast.

  • Historical & Heritage Tours
  • Cultural Tours
  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Chinese (Traditional)
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • Special Offers

belfast sightseeing tours

  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

belfast sightseeing tours

1. Private Giants Causeway & Coastal Tour from Belfast in Luxury Mercedes

belfast sightseeing tours

2. Dublin: Giant's Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce and Belfast Titanic entrance fee

belfast sightseeing tours

3. A History of Terror - Belfast City Centre Walking Tour

belfast sightseeing tours

4. Cab Tours Belfast Famous Black Taxi Tours

belfast sightseeing tours

5. City Sightseeing Belfast Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

belfast sightseeing tours

6. Private tour of the Antrim coast , Giants Causeway and Game of Throne locations

belfast sightseeing tours

7. Belfast City Murals and Peace Walls Private Tour

belfast sightseeing tours

8. 2hours Belfast’s political war and peace private taxi tour

belfast sightseeing tours

9. 2 hours Belfast Original Drivers The Troubles Black Taxi Tour

belfast sightseeing tours

10. Giant Causeway, Dark Hedges & Whiskey Distillery tour from Dublin

belfast sightseeing tours

11. Giant's Causeway with the Titanic Exhibition and the best of Northern Ireland

belfast sightseeing tours

12. Private Tour: Giant's Causeway, Norman Castles, and Game of Thrones Film Locations

belfast sightseeing tours

13. Northern Highlights Full-Day Guided Tour in Northern Ireland

belfast sightseeing tours

14. Belfast black cab 2hr private tour

belfast sightseeing tours

15. Black Cab Tour world famous 2 hours adventure

belfast sightseeing tours

16. Belfast Troubles Tour: Walls and Bridges

belfast sightseeing tours

17. Official World Famous Belfast Taxi Tour ™

belfast sightseeing tours

18. Private Black Taxi Belfast City Tour

belfast sightseeing tours

19. Shore Excursion: Giant's Causeway Tour Including Belfast City Tour

belfast sightseeing tours

20. Winter Magic in the Antrim Glens

belfast sightseeing tours

21. Private Tour - Causeway, Castles & Whiskey Tour - Game of Thrones

belfast sightseeing tours

22. Black Taxi Tour and Crumlin Road Gaol tour Combo

belfast sightseeing tours

23. Full-Day Private Tour of Giants Causeway with Pick Up

belfast sightseeing tours

24. Private Driver Guided Day Tour of Belfast

belfast sightseeing tours

25. The Troubles and iconic black taxi driver private 2 hrs tour

belfast sightseeing tours

26. IRA Troubles Conflict Private Tour Museum Graves Murals and Political Analysis

belfast sightseeing tours

27. SHORE EXCURSIONS BELFAST / up to 5 tours in 1 day from CRUISE SHIP @ MICKS TOURS

belfast sightseeing tours

28. Game of Thrones - Private Audi A6 tour with Richard the Wildling

belfast sightseeing tours

29. Game of Thrones Private Tour - Luxury Land Rover 1-4 persons

belfast sightseeing tours

30. Belfast black taxi tours

What travelers are saying.

Tiiu S

  • Nicola S 1 contribution 1 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent unbiased taxi tour Stevie our guide did a great job. He was very informative and knowledgeable. The tour was unbiased and Stevie took time to explain things from both angles. An absolute must do in Belfast! Read more Review of: Cab Tours Belfast Famous Black Taxi Tours Written May 2, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Maggiebettyboo

  • Cab Tours Belfast
  • NI Black Taxi Tours
  • TaxiToursNI
  • Walking Tours Belfast
  • Belfast Tours NI
  • Finn McCools Tours
  • Happy Irish Tours
  • Belfast Mural Experience
  • Belfastology Walking Tours
  • Odyssey Coach Tours
  • Black Taxi Tour Belfast
  • Belfast Party Bike

Where should you travel next? Take the free quiz!

Volumes & Voyages

13 Fantastic Belfast Tours

' src=

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

Are you looking for the best Belfast tours in Northern Ireland? We’ve got you covered.

If you’re planning a visit to Belfast in 2023, being prepared and knowing what tours are available is essential for getting the most out of your trip. This vibrant city has so much to offer, from its bustling nightlife scene to its rich history and culture – and there’s something here for everyone.

From classic sightseeing experiences or unique activities that show off the authentic side of local life, take a look at these 13 fantastic Belfast tours that are sure to spark your adventurous spirit!

Table of Contents

Best Belfast Tours

Giant’s causeway day trip from belfast.

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars ( 1726 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 10 hours | ✅ Includes: Local guide, air-conditioned vehicle | ⚡ Book now

Girl standing on hexagon-shaped rocks by the water in a pink jacket.

Embark on a full-day adventure to the magical Giant’s Causeway! Journey through Northern Ireland’s stunning countryside in luxury by coach and arrive at this awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With your knowledgeable guide, marvel as you ascend its stones surrounded by scenes of unbelievable beauty – it’ll take your breath away! Enjoy hotel pick up and drop off included for maximum convenience.

The tour is approximately 10 hours long and includes the tour guide and an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation. For travelers who are visiting from out of the country, this tour is a great opportunity to see the beauty of Northern Ireland.

FREE TRAVEL QUIZ

Black Cab Tour world famous 2 hours adventure

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 75 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 2 hours | ✅ Includes: Transportation, professional guide | ⚡ Book now

Close up of a building's tower with a green dome top.

For an in-depth exploration of The Troubles, join in on this exclusive guided tour of Belfast! Offering authentic insights from a driver who navigated the city during that difficult period and its aftermath, you’ll get to ride through the Falls Road and Shankill Road—plus marvel at famous murals and peace walls.

Witness firsthand how history was made as our knowledgeable guide shares photos along with four versions of the country’s complicated past. Ride comfortably in your own private London black cab while they take care of all transportation needs – simply select a hotel pick up/drop off included when booking.

Get ready for an unforgettable journey into one tumultuous chapter in Northern Ireland’s history.

Belfast walking tasting tour with Secret Food Tours

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 58 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 3.5 hours | ✅ Includes: Tour guide, Tastings of smoked salmon, oyster, irish stew, meats, and cheeses | ⚡ Book now

Street art of a woman's face surrounded by red flowers.

Immerse yourself in the foodie culture of Belfast with an incredible walking tour and tasting adventure! Explore iconic street art and uncover fascinating stories about the city’s history as you stroll between delicious local stops.

Get ready to sample a variety of traditional dishes, like Irish cured meats, cheeses, soda bread, and stew – plus some mouth-watering smoked salmon. Enjoy drinks at historic pubs along your journey!

With only 12 travelers allowed per group this is a unique opportunity to explore local delicacies while deepening your understanding of regional cuisine and customs.

City Sightseeing Belfast Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars ( 1208 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 1.5 hours | ✅ Includes: 1 or 2 day unlimited hop-on hop-off bus pass, On-board audio commentary available in several languages + free headphones, Vouchers valid for 12 months | ⚡ Book now

Statue of a woman in a crown by a city hall building.

Experience the remarkable stories of Belfast like never before and explore its colorful history on board a double-decker hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour! Delve into the tales behind wall murals in Falls Road, shop at St George’s Market, take pics next to Titanic Dock, and capture views from Albert Clock.

With City Sightseeing’s 1 or 2-day pass, you have total freedom to create your own route with 20 stops around town – jump onboard for an unforgettable adventure filled with live commentary along the way!

If you want a tour where you can control when you stop to explore more, than this is 100% your best option.

Official World Famous Belfast Taxi Tour ™

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 376 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 1.5 to 2 hours | ✅ Includes: Transportation, guide, multiple stops through Belfast | ⚡ Book now

Street art showing hands and a pint of guinness.

Unlock Belfast’s exciting 800 years of history with a private taxi tour – an intimate and personalized way to explore this incredible city!

Experience the fascinating culture that shaped Northern Ireland, learn about “The Troubles” from your driver/guide, and see iconic murals like The Peace Wall up close. Plus you have the chance to visit Memorial Gardens too.

Take advantage of time-saving insights into Belfast that only local experts could provide; discover its hidden gems in comfort and style on this tour which lasts 1.5 to 2 hours.

A History of Terror – Belfast City Centre Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 1462 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 2 to 2.5 hours | ✅ Includes: Local guide, headset to hear what the guide says | ⚡ Book now

Street art of a man speaking and people walking around.

Step back in time and discover poignant stories of political struggles, pivotal events, and landmarks during a guided walking tour of Belfast.

Hear tales from the period known as The Troubles while exploring top attractions such as City Hall, Ann Street, and the Cathedral Quarter with an experienced local guide for an insightful perspective on Northern Ireland’s history.

Get ready to explore on this tour which lasts 2 to 2.5 hours! Unlike some other tours on this list, this Belfast tour does include a headset so you can easily hear the guide in case the group is of larger size.

IRA Troubles Conflict Private Tour Museum Graves Murals and Political Analysis

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 28 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 2.5 to 3 hours | ✅ Includes: Private transportation, guide | ⚡ Book now

Close up of people walking around in street art.

Embark on a journey to learn more about The Troubles of Northern Ireland and uncover remarkable stories from an Irish Republican political activist who’s also part of Sinn Féin.

Discover Belfast’s turbulent past as you visit incredible sites such as The Falls Road, the Peace Walls, Clonard Martyrs, Shankill Road & Milltown Cemetery – all under the guidance of your private guide!

Get ready for an enlightening experience filled with personal insights that can’t be found elsewhere on this tour that takes 2.5 to 3 hours. This tour includes private transportation and a guide.

Belfast Bike Tours

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 107 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 3 hours | ✅ Includes: Bike, helmet | ⚡ Book now

Side view of a historic brick cathedral. Birds sit on top of the building.

Embrace the outdoors and experience Belfast like never before – on two wheels! You don’t have to worry about bringing a bike; rental is included in your tour. So hop on, and take off with an experienced guide who’ll show you all the incredible sights of this city.

Along the way, see murals that tell its stories (local legends!), one of Ireland’s oldest pubs that blends history and style, along with a stop at Belfast City Hall – must see for sure! The tour won’t leave out St. George’s Market or Titanic Quarter either; the expert guides will ensure you catch every little detail so nothing goes overlooked during such a fantastic day exploring Northern Ireland’s capital.

For travelers looking to explore Belfast not on their own two feet, this is truly one of the best tour options there is!

Belfast City Tour

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 5 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 2.5 hours | ✅ Includes: Tour guide | ⚡ Book now

A historic building that's tan with light green domes.

On this 2.5-hour tour, explore the beauty of Belfast with an expert tour guide. Meet right at Belfast City Hall (a must-see in Belfast) and then get started on the tour.

Spots along the tour that you’ll visit include Queen’s University (Belfast’s oldest university), the botanic gardens, the Grand Opera House, the Cathedral of St. Anne, Belfast Castle, Albert Memorial Clock Tower, and the Titanic Quarter.

