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2 Days in Belfast: A 48 Hour Belfast Itinerary

Last updated: April 7, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 6 Comments

Heading to Belfast? The capital of Northern Ireland impressed us on a recent trip here, and we wanted to share some of our findings with you. Our first post on Belfast is a guide to spending 2 days in Belfast, although we spent a few more days than that here, and were far from running out of things to do.

Whilst it is hard to fit all the highlights of Belfast into 2 days, we know that many visitors will likely want to explore more of the Emerald Isle, perhaps either along the Causeway Coastal route , or down south into the Republic of Ireland. So with that in mind we’ve put together this itinerary to help you make the most of your time here.

We think this itinerary for two days in Belfast will give you an excellent overview of what this city has to offer, from ancient pubs to modern day art and culture. We think it works well in conjunction with our guide to things to do in Belfast . We also have a guide to the best day trips from Belfast , if you plan on using the city as a base and exploring the area.

2 Days in Belfast, An Itinerary

Day 1: Belfast Itinerary

The Waterfront Area

The majority of Belfast’s attractions don’t open until 10 am, which is great news if you want a lie in, but not great if you’re an early bird. So you have two options – a leisurely breakfast, or a bit of time spent sightseeing at some of the outdoor locations.

One good option is along the waterfront, where you can take a leisurely stroll from the actual Belfast Waterfront building (an event space), northwards past a number of art installations including the Beacon of Hope and the Big Fish.

The former is a massive stainless steel and bronze sculpture of a lady holding a large ring, which is meant to symbolise thanksgiving. She also has a globe at her feet which celebrates peace and harmony, and is marked with the cities where the people and goods of Belfast have migrated and been exported to respectively.

The Big Fish, also known as the Salmon of Knowledge, is a large sculpture of, as you would imagine, a Salmon. This is covered in ceramic tiles, and each one tells a different story of the city, meaning you can spend quite a while here looking at all the different tiles. It’s also located at the meeting point of Belfast’s two major rivers, the River Farset (from where Belfast gets its name) and the River Lagan.

First on our list of indoor attraction is the MAC , Belfast’s Metropolitan Arts Centre. This opens at 10 am, and there are three major art galleries on site, with exhibitions varying depending on when you visit. Most of these are also free, which is nice. You can see what’s on by visiting the art exhibition page .

When we visited the Mac, we toured the exhibitions and we were impressed by the variety of what was on offer, so we definitely recommend you check out their listings and add this to your itinerary.

As well as the exhibition space, the venue plays host to numerous events, including family focused events, art shows and performances. We didn’t have time to take in one of the events, but they did seem to have some excellent options. You can see the full event listing here , although obviously you’ll need to tweak this itinerary if something is coming up that interests you.

If you have time, just near the MAC is the Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum . This is quite a small museum that covers the history of World War II in Northern Ireland, and particularly the damage inflicted on Belfast by a number of air raids which targeted the docks here.

Belfast was initially believed to be out of range of the German bombers, so was quite badly prepared for the attacks when they did come, resulting in significant damage and loss of life. This is a free museum that is open from 10 am, just a two minute walk from the MAC.

Crumlin Road Gaol

Our next stop in Belfast is the Crumlin Road Gaol . This was, for over 150 years, one of Northern Ireland’s main prisons, and is today the only surviving Victorian era prison in Northern Ireland.

Opened in 1846, the prison was one of the most advanced of its time, and was originally built to house around 500 prisoners, although in its later years, and especially during the Troubles, it held many more than this. It closed in 1996 as a prison, and following an extensive restoration project, was opened as a visitor attraction in 2012.

Visits, which are by tour only, take you to all the major parts of the prison. This includes a visit to the tunnel under the road which linked the prison with the courthouse over the road (now derelict, but slated to become a luxury hotel), as well as to a cell wing and the execution chamber – seventeen prisoners were executed on site by hanging, with the last execution taking place in 1961.

The tour shares lots of information about the history of the prison, its design and notable inmates, and the tour takes around 70 – 90 minutes. It’s definitely worth booking your tour in advance as it is slightly cheaper than booking in person. You can do that online here.

For our itinerary we’d recommend booking a tour between 12 pm & 1 pm, which will give you time for your afternoon activities. There’s a café on site where you can get some food too.

As a side note, in 2024 a new distillery opened in one of the wings of Crumlin Road gaol. McConnell’s Distillery opened it’s doors to tours in 2024, and if you like whiskey or just want to learn more about how it’s made, this would make a logical stop at this part of your visit. You can find out more and book tours here . Note, there is another new whiskey distillery in the Titanic Quarter as well if you can’t find time on your first day in Belfast!

Tours of Belfast

For your afternoon in Belfast we recommend taking a tour. We took three different tours in Belfast during our time in the city, which included a street art walking tour with Seedhead Arts , a Black Cab Tour with Belfast local blue badge guide Billy Scott, and a gin tasting tour with Taste & Tour .

Naturally, the tour you want to take will very much depend on your interests! Here’s a quick overview of each tour we took so you can see which is right for you. You can also see more Belfast tour options here .

Belfast Street Art Tour

The Street Art walking tour of Belfast that we took was put together and is run by local Belfast street artists. The tour lasts around ninety minutes, and in that time you’ll learn all about the history of the Belfast street art scene, as well as see a lot of different pieces of street art.

Note that this is a bit different to the tours that cover the Belfast murals, such as the Black Cab tour we mention below. Those primarily focus on the political art, while this one focuses more on everyday street art and the local & international artists who have visited and worked in the city.

We really enjoyed this tour, and particularly getting an insight into the various pieces of art and street artists from our tour leader Tim, a Belfast Street Artist who works under the artist name Verz. Whilst you can of course walk around Belfast and spot street art on your own, a tour is a great way to really get an understanding of each piece, and the thinking behind it.

Currently tours run weekly and start at noon, so if this is a tour you want to take you will have to check it’s on the right day for you, and also you’ll need to slightly juggle this itinerary to fit it in. We’d suggest doing it in place of your Crumlin Road Goal tour, and scheduling that for a bit later – around 3pm perhaps. Alternatively, you can contact Seedhead Arts about a tour outside of their usual times. See their website for more information. We also have a post with lots more Belfast street art for you to check out!

Belfast Black Cab Tour

If you’re interested in learning a bit more about the political history of Belfast, then a Blackcab tour is a great option. This tour, which takes place in an iconic Black Cab vehicle, will take you around various parts of Belfast, many of which are synonymous with the years of conflict that the city went through during the time known as The Troubles.

Parts of the city are still separated by the Peace walls, massive barriers that literally divide the Republican / Catholic neighbourhoods from the Loyalist / Protestant neighbourhoods. The Black cab tour we took was run by Belfast local Billy Scott.

Billy knows a great deal about the local history of the city, and seemed to know hundreds of people – often waving out the cab window to wish hello to folks passing by. He’s also a registered Blue Badge guide, which is the highest level of qualification awarded to tour guides in the UK, meaning he has to really know his stuff. Which, he did.

We were able to tailor the tour as we wished based on our interests. We saw several different quarters of the city and learnt a lot about the history of the city and its people and struggles over the years from Billy. The tour was at times moving and at times funny. We also had the opportunity to write our own message on the Peacewall, which has been covered in murals, as well as signed by people including the Dalai Lama and US President Bill Clinton.

Tours run on demand, visit the official website for booking and pricing information. You can also book a similar tour here .

Gin Tasting Tour of Belfast

If you’re looking for something a bit more, well, alcohol focused, then the Gin tasting tour of Belfast might be for you. Gin has experienced a surge in popularity around the world, and Northern Ireland is no stranger to this trend.

A number of local gin distilleries have started creating their own gins, and this gin tour is a great way to both sample a number of these as well as learn about the history of this drink and visit some of Belfast’s iconic drinking venues.

The tour we took lasted around four hours and included seven generous gin drinks! Our tip is definitely to have prepared yourself with a good meal beforehand, as this is a fair amount of gin to drink. The drinks came in a variety of ways, from straight up gin shots through to gin martinis and the classic gin and tonic.

As well as gin, the tour included some nibbles, and in total we stopped at five different pubs and bars. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and a lot of fun, and we particularly enjoyed chatting with the other folks on the tour, many of whom were Belfast locals out for a fun afternoon exploring their own city.

The Gin Jaunt is currently offered on weekends, but the company who runs the tours also runs other food and drink based tours, so you should be able to find something to suit whenever you visit. See all their tours, prices and details here .

Visit The Crown Bar

Belfast has no shortage of watering holes (see the section later on in the post on where to drink in Belfast), but one location that deserves its own entry is the Crown Liquor Saloon, also known as the Crown Bar.

This is actually owned by the National Trust, and is probably the most famous pub in Belfast. It dates from at least 1826, and features an incredible ornate interior of tiles, original gas lamp fixtures and a beautiful carved ceiling. There’s even a heated footrest under the granite bar.

This was the place to be in Victorian times, when it was a gin palace of unparalleled design. Appropriately, the gin tour we took started here, with a gin and tonic. Today you can enjoy a wide range of drinks as you admire the incredible interior, and we think this is the perfect place to end your first day in Belfast!

Day 2: Belfast Itinerary

Our second day in Belfast has you visiting one of Belfast’s most popular attractions – the Titanic Museum.

However, there’s a lot more to do here than this museum, so we think you should allocate around half a day to visiting this quarter, known as the Titanic Quarter, and we’ll go through some of our favourite attractions in this area which will easily fill your time.

This part of Belfast is also home to the “Maritime Mile”, which is a mile long walkable stretch which focuses on the maritime history of the city. It’s also here where the Titanic Studios are found, one of the key filming locations of the popular Game of Thrones TV show. There’s a nod to the show in the form of six giant stained glass windows depicting scenes from the show, which are found along the Maritime Mile. See our guide to Game of Thrones locations in Ireland for more information.

Titanic Museum

First on our list for this area is the Titanic Belfast Experience  itself. For those of you who weren’t aware, the RMS Titanic was built in Belfast’s dockyards, by shipbuilders Harland and Wolff. Harland and Wolff were responsible for the majority of the ships of the White Star Line, including the Titanic, and are still operating today – although they have since diversified into other products including offshore wind turbines.

The most recognisable feature of the present day Harland and Wolff facility are the massive Samson and Goliath cranes, huge yellow gantry cranes which dominate the Belfast skyline, and which you’ll definitely spot when you visit the Titanic Quarter.

Back to the Titanic Belfast experience. This visitor attraction, which opened in 2012 (100 years after the Titanic sank), is found on the site of the original Harland & Wolff shipyard. Here, both the RMS Titanic and her sister ship, the RMS Olympic were built and launched.

The museum, whose four corners are shaped like the prow of a ship, takes you on a fascinating journey into the history of the shipyard, the building of the RMS Titanic itself, the people who worked on her and, her first voyage and, of course, an overview of the tragic events that resulted in the sinking of the Titanic in 1912, with a loss of over 1,500 lives.

The museum goes further than that, and covers events up to the current day, including the discovery of the wreck and stories about how popular culture has portrayed the events. Yes, you will even hear that famous Celine Dion song. Overall, this museum is a fascinating attraction, and well worth two or three hours of your time.

The Titanic Museum operates a timed ticketing system, with entrances every 15 minutes from opening time. These varies depending on the time of year, and are currently from 9 am April – September, and 10 am October – March. It’s always a good idea to check the official website for opening times first though to be sure.

We definitely recommend you get your ticket in advance here to save queuing and coming early to avoid the crowds. Tickets bought online include your entrance to the SS Nomadic, which is just next to the Titanic Museum.

Note that the Titanic Museum also has a full shop, on-site paid parking and dining options. Find out more about visiting in our comprehensive guide to the Titanic Belfast here .

The SS Nomadic is the last surviving White Star Line ship in the world. Built by Harland & Wolff in Belfast, she was originally designed to serve as a tender to both the Titanic and the Olympic.

Due to the massive size of the Titanic and Olympic, not every harbor could accommodate them. In particular for the Titanic, the SS Nomadic ferried first and second class passengers and their luggage from Cherbourg Harbour in France onto the Titanic. Third class passengers primarily travelled on the SS Traffic, Nomadic’s running mate.

Following her role as tender to the Titanic and other White Star Ocean Liners, the SS Nomadic had a varied existence, from minesweeper and troop transport during World War One, through to troop evacuation in World War Two. Between and after the wars she continued to work as a tender, including to vessels such as the Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth.

Finally, she wound up as a restaurant ship on the Seine in Paris, where she spent almost thirty years – a function which likely saved her from being scrapped. Following the failure of the restaurant business, her fate hung in the balance, before she was saved by the Northern Ireland government and returned to her original port of Belfast, a rather sorry version of her former self.

Following extensive restoration, including work by Harland & Wolff, the SS Nomadic was opened to visitors in June 2013. Today, you can tour the wonderfully recreated ship and learn everything there is to know about her past and association with the Titanic. We’d recommend visiting this in conjunction with the Titanic Museum, as you can purchase an  entry ticket  that will get you access to both attractions. Alternatively, you can just pay a lower entry fee for only visiting the SS Nomadic, and you can buy this on site.

Titanic Dock & Pump House

If you want to get a feel for the massive scale of the Titanic, the best option is to visit the Titanic Dock and Pump House. This is about a ten minute walk from the Titanic Museum in the opposite direction to the SS Nomadic, which you can do along the waterfront.

The Titanic Dock, officially called the Thompson Graving Dock, was where the Titanic was fitted out, after the superstructure had been completed and her engines and other major components were fitted.

In terms of a timeline, from her original point of construction (marked out outside the Titanic Museum), the hull was first floated to the Thompson deep water dock where things like engines, boilers, anchors and so on were fitted.

She was then put in the Thompson Graving Dock in February 1912. This dry dock was where all the final parts of the Titanic was completed, including fitting her propellors, painting of the hill, and all the finishing she needed prior to her sea trials and maiden voyage.

At the time it was opened, the Titanic dry dock was the largest of its kind in the world. It was specially designed to accommodate the Titanic and Olympic, and at 850 feet in length, was the same size as the Titanic herself. So a visit here really gives you an impression of the incredible size of these vessels.

You can walk all around the dry dock as well as down inside it, where you can see the keel blocks where vessels rested. You can also visit the pump house, which was responsible for moving water out of the dry dock. As of 2023, this has been turned into a new Irish whiskey distillery, Titanic Distillers. You can take a tour which just focuses on the pump house, and there are also tours which include the whisky distillery with tastings.

We have done both. We actually visited the Pump House before it became a distillery, and then took a whisky distillery tour in 2024. If you enjoy whisky, the tour is definitely worth doing, the staff are excellent and the tour is very interesting. You can book tickets for the tour in advance here .

If you’re interested in naval history, you can also visit the HMS Caroline , which is a world war one light cruiser and last survivor of the Battle of Jutland. This is parked in the dry dock right next to the Pump House, and as well as the ship itself you can visit the small museum on shore about the vessel. We really enjoyed exploring the ship and learning about its history.

Belfast’s City Hall is a fantastic piece of Victorian engineering, built in the late 19th century following Belfast being awarded city status by Queen Victoria in recognition of its rapid growth.

Spread over an area of an acre and a half, the Baroque Revival style building is a beautiful centrepiece to the city, and the park area around it is a popular place in summer for people to visit. While we were in Belfast, part of this grassy area was being used an outdoor cinema screening venue, which appeared to be a popular event given the large number of people in attendance.

It’s also possible to visit City Hall. As well as an exhibition space that features stories of the city itself, you can take a free guided tour of the main areas of the building, including the main rooms used by the council.

Tours last around 45 minutes, and run at various times throughout the day, depending on the time of year. You can see the tour times on the official website here . Tours are free and are on a first come first served basis – if you want to join one, we’d advise turning up 15 – 30 minutes before the tour to register for spaces. You can then spend the time before the tour looking at the free exhibition.

Based on our 2 day itinerary layout, we’d advice aiming for the  2pm tour, which will give you time to go to the next attraction on our itinerary.

Ulster Museum & Botanic Gardens

Now, we think it’s time to head to another part of the city. You can either grab some food around the Titanic Quarter (the Titanic Hotel is an excellent spot), near City Hall, or wait until you get to the Ulster Museum area of town, depending on time and your hunger levels.

The Ulster Museum is found in Belfast’s Botanic Gardens, with both attractions featuring free entry (although donations are of course welcomed). It’s a large building spanning multiple floors, and has a little bit of everything from natural history through to archaeology, art and culture.

When we visited the museum, a highlight for us was the massive Game of Thrones tapestry. This is a 77 metre long linen tapestry which features a scene from every episode of the show up to the current season – with room for the final season.

This is a fun way to celebrate Belfast’s rich linen history, and the detail of the tapestry is quite wonderful. Unfortunately this was a temporary exhibit, but it gives you an idea as to the quality of the exhibits on offer!

In case you are wondering why a Game of Thrones tapestry was on display in the Ulster Museum, this is because Game of Thrones is filmed in Northern Ireland , at such iconic sites as the Dark Hedges  as well as at the Titanic Studios . This is one of Europe’s largest film studios, which is found right next to the Titanic Museum. When we walked past this, we saw the massive green screens inside, as well as a set featuring a ruined castle. Pretty cool!

Ulster Museum is open 10am – 5pm every day except Monday, when it is closed. If this is something you want to do, and this day falls on a Monday, feel free to switch the days around, or the locations you visit on each day, so you can see everything you want.

Drink in the Cathedral Quarter

Last on our list of activities for your 2 days in Belfast is to have a drink in the Cathedral Quarter. This is a region of Belfast that is famous for its bars and restaurants, and is the perfect location to end your trip.

For some suggestions of where to go, take a look at our where to drink in Belfast section below. You can also take a beer bike tour , which sees you pedalling around the city and enjoying a beverage as you go.

Map of 2 Day Belfast Itinerary

To give you an idea of where the various attractions in this Belfast itinerary are we’ve put together this map, which should help you with planning your trip to Belfast. You can also see this on Google Maps here .

2 Day Belfast Itinerary Overview

Here’s a summary of this 2 day Belfast itinerary for quick reference:

• Day 1: The Waterfront Area, The MAC, Crumlin Road Gaol, Tour of Belfast, The Crown Bar
• Day 2: Titanic Museum, SS Nomadic, Titanic Dock & Pump House, City Hall, Ulster Museum & Botanic Gardens, Drink in the Cathedral Quarter

Where to Drink in Belfast

As mentioned throughout this post, there’s no shortage of fantastic venues to drink in in Belfast. To help you put a shortlist together for your Belfast visit, here’s a few options to choose from that we visited.