While the tour doesn’t include entrance to the Titanic Museum, it ends there, so you’re welcome to continue on and go in (which is 100% recommended) so you can learn even more about the Titanic. This tour is stroller and wheelchair accessible.

Eclectic Belfast (Small Group) Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 268 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 2.5 to 3 hours | ✅ Includes: Professional guide | ⚡ Book now

An empty cobblestone street lined with white buildings. Umbrella lights are strung above it.

Get ready to explore Belfast’s unique history, stunning architecture, and iconic street art with the popular experience along #theMartiWay! Starting at City Hall and ending in Cathedral Quarter, you can expect an unforgettable journey as your guide shares stories of over 9,000 years of local heritage.

You’ll get insights into prominent figures who have shaped this part of Ireland – from Industrial Heritage to Hi-Tech Engineering and everything in between. Uncover all that makes this city so beautiful on a walking tour like no other!

Belfast’s political taxi tour

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 52 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 2 hours | ✅ Includes: Tour guide, transportation | ⚡ Book now

Close up of a blue fish sculpture near the water.

Immerse yourself in Belfast’s turbulent history and culture with a unique tour of the city. Ride around in your very own private black taxi, guided by an experienced driver who lived through The Troubles!

You’ll explore incredible murals and peace walls painted by people from both sides of the conflict while learning stories that offer valuable insight into this complicated era. Discover why street art is so political in Belfast on this tour.

Best of Belfast Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 119 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 3 hours | ✅ Includes: Tour guide, headset to easily hear the guide | ⚡ Book now

Cars parked in front of a red brick building that says "St George's Market."

Explore the history and culture of Belfast in a fun, stress-free way with a guided walking tour! With no more than 20 people on each tour, you’ll get to experience this amazing city with a smaller group alongside an experienced local guide.

Whether it’s learning about important attractions or getting good tips for exploring individually later – this is sure to be one unforgettable journey through Belfast! The tour is approximately 3 hours long, making it one of the longer Belfast tours on this list.

Belfast’s Political Mural Taxi Tour

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 330 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 1 hour | ✅ Includes: Professional guide | ⚡ Book now

Statue of a man speaking in front of street art.

Discover vibrant Belfast and its captivating political murals on this private guided tour! Enjoy stress-free exploration around the city as your certified guide shows you to many majestic spots, including International Mural Wall Divis Street, Falls Road, and Peace Wall.

Let them share stories from Belfast’s history with you for an unforgettable experience! This is perfect for those traveling to Belfast who want to have a shorter tour, or are visiting Belfast with not as long of a time.

When you are planning a visit to Belfast, Northern Ireland, a tour is an optimal way to see a lot of what the city has to offer! experience all this historic city has to offer by booking one of these tours today.

So what are you waiting for? Take the plunge now and immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of Belfast! And don’t forget—book your tour today for a truly memorable experience.

Check out our Belfast vlog!

Visit Northern Ireland

Don’t miss out on the rest of Northern Ireland! Check out more of our NI posts below.

  • Essential Derry Travel Guide
  • 8 Best Game of Thrones Sites in Northern Ireland
  • How to Spend 48 Hours in Belfast + Itinerary

' src=

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

Similar Posts

14 Most Breathtaking Famous Buildings in Spain

14 Most Breathtaking Famous Buildings in Spain

11 Best Free Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland

11 Best Free Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland

12 Great Places to Get Brunch in Paris

12 Great Places to Get Brunch in Paris

9 Spellbinding Ireland Castle Tours

9 Spellbinding Ireland Castle Tours

13 Best Restaurants in Edinburgh Scotland

13 Best Restaurants in Edinburgh Scotland

11 Tasty Food Tours in Chicago, Illinois

11 Tasty Food Tours in Chicago, Illinois

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

  • Giants Causeway Inland Tour
  • Giants Causeway Coastal Tour
  • Cruise Ships
  • Political Tours
  • Belfast Sight Seeing
  • Ultimate Game of Thrones Tour
  • 1 Day Game of Thrones Tour
  • 1 – 5 Day Tours
  • Executive Travel
  • Film and TV Production
  • Book a Tour

belfast sightseeing tours

The Perfect Way to Explore the Emerald Isle

At Belfast Sightseeing, we want you to get the most out of your visiting experience the beautiful landscape, the famous attractions but most of all the people. Recognised for offering the best value, all our tours are packed with plenty to see-and-do. No matter what time you can afford we want you to come as a visitor …but leave as a friend.

belfast sightseeing tours

What Everyone is Saying…

With over 115,000 cruise visitors, Belfast SightSeeing.com are proud to be part of the team promoting very many sights and attractions that Belfast and Northern Ireland has to offer to our international friends. This year visiting cruise lines include Princess Cruises, Celebrity, All Leisure, Silversea, Majestic, Fred Olsen Cruise Line, Saga Cruise and many, many others, each bringing tourists from all corners of the globe to Belfast and Northern Ireland.

“We had the most amazing day. Totally packed out with activities including the best food & drink” Samantha Foxfield, Texas , USA

The New York Times Guide to Belfast

belfast sightseeing tours

Lonely Planets Top Rating Belfast Review Belfast

belfast sightseeing tours

Partnering with the World’s Major Cruise Liners

With over 115,000 cruise visitors, Belfast SightSeeing.com is proud to be part of the team promoting many sights and attractions that Belfast and Northern Ireland offer to our international friends.

belfast sightseeing tours

Award Winning Guides & Executive Class Transport Guaranteed

With a modern fleet of luxury vehicles, we can offer you a range of different types of transport to suit your individual needs and budget.

Top Rated on Trip Advisor

Did you like our Tours? Why not leave a review!

We pride ourselves on our great tours and experiences and good reviews help us out a lot. We would appreciate it if you could take a few moments to leave a review of your tour on Trip advisor

GAME OF THRONES TOUR

Things to do in belfast, belfast bus tours.

Belfast-Bus-Tours

Must Do Top Rated Tours

- belfast bus tours & day tours from belfast -.

Belfast-Bus-Tours-Belfast-Sightseeing-visit-belfast

BELFAST Hop On Hop Off

Belfast-Bus-Tours

GIANTS CAUSEWAY TOUR

Belfast-Bus-Tours

Titanic Belfast Tour

Book with confidence.

BEST PRICES GUARANTEED EXCLUSIVE TOUR DEALS

Belfast Bus Tour

BELFAST BLACK TAXI TOUR

Belfast Bus Tour

THE TITANIC MUSEUM

Visit Belfast's most popular tourist attraction, stop 5 on our Belfast hop on hop off tour. Discover the newly renovated interactive Titanic experience, along with 18 other stops on your very own Belfast bus tour .

Make It A Combo

Belfast Bus Tour

Giants Causeway & City Tour

Belfast Bus Tour

Whiskey Distillery & City Tour

Belfast Bus Tour

GAME OF THRONES & CITY TOUR

belfast bus tours

Instant Tickets

Hop on hop off belfast tour, book in advance or last-minute, paperless tickets emailed, show e-ticket & board tour.

belfast sightseeing tours

THINGS TO DO IN BELFAST ?

Belfast-Bus-Tours

IDEAS CLICK HERE

[email protected]

+44(0) 28 9091 5613

Our tours allow you to view all of the top attractions in Belfast and the Causeway Coast within 1 or 2 days. We also have a tour specifically for those arriving by cruise ship!

Calm Evening at Dunluce Castle Northern Ireland

Belfast City + Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones Tour

  • May 3, 2024 0 Available
  • May 4, 2024 0 Available
  • May 5, 2024 0 Available

Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

Causeway express shore excursion tour.

Belfast City Hall

Belfast City 48 Hour Hop-on Hop-off Tour

[email protected]

07552 309575

Belfastology tours logo

BELFASTO LOGY  WALKING TOURS

City Hall, Donegall Place, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Tours Full Of Great 'Craic' (Fun)

Belfastology Walking Tours Offer Tours And Sightseeing In Belfast

VIEW ALL TOURS

Statue of Harmony ( Nula with the Hula )

Discover Life Along #themARTiway

old Belfast map

Welcome to Belfastology Walking Tours, where I invite you to join me on an immersive journey through the tours and sightseeing. As a native guide deeply connected to this city, I offer a Belfast Walking Tour , providing a unique perspective on the city's past, present, and future. With a passion for storytelling and capturing memorable moments through photography, I'll reveal Belfast's rich history and enviable reputation, from its remarkable architecture to its renowned shipbuilding legacy.

Whether you're drawn to music or art or want to explore the city's diverse attractions, my specialised tours provide an authentic glimpse into Belfast's culture. With extensive knowledge and a commitment to delivering exceptional experiences, I ensure every interaction has a personal touch.

Ready to explore? I'm here to answer any questions and help you book your tour. Let us journey together through the captivating streets of Belfast. You can explore the city by scrolling through my blogs .

BOOK IN ADVANCE

belfast sightseeing tours

READ REVIEWS

Your Tour Guide - 

In 2007, after globetrotting adventures, I returned to my roots and trained as a local guide. From leading guests on walking tours from an International Youth Hostel in the city centre of Belfast, my passion for sharing the stories of this remarkable city grew.

In 2011, I officially started conducting Walking Tours, extending my exploration beyond Belfast to embrace the beauty of Northern Ireland. The evolution continued in 2015 when I transformed my business into Belfastology Walking Tours. This shift marked a commitment to providing a tour and a captivating experience, capturing the essence of Belfast's past, present, and future.

This journey goes beyond sightseeing to create lasting memories of this extraordinary corner of the world. While competitors have grown in numbers, I'm determined to reshape my online presence to better connect with customers. The recently launched music tour is my pride and joy, setting me apart meaningfully.

Join me today!

Major Tours And Sightseeing

Belfast city hall

Eclectic Belfast City Centre Walking Tour

Immerse yourself in the diverse landmarks of Belfast's city centre, exploring historic milestones, hidden gems, and local markets on a walking tour like no other.

Mural at the peace gates

Belfast Political Mural Street Art And Peace Gate

Revel in the powerful story behind Belfast's political murals, witness the vibrant street art, and experience the symbolic Peace Gate, delving into the city's complex history and journey towards reconciliation.

TAKE A LOOK

Belfast Strett Art

Music And Street Art Experience

Let the rhythm of Belfast's streets guide you through a unique experience where music and street art converge to create a harmonious blend of cultural expression and urban creativity.

eco coach journey

Environmental Policy

green tourism logo

Belfastology Walking Tours are the perfect example of one way to reduce your carbon footprint and strive to reduce the effects of climate change. We use the local zero emissions public transport when needed. All printed materials encourage you to reuse them and are printed on sustainable paper.

CLIMATE CHANGE IS REAL. And we all need to do what we can to help Mother Nature. 

  Guides’ Code of Conduct:

To maintain a professional, positive and respectful attitude in all communications with the assembled group, local people and businesses.

Maintain a strong leadership role and model correct behaviours in regard to the environment and local culture.

We educate and encourage environmental awareness with our guests.

Guides are ambassadors for the regions, culture and customs.

Promote “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” wherever possible.

Encourage guests to use stainless steel or plastic re-useable water bottles to promote eco hydration.

READ MY BLOG!

bigfish background

Client Testimonials

My wife and I arranged a street art walking tour with Marti, and we highly recommend it to anyone seeking an authentic Belfast experience with a local touch. As it was our honeymoon, Marti graciously extended the tour by a few hours, allowing us to engage ourselves in the city thoroughly. Hailing from the artist community, Marti possesses an in-depth knowledge of his craft and is genuinely entertaining. Booking with him is a decision you won't regret!

Oliver Antonini

Nula with the Hula

Belfastology Walking Tours Presents Exceptional Tours Of Belfast City. Call 07552 309575 For Tours And Sightseeing.

Belfast Mural Tours

Belfast Sightseeing Tours & Attractions

Discover the charm and history of Belfast with our top-rated sightseeing tours and attractions.Explore the vibrant street art and captivating history of Belfast on our mural walking tour. Immerse yourself in the fantasy world of Westeros with our Game of Thrones tour, where you’ll visit iconic filming locations. And don’t miss the awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway tour, where you’ll witness nature’s wonder with hexagonal basalt columns.Book your Belfast tours today!

  • Most Popular!
  • up to 6 people
  • Clock 1.5 Hours

Famous Belfast Murals

Explore Belfast’s rich history and vibrant culture on a guided tour of the city’s famous murals, led by passionate and knowledgeable local guides.

  • up to 8 people

Belfast Walking Tour

Explore the complex political history of Belfast with a no-holds-barred tour led by former political prisoners from both sides, offering firsthand accounts and a unique, one-on-one educational experience

  • Clock 8 Hours

Belfast Game of Thrones Tour

Step into the world of Westeros on this full-day tour of key Game of Thrones filming locations and the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Clock 7 hours

Giants Causeway Tour

This tour of Northern Ireland will take you to the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its polygonal columns of layered basalt. You will also visit Dunluce Castle, Whitepark Bay, Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge, and the Dark Hedges.

  • Giants Causeway tour including Game of Thrones Film Locations

Belfast City Sightseeing

  • City Sightseeing tour
  • Timetables & Tour duration
  • Tour prices
  • Hop on Hop off route map
  • How to book & join the tour
  • Highlights of the tour
  • Access for those with limited mobility
  • Multilingual commentary
  • Cupones de Regalo del Autobus Turistico de Belfast
  • Visitor Information
  • Useful Information
  • Things to do in Belfast
  • Left Luggage
  • Accreditations & Awards
  • Tour guide supply
  • Tourism & Business workshops
  • Team building exercises
  • Attractions
  • Titanic Belfast Experience
  • HMS Caroline
  • St Georges Market
  • Belfast City Hall
  • St Annes Cathedral
  • Stormont Parliament Buildings
  • Cathedral Quarter
  • CS Lewis Square
  • Culturlann McAdam O'Fiaich
  • Grand Opera House
  • Belfast Castle
  • MAC Belfast
  • Titanic Dock & Pumphouse
  • Documentation
  • Privacy policy
  • Terms and conditions
  • Complaints procedure
  • Corporate responsibility
  • Website disclaimer
  • Combo tours
  • Giants Causeway & Belfast City Tour
  • Titanic Belfast & Belfast City Tour
  • Giants Causeway, Titanic Belfast & Belfast City Tour
  • St Anne's Cathedral & Belfast City Tour
  • Line of Duty & Belfast City Tour
  • Dublin & Belfast City Sightseeing Tour
  • HMS Caroline & Belfast City Tour
  • Derry & Belfast City Sightseeing Tour
  • Shore Excursions
  • Giants Causeway & Belfast City Sightseeing Tour from Cruise Ships
  • Taylor Swift Concert
  • Pink Concert
  • Coldplay Concert
  • Giants Causeway Tour from Belfast including Game of Thrones Film Locations
  • Tours from Dublin
  • Giants Causeway Tour from Dublin
  • Cliffs of Moher Tour from Dublin
  • Kilkenny & Wicklow Tour from Dublin
  • Game of Thrones Tour from Dublin
  • Ring of Kerry & Dingle Peninsula Tour
  • Cliffs of Moher Galway Aran Islands
  • Tayto Theme Park Day Trips
  • Kildare Village shopping trips
  • Dublin Zoo Day trip
  • Walking tours
  • Belfast Free Walking tour
  • Belfast Political tour
  • Giants Causeway cliff path tour
  • Dublin Free Walking tour
  • Falls Road Mural tour
  • Belfast Troubled History tour
  • Tour de los Murales de Belfast
  • Other tours
  • Belfast Black Cab tour
  • Line of Duty tour
  • Bespoke group tours
  • Coach holidays
  • Kerry Highlights Tour
  • Galway Highlights Tour
  • Mayo Highlights Tour
  • Mayo Highlights Tour including Country Music Festival
  • Blackpool Highlights Tour
  • Airport Transfers
  • Vintage Bus Hire
  • Bespoke Group Tours
  • Coach Hire Belfast
  • Corporate Hire
  • Cross Community
  • Executive Car Hire
  • Hens and Stags
  • Promotional Hire
  • School Trips
  • Shopping Trips
  • Sporting Events

Hop-on / Hop-off route map

Map showing Belfast City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off bus stops

Visiting Belfast? Don't miss a thing with our Hop-On / Hop-Off ticket!

Please note: our departure point has moved to donegall square west (beside the city hall)..

We can be contacted by email at [email protected] or through our tour office on +44 (0)28 90 321321 . We look forward to seeing you soon!

City Sightseeing Belfast Hop-on Hop-off Open-top Bus Tour

belfast sightseeing tours

  • Activities 18
  • Attractions 16
  • Bus Stops 11
  • City Sightseeing News 04
  • Discover Ireland 03
  • Entertainment 12
  • Food and Drink 04
  • Things to do in Belfast 64

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated to our best offers and deals!

Belfast Causeway Tours - Logo.png

Private Tours of Northern Ireland 

Belfast causeway tours are highly experienced in all of the sightseeing and top tourist attractions that northern ireland has to offer., award winning service ​, private luxury tours  , bespoke/custom tours, about belfast causeway tours.

Belfast Causeway Tours provides customised and bespoke tours of Northern Ireland, suited to your exact requirements. While we offer structured excursions to the key destinations, many of our customers are delighted when we plan and transport them to the sights and attractions of Northern Ireland that they choose to visit.

We provide customised packages for clients based on their demands and timelines. Whether it's The Giant's Causeway with the Dark Hedges on the way, or the Titanic Building and everything Belfast has to offer. All of this in the height of luxury.

Private Tour Packages

Our set tour packages to some of the best attractions in Northern Ireland are outlined below. We also offer tailored packages for clients based on their needs and timetable.

Dark Hedges.png

Tour One: Top 5 Sights of Northern Ireland's North Coast

Giants Causeway

Tour Two: The Giants Causeway & North Antrim Coast 7-Hour Tour

ballintoy-carrick-a-reed.jpg

Tour Three: The Giants Causeway & North Antrim Coast 9-Hour Tour

Winterfell Real Life Northern Ireland.png

Tour Four: Game Of Thrones & The Stones Full-Day Tour  

Belfast City Centre

Tour Five: Private Belfast City Sightseeing Tour

“This was an amazing day trip ! Great vehicle, wonderful driver, and the locations we were taken to were beyond our expectations, absolutely breathtaking!! The driver adjusted our tour to what we wanted to do, in the allotted time we had on shore by the cruise line. It was a very good experience from booking to drop off back at the port. I highly recommend them to make the most of your port visit and see some of the most beautiful places on earth"

Explore Northern Ireland In Luxury

Welcome to Belfast Causeway Tours! We specialise in private tours of Northern Ireland's breathtaking North Antrim Coast, showcasing iconic destinations such as the Giants Causeway, the Dark Hedges, Carrick-a-Reed Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, and more. Our tours take you on an unforgettable journey through stunning landscapes and historic landmarks, providing you with an immersive experience like no other.

Belfast Causeway Tours Travel Tips

Stay up to date with the latest Tours and Travel tips from Belfast Causeway Tours. 

belfast sightseeing tours

Ballygally: A Seaside Escape with a Historic Heart

Unveiling the Dark Hedges: Myth, Mystery, and Game of Thrones Magic

Unveiling the Dark Hedges: Myth, Mystery, and Game of Thrones Magic

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience and security.

Visit Belfast

https://visitbelfast.com/event/best-of-belfast-city-centre-walking-tour/

  • What's On Homepage
  • Art & Exhibitions
  • Children’s Events
  • Food & Drink
  • Free Events
  • History & Heritage
  • Learning Experiences
  • Lectures & Talks
  • Markets & Fairs
  • Music & Concerts
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • Pubs & Clubs
  • Shows & Displays
  • Virtual Events

HRP   Spring Spectacular

  • See & Do Homepage
  • Arts & Entertainment
  • Attractions
  • Green Attractions
  • Green Spaces
  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Information & Services
  • Travel & Transport
  • Competitions

Titanic Belfast

  • Eat & Drink Homepage
  • Afternoon Tea
  • Restaurants
  • Food and Drink Experiences
  • Pubs and Clubs
  • Visit Belfast Food & Drink Voucher

Cafe Parisien (2)

  • Ideas Homepage
  • Belfast Plus
  • Family Friendly Belfast
  • Free Things To Do in Belfast
  • Game of Thrones
  • Titanic & Maritime
  • Music in Belfast
  • Embrace a Giant Spirit

Samson & Goliath Cranes

  • Stay Homepage
  • Camping and Caravans
  • Serviced Accommodation
  • University Accommodation
  • Green Stays

culloden (1)

  • Plan Homepage
  • Getting Here
  • Belfast Visitor Map
  • Accessibility in Belfast
  • Sustainable Belfast
  • Getting Around Belfast
  • Green Travel
  • Belfast Visitor Pass
  • Car Parking
  • Brochures and Downloads
  • Visitor Apps
  • Neighbourhoods
  • Sign Up to Mailing List
  • Visit Belfast Welcome Centre

Visit Belfast Welcome Centre 1 with Translink

  • Offers Offers
  • Neighbourhoods Neighbourhoods
  • Game of Thrones Game of Thrones
  • Search Enter your search above to discover things to do, events, offers and more... Close

Best of Belfast City Centre Walking Tour

  • Dates & Times 144

About The Venue

Description.

Join DC Tours on their 3 hour ‘Best of Belfast’ walking tour, exploring what makes the city just so unique.