• The Crown : A Victorian era gin palace that is a must for any visit to Belfast
• Muriel’s Cafe bar : Famous for cocktails, but you can get everything from a traditional pint to a range of craft gins
• John Hewitt Bar: A more traditional style bar with live music and a full range of drinks
• The Duke of York: A staple of the Cathedral Quarter, this bar was blown up in 1972 during the Troubles, and has since been restored as a tribute to the city. The cobbled streets and hanging flower baskets mean this is a very photogenic pub!
• The Dirty Onion: On warmer days the outdoor seating in this Cathedral Quarter bar makes it hugely popular. There’s also a massive indoor seating area, plus the restaurant upstairs, Yardbird, serve really good chicken wings and ribs.
• Babel Bar:  If you’re after a rooftop bar, the Babel Bar in the Bullitt Hotel (just next door to Muriel’s) is an excellent choice
• Whites Tavern : Down a series of winding alleys, Whites Tavern isn’t obvious, but it has been serving drinks since 1630, so is worth finding. Good pub food too!

Where to Stay in Belfast

Belfast has been growing quickly as a tourism and business destination, and as such, there is a huge choice of hotels to stay in, with multiple new hotels opening every year! At most times of the year, it is easy to find a good value deal here.

The first time we visited Belfast we stayed at the Bullitt Hotel . This was fantastically central, within easy walking distance of the Cathedral Quarter and the majority of the sights on this itinerary.

It also has an excellent on site restaurant, as well as three bars to choose from – including the previously mentioned Babel Bar. Staff were friendly and very knowledgeable about the area, and we have no hesitation in recommending this as a central Belfast option. See prices and book online here .

Of course, there are lots more options to choose from in Belfast when it comes to accommodation. As always, we recommend booking.com for planning your accommodation – they offer a range of properties from hotels to hostels and apartments, meaning you can usually find what you need. Some options to consider include the following:

• Belfast International Youth Hostel – One of the best centrally located hostels in Belfast in our opinion. It offers private shared and private dormitory rooms, an on-site cafe, linens, a communal kitchen, a breakfast menu, self-service laundry, and even free parking (rare in Belfast!).
• easyHotel  – This well-rated budget hotel offers no-frills but comfortable rooms and a 24 hour staffed desk. A great central option for those on a tighter budget.
• Jurys Inn – This 4-star hotel offers spacious rooms, breakfast buffet, bar, and restaurant. We have stayed in a number of Jury’s Inns and have always found that they provide good value for money.
• The Titanic Hotel – on a subsequent visit to Belfast where we were focusing on the sights in the Titanic Quarter, we stayed at this hotel. It’s found opposite the Titanic Belfast attraction, and is actually in the original buildings where the Titanic was designed. We enjoyed our stay here.
• The Merchant Hotel – A beautiful 5-star historic luxury hotel in the heart of Belfast. Found in a beautiful 1860 building, the hotel offers all the luxury amenities you would expect, including a restaurant, bar and lounge, spa, hot tub, and a rooftop gymnasium.

You can see all the listings available in Belfast here .

Getting To and From Belfast

Belfast is an easy city to reach from multiple locations around the world.

From Ireland, there’s a direct rail link between Dublin and Belfast which takes just over two hours. From the rest of the Republic of Ireland you’ll probably want to take the train to Dublin and then continue on to Belfast.

There are also multiple bus options from Dublin, including direct from Dublin Airport. Journey time is around two hours, depending on traffic. It’s also easy to drive yourself of course.

From the UK, you can either fly or take the ferry. Ferries to Belfast depart from Liverpool, Cairnryan (Scotland) and the Isle of Man. We travelled with Stena Line and enjoyed the crossing from Cairnryan in Scotland. You can book your ferry here .

Numerous flights service Northern Ireland’s three major airports, with service from the UK, continental Europe and North America. There are even more options available if you include Dublin Airport as an option. We recommend checking prices on flights using Kiwi.com for the best deals.

Saving Money in Belfast

Belfast has a visitor pass which offers free public transport around the city and discounted admission on a number of attractions as well as food.

It’s probably going to be the easiest way to manage your public transport around the city if you plan on using it, plus the discounts can quickly pay for the cost of the card, which is very reasonably priced.

You can buy the Belfast Visitor Pass for 1, 2 or 3 days, either from the tourist office in the city, or online from the Visit Belfast website here .

When to visit Belfast

The Emerald Isle, as Ireland is often referred to, did not get its lush green colour as a result of being a dry and sunny hotspot. As such, similarly to Scotland, the weather in Belfast and Northern Ireland is best described as changeable, although we had our share of sunny weather.

Rain is a possibility year round, but if you want a chance at better weather, then May through September are your best options. The city is a popular destination year round, and there are plenty of indoor attractions to keep you busy regardless of the weather outside.

Belfast also plays host to events throughout the year, so if you are interested in attending one of these, check the Visit Belfast events page for ideas on what’s on that you might want to see.

How to Get around Belfast

Belfast is an easy city to get around on foot, and many of the attractions on this list are a short walk apart.

The city also has an excellent public transport system which includes buses as well as local trains. The aforementioned Belfast Visitor Pass makes it affordable to get everywhere you need to go, including to and from the airport.

In particular, of the attractions on this list, you might want to take a bus to the Crumlin Road Gaol, Ulster Museum, and perhaps from the Titanic Quarter to central Belfast.

There’s also a hop on hop off bus tour of Belfast you can take, which visits all the attractions covered in the article.

There are also taxis available, which can be quite cost effective for shorter journeys, especially if you are in a group. You can either hail these on the street, or book in advance – we recommend a taxi booking service called minicabit, book them for Belfast here .

Further Reading

Well, that sums up our idea of how to spend two days in Belfast! We’ve got a lot more content to come on the city which we’ll be linking to below, so do check back and don’t forget to subscribe to get updates on new content, which you can do here .

In the meantime, here’s some content to help you along with planning your Belfast trip.

• Our detailed guide to  things to do in Belfast .
• A tour of Belfast’s street art
• Our detailed guide to Titanic attractions in Belfast , which includes the excellent Titanic Belfast.
• Our guide to visiting the Dark Hedges , an excellent day trip from Belfast
• Speaking of which, we have a complete guide to the best day trips from Belfast for more inspiration
• Our guide to the best Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland
• The highlights of the Causeway Coastal Route , which runs from Belfast right around the coast to Londonderry, and makes for an awesome road trip
• Our guides to spending 2 days in Dublin and 3 days in Dublin
• An overview of how much it costs to travel in the UK to help you with budget planning
• Our guide to spending 2 weeks in the UK , which includes time in Belfast
• A guide to driving in the UK , in case you choose to hire a car and do a road trip
• The official Visit Belfast website , which has lots of information to help you plan your visit
• If you are looking for a guidebook, we recommend the Lonely Planet guide to Ireland, the Rick Steves Northern Ireland guide  or the DK Eyewitness Ireland Travel Guide

And that’s it! Hopefully you found this post useful. As always, if you have any feedback or questions, do let us know in the comments below.

So you know: Our accommodation and tours in Belfast were covered by Discover Northern Ireland, who invited us to experience the country and write about it. We covered our own meals and other expenses, including transport and attraction entry, and as always, only share our honest opinions and advice. See our code of ethics for more on how we work with brands and destinations.

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There are 6 comments on this post

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Geraldine Moran says

24th February 2022 at 9:37 am

Thanks for all that info – a group of us are going to Belfast next month on a 2-trip , this article will help us confirm our choices. Best wishes

Laurence Norah says

24th February 2022 at 11:13 am

My pleasure Geraldine, have a great trip!

24th February 2020 at 2:22 am

You guys are just amazing. What a well written experience. It is helping me plan so much of my trip

24th February 2020 at 12:38 pm

Thanks very much Udit, that’s very kind of you. Have a great trip, and if you have any questions just let us know!

Melissa says

26th September 2018 at 4:14 pm

Me and my boyfriend are planning a trip to Ireland and I would love to share this 2 days itinerary Belfast Google Maps with him but I can’t because of the permissions. can you please change from “Private” to “Public on the web” ? I really enjoyed all of your itineraries and we are going to follow them soon!

27th September 2018 at 12:38 am

Hey Melissa!

Sure thing, that should be working now 🙂

Let us know if you have any questions!

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Savvy Travel Advice

Belfast Travel Guide: Top 40 Things to do in Belfast Northern Ireland

Last updated: December 18, 2023 - Written by Jessica Norah 16 Comments

Belfast is the capital and largest city in Northern Ireland, and there are so many things to do in Belfast! Belfast is probably best known for being where the RMS Titanic was built as well as for the violence and suffering here during The Troubles in the later part of the 20th century.

However, today the city offers a lively historic city center, the famous Titanic Quarter, fun pubs, excellent museums, hundreds of street murals, beautiful gardens and green spaces, Victorian architecture, and a growing tourism industry.  Belfast  is perhaps not as well-known as Dublin to international travelers, but the reward of visiting here is a less crowded city where experiences feel more authentic. 

We’ll share our guide to Belfast attractions, highlighting all the top things to do in Belfast, from central Belfast to the surrounding area. We’ll also share information about how to get there, when to go, public transport options, where to stay, day trip ideas, and other travel information.

Table of Contents:

Basic Info on Visiting Belfast 

Before we share all the things to do and see in Belfast, we wanted to give you all the basic information you’ll need to plan your trip including how to get to Belfast, best times of year to visit, and where to stay.

Where is Belfast?

Belfast is the capital and largest city in Northern Ireland within the United Kingdom. It is situated alongside the River Lagan on the northeast coast of the island of Ireland.

Note that politically the island of Ireland is divided between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom whereas the Republic of Ireland is not and is a separate country.

Getting to Belfast

There are multiple options for getting to Belfast.

By Plane.  Belfast has two airports, Belfast International Airport and George Best City Airport , both of which have flights from a number of domestic and international destinations, primarily within the UK and western Europe. If there is no direct flight, you can get connecting flights from other cities in the UK such as London, Manchester, Edinburgh, or Glasgow.

If you fly into Belfast International Airport, the airport is a short shuttle bus ( Airport 300 service ), taxi ride , or private transfer from Belfast.

If you fly into George Best City Airport, you can take a short shuttle bus ( Airport Express 600 Service ), train ride (it is about a 12 minute walk to the station or you can take the airport shuttle to Sydenham train station), taxi ride , or private transfer into the city.

Alternatively, you can fly into Dublin Airport which has a lot more international connections and then get a bus or train or drive to Belfast. It takes about 2 hours by car or 2.5 hours by bus from the airport. If you are in Dublin, you can also take a train from Dublin to Belfast which takes about 2 hours 15 minutes.

By Train. Belfast can be reached by train from within the island of Ireland, including the cities of Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and Galway. You can save money on fares by booking train tickets in advance. Check routes, fares, and schedules on Irish Rail .

By Bus. If you are in the UK or Ireland, there are daily coach connections to Belfast from a number of cities. Routes from England, Scotland, and Wales all include ferry transport. You can check Translink and National Express for coach connections. 

By Car. For drivers, Belfast is about 70 miles from Derry/Londonderry (about 1 hour, 30 minutes), 105 miles from Dublin (about 2 hours), 260 miles from Cork (about 4 hours, 15 minutes). If you are coming from England, Scotland, Wales, or continental Europe, you’ll need to get a ferry to reach Belfast.

By Ferry. Ferries to Belfast regularly depart from Liverpool (England), Cairnryan (Scotland), and the Isle of Man. The main ferry company we recommend is Stena Line . Check out their ferry routes and schedules here .

Getting around Belfast

Belfast has a good public bus transport system run by Translink . Metro is the name of the main bus service for all of Belfast. 

Driving in and around the city is also fairly easy although finding parking in the central area can be difficult at times although there are several paid public parking structures. Walking or using a bus is recommended for reaching central locations.

There are also, of course, taxis and Uber (mostly operates to and from aiport). Taxi tours are also very popular ways to see the city with a driver guide.

Bikes are available to rent through the city’s bike share program , and kiosks are available in many popular tourist areas.

There’s also the City Sightseeing Bus which is a hop-on, hop-off bus that will take you to all the highlights in the city and provides commentary so you can learn a bit more about the city and the sites you see. It stops near most of Belfast’s major attractions including the Titanic Museum, St. George’s Market, Botanic Gardens, and the Shankill Road wall murals.

Currency Used in Belfast?

Belfast is part of the United Kingdom so the pound sterling (GBP) is the legal currency. This is the same currency used throughout the rest of the United Kingdom (England, Wales, Scotland).

Note that if you travel south and visit the Republic of Ireland (e.g., Dublin), you will need to get euros as the euro is the official currency of the Republic of Ireland. Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom whereas the Republic of Ireland is not.

Best time of year to visit Belfast?

The best time of year to visit depends a lot on what you want to do. If you are looking for the warmest weather, you’ll want to travel in summer between June and August. April is often the month with the least chance of rain, humidity, and crowds.

Our favorite times of year to travel in Northern Ireland are May, June, and September. The weather is generally decent, the days are long, and the attractions are not too crowded.

Although note that most attractions in Belfast are rarely that crowded. The exception is the attractions in the Titanic Quarter which can be pretty crowded in summer. Other popular sites in Northern Ireland like the Giant’s Causeway are also very busy in the summer months. 

If you want to go to a certain event or festival (e.g., concert, Christmas markets, Belfast International Arts Festival ), then we’d recommend you can check the events calendar and plan around those dates!

However, any time of the year is a good time to visit Belfast as most attractions are open year round. Generally, it will be warmer in summer and colder in winter, but predicting the weather is impossible as it can be sunny in January or cool and raining in August.

We’d suggest just checking the weather forecast before you visit, and be prepared for variable weather by bringing plenty of layers and rain gear no matter when you plan to visit.

How many Days should I Spend in Belfast? 

This depends primarily on how much time you have and what you want to do. But I would recommend spending at least 2 full days and nights in Belfast to get a good taste of the city (see our 2 day Belfast itinerary for ideas).

If you just have a day, you’ll still be able to see a few of the city’s highlights. Just be sure to plan your time ahead or join a tour to mae the most of your time. 

If you are visiting Belfast because of an interest in the RMS Titanic , then we recommend checking our Belfast Titanic attractions guide . This article includes a suggested 2 day itinerary that includes all the city’s main Titanic and maritime attractions.

For those who have more than a couple of days, there are also several excellent day trips you can take from Belfast as well and we’ll highlight a few of these at the end of the article. If you have longer than a couple of days, you can easily spend a week here and not run out of things to do. 

To figure out how many days to spend in Belfast, I would suggest using this post which lists all the main highlights and things do in Belfast to create a list of places you want to visit. I would then figure out how many days it will take you to see all the Belfast attractions you want (e.g. 3-5 attractions per day), and that should give you a good answer.

Discount Passes in Belfast?

There is no must-have pass for Belfast but there are a couple of discount passes that may help you save money, depending on what you want to do and how you plan to get around Belfast.

Belfast Visitor Pass

Belfast does have a city Visitor Pass which offers free public transport around the city, which includes unlimited travel on all Metro buses, NI Railways, and Ulsterbus services. It also includes the Airport Express 600 services to and from George Best Belfast City Airport (but not the Airport 300 service to Belfast International Airport). You can buy a pass valid for 1, 2, or 3 days.

The pass also includes discount offers on a number of restaurants, attractions, and shops in Belfast. Currently with the pass you can discounts on entry to Titanic Belfast, Crumlin Road Goal, Ulster Folk & Transport Museum, W5 Odyssey, Belfast Zoo, and Belfast City Tours. You can check out the latest discount offers here  to decide if it is a good pass for you.

You can purchase the Belfast Visitor Pass in person from Visit Belfast Welcome Centre (9 Donegall Square North), Belfast airport tourist information desk (at both airports), or at any Translink station in Belfast. Or you can purchase it online before your trip.

National Trust Touring Pass

If you plan to travel throughout the UK and visit several historical or cultural attractions, you might save money with a National Trust Touring Pass which allows for free entry to over 300 stately homes, gardens, castles, and historical attractions in the UK. The pass is good for a select amount of days and includes sites across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

A few of the most popular sites covered by the pass in Northern Ireland are Carrick-a-Rede, Castle Ward, the Giant’s Causeway, and Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House.

Accessibility in Belfast

If you or a travel companion has reduced mobility or is traveling in a wheelchair or mobility scooter, check out the accessibility page on the Visit Belfast website. It provides information on accessible public transport, attractions with step-free access and wheelchair accessibility, wheelchair hire, locations of accessible public toilets, etc.

Safety Issues in Belfast?

Northern Ireland is generally considered a safe place to travel, and we haven’t had any safety concerns during our visits.

However, it is no secret that not too long ago, Belfast resembled a bit of a war zone and was not a place many tourists had on the top of their list from the 1960’s to the end of the 1990’s. The Troubles brought a lot of division, hardship, and violence to Belfast and much of the rest of Northern Ireland. Those scars remain today and there are still divisions, but sectarian violence is now rare.

However, rioting does occasionally break out over political and religious issues as it has recently in March and April 2021 . Although most marches and protests are peaceful, we recommend just avoiding any protests, gatherings, or marches if you see them taking place.

As with any place, we always recommend protecting your valuables, protecting yourself against pickpockets, and being aware of your surroundings at all times. Take the normal precautions you would in any other city.

Where to Stay in Belfast?

Belfast has many lodging options, ranging from budget to upscale, and you should not have a problem finding an option that suits your style and budget. Belfast’s tourism industry is also growing rapidly and there are several new hotels planned to open in the next year or two, and lots of good deals.

If you are looking for lodging, then we’d recommend you check out the Belfast accommodation listings on Booking.com which lists a large variety of hotels , apartments , guesthouses , and hostels . 

We recommend staying in a central location, especially if you have limited time in the city, so you are within walking distance (or a short bus ride) from the city center.

Alternatively, if the Belfast Titanic museum and other Titanic Quarter sites are your prime reason for visiting, then you might want to stay in the Titanic Quarter so you can easily walk to all the sites in this area. Although you can walk to the Titanic Quarter from central Belfast, it takes 25 to 35 minutes depending on where you are located.