The tour starts and finishes at the iconic City Hall and is a great way to learn about and explore Belfast. They’ll take you through the quarters in the heart of the city, where their team of passionate local guides will introduce you to hidden history, fantastic street art, beautiful architecture and fascinating stories of Belfast’s citizens from the past and present. Their Vox headsets mean you won’t miss a thing the guide tells you and the 2 mile route is completely flat, so no hills or steps are involved.

Come to find out about Belfast’s radicals, rogues, reformers and more. This tour will show you the Best that Belfast has to offer, from pubs and restaurants to music, art, stories – and of course craic!

What You’ll Do

From the start of the tour you will step into history with stories of old and new Belfast, from the people who built the town and contributed to its success, to those who have attacked it over the centuries.

You’ll walk through the Cathedral Quarter and discover some of the finest street art in the city, together with many of your guide’s favourite bars and restaurants. You’ll also stroll along the waterfront beside the river Lagan with views across to the iconic yellow cranes, Samson and Goliath, in the Harland & Wolff shipyard where the Titanic was built over 100 years ago.

You’ll pass by historic buildings such as St. Anne’s Cathedral, the Custom House, the Assembly Rooms and Kelly’s Cellars and hear their stories, and you’ll stand at the spot where Belfast first got its name.

Other highlights include famous landmarks such as the Salmon of Knowledge, the Albert Clock, the Beacon of Hope, the Troubles Memorial and the Spirit of Belfast, where you will hear everything from local legends to contemporary social history and get to appreciate why Belfast is still such a unique city today.

After that, you’ll explore the historic Entries at the heart of the city centre and see how they have now been turned into an outdoor art gallery, before finishing back at City Hall.

Their Guides

Their dedicated and qualified guides are all Belfast born and bred. They bring their own unique sense of humour and their own stories to their tours too, making the time fly and providing a lot of laughs along the way.

By the end of the tour your guide will be like a new friend, you’ll feel connected and at home in the city and ready to make the most of your stay.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore Belfast’s rich history – visit the Cathedral Quarter, the Waterfront and the historic Entries
  • Discover the music scene, from where to hear the best Irish trad sessions to the importance of punk
  • Stop by the River Lagan, see the famous cranes and learn about the Titanic (and its luckiest survivor!)
  • Uncover hidden architectural gems, from Georgian elegance and Victorian grandeur to modern masterpieces
  • Discover Belfast’s best local eateries, from traditional recipes to contemporary flavours

Tickets can also be purchased in the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre.

Find out more>>

  • Admission £22

Dates & Times (144)

Next Date: Fri, 03 May 2024 10:00am - 1:00pm

Belfast City Hall

  • Belfast City Hall

Donegall Square Belfast

  • Donegall Square

Belfast City Hall

About The Host

  • Donegall Square North

DC Tours 1

Upcoming events at Belfast City Hall

Best of Belfast City Centre Walking Tour

Join DC Tours on their 3 hour ‘Best of Belfast’ walking tour, exploring what makes the city just…

Lord Mayor’s Day

Lord Mayor’s Day

The grounds of Belfast City Hall will come alive on Saturday 18 May with a host of free…

You might also like

5 Stop Brunch

5 Stop Brunch

Join Taste and Tour on a 3-hour grazing style Sunday Belfast Brunch Tour in the city's finest quirky…

Belfast Traditional Music Trail

Belfast Traditional Music Trail

The Belfast Traditional Music Trail is a unique way to experience Irish music.

Belfast Music Evening Walk Cathedral Quarter

Belfast Music Evening Walk Cathedral Quarter

Take this 90-minute evening tour to be introduced to Belfast’s rich music scene and heritage, on a guided…

Belfast Photo Tours – Konica Pop Small Group Tour

Belfast Photo Tours – Konica Pop Small Group Tour

Discover the magic of film photography on a walking tour with a difference around Belfast’s Titanic and Cathedral…

Walking Tour of North Belfast Heritage Cluster

Walking Tour of North Belfast Heritage Cluster

This walking tour will showcase the unique heritage of inner north Belfast and tell the stories about the…

Belfast Music Bus Tour

Belfast Music Bus Tour

Take a bus journey through the Heart of this Newly appointed UNESCO Rock and Roll City.

Spinning Yarns, Exploring Belfast’s Linen Quarter

Spinning Yarns, Exploring Belfast’s Linen Quarter

A guided walk of a vibrant Belfast district, combining heritage, entertainment, history, culture and craic!

Step Back in Time Walking Tour – Experience AND 2024

Step Back in Time Walking Tour – Experience AND 2024

Step back in time with and uncover stories of Bangor's fascinating past during this informative and scenic walking…

Strangford Lough Boat Trip – Experience AND 2024

Strangford Lough Boat Trip – Experience AND 2024

Join Tour Guide John Murray and take time away from the fast pace of everyday life and enjoy…

Ask Us

We're here to help, so if you can't find the info you're after, or you just want to ask a really odd question, then we're here for you.

Sign up for our Newsletter

Visit Belfast Newsletter

Sign up to the Visit Belfast newsletter and receive inspiring ideas, events and offers which showcase the best of Belfast and Northern Ireland.

Ask a Question

" * " indicates required fields

Value Cabs

Choose a date

  • This Weekend

If you select a location more than 15km from the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre, your location will be set to Belfast City Centre.

Open 'Ask a Question' window

Hide this tool

Open 'Sign up for Newsletter' window

Are you sure you want to leave the feed?

Oops... something went wrong!

Looking for inspiration? Planning a trip? Or just want to scroll yourself happy? We'll show you an Ireland that's tailor-made for you.

  • #Landscapes
  • #CultureandHeritage
  • #OutdoorActivities

MyICallOut_FindTheThings_EN_Desk_Above-Left

Oops... no internet connection

While offline, you can still add items to My board. New travel reccomendations will only show up once you’re back online.

See what Ireland has in store for you

 alt=

Items without a physical location are not shown in map view.

Looks like your board is empty

Look out for the little heart icon around Ireland.com. Simply tap the heart to add items to your board!

Emptyboard

Board settings

Collection cover image.

Visible to people you share your board with

my-ireland-butterfly-killarney-national-park-county-kerry

Share board

Share a link to your My Ireland board and inspire friends, fellow travellers and family. Only you can add or remove items from your board.

belfast sightseeing tours

Sign in! Sign up Forgot your password?

Create an account.

Access My Ireland across all your devices by logging in.

Sign up Not got an account?

Terms of use | Privacy policy

Login Got an account?

Location access

  • View offers and deals nearby
  • Find travel inspiration based on your location
  • Get local weather forecasts and essential information

Enable location access

Location access on ios.

  • 1 Open the website settings for this website in your browser.
  • 2 Select Location settings.
  • 3 Choose Allow.
  • 1 Open the My Ireland website.

location-ios-step-1

  • 2 Select the icon below.

location-ios-step-2

  • 3 Select Website Settings.

location-ios-step-3

  • 4 Change Location status to Allow.

location-ios-step-4

Notifications

Travel times.

Tell us when you are travelling to Ireland and we'll show you tailored reccomendations during of your trip.

img-calendar

  • Recommended events during your stay
  • Helpful travel reminders and updates

You have unsaved changes. Save before leaving?

We take your privacy very seriously and only ever process your data with your permission. If possible this is handled anonymously and we will never store your data for longer than is required. For more information on how we handle your personal data, please read our privacy policy.

Remove data

To securely remove all data associated with your profile, please contact our Data Protection Officer.

Reset your board

This will remove all the items you have previously liked from your board. Please note, you can’t undo this action.

Are you sure you want to reset your board?

  • Created date 19 July 2023

These are your credentials to log in to your account across different devices. Your first and last name will be visible to people you share a board with.

Delete account

Sorry you’re leaving. Just a reminder – if you delete your account, you won’t be able to post in Community. And it’s permanent so you can’t undo it in the future.

Delete your account

  • No. Keep my account
  • Yes. Delete my account

Belfast Header

5 reasons to visit Belfast in 2024

The Titanic city has a hugely ambitious cultural programme taking place across the year

star-wars-last-jedi-malin-head-county-donegal

Ireland in your inbox

Sign up to receive free email newsletters from Tourism Ireland, including regular tailored updates on holiday ideas and insider tips.

We will use your email address to send you personalised content straight to your inbox based on how you interact with this website and our advertisements on other websites.

Something went wrong...

Success! Thank you for subscribing to our Newsletter!

I understand that by signing up, I will receive personalised email content based on my use of Tourism Ireland’s website, emails and Tourism Ireland’s advertising on other websites, cookies and tracking pixels. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking 'unsubscribe' in our emails. Find out more information on "How we handle your personal data" in our privacy policy .

It’s always a good idea to visit Belfast , Northern Ireland ’s thriving capital. From top attractions  such as St George’s Market to the Botanic Gardens, this buzzing spot on the banks of the River Lagan mixes historic attractions with a cool new cultural scene. Of course, Belfast has always been a cultural spot, and is home to an array of artists, musicians and writers past and present including Van Morrison and CS Lewis.

But there’s also a new cultural energy pulsing through the streets. It can be seen in galleries and studios of the Cathedral Quarter. It can be evidenced by the city’s designation as a prestigious UNESCO City of Music  in 2021. And it can be experienced through Belfast 2024 , an ambitious cultural schedule that will see an exciting programme of events and projects showcased throughout the year. Boat-building experiments, dance theatre, augmented reality installations, immersive light displays in iconic locations... we could go on! There’s bound to be something here that’ll get your creative juices flowing.

Any time is a good time to visit Belfast, but Belfast 2024 makes this year a really GREAT one. Need more convincing? Here are five reasons to add Belfast to your bucket list this year...

Belfast Museums

Titanic Belfast

1. The museums

Belfast is a historic place and there’s no better way to enjoy the city’s heritage than by visiting some of its museums. To explore the city’s famous shipbuilding past, Titanic Belfast is a must. This world-leading attraction is located at the same docks where the infamous “Ship of Dreams” was built and launched on her ill-fated maiden voyage in 1912. The striking building juts out into the sky just like the Titanic, and inside there are a plethora of interactive galleries and exhibitions to explore. For art, history and natural sciences, head to the Ulster Museum , where a treasure trove of items from past and present awaits, including dinosaurs, meteorites and Egyptian mummies.

If you’re visiting later in the year, look out for Belfast 2024’s Eco Arcade experience. Artist Robin Price is teaming up with local young minds to transform the outside of the Ulster Museum into an interactive area of play and public engagement through laser arcade games. Gamers and tech-lovers, don’t miss it!