Here are some specific hotel recommendations:

Accommodation in City Centre / Cathedral Quarter Area

• Bullitt Hotel – This lively centrally-located 4-star hotel offers 3 room types to suit almost any budget. The hotel also has a bar, a cafe, a restaurant, a popular rooftop bar area, and 24-hour desk service. It is a 2 minute walk to the Cathedral Quarter and about a 8 minute walk to St. Georges market or the Belfast City Hall. We spent 4 nights here and can definitely recommend it if you are looking for a central hotel!
• The Merchant Hotel – If you are looking for a 5-star historical luxury hotel, The Merchant, located in a beautiful 1860 building, should definitely be high on your list. Centrally located in the Cathedral Quarter, the hotel offers all the luxury amenities you would expect, including a restaurant, bar and lounge, spa, hot tub, and a rooftop gymnasium.
• Jurys Inn – This 4-star hotel offers spacious rooms, breakfast buffet, bar, and restaurant. We have always found that this Dublin-based chain provides good value for the money. Located near Belfast City Hall and the Opera House, it is just a 5 minute walk from the Great Victoria Street rail station.
• easyHotel – This well-rated budget hotel offers no-frills but comfortable rooms and a 24 hour staffed desk. A great central option for those on a tighter budget.
• Belfast International Youth Hostel – This hostel offers the best location if you are looking for a centrally located hostel. Hostel offers both private shared and private dormitory rooms, an on-site cafe, linens, a communal kitchen, a breakfast menu, self-service laundry, and even free parking.

Accommodation in Titanic Quarter

• Titanic Hotel – This 4-star hotel sits within a historical building that was once the Harland and Wolff headquarters and drawing offices (the company that designed and built the RMS Titanic !). A beautiful historical property that offers Art Deco themed rooms, Titanic memorabilia, bar, restaurant, and room service. Only a 2 minute walk to the Titanic Belfast museum.
• Premier Inn – This 3 star hotel offers king sized beds and an on-site bar and grill. It is a 7 minute walk to the Titanic Belfast museum.
• CK Serviced Apartments – These well-reviewed serviced apartments are great for those looking for a self-catering option in the Titanic Quarter. There is an on-site restaurant, grocery store, cafe, and private parking available. They are only a 7 minute walk away from the Titanic Belfast.
• The Bullitt Hotel and the Hilton (next to the waterfront) are across the river but are both within a 25 minute walk (or 12 minute bus ride) of Titanic Belfast.

We’ve also stayed in an apartment in Belfast during our first visit to Belfast which was great value for money. You can see the local listings on Vrbo here .

You can also take a look at this list of Airbnb alternatives for more apartment rental options.

Where to find more Information? 

If you are looking for a good sample Belfast itinerary, check out our 48 hour Belfast itinerary which should help give you a good starting point. We also have a suggested 2 day Belfast Titanic itinerary for those interested primarily in Titanic and maritime-related attractions.

Belfast makes an excellent base for exploring Northern Ireland, and you can see our guide to the best day trips from Belfast  for some inspiration. If you are looking for a drive along the coast, see our guide to a suggested  Causeway coastal route road trip .

Game of Thrones fans will love exploring the filming locations for the show in Northern Ireland. You can read about many more filming locations in our guide to Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland here . We also have a detailed guide to  visiting the Dark Hedges .

If you are looking for a printed (or digital) guidebook, there are few that just focus on Belfast and Northern Ireland, such as  this one by Lonely Planet , but most cover the whole island of Ireland, such as  these ones . Just be sure to get a recent edition.

If you are also heading to Dublin, you can check out our 2 Day itinerary and 3 Day Dublin itinerary as well as our Dublin street art guide  and Dublin Pass review .

Once in Belfast, you can get information from local experts, pick up maps and brochures, and make bookings at the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre located at 9 Donegall Square North. This is also a visitor center for Northern Ireland so has information for Belfast as well as the rest of the country. You can also call them at +44(0)28 9024 6609 or email them at [email protected].

If you are looking for additional information about planning your trip to Belfast, you can check out the official Belfast city’s tourism website and the Discover Northern Ireland tourism website . If your travels are taking you further afield into Ireland, we also recommend the official Ireland tourism website  which covers the entire island of Ireland. 

Top Things to do in Belfast: Central Belfast

There are many things to do in Belfast and many are conveniently located within central Belfast. We are roughly categorizing central Belfast as encompassing the areas that are often referred to as Belfast City Centre, the Cathedral Quarter, and the Linen Quarter. Once here, you can reach anything within this general area within a 20 minute walk or less. 

The Belfast City Hall is the center point of the city and nearby is the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre, which is a great place to start your tour of the city. The Cathedral Quarter, named for St. Anne’s Cathedral, is the city’s historic trading quarter and is packed with Victorian architecture, cobbled streets, and quirky pubs and restaurants. The Linen Quarter is the area south of Belfast City Hall and was an area once dominated by the linen industry in the 19th century and includes a lot of old architecture, restaurants, and the Grand Opera House.

We are also including the Titanic Quarter, the former shipbuilding area formerly known as Queen’s Island where the RMS Titanic was built, within this section since most visitors plan to visit the Titanic Belfast museum. The Titanic Belfast can be reached by walking via a 30 minute walk across the bridge from the Belfast city center area. All of the attractions in the Titanic Quarter can be reached within a 45 minute walk, a 20 minute public bus ride, or by the hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses.

All the attractions in this first section are located within a 25 minute public bus ride from Belfast City Hall (Donegall Square) although most are within a 10 to 20 minute walk.

Use this list of things to do in Belfast to choose the attractions of interest to you and put together your own personalized Belfast itinerary!

Sightseeing Bus or Walking Tour

A walking tour or sightseeing bus is always a good way to get a feel for a city and see some of its highlights. We often like to do these on our first day in a new city. Most of these start from the city center area.

Walking tours are a great way to explore a certain area of the city or focus on a specific topic. Available tours focus on highlights, the Titanic Quarter, architecture, whiskey, Queen’s University, the Troubles, and other topics. You can see a list of walking tours here and more walking tours here .

Bike tours around the city are also possible, such as these ones , and even these beer bike tours where you can bring your own alcoholic drinks to enjoy while pedaling a 16-set bike and listing to guide.

For food and drink tours also see  Taste and Tour  which offers gin, whiskey, beer, and food walking tours around central Belfast.

There are two hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses in Belfast, the City Sightseeing buses and the City Tours buses. These buses each stop at 20 to 30 different places and make it easy to reach and visit many of the city’s most popular attractions.

In Belfast, you also have Black Cab tours which are a popular way to see the city and most of these tours focus on the political history of Belfast and its street murals. We cover these tours in greater detail later in the article.

If you prefer boat tours, you might consider this boat sightseeing tour which takes you past the Titanic Quarter.

Belfast City Hall

Belfast’s City Hall was built after Queen Victoria granted Belfast city status in 1888 to reflect its growth in terms of population, economy, and industry. The building, which sits in the center of Donegall Square, was designed by Irish architect Alfred Brumwell Thomas in the Baroque Revival Style and it was completed in 1906. The City Hall is a great centerpiece for the city as well as a functioning government building that serves as the headquarters of the Belfast City Council.

Inside the building, there is a free public exhibition space that you can visit. The exhibition was much larger than we expected and currently encompasses 16 different rooms! It tells the history of Belfast through information, photos, and artifacts, and it explores the city’s government, people, famous events, industries, diversity, festivities, and much more.

It is also possible to take a free guided tour of City Hall. A guided tour includes information about the history and government of Belfast and visits to many of the grandest and most important areas and rooms in the building, including the Grand Staircase, Principal Rooms, the Reception Room, and the Chamber. One of the interesting features of the building is the large number of stained glass windows, most of which are original to the building and date to 1906.

Tours are given on a first come, first serve basis and you need to register for them at least 10 to 15 minutes before the stated tour time. So we’d recommend going at least 20 to 30 minutes before the tour time to get a spot. The guided tours of City Hall last around 1 hour, and run at various times throughout the day, depending on the time of year. You can see the tour times on the  official website here .

Outside, there is a large park and gardens area around the building that is a popular place for people to meet and gather. During our last visit, it was being used for a family event and outdoor cinema screenings.

There are also a number of statues and memorials worth seeing around the City Hall building, including the grand 11-foot statue of Queen Victoria, the Belfast Cenotaph , and a 9/11 plaque. You’ll also find the Titanic Memorial Gardens here, which includes a memorial statue as well as a list of all those who perished in the disaster.

St. Anne’s Cathedral

St Anne’s Cathedral , also known as Belfast Cathedral, is an Episcopalian (Anglican) cathedral and one of the best known churches in Belfast. It was consecrated in 1904 and serves two separate dioceses with two Bishop’s Seats.

A former smaller church, consecrated in 1776, was also called St. Anne’s and stood here until the new and much larger cathedral was built. The old St. Anne’s had become too small to accommodate the large number of people moving to Belfast during the Industrial Revolution and a second Anglican church, St. George’s Church (located on High Street), was completed in 1816. It too was not enough and so a new St. Anne’s was built.

The church’s foundation stone was laid in 1899, but the church was rebuilt and expanded a number of times over the next 100 years to reach its present day form. The most interesting recent development was the addition of a stainless steel spire, called the Spire of Hope, to the church in 2007. A church spire was not originally added to the church because the church could not support the weight. The spire is usually illuminated at night.

Inside the church there are a number of elements you can check out if you decide to explore the church. These include the Good Samaritan Window (the only remaining piece of the 1776 St. Anne’s Church), mosaics on the roof of the baptistery and Chapel of the Holy Spirit (St. Patrick is depicted), and the Titanic funeral pall.

There is only one tomb in the cathedral, which is the tomb of Lord Edward Carson , an important 20th century unionist political leader in Ireland. He is one of only a few non-royal people to ever receive a British state funeral.

There is a small fee to visit as a tourist. Visits are self-guided but guided tours can be arranged in advance. Belfast Cathedral is an active church and there are regular worship services and events.

St. George’s Market

St. George’s Market is one of Belfast’s oldest attractions, and it is believed that a weekly market has been held in this location since 1604. The current Victorian building was built between 1890 and 1896, and today it holds markets each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Since its refurbishment in 1997, it has won a number of awards in the UK and Ireland.

The market vendors include fresh produce and food stuff, arts and crafts, souvenirs, spices, clothing, books, jewelry, and more. The market is particularly well-known for its number of fish and seafood vendors. The market also has food stalls selling prepared food, sandwiches, coffee, and snacks. On most days, there is live music from local artists and bands. The market is a popular and lively place to go on weekends.

Markets are held on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. You can find the latest hours here . A free market shuttle bus runs every 20 minutes, 11am – 3pm, to and from the market from locations in central Belfast (Friday and Saturday only).

The market changes each day it is open with different vendors, although some are there all three days. The venue is also used to host a range of events throughout the year, including musical performances and charity events.

Grand Opera House

The Grand Opera House was built in 1895 by famous English theater architect Frank Matcham . The Grand Opera House has become a city landmark and is well-known for its beautiful interior. It is the only Victorian theater still remaining in Northern Ireland.

Originally, the theatre could seat over 2,500 guests and it hosted a number of operas, plays, musicals, and pantomimes. It was later used for variety shows throughout the early 20th century. In the 1950’s it was converted into a cinema and then in 1972, it closed. The building was almost demolished in the 1970’s during The Troubles, but was saved and reopened as a theater in 1980.

Today, the Grand Opera House is still running as a theater although today it only seats 1,000 people. Current performances include musicals, plays, dances, family shows, recitals, ballets, pantomimes, operas, and educational talks.

You can also book a theatre tour of the Grand Opera House. Guided tours include a behind-the-scenes tour of the Grand Opera House to learn about the history, day-to-day life of the staff and actors, and to tour the various rooms and areas of the theatre. Tours last about 1 hour, and are normally given on weekends about twice a month.

You can check the performance schedule, check tour times, and book tickets here .

Albert Memorial Clock

The Albert Memorial Clock is a sandstone clock tower that was built as a memorial to Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria. It is located at Queen’s Square in the center of Belfast and was built by Irish architect W.J. Barre and completed in 1869. Today, the Albert Memorial Clock is a popular local landmark in Belfast

The clock tower is 113 feet high and includes a number of intricate carvings. The main feature is a statue of Prince Albert wearing his Knight of the Garter robes. The clock’s bell weighs 2 tonnes. The clock tower has sustained damage by both German WW2 bombs and IRA bombs.

It is Belfast’s own “leaning tower of Pisa” as the tower leans due to being built on reclaimed marshy land. The clock tower started to lean soon after it was built and the tilt has worsened over time. In 2002, a restoration project was undertaken by the city to try to strengthen the foundation and to clean and restore the leaning monument.

Metropolitan Arts Centre (The MAC)

The MAC, Belfast’s Metropolitan Arts Centre, was opened in 2012 and is a public art center that includes three major art galleries. The exhibitions vary throughout the year and most are free to visit, but some do have a fee. The focus of the art is generally modern, contemporary, and experimental pieces and performances. You can see what’s on during your visit by visiting the  art exhibition page .

The MAC also regularly has events and workshops, including art classes, art shows, performances, and family-friendly activities. You can see the  full event listing here .

The MAC has an all-day café bar serving coffee, tea, snacks, hot meals, and alcoholic drinks.

North Ireland War Memorial Museum

The  Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum  is a small museum that covers Northern Ireland’s involvement in World War II. The informational exhibits cover the Belfast Blitz, the roles of women during the war, the Ulster Home Guard, and the presence of a large number of American forces in the area. There are uniforms and medals on display as well as a memorial screen.

It is a small museum fit into one large room, but it is thoughtfully done and well-organized and primarily run by local volunteers. We really enjoyed our visit. Highlights were listening to some of the recordings by people who lived during the war, the lovely stained glass window, and learning more about the Belfast Blitz of 1941.

Belfast was initially thought to be out of the range of Nazi bombers so the military and residents were unprepared for air attacks when they first started happening, resulting in a lot of damage and deaths.

The Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum is free to visit although donations are greatly appreciated. It is centrally located in the Cathedral Quarter near St. Anne’s Cathedral.

Crown Liquor Saloon

The Crown Liquor Saloon, better known as the Crown Bar, is the most famous pub in Belfast. The pub was opened around 1826 by Felix O’Hanlon as The Railway Tavern but it would be its renovation and renaming in 1885 by the Flanagan family that would turn it into the pub we know today. It was known as one of the most beautiful Victorian era gin palaces in the world.

It is ornately decorated and still retains many of its original fixtures and decorations (most of which have been restored) including tiled mosaics, original gas lamp features, stained glass, a granite bar top, snugs, heated footrests behind bar, and carved wooden ceiling. It is now owned by the National Trust who helps protect it but it is run as a pub by Mitchells & Butlers.

The place is a very popular stop for tourists and the bar attracts a number of famous visitors. Famous visitors have included Brad Pitt, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and most of the cast of Game of Thrones .

The pub has a full bar menu and serves both lunch and dinner. There is also an upstairs dining area. It is a popular place so if you plan to stop and eat here, I’d recommend booking a table in advance. You can see the menus and contact info  here .

Belfast Black Cab Tours

The Black Cab tours of Belfast are one of the most popular things to do in Belfast for tourists. The use of taxis in Belfast grew during The Troubles when the cabs were used to transport locals and visitors during the Troubles as they were considered much safer than city buses which were sometimes bombed or attacked by snipers. Also many buses were stolen, burned, and used for barricades in certain parts of the city, resulting in limited public transit.

So more taxi drivers were needed during this period. Many drove defunct bus routes and most drivers operated only in Loyalist/Unionist/Protestant neighborhoods or only in Republican/Nationalist/Catholic areas. For the most part, Protestant drivers picked up Protestant passengers and Catholic drivers picked up Catholic passengers. Both used the same London black taxi models. Following the Good Friday agreement in 1998, the need for taxi services by locals decreased as public transit became safer and more available.

Today, many of the now iconic black taxis are still used to give visitors tours of the city. Most of the cab tours focus on the political history, the Troubles, and the political murals so this is one of the best ways to find out more about the political struggles in Belfast. However, you can also do tours that also include general neighborhood tours and those that focus on general history and culture.

Some of the Troubles focused tours may also stop at places like the Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum and/or the Shankill Bombing Memorial, which are both located not far from the Peace Wall. If these are sites of interest, let your driver know.

Most drivers were also drivers during the Troubles and can share stories about what it was like during that time. Drivers try to provide objective and neutral information; however, as you can imagine this is a difficult thing since many were on one side or the other of the struggle. Most people in Belfast lost family and/or friends during the Troubles. There are many “versions of the truth” about certain events out there.

We did a black cab tour with Touring Around Belfast and had the pleasure of having one of the best known Belfast black cab drivers Billy Scott as our driver guide. Billy is a Blue Badge guide (highest qualification in UK) and was friendly, informative, and made the tour fun. He would stop often and join us in the back seat to give us history and information about places and share relevant stories. He knows so much about Belfast, the Troubles, and the city’s attractions, and is a man that is always up for some great craic.

We had a 2 hour tour scheduled with Billy, and he let us decide what parts of the city we wanted to visit and what we wanted to see and learn about. We asked for a tour that was equally focused on politics as well as general history/culture. We also didn’t know the city well so asked to see some of the highlights of the main city neighborhoods.

It was a great introduction to Belfast, its main neighborhood and attractions, and the Troubles. We saw parts of several neighborhoods including Cathedral Quarter, Queen’s Quarter, the Linen Quarter, Sailortown, and the Titanic Quarter. We also visited the Peace Wall and saw a large number of political murals in both traditionally Loyalist and Republican neighborhoods, including along Falls and Shankill Roads. Most of the tour was in the cab but we were also given the opportunity to get out and walk around a bit at a few of the stops.

We definitely recommend considering a black taxi tour if this is your first time to Belfast or if you want to learn more about the Troubles. It is best to book a cab tour in advance.

We booked with Touring Around Belfast , but there are also several other options including  this tour focused on the political murals and these cab tours .

Victoria Square Shopping Centre

Victoria Square is a centrally located public square and the area is a popular place for shopping and dining. The Victoria Square Shopping Centre is a 4-storey shopping mall and leisure complex opened in 2008. It contains a number of stores, restaurants, a spa, and a cinema. There is also a viewing platform within the central glass dome that offers a good panoramic view of the city.

Outside on Victoria Square is the Jaffe Memorial Fountain that was erected in 1874 by Otto Jaffe as a memorial to his father Daniel Joseph Jaffe. Otto Jaffe was Belfast’s first Jewish Lord Mayor and his father had been a local linen merchant who had helped fund the building of Belfast’s first synagogue at Great Victoria Street.

Explore the Waterfront Area

The waterfront area is located along the River Lagan. Here you’ll find a number of sculptures, bridges, Sinclair Seaman’s Church, the old Customs House, the Barge Museum, and Waterfront Hall (a large entertainment venue).

If you have some time to explore this area, we’d suggest walking the Maritime Mile, which is an outdoor trail that is about 1 mile long, connecting a number of maritime sites. There are information panels along the way. It starts at the City Quays and then continues along across the river to the Titanic Quarter, ending at the HMS Caroline and Titanic Dock . You can find out more about it here .

A pedestrian footbridge, built in 2015, crosses the River Lagan and connects the Waterfront area to the Titanic Quarter.