Art of Reconciliation

The Art of Reconciliation by Féile an Phobail, East Side Arts and Belfast International Arts Festival © Belfast 2024

2. The cultural venues

Culture vultures can feast on an array of eclectic experiences in Belfast. A top catch-all spot is The MAC in the hip Cathedral Quarter. It’s always got something fun going on, from theatre performances and dance workshops to modern art exhibitions. For photography, check out Belfast Exposed , Northern Ireland’s leading photography organisation, which is home to a wide range of courses and exhibitions. If craft and design are more your bag, pop into Craft NI , a carefully curated gallery featuring jewellery, ceramics, textiles and more from some of the area’s most talented creators.

Opening as part of Belfast 2024, the Show Some Love Greenhouse adds another creative locale into the mix. The collaborative space hosts an art studio, sustainable fashion hub, workshops, events and more. This community-focused, eco-conscious endeavour shows sustainable Ireland  at its best.

Belfast Music

Music gig, Belfast

3. The music

Belfast is the only UNESCO City of Music on the island of Ireland. With such a prestigious accolade, you just know the city is a fantastic destination for music lovers. Music is woven into Belfast’s DNA. Take all the great musicians who hail from here, from legendary punk rockers Stiff Little Fingers to modern-day rock behemoths Snow Patrol. Then you’ve got all the top quality music venues including Ulster Hall and the Oh Yeah Music Centre , the latter of which is a live venue, bar, rehearsal studio and social space all rolled into one. Add to that a plethora of traditional music pubs and possibly the coolest jazz club on the island – Bert’s Jazz Bar – and it’s easy to see why Belfast’s music scene is so revered.

If you like the sound of all that, then Belfast 2024’s Sound Links by Ulster Orchestra should be music to your ears. Taking place on 21 September, the age-old Townsend Street will be transformed for a one-day festival of dance, song and fun for all the family. It’s a community-led celebration of the street and its locals that’s not to be missed if you’re here on the day.

Shadowdock

Shadowdock by Three’s Theatre Company and Studio Sykes © Belfast 2024

4. The landmarks

The iconic yellow Harland & Wolff gantry cranes that tower over the docks, picturesque Belfast Castle nestled snugly on Cave Hill , elegant Queen’s University near the city centre... Emblems of Belfast’s storied history and rich heritage can be seen across the city and they’re all fabulous places to add to your trip itinerary. As is Crumlin Road Gaol , an atmospheric 19th century jail that’s not for the faint-hearted, as tours of the complex take in the hospital, hanging cell and graveyard! For a more genteel step back in time, wander the Maritime Mile , a dockside brimming with historic attractions including the Titanic slipways, the SS Nomadic (tender ship for the Titanic) and the Titanic Dock and Pumphouse.

From 26 – 29 September this year, Belfast 2024 will add a brand new attraction to the city’s famous docks. Shadowdock will see a striking display of light, shadow, colour and sound light up the very dock where the Titanic was launched. Performers, composers and lighting designers will turn this empty space 40 foot below sea level into an immersive experience you won’t forget in a hurry.

Seedheads Street Art Belfast

Seedhead Arts street art walking tour, Belfast

5. The tours

The fifth and final reason to visit Belfast this year is the range of varied tours on offer. Big foodie? Check out Taste & Tour which provides a series of tasty tours including a gin jaunt and a five-stop brunch tour. Want more? Uncover five reasons Belfast tastes amazing . For a history tour with a difference, try the Belfast Black Cab Tour and uncover the history of the city as told through public murals. A great option to delve into Belfast’s burgeoning street art scene is the Street Art Walking Tour by Seedhead Arts, a two-hour stroll about the city that champions a new breed of street artists both local and global who are leaving their mark on Belfast in colourful and creative ways.

As for Belfast 2024, the cultural programme will beckon people to tour the somewhat forgotten spaces of the city’s alleyways. 9ft in Common: A Manifesto for the Alleys promises to turn Belfast’s overlooked alleys into creative spaces full of community and connection. As with all of the events throughout the year, Belfast 2024 puts the key themes of the people of Belfast and the place itself front and centre. All that’s left now is for you to join in...

Where do you want to go?

Do you feel like tasting wild Atlantic sea spray on your lips? Strolling through vibrant city streets? Exploring ancient ruins? Right this way…

Love Exploring

Love Exploring

See The World's Most Famous Ships Up Close

Posted: May 2, 2024 | Last updated: May 2, 2024

<p>There's a certain romance about life on the ocean, and so much of our modern world was built off the back of sea-faring vessels. From Tudor warships and Viking vessels to extraordinary ocean liners that defined a golden age of travel, it's fair to say that without some of these historic ships, we might not be where we are today.</p>  <p><strong>Read on to discover the best replicas of the world's most famous ships, museums and floating hotels around the world...</strong></p>

All aboard these fabulous vessels

There's a certain romance about life on the ocean, and so much of our modern world was built off the back of sea-faring vessels. From Tudor warships and Viking vessels to extraordinary ocean liners that defined a golden age of travel, it's fair to say that without some of these historic ships, we might not be where we are today.

Read on to discover the best replicas of the world's most famous ships, museums and floating hotels around the world...

<p>The original 17th-century Mayflower was an icon of American history, sailing the first pilgrims from England to the New World (today's United States) in 1620. She sailed from London, stopping off in Southampton to meet the Speedwell, a smaller ship, and continue across the Atlantic. The Speedwell never made it thanks to a recurring leak, and the Mayflower picked up the ship's stranded passengers in Plymouth and made the voyage alone. She landed in Massachusetts and the immigrants from Britain and Holland made the Plymouth colony, the second such settlement in the USA. </p>

Mayflower II, Massachusetts, USA

The original 17th-century Mayflower was an icon of American history, sailing the first pilgrims from England to the New World (today's United States) in 1620. She sailed from London, stopping off in Southampton to meet the Speedwell, a smaller ship, and continue across the Atlantic. The Speedwell never made it thanks to a recurring leak, and the Mayflower picked up the ship's stranded passengers in Plymouth and made the voyage alone. She landed in Massachusetts and the immigrants from Britain and Holland made the Plymouth colony, the second such settlement in the USA. 

<p>The original vessel is long gone, likely sold off as scrap after her many voyages in the 1600s. Today, though, you can visit the Mayflower II – a full-scale replica of the tall ship built in Brixham, Devon, England and sailed across the ocean in 1957. The replica was fully restored for 2020 as part of the 400-year anniversary celebrations, and it's now one of the main attractions at the living history museum, Plimouth Plantation (<a href="https://www.plimoth.org/">online booking is essential</a>). ​</p>

The original vessel is long gone, likely sold off as scrap after her many voyages in the 1600s. Today, though, you can visit the Mayflower II – a full-scale replica of the tall ship built in Brixham in Devon, England and sailed across the ocean in 1957. The replica was fully restored for 2020 as part of the 400-year anniversary celebrations and it's now one of the main attractions at the Plimoth Patuxet living history museum. ​

<p>The oldest commissioned warship in the world, HMS Victory was the flagship of the fleet that British Naval Commander Horatio Nelson sailed to defeat the French and Spanish at the battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Launched in 1765, she served for an unusually long time, leading the British fleet in the American War of Independence and the French Revolutionary War. </p>

HMS Victory, Portsmouth, England, UK

The oldest commissioned warship in the world, HMS Victory was the flagship of the fleet that British Naval Commander Horatio Nelson sailed to defeat the French and Spanish at the battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Launched in 1765, she served for an unusually long time, leading the British fleet in the American War of Independence and the French Revolutionary War. 

<p>She was placed in dry dock for repairs in 1922 and first opened to the public six years later. Extensive damage was caused by bombing in the Second World War, and after another major repair, she was finally placed into the custodianship of the National Museum of the Navy and is open to the public yet again in Portsmouth's Historic Dockyard. The ship was closed for many months during the pandemic, but has since reopened (<a href="https://www.historicdockyard.co.uk/tickets-and-offers">booking online</a> is essential) and visitors can now experience an 'Under Hull Walkway' offering views of the behemoth from below. </p>

She was placed in dry dock for repairs in 1922 and first opened to the public six years later. Extensive damage was caused by bombing in the Second World War, and after another major repair, she was finally placed into the custodianship of the National Museum of the Navy and is open to the public yet again in Portsmouth's Historic Dockyard. She is still a commissioned warship, known as the Flagship of the First Sea Lord.

<p>One of the largest and last battleships ever built by the US Navy in 1941, the USS Wisconsin is vast. The ship was awarded five battle stars for her service in the Second World War, and a Combat Action Ribbon for the Korean War. She can now be visited in Norfolk, a waterfront city in southeastern Virginia, which is home to the world’s biggest naval base.</p>

USS Wisconsin, Virginia, USA

One of the largest and last battleships ever built by the US Navy in 1941, the USS Wisconsin is vast. The ship was awarded five battle stars for her service in the Second World War and a Combat Action Ribbon for the Korean War. She can now be visited in Norfolk, a waterfront city in southeastern Virginia, which is home to the world’s biggest naval base.

<p>A visit to the USS Wisconsin is fascinating. You can <a href="https://nauticus.org/visitor-info/">explore its deck on your own</a> or take a guided tour led by enlisted volunteers or retired officers. Norfolk is Virginia’s second-largest city, and something of a hidden highlight with the fantastic Chrysler Museum of Art and the lovely riverside Virginia Zoo, too. </p>

A visit to the USS Wisconsin is fascinating. You can buy a general admission ticket to explore the outdoor deck and main interior spaces, like the galley and ship's library, or book a more in-depth guided tour led by enlisted volunteers or retired officers. Overnight stays are possible too, giving you time to explore Virginia’s second-largest city, which is something of a hidden highlight with the fantastic Chrysler Museum of Art and the lovely riverside Virginia Zoo.

Moored on the south side of the River Thames, between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast is the last remaining ship of her type. Launched in 1938, the battle cruiser saw active service for 25 years, including during the Second World War, before opening as a tourist attraction in 1971.

HMS Belfast, London, England, UK

<p>However, while HMS Belfast usually operates as a museum, the Imperial War Museums have decided to keep her closed until 2021 to work on renovations while social distancing makes receiving visitors trickier. Usually, all nine of Belfast’s decks are open for you to explore by clambering up and down ladders, but we'll all have to wait a while to be able to man the ship again. </p>  <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/guides/80366/explore-london-the-top-things-to-see-where-to-stay-what-to-eat">Explore London: a guide to the English capital</a></strong></p>

HMS Belfast is run by Imperial War Museums and all nine of her decks are open for you to explore by clambering up and down ladders. Exhibits present the personal stories of those who served aboard, while new interactive exhibits and multi-sensory experiences keep children entertained. HMS Belfast is open daily.

Scott and Shackleton’s RRS Discovery was constructed on the very spot where it stands today, built specifically for scientific research in some of the world's most extreme environments. The last traditional wooden three-masted ship to be built in the UK, Discovery was launched in 1901 and, a year later, the coal-fired steam and sail engine carried the British National Antarctic Expedition on its first trip to explore the Antarctic.