At the Belfast Harbour offices in Corporation Square, you can stop to visit the Heritage Room exhibition at the Belfast Harbour offices in Corporation Square. The exhibition focuses on Belfast’s maritime history and includes artifacts and artwork.

Outside the AC Hotel is the first of the six Games of Thrones large stained glass windows that were placed here in 2019 to celebrate 10 years of the show’s filming. Each depicts an iconic scene from the show. You can see all 6 by following the Maritime Mile trail along the waterfront.

If you just have a short time, two of our favorite things to stop and see here are the Salmon of Knowledge and the Beacon of Hope.

Salmon of Knowledge

The Salmon of Knowledge, better known as the Big Fish, is a large sculpture of a salmon along the waterfront. It was made by local artists John Kindness. It is located at the meeting point of Belfast’s two major rivers, the River Farset (from which Belfast gets its name) and the River Lagan.

The Salmon of Knowledge is a mythical creature figuring in the Fenian Cycle of Irish mythology. It is said that the Salmon of Knowledge gained all the world’s knowledge after it ate hazelnuts from a holy tree. If caught it could grant universal knowledge to whoever eats it. In one story, it is eaten by  Fionn mac Cumhaill who gains universal wisdom.

The Big Fish sculpture is covered in printed ceramic tiles, and each one tells a different story related to the city’s history. Tiles include all types of information and images, from historical images to drawings from local school children.

Beacon of Hope

The Beacon of Hope, or Thanksgiving Square Beacon, is a large stainless steel and bronze sculpture of a lady holding a large ring, which is meant to symbolize thanksgiving. The woman has a globe at her feet which celebrates peace and harmony, and which is marked with the global cities that have been significantly associated with the people and industries of Belfast.

It sits within Thanksgiving Square near the entrance to the Victorian era Queen’s Bridge. It was made by artist Andy Scott in 2006.

Belfast Barge Museum

The Belfast Barge Museum is a small museum set on a barge that tells the story of Belfast’s industrial heritage and maritime history.

The MV Confiance is a former cargo barge that was purchased in 2006 and sailed to Belfast, and turned into a museum, event space, and a café. It is moored in the River Lagan in Belfast’s waterfront area.

There is a small fee to visit the Belfast Barge Museum. You can find out more information here .

Titanic Belfast Museum

The Titanic Belfast is the most popular attraction in Belfast and a must-see for most visitors. It is a huge attraction where visitors are self-guided through a series of galleries to learn the history of the RMS Titanic .

Belfast was chosen as the site for the Titanic visitor attraction because the RMS Titanic was built in Belfast’s dockyards by local shipbuilding firm  Harland & Wolff . Other famous ships built here include the RMS Olympic and HMS Belfast (currently docked as a museum ship in London). The shipyard continued to build ships until 2003 and today is focused on making offshore wind turbines.

When you visit the museum, you follow a self-guided path (audioguides are available to rent for a small fee) that begins with information about Belfast in the 20th century. Then you continue to follow a path that takes you through a series of galleries that tells you about shipbuilding in Belfast, the building of the RMS Titanic , the launch of the Titanic , its maiden voyage, its sinking, and the aftermath of the tragedy.

There are lots of informational panels, models, photographs, replica interiors of the Titanic , artifacts, and interactive exhibits to enhance the experience. One of the galleries is explored while on a mini-car ride. There are of course references to James Cameron’s famous 1997 film Titanic as well. The final room allows visitors to see video footage and photographs of the Titanic as she now lies at the bottom of the ocean.

If you have any interest in the RMS Titanic or shipbuilding, we highly recommend a visit here. Visitors often spend 1.5 to  2 hours exploring the museum, but leave more time if you are a huge Titanic fan and/or if you plan to eat here.

There is a large gift shop, a grab-and-go cafe, and a restaurant on site. There is also the Hickson’s Point pub located just outside the building.

The Belfast Titanic museum operates a timed ticketing system, with entrances every 15 minutes from opening time. At last check, pre-booked timed tickets were required due to the COVID-19 pandemic safety precautions.

Of all the things to do in Belfast, this is the most popular attraction so we recommend you  get your ticket in advance here  to avoid standing in and line, and coming early to avoid the crowds. Tickets bought online also include your entrance to the SS Nomadic , which is located next to the Titanic Museum.

If you are planning to visit here, we recommend checking out our Titanic sites in Belfast guide as it covers visiting the Titanic Belfast and several other attractions in and near Belfast.

We also recommend leaving some time to explore the area just outside of the Titanic Belfast building. You can see the Titanic and Olympic slipways and the Titanic sculpture by Rowan Gillespie, both are located next to the building. Also next door is the Titanic Hotel which occupies the former Harland & Wolff Headquarters and Drawing Offices where the designs for Titanic were completed.

The  SS Nomadic was built by Harland & Wolff in Belfast as a tender boat to serve White Star Line passenger ships such as the RMS Titanic and the RMS Olympic in places where the ships were too large to dock. The ship launched in April 1911, and the SS Nomadic is now the last surviving White Star Line ship in the world.

On April 10, 1912, the SS Nomadic was used to ferry first and second class passengers, their luggage, and ship supplies onto the RMS Titanic from Cherbourg Harbor in France. Many of the most famous passengers sailed on the SS Nomadic to reach the Titanic, included John Jacob Astor IV and his wife, Margaret Brown, and Benjamin Guggenheim.

The SS Nomadic was also used as a passenger ship tender for the RMS Olympic and later for Cunard ocean liners. During WWI and WW2, the ship was used as a minesweeper and troop transport ship. She was retired from service in 1968, and later was used as a floating restaurant ship on the Seine River in Paris for almost 30 years.

In 2006, the Northern Ireland government purchased the SS Nomadic and brought the ship back to Belfast to be restored and turned into a ship museum. Following extensive restoration, the SS Nomadic was opened to visitors in June 2013.

Today, you can tour the beautifully restored ship and learn all about its construction, uses, restoration, and history. The SS Nomadic was built by the same company at the same time as the Titanic so is the closest you can get to having a sense of what it was like on the grand ill-fated ship.

We’d recommend visiting this in conjunction with the Belfast Titanic museum, as you can purchase an entry ticket  that will get you access to both the Titanic Belfast and SS Nomadic on the same day. The two attractions are only a short walk apart.

If you plan to only visit the SS Nomadic , you can normally also book a ticket online on their website or purchase one in person at the ship. However, these individual tickets have not been available since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and it is unclear when and if they will be sold again. So for the time being you need to  purchase a combination ticket  if you want to visit.

W5 Science & Discovery Centre

The W5 Science & Discovery Centre is an interactive science center that is designed to inform and entertain children and families. It contains over 250 interactive exhibits spread across four exhibition areas that are designed for children to be able to be active and engage in hands-on learning and discovery. There is also a daily program of live science demonstrations, talks, and shows.

There is a coffee shop on-site serving sandwiches, soup, snacks, coffee, and drinks.

There is a fee to enter the W5 Science and Discovery Centre. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online in advance.

The W5 is located within the larger Odyssey Pavillion within the Titanic Quarter. There is parking on-site, or you can get here via public bus or the hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses. The W5 is about a 25 minute walk from Belfast city center or a 10 minute walk away from the Titanic Belfast museum.

In addition to the W5, the Odyssey Pavillion is also home to the SSE Arena which is home to the Belfast Giants (ice hockey team), a multi-plex cinema, a bowling alley, a sports bar, a pizza place, a Segway company, and a coffee shop.

NOTE: In 2020, the W5 and the Odyssey Pavillion businesses closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. As of July 2021, many of these have not reopened ane some have closed permanently. The W5 is currently being “reimagined” and is expected to reopen in the autumn of 2021.

HMS Caroline

The HMS Caroline was a light cruiser built in Birkenhead, England in 1914 for the British Royal Navy. She served during WWI, including during the Battle of Jutland , which was the largest naval battle of the war, and is now the sole survivor from that battle.

In 1924, the HMS Caroline was moved to Belfast Docks to form the headquarters for the Ulster Division of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. She would serve as a depot ship and strategic operations base for convoy protection during WWII.

The HMS Caroline would serve as part of the Ulster Division of the Royal Navy reserve until 2009 and was decommissioned in 2011. The ship was restored and opened as a ship museum in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter in 2016.

Today, you can do a self-guided tour of the HMS Caroline and learn about her construction, history, and the living and working conditions on board through exhibits, films, recreated historic spaces, and interactive touch screen displays. Start at the Dockside Museum (small museum next to the ship) to learn about the people who served on the ship and then board the ship. There are also nice views of the harbor from the decks of the ship.

There is a small café and a gift shop on the ship. You can purchase tickets on-site or in advance online. You can save a little money by booking your tickets in advance .

The HMS Caroline sits in the Alexandra Graving Dock right next to the Titanic Pump House. It is about a 15 minute walk away from the Titanic Belfast museum. There is parking located here for visitors, and you can also reach it via public bus or the hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses.

Samson & Goliath Cranes

Samson and Goliath are two large shipbuilding cranes owned by Harland and Wolff, and they are situated within the Titanic Quarter in the Harland & Wolff shipyard. They were built in 1969 and 1974 at a time when Harland & Wolff was still one of the largest shipbuilders in the world. They were named after the Biblical figures of the same name.

These were obviously not used in the construction of the Titanic. However, an enormous steel gantry, called the Arrol Gantry, was created in 1908 over the slipways for the Olympic and Titanic. It was also a dominant feature in the Belfast skyline for decades and was in use until the 1960’s.