RRS Discovery, Dundee, Scotland, UK

Scott and Shackleton’s RRS Discovery was constructed on the very spot where it stands today, built specifically for scientific research in some of the world's most extreme environments. The last traditional wooden three-masted ship to be built in the UK, Discovery was launched in 1901 and, a year later, the coal-fired steam and sail engine carried the British National Antarctic Expedition on its first trip to explore the Antarctic. 

Liking this? Click on the Follow button above for more great stories from loveEXPLORING

<p>Visit now and onboard you can explore how Scott and his crew lived, ate and survived on their epic voyages. The ship sits at the center of the excellent <a href="https://www.rrsdiscovery.co.uk/plan-your-visit/">Discovery Point visitor center</a>, where there are galleries, movies and over 150 artifacts on display relating to their expeditions. Face coverings are mandatory for visitors during the pandemic, and there's a one-way system in place. </p>  <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/news/72322/things-to-do-in-dundee-scotlands-bestkept-secret">Dundee: Scotland's best-kept secret</a></strong></p>

Visit now and on board you can explore how Scott and his crew lived, ate and survived on their epic voyages. The ship sits in the middle of the excellent Discovery Point visitor center, where there are galleries, films and over 150 artefacts on display relating to their expeditions. In summer 2024, major preservation works will be carried out on the ship, but it will still be fully accessible to visitors, who will be able to witness traditional heritage shipbuilding skills in action.

This massive aircraft carrier was the largest ship in the world until 1955, and was described as one of the 'largest moving objects ever made by humans'. Built as a floating runway for the US Army's fighter jets, the Midway was commissioned at the end of the Second World War and played a part in several modern conflicts, including the American/Vietnam and Gulf Wars.

USS Midway, San Diego, California, USA

<p>Now <a href="https://www.midway.org/">a museum ship</a>, you can explore more than 60 exhibits in the hangar and on the flight and lower decks. See over 30 restored aircraft, and try out the flight simulators or join guided tours. During the pandemic, face coverings are mandatory and you need to bring your own earphones for the audio tour. Find out what else to see with <a href="http://www.loveexploring.com/guides/74496/explore-san-diego-where-to-stay-what-to-eat-the-top-things-to-do">our guide to San Diego</a>.</p>

Now a museum ship in downtown San Diego, you can explore more than 60 exhibits in the hangar and on the flight and lower decks. See over 30 restored aircraft, and try out the flight simulators or join a self-guided tour. It's even possible to stay overnight on the ship, where you can bed down in traditional Navy bunks and enjoy breakfast on board. 

<p>Looks aren't everything, and this splendid Swedish warship is proof. The intricate, impressive vessel sank on her maiden voyage in 1628, getting no further than a busy shipping lane outside Stockholm harbor in Sweden. She was later salvaged with her hull almost entirely intact in 1961, and today she lies in a museum, waiting to be admired by visitors. </p>

Vasa, Stockholm, Sweden

Looks aren't everything, and this splendid Swedish warship is proof. The intricate, impressive vessel sank on her maiden voyage in 1628, getting no further than a busy shipping lane outside Stockholm harbor in Sweden. In 1961 she was salvaged with her hull almost entirely intact, and today she lies in a museum, waiting to be admired by visitors. 

<p><a href="https://www.vasamuseet.se/en">The Vasa Museum</a> is in the Royal National City Park on Djurgården island in Stockholm, and since she was salvaged in 1961 the ship has been visited by more than 35 million people. Now, the specially-built masts on the museum’s roof have become part of Stockholm’s skyline, representing the height of the originals. </p>

The Vasa Museum is in the Royal National City Park on Djurgarden island in Stockholm, and since the ship was salvaged, it has welcomed more than a million visitors a year. The specially-built masts on the museum’s roof have become part of Stockholm’s skyline, representing the height of the originals. 

<p>The Royal Yacht Britannia is one of Scotland’s most visited tourist attractions, welcoming almost 400,000 people each year to its decks, and its allure is obvious. Who doesn’t want a nose around the Queen’s favorite mode of transport? Until it was taken out of service in 1997, it was the floating palace of British royalty. Ordered the year Elizabeth II became Queen in 1952, Britannia sailed more than a million nautical miles during her 44 years in service, carrying the royals around the world for official tours and vacations.</p>

Royal Yacht Britannia, Leith, Scotland, UK

The Royal Yacht Britannia is one of Scotland’s most visited tourist attractions, welcoming almost 400,000 people each year to its decks, and its allure is obvious. Who doesn’t want a nose around the late Queen’s favorite mode of transport? Until it was taken out of service in 1997, it was the floating palace of British royalty. Ordered the year Elizabeth II became Queen in 1952, Britannia sailed more than a million nautical miles during her 44 years in service, carrying the royals around the world for official tours and vacations.

<p>And, of course, Her Majesty's Yacht Britannia was the height of luxury too. Now moored in Leith, Edinburgh you can see the staterooms, crew quarters and the bridge, all before catching your breath with a brew on the Royal Deck Tearoom to get a taste of traveling like a royal. Walk-up and pre-booked tickets are available for this <a href="https://www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk/visit/">brilliant museum ship</a>. You can also discover more <a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/gallerylist/67131/inside-the-historic-royal-yacht-britannia">secrets of Royal Yacht Britannia here</a>.</p>

And, of course, the Royal Yacht Britannia was the height of luxury too. Now moored in Leith, Edinburgh, you can see the staterooms, crew quarters and the bridge, all before catching your breath with a brew on the Royal Deck Tearoom to get a taste of traveling like a royal. 

<p>The USS Constitution was instrumental in the creation of modern America as we know it today. In 1794, the newly united states ordered the building of six new warships to form a navy, and the Constitution was one. Built at Hartt's shipyard in Boston's North End, the Constitution launched in 1797. She served in several engagements but is most famous for seeing action in the 1812 war of independence, defeating four British frigates (warships).</p>

USS Constitution, Boston, Massachusetts, USA

The USS Constitution was instrumental in the creation of modern America as we know it today. In 1794, the newly united states ordered the building of six new warships to form a navy, and the Constitution was one. Built at Hartt's shipyard in Boston's North End, the Constitution launched in 1797. She served in several engagements but is most famous for seeing action in the 1812 War of Independence, defeating four British frigates (warships).

<p>This three-masted heavy frigate is the oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat. Visit her at Boston’s Charlestown Navy Yard, where she’s part of the National Historical Museum (right now, <a href="https://ussconstitutionmuseum.org/">you need to reserve tickets online</a> due to the ongoing pandemic). A separate museum, the USS Constitution Museum, sits opposite the ship and offers family-friendly and hands-on exhibits, plus the chance to see artifacts from telescopes to trunks. <a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/guides/76558/explore-boston-the-top-things-to-do-where-to-stay-what-to-eat">Explore Boston</a><a href="http://www.loveexploring.com/guides/76558/explore-boston-the-top-things-to-do-where-to-stay-what-to-eat"> with our guide</a>.</p>

This three-masted heavy frigate, known as Old Ironsides, is the oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat. Visit her at Boston’s Charlestown Navy Yard and take a tour on board. A separate museum, the USS Constitution Museum, sits opposite the ship and offers family-friendly and hands-on exhibits, plus the chance to see artefacts from telescopes to trunks. 

<p>The first English expedition to circumnavigate the globe, the Golden Hind sailed between 1577 and 1580 with Elizabeth I’s favorite Sir Francis Drake at the helm. Now, the ship occupies a special place in the British imagination as the epitome of the nation’s seafaring history. It was also an expedition of plunder and, on his return, Drake had so much treasure aboard that just the Queen’s share was more than the national debt.</p>

Golden Hind, London and Brixham, Devon, England, UK

The first English expedition to circumnavigate the globe, the Golden Hind sailed between 1577 and 1580 with Elizabeth I’s favorite Sir Francis Drake at the helm. Now, the ship occupies a special place in the British imagination as the epitome of the nation’s seafaring history. It was also an expedition of plunder and, on his return, Drake had so much treasure aboard that just the Queen’s share was more than the national debt.

<p>While you can't visit the complete original vessel, there's a full-size, sailable reconstruction containing pieces of the ship's galleon in London, on the south bank of the Thames. <a href="https://www.goldenhinde.co.uk/">Currently closed to the public</a>, under usual circumstances you can experience the sights, sounds and smells of life aboard a Tudor ship through its compelling exhibitions. There’s another full-size replica in Brixham Harbour in Devon, near the tourist town of Torquay, which is <a href="https://goldenhind.co.uk/re-opening-4-july.html">open for visitors</a>.</p>

While you can't visit the complete original vessel, there's a full-size, sailable reconstruction containing pieces of the ship's galleon in London, on the south bank of the Thames. On board the Golden Hinde you can experience the sights, sounds and smells of life aboard a Tudor ship through its compelling exhibitions (check opening times in advance). There’s another full-size replica (pictured) in Brixham Harbor in Devon, near the tourist town of Torquay.

<p>Famous for sinking and being raised, the Mary Rose is an icon of British history. The carrack-type warship was built for King Henry VIII, and she remained his favorite ship. She first set sail in 1511 and served for 34 years before meeting her end in mysterious circumstances during the Battle of the Solent. In 1982, the Tudor ship was dramatically raised and put on display in Portsmouth. </p>

Mary Rose, Portsmouth, England, UK

Famous for sinking and being raised, the Mary Rose is an icon of British history. The carrack-type warship was built for King Henry VIII, and she remained his favorite ship. She first set sail in 1511 and served for 34 years before meeting her end in mysterious circumstances during the Battle of the Solent. In 1982, the Tudor ship was dramatically raised and put on display in Portsmouth. 

<p>Today, an excellent museum at <a href="https://www.historicdockyard.co.uk/">Portsmouth Historic Dockyard</a>, which was built around the ship, allows visitors to enjoy panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling glass to see the lower and main decks of this amazing Tudor time capsule. There are 19,000 artifacts to see, too, so set aside a good few hours to explore. Face coverings are necessary during the pandemic. </p>

Today, an excellent museum at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, which was built around the ship, allows visitors to enjoy panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling glass to see the lower and main decks of this amazing Tudor time capsule. New for 2024 is the immersive 4D theater experience, where visitors can see what it was like to dive the Mary Rose and bring it up to the surface. There are 19,000 artefacts to see too. You can buy a one-day ticket for just this single attraction, a 12-month pass to three attractions at the dockyard or unlimited access to all attractions for a year. A guided tour is available as an add-on.

<p>Built in Barrow-in-Furness, England from 1899-1900 and serving in the Russo-Japanese war, the Mikasa is a fascinating step back to another time on the seas. This 120-year-old vessel is very special indeed. Older ships, such as the Mikasa, were rendered obsolete when HMS Dreadnought was launched in 1906 and today the Mikasa is the only surviving pre-dreadnought battleship in the world, as well as one of the Japanese Imperial Navy’s few surviving boats from the time. </p>

Mikasa, Yokosuka, Japan

Built in Barrow-in-Furness, northwest England from 1899-1900 and serving in the Russo-Japanese War, the Mikasa is a fascinating step back to another time on the seas. This 120-year-old vessel is very special indeed. Older ships, such as the Mikasa, were rendered obsolete when HMS Dreadnought was launched in 1906 and today the Mikasa is the only surviving pre-dreadnought battleship in the world, as well as one of the Japanese Imperial Navy’s few surviving boats from the time. 

<p>Named after Mount Mikasa in Nara, Japan, she was decommissioned in 1923 and is now a museum ship in Hokkaido, the northernmost and second-largest of Japan’s main islands. There are currently strict entry requirements for traveling to Japan during the pandemic, but when travel is permitted, visitors can see the radio rooms, main artillery and explore the admiral's living and eating quarters. </p>  <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/news/73255/the-best-weekend-trips-from-tokyo">The best weekend trips from Tokyo</a></strong></p>

Named after Mount Mikasa in Nara, Japan, she was decommissioned in 1923 and is now a museum ship in Yokosuka, in the Kanagawa prefecture. Visitors can see the radio rooms, main artillery and explore the admiral's living and eating quarters aboard the bridge and upper deck, main deck and central exhibition room. 

A true testament to Victorian ingenuity, the SS Great Britain was designed by the greatest British engineer of the age, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, and first launched in 1843. The passenger steamship, which sailed the transatlantic service between Bristol and New York, was cutting-edge for its day. Called 'the greatest experiment since the Creation', she would influence modern shipping and help shape the future of travel for decades to come.

SS Great Britain, Bristol, England, UK

<p>The ship was converted into a cargo vessel and remained in use as a storage ship until 1933 but was then left to rust after a failed rescue mission. But in 1970, a landmark salvage effort brought her back to life. She was returned to the original Great Western Dockyard in Bristol, and now sits as an engaging museum in the city's historic harbor, with her passenger cabins and dining halls restored to their original glory. Right now, you only can visit SS Great Britain with <a href="https://www.ssgreatbritain.org/">pre-bought online tickets</a>.</p>

The ship was converted into a cargo vessel and remained in use as a storage ship until 1933, before being left to rust after a failed rescue mission. But in 1970, a landmark salvage effort brought her back to life. She was returned to the original Great Western Dockyard in Bristol, and now sits as an engaging museum in the city's historic harbor, with her passenger cabins and dining halls restored to their original glory. 

<p>Oslo’s <a href="https://www.khm.uio.no/english/">Viking Ship Museum</a> is home to three fabulously fascinating ships, the Oseberg, Gokstad and the Tune, which help to bring the Vikings to life. Beautifully crafted and well preserved, all three were seagoing vessels before they were brought onto land to be used as burial mounds. When they were discovered, each was found with grave gifts, from everyday objects and religious artifacts. </p>

Museum of the Viking Age, Oslo, Norway

Formerly known as the Viking Ship Museum, the newly anticipated Museum of the Viking Age will be home to three fabulously fascinating ships: the Oseberg, Gokstad and the Tune, when it opens in 2027. Beautifully crafted and well preserved, all three were seagoing vessels before they were brought onto land to be used as burial mounds. When they were discovered, each was found with grave gifts, from everyday objects to religious artifacts. 

<p>Part of the Museum of Cultural History at the University of Oslo, the Viking ships can be found in the Bygdøy peninsula, a serene, forested area packed with maritime history that’s easily accessible by boat or bus from the city center. While the scale of these ships might not be quite as impressive as others on this list, their age is impressive. The Tune and Gokstad were in use around AD 900, while the Oseberg dates to AD 820. <a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/news/68926/what-to-do-in-oslo-sightseeing">Discover how to spend the perfect weekend in Oslo here.</a></p>

The trio of Viking ships have found a final resting place on the Bygdoy peninsula, a serene, forested area packed with maritime history that’s easily accessible by boat or bus from Oslo city center. While the scale of these ships might not be quite as magnificent as others on this list, their age is impressive. The Tune and Gokstad were in use around AD 900, while the Oseberg dates to AD 820. 

<p>The beautiful ocean liner offers a glimpse into the glamor of a bygone era. Built by the Cunard Line, the Queen Mary was the company’s flagship vessel, sailing the North Atlantic route and serving in the Second World War until she was retired in 1967. She represented a ground-breaking technological achievement, capturing <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_Riband#:~:text=The%20Blue%20Riband%20(%2F%CB%88r,widely%20used%20until%20after%201910.">the Blue Riband</a> on her maiden voyage. But she was also the height of luxury and one of the grandest ocean liners ever built, which made her popular with British royalty and Hollywood film stars. </p>

Queen Mary, Long Beach, California, USA

This beautiful ocean liner offers a glimpse into the glamour of a bygone era. Built by the Cunard Line, the Queen Mary was the company’s flagship vessel, sailing the North Atlantic route and serving in the Second World War until she was retired in 1967. She represented a ground-breaking technological achievement, earning the Blue Riband on her maiden voyage. But she was also the height of luxury and one of the grandest ocean liners ever built, which made her popular with British royalty and Hollywood film stars. 

<p>Until the pandemic of 2020, she continued her life of glamor permanently moored in Los Angeles’ Long Beach as <a href="https://www.queenmary.com/">a hotel and attraction</a>. When she's open, you can stay in one of its many gorgeous Art Deco staterooms, visit for the day or even take advantage of the onboard spa, but for now the ship remains closed until further notice. </p>

She continues her life of glamor permanently moored in Los Angeles’ Long Beach as a hotel and attraction. Visit for the day and enjoy the many exhibits, or join a Glory Days Historical Tour and go behind the scenes of the Queen Mary. You can also stay in one of its many gorgeous Art Deco staterooms or even take advantage of the onboard spa.

<p>Another iconic luxury liner built by Cunard, the 963-foot-long Queen Elizabeth 2 (or QE2 as it's better known) set sail on her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York in May 1969, with crowds of well-wishers (pictured) waving her off. In her 39 years at sea, the QE2 completed 806 Atlantic crossings and 25 trips around the world, racking up millions of nautical miles as a cruise liner and, for a brief stint, a troopship in the Falklands War. </p>

QE2, Dubai, UAE

Another iconic luxury liner built by Cunard, the 963-foot-long (293m) Queen Elizabeth 2 (or QE2 as it's better known) set sail on her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York in May 1969, with crowds of well-wishers (pictured) waving her off. In her 39 years at sea, the QE2 completed 806 Atlantic crossings and 25 trips around the world, racking up millions of nautical miles as a cruise liner and, for a brief stint, a troopship in the Falklands War. 

<p>In 2007, the QE2 was sold to Dubai government investment company Istithmar World for $100 million. Despite standing for almost a decade untouched in the Mina Rashid port after initial refurbishment plans were shelved, work on transforming the QE2 into a <a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/ae/queen-elizabeth-2.en-gb.html?aid=1280739" rel="nofollow">luxury static hotel</a> finally began in 2017. Just a year later, the 13-deck venue welcomed its first visitors. The monumental destination offers heritage tours where you can glimpse the original rooms and artifacts from its time at sea. It's located in good company too, as nearby attractions include the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and the Gold Souk.</p>  <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/guides/63333/the-best-places-to-visit-in-dubai">Discover the best places to visit</a><a href="http://www.loveexploring.com/guides/63333/the-best-places-to-visit-in-dubai"> in </a><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/guides/63333/the-best-places-to-visit-in-dubai">Dubai</a></strong></p>

In 2007, the QE2 was sold to Dubai government investment company Istithmar World for $100m. Despite standing for almost a decade untouched in the Mina Rashid marina after initial refurbishment plans were shelved, work on transforming the QE2 into a luxury static hotel finally began in 2017. Just a year later, the 13-deck venue welcomed its first visitors. The monumental destination offers heritage tours where you can glimpse the original rooms and artifacts from its time at sea. It's located in good company too, as nearby attractions include the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and the Gold Souk.

<p>The last tea clipper built in Britain in 1869, the Cutty Sark was the fastest too. Weighing in at 963 tons, she sailed the equivalent of two-and-a-half times the distance to the moon and back through all manner of storms and high seas during her years of service. Essentially a cargo ship, her maiden voyage was to Shanghai, China where she carried 1.3 million lbs of tea back to London. Now part of the Royal Museums Greenwich in London, the <a href="https://www.rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark">Cutty Sark</a> has been open to visitors for 60 years.</p>

Cutty Sark, London, England, UK

The last tea clipper built in Britain in 1869, the Cutty Sark was the fastest too. Weighing in at 963 tonnes, she sailed the equivalent of two-and-a-half times the distance to the moon and back through all manner of storms and high seas during her years of service. Essentially a cargo ship, her maiden voyage was to Shanghai, China where she carried 1.3 million pounds (600,000 kg) of tea back to London. Now part of the Royal Museums Greenwich in London, the Cutty Sark has been open to visitors for 67 years.

<p>You can walk beneath the hull, see the captain’s table and take the ship’s wheel (<a href="https://www.rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark">with pre-booked tickets</a>). Greenwich has a wealth of museums worth taking in, such as the Maritime Museum, Royal Observatory, the Queen’s House and Painted Hall, all part of the Naval College. And, naturally, the best way to get there is along the Thames on the Clipper ferry service.</p>

You can walk beneath the hull, see the captain’s table, take the ship’s wheel and climb the rigging. Greenwich has a wealth of museums worth taking in, such as the Maritime Museum, Royal Observatory, the Queen’s House and Painted Hall, all part of the Naval College. The most appropriate way to get there is down the Thames on the Clipper ferry service.

Liked this? Click on the Follow button above for more great stories from loveEXPLORING

Check out these incredible stories of history's most tragic ships

More for You

Here's No. 1 thing mentally strong couples 'never' do, says relationship therapist of 20 years

Here's No. 1 thing mentally strong couples 'never' do, says relationship therapist of 20 years

Bill Romanowski

4-Time Super Bowl Champ Files for Bankruptcy as Government Sues Him for Alleged $15.5 Million in Unpaid Taxes

Recreated head of 40-something Neanderthal woman Shanidar Z

Face of Neanderthal woman buried in Iraqi cave 75,000 years ago revealed

family father mother child budget smartphone_iStock-2133160001

4 Hidden Money Traps New Parents Need To Avoid

I Cut My Food Expenses In Half Using The Viral

I Cut My Food Expenses In Half Using The Viral "6-To-1" Grocery Method — Here's How

Jif Is Giving Away Free Peanut Butter This Week

Jif Is Releasing a New Flavor for the First Time in Nearly 10 Years

18 Most Common Reasons Women Leave Their Marriages

18 Most Common Reasons Women Leave Their Marriages

Former U.S. president Barack Obama

Barack Obama shares his No. 1 piece of advice for his own daughters: Don't let your hunger for success ruin your happiness

A woman thought her tattoos were why she was rejected for a job, but experts say personality is far more important

A woman said her tattoos got her rejected for a job, but experts say personality is far more important

Snacks and other food items banned in the US

30 food items that you might not know are banned in America

NEWS: [Subcat: US] Map shows the best place to buy a house in US to survive nuclear war (SEO) METRO GRAPHICS Credit FEMA / Getty / metro.co.uk

Map reveals best places to live in the US if nuclear war breaks out

The Choco Taco Is Coming Back For A Limited Time

The Choco Taco Is Coming Back For A Limited Time

15 Traits Of An Alpha Female

15 Traits Of An Alpha Female

Photo of Joshua Dean, a whistleblower who raised concerns about the safety of the Boeing 737 Max plane, died on April 30, 2024 after being in critical condition for two weeks.

Boeing 737 Max whistleblower Joshua Dean, 45, dead after sudden illness

Why Are Employers Avoiding Hiring Gen Z Workers?

Employers Are Avoiding Hiring Gen Z Workers- Here's Why

Sergiy Kyslytsya, permanent representative of Ukraine to the United Nations, provided a hint on the Ukrainan's military strategy against Russia

Vladimir Putin 'alarmed' after Ukrainian diplomat hints at next military move

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 20: Ranking Member Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) makes his opening statements to witnesses Tony Bobulinski, Jason Galanis, and Lev Parnas during a House Oversight and Accountability Hearing:

Jamie Raskin Names And Shames The 'Evil Fairy' Secretly Setting 'The Country Back'

Joe Biden at The White House

Joe Biden's Approval Rating Falls To All-Time Low

Netflix-Logo.jpg

Netflix is removing all of these movies and TV shows

Rock ‘n’ roll pioneer dies aged 86

Rock ‘n’ roll pioneer dies aged 86

COMMENTS

  1. Belfast City Sightseeing Hop on Hop off Open-top Bus Tour

    Discover our unique city from the upper deck of our Belfast City Sightseeing bus and hop-on and hop-off at any of the 19 stops on the tour route. Our city tour passes all the major attractions in the city including Titanic Belfast, St. George's Market, Ulster Museum and HMS Caroline. We offer live guides and audio commentary in 6 languages.

  2. Sightseeing Tours

    Sightseeing Tours. Explore Belfast and Northern Ireland with a sightseeing tour led by an experienced local guide. Choose from walking, bus, boat, bike and taxi tours, as well as themed tours on Titanic, Game of Thrones, Giant's Causeway, and food and drink. Items 1 to 53 of 53. A-Z.

  3. THE 10 BEST Belfast Tours & Excursions

    3. Dublin: Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Dark Hedges and Belfast. Tick off Northern Ireland's top attractions in just one day during a stress-free tour from Dublin, ideal for travelers with…. 4. Titanic Belfast Experience,Giant's Causeway, Dunluce Castle Day Trip from Dublin.

  4. THE TOP 10 Belfast Tours & Excursions (UPDATED 2024)

    Giant's Causeway and Titanic Experience from Belfast Port. 41. Maximize time while docked in Belfast with this full-day shore excursion. Explore beyond the city to see a few of Northern Ireland's top attractions including Giant's Causeway, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Carrickfergus Castle.

  5. Belfast City Sightseeing Hop on Hop off Open-top Bus Tour

    If you do not Hop-on / Hop-off the tour lasts approx 1 hour 10 minutes. The Belfast City Sightseeing tour is the ONLY open top tour in Belfast which is 4* rated by the NITB (Northern Ireland Tourist Board) and is the ONLY World Host accredited tour for excellence in customer service. Tours depart from Donegall Square West, beside Belfast City ...

  6. THE TOP 10 Belfast Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises (w/Prices)

    Giant's Causeway and Titanic Experience from Belfast Port. 41. Maximize time while docked in Belfast with this full-day shore excursion. Explore beyond the city to see a few of Northern Ireland's top attractions including Giant's Causeway, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Carrickfergus Castle.

  7. Belfast Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

    The Belfast Hop on Hop off open top bus tour is the only tour which passes all of the main sightseeing attractions, such as the Crumlin road jail & offers discounts for both the Titanic Museum, and HMS Caroline. It provides you with a Comprehensive look at Belfast city and allows you to explore every area of this unique place. Our tour operates ...

  8. THE 10 BEST Belfast Sightseeing Tours

    These are the best places for adrenaline seekers looking for sightseeing tours in Belfast: Happy Irish Tours; Black Taxi Tour Belfast; Belfast Party Bike; See more sightseeing tours for adrenaline seekers in Belfast on Tripadvisor

  9. Belfast City Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour 2024

    Enjoy unobstructed views, colorful onboard commentary, and a personalized itinerary. City Sightseeing Belfast hop-on hop-off tour. Open-top double-decker sightseeing tour with onboard commentary. Falls Road murals, Botanic Gardens, City Hall and Albert Clock. Hop on and off at 20 stops around the city. Choose from a 1-day or 2-day unlimited pass.

  10. Belfast: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

    Full description. City Sightseeing Belfast - The open-top bus tour gives you the chance to ride around the city, whilst hopping on and off at many different bus stops around Belfast at your own leisure. The tour takes in the ever-changing Titanic Quarter, birth place of the RMS Titanic, and now an exciting new development for the city.

  11. Belfast City Sightseeing Tour

    Belfast City Sightseeing Tour. Hop on and hop off bus tour throughout Belfast. Enjoy unlimited travel for 48 hours with more frequent departures than any other tour. Belfast City Sightseeing bus tours are the perfect way to see Belfast. Hop on board their buses and see Belfast the easy way. Belfast City Sightseeing double decker buses operate ...

  12. Things To See & Do in Belfast

    You'll find endless things to do in Belfast, from world-class attractions, historic landmarks, museums, shopping and entertainment venues, to walking, coach, taxi and bike sightseeing tours. And as the gateway to Northern Ireland, Belfast is perfectly positioned for sightseeing tours to Giant's Causeway, Game of Thrones filming locations ...

  13. 13 Fantastic Belfast Tours

    City Sightseeing Belfast Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. ⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (1208 reviews) | ⏳ Tour length: 1.5 hours | Includes: 1 or 2 day unlimited hop-on hop-off bus pass, On-board audio commentary available in several languages + free headphones, Vouchers valid for 12 months | ⚡ Book now. Experience the remarkable stories of Belfast like never before and explore its colorful ...

  14. Belfast Sightseeing

    What Everyone is Saying… With over 115,000 cruise visitors, Belfast SightSeeing.com are proud to be part of the team promoting very many sights and attractions that Belfast and Northern Ireland has to offer to our international friends. This year visiting cruise lines include Princess Cruises, Celebrity, All Leisure, Silversea, Majestic, Fred Olsen Cruise Line, Saga Cruise and many, many ...

  15. Belfast Bus Tours

    THE TITANIC MUSEUM. Visit Belfast's most popular tourist attraction, stop 5 on our Belfast hop on hop off tour. Discover the newly renovated interactive Titanic experience, along with 18 other stops on your very own Belfast bus tour.. Belfast Hop on Hop off

  16. Private Belfast City Sightseeing Tour

    Explore Belfast's rich history, art, and culture on our private city sightseeing tour. Led by experienced local guides, traverse streets adorned with murals narrating Belfast's past, from the poignant Peace Wall to the architectural marvels of City Hall and the Titanic Area. Venture through landmarks like St George's Market, Shankill Road, and Crumlin Road Jail, each revealing a chapter of ...

  17. THE TOP 10 Belfast Sightseeing Tours (UPDATED 2024)

    Explore historic Belfast in an open-top double-decker bus on this hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour. With your 1- or 2-day pass, create your own adventure with possible stops at wall murals in Falls and Crumlin Roads, St George's Market, Titanic Dock, and Albert Clock. Enjoy unobstructed views, colorful onboard commentary, and a personalized ...

  18. Belfast Open-Top City Bus Tours

    Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland and has historically been a centre for the Irish linen industry, tobacco production, rope-making and shipbuilding. City Sightseeing Bus Tours are the best way to discover the city for the first time. Your Hop-On Hop-Off Ticket includes a booklet of discount coupons to access the most prominent ...

  19. Trips

    Trips Archive - Sightseeing Belfast. [email protected] +44(0) 28 9091 5613. Contact us. Belfast City 48 Hour Hop-on Hop-off Tour; ... Tours. Our tours allow you to view all of the top attractions in Belfast and the Causeway Coast within 1 or 2 days. We also have a tour specifically for those arriving by cruise ship!

  20. Tours And Sightseeing

    Welcome to Belfastology Walking Tours, where I invite you to join me on an immersive journey through the tours and sightseeing. As a native guide deeply connected to this city, I offer a Belfast Walking Tour, providing a unique perspective on the city's past, present, and future.With a passion for storytelling and capturing memorable moments through photography, I'll reveal Belfast's rich ...

  21. Belfast Sightseeing Tours & Attractions

    Discover the charm and history of Belfast with our top-rated sightseeing tours and attractions.Explore the vibrant street art and captivating history of Belfast on our mural walking tour. Immerse yourself in the fantasy world of Westeros with our Game of Thrones tour, where you'll visit iconic filming locations.

  22. Hop-on / Hop-off route map

    City Sightseeing Belfast Hop-on Hop-off Open-top Bus Tour. Book Online Now. View our map to get information on all 23 stops available with our Hop-on / Hop-off ticket. All tickets are without stop limits and valid for 24 hours!

  23. Belfast Causeway Tours

    Welcome to Belfast Causeway Tours! We specialise in private tours of Northern Ireland's breathtaking North Antrim Coast, showcasing iconic destinations such as the Giants Causeway, the Dark Hedges, Carrick-a-Reed Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, and more. Our tours take you on an unforgettable journey through stunning landscapes and historic ...

  24. Best of Belfast City Centre Walking Tour

    The tour starts and finishes at the iconic City Hall and is a great way to learn about and explore Belfast. They'll take you through the quarters in the heart of the city, where their team of passionate local guides will introduce you to hidden history, fantastic street art, beautiful architecture and fascinating stories of Belfast's citizens from the past and present.

  25. 5 reasons to visit Belfast in 2024

    1. The museums. Belfast is a historic place and there's no better way to enjoy the city's heritage than by visiting some of its museums. To explore the city's famous shipbuilding past, Titanic Belfast is a must. This world-leading attraction is located at the same docks where the infamous "Ship of Dreams" was built and launched on her ill-fated maiden voyage in 1912.

  26. See The World's Most Famous Ships Up Close

    Mayflower II, Massachusetts, USA. The original vessel is long gone, likely sold off as scrap after her many voyages in the 1600s. Today, though, you can visit the Mayflower II - a full-scale ...