You can’t get too close to the cranes as they are in an active and private industrial area, but they are easy to spot. The two yellow cranes with the H&W logo dominate the skyline and can be seen from many parts of the city.

Although Harland & Wolff are not much involved in shipbuilding and the two cranes are rarely used today, they have remained as they have become popular symbols of the city of Belfast. They are now sort of protected by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, and it is hoped they will continue to remain in Belfast.

Titanic Walkway

The Titanic Walkway is a 500 meter (0.3 mile) walkway on Victoria Wharf which connects the Titanic Slipways to the HMS Caroline . The maritime walkway was first opened in 2018 as a way to make it easier for pedestrians to visit some of the popular attractions within the Titanic Quarter.

The walkway goes along the water and docks. Notable attractions along the route include the Titanic Belfast, Titanic and Olympic Slipways, Mew Light, public art (including a couple of the Games of Thrones windows), the HMS Caroline , and the Titanic Dock and Pump House.

From the walkway, you can also see the Titanic Exhibition Center (giant conference center) and Titanic Studios (filming studios where Games of Thornes was filmed). You’ll also see the Samson & Goliath cranes in the distance.

The Mew Light, or the Great Light, is the world’s first and largest hyper-radial Fresnes lighthouse lens. It was first used at Tory Island Lighthouse in 1887 and later moved to Mew Island in 1928. It was removed from Mew Island in 2014, and has been restored and situated along the Titanic Walkway. Panels around the light tells about its history and how it works.

The Titanic Walkway is a great way to connect a visit to the Belfast Titanic to either the HMS Caroline and/or the Titanic Pump Room & Dock. To start the walk, just head outside the Titanic Belfast museum and head towards the water to visit the Olympic and Titanic Slipways, then head northeast along the walkway towards the HMS Caroline .

If you want a different perspective of the Titanic Quarter, consider a River Lagan boat cruise which allows you to see all the Titanic Quarter sites from the water with onboard commentary. In the summer, there is also the chance to see seals.

Titanic Dock & Pump House

The Titanic Dock and Pump House is a great place to visit to get a better sense of the large scale of the RMS Titanic. This was where the Titanic sat in dry dock before her sea trials and maiden voyage in April 1912.

The White Star liners RMS Olympic and RMS Titanic were the largest ocean liners ever built at the time, and so larger dry docks had to be built for them. This is where the ships were fitted out and completed in dry dock after being constructed at the slipways across from the Titanic Belfast museum.

Construction on the Titanic began in 1909 and took 3 years. The Thompson Graving Dock, often now called the Titanic Dock, was where the Titanic was fitted out and completed in 1912. The adjacent dock pump house, now called the Titanic Pump House, was used to pump out water from the Thompson Graving Dock as well as the Alexandra Graving Dock (where the HMS Caroline now sits).

Visitors can do a self-guided tour of the Titanic Pump House as well as the Titanic Dock. Walking around and climbing down into the Thompson Graving Dock gives you a good sense of the massive size of these ocean liners as the whole footprint of the graving dock would have been the size of the ship’s hull. Informational placards tell you about its construction, fitting out, the lives of the dock workers, and how the pump room worked.

There is a small fee to visit the Titanic Pump Room & Titanic Dock, payable in Cafe 1404 which is also where you can access the sites. If you’d rather have a guided experience, you can book a guided tour of the dock and pump room or join a walking tour which includes the visit here.

The Titanic Pump House and Dock is located about a 1 minute walk from the HMS Caroline and a 10 minute walk from the Titanic Museum.

Check out the Street Murals

The street murals in Belfast are well-known worldwide and it is a popular city for street art enthusiasts. Even if you are not interested in street art, you are bound to run into some of the city’s street murals as they are everywhere.

Initially, most of the street murals were political and related to The Troubles in Northern Ireland, and were created by people with a variety of perspectives from both sides. Most of the more politically focused murals are further from the city center with many located around the Peace Wall.

There are still a large number of political street murals that you can see and these are the primary focus of many Black Cab and street art tours in Belfast. Some serve as memorials to people who were killed or incarcerated during the Troubles. We saw a number of these murals on our Black Cab tour, which a great way to explore them as they are spread apart.

Within the city center, there is still a lot of street art to see but the majority is not strongly political or religious in nature. Although some do tackle serious topics, you’ll also find street murals of dogs, famous people, fairies, local landmarks, dragons, and monkeys. Some are created by relatively unknown local artists and some are by more famous artists like Smug, and there have been local initiatives that have helped fund legal street art in Belfast.

We did a street art walking tour that primarily focused on the non-political murals with Seedhead Arts . But there are a variety of street mural tours in Belfast including walking tours such as this one and Black cab tours such as this one .

See our guide to street art in Belfast for more information about finding and appreciating Belfast’s and a photo essay of some of the popular murals.

Check out some Evening Entertainment

There is always something going on in Belfast and whether you are looking for a play, stand up comedy act, art exhibit, or just a local band at a pub, you’ll likely find something happening in Belfast. You can find out what’s happening by asking around, visiting the Visitor Center, checking a local newspaper, and/or checking out this page and this website .

We already mentioned the Grand Opera House earlier, but two of Belfast’s others main centrally-located concert and entertainment spaces are the Ulster Hall and Waterfront Hall. If you are looking for a concert, play, comedy show, or festival, I’d check out what’s happening at each of these venues during your visit.

Opened in 1862, Ulster Hall was by designed by William J. Barre. A wide variety of notable performances and events have been held here from readings by Charles Dickens to rock concerts by AC/DC and Iron Maiden to political talks by Lord Randolph Churchill and Lord Carson. Ulster Hall underwent a larger restoration in 2007, and it houses one of the few surviving functioning classic English pipe organs.

Belfast Waterfront is a multi-purpose entertainment and conference center located on the waterfront. It opened in 1997 and is used for a number of purposes, including concerts, theatre shows, stand-up comedy, business conferences, and other events. It is a key venue for Belfast International Arts Festival events.

You can see what’s on during your visit at both Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall  here .

Try the Local Drinks in Belfast

Belfast is a great place to have a drink. The city is probably best known for beer and whiskey, but gin is currently a very popular spirit in the city as well. Craft breweries and new distilleries are opening up around Northern Ireland and it is an exciting time to sample some of these new arrivals.

If you are looking for craft beers on tap, a few brewery names to look out for are Hilden, Sheelin, Hercules Brewing (known for their Yardsman beers), Whitewater, and Farmageddon. Northern Irish gins include Shortcross, Jawbox, and Copeland.

The most popular Northern Irish whiskey brand is Bushmills, but Echlinville and Rademon Estate also produce whiskey. Head to The Friend at Hand whiskey shop in the Cathedral Quarter to learn more about Irish whiskey and purchase a bottle, the store says it has the largest collection of Irish whiskey.

We actually did a really fun gin tour around central Belfast with a company called Taste and Tour that included 7 generous drinks and some nibbles in several locations. Gins included famous international brands as well as local ones. The company also does whiskey walks, beer crawls, and food tours around Belfast.

If you are looking for a few suggestions for a place to drink, here are several places we’ve been:

• The Crown Bar – An elaborately decorated Victorian era gin palace that is a local landmark and popular tourist stop. Full bar and restaurant. Reservations recommended if you want to sit and eat.
• Muriel’s Cafe Bar – Muriel’s is the place all the locals tell you to go if you want a cocktail. But you can get everything at the small quirky bar from a traditional pint to a range of craft gins. Also serves food.
• John Hewitt Bar –  A traditional style bar with live music and full range of drinks. Owned and operated by the Belfast Unemployed Resource Centre.
• The Duke of York –  This traditional pub has been a staple of the Cathedral Quarter for over 200 years. It was rebuilt after being flattened by a bomb in 1972 during the Troubles. The pub is a local institution and is popular with tourists. It has interesting furniture and decorations and is filled with local memorabilia related to brewing and distilling. It also has colorful outdoor murals.
• Sweet Afton Bar & Brewery  – A bar and restaurant in the Linen Quarter serving classic favorites and local craft beers. They also serve a few American craft beers.
• Sunflower Public House – If you are looking for a simple pub, the Sunflower Public House may be your spot. The corner pub is probably best known for keeping its security cage around its front door which became a common occurrence during The Troubles. Good place for a pint and often has live music.
• Babel Bar:  If you’re looking for a rooftop bar, the Babel Bar in the Bullitt Hotel is a great choice. One of the few rooftop bars in Belfast. Also a second bar located in the hotel courtyard. Full range of drinks and cocktails.
• The Cocktail Bar – If you are looking for a classy bar and don’t mind the higher price of drinks, The Cocktail Bar at The Merchant Hotel is likely the place for you. This Victorian era luxury hotel is a beautiful setting for a drink. Hotel also has a jazz bar, a classic pub, a champagne lounge, and other dining spots.
• Whites Tavern : If you like old historical taverns, Whites Tavern may be the place for you. This tavern has been serving drinks since 1630. Serves hearty pub food and regularly has live music.
• Bittles Bar.  Found near Victoria Square, this curiously shaped pub is not dissimilar to the Flat Iron building in New York. Built in 1868 and has been service great beer ever since.

If you are looking to experience a local brewery, we’d recommend a trip just outside Belfast to Lisburn (10 miles away) where you can visit Hilden Brewery , Ireland’s oldest independent brewery. Hilden is a well-known craft brewery and you can sample the beers, take a tour of the distillery, and eat in their restaurant.

Sample the Irish Food

The dish most associated with Northern Ireland is Ulster fry. An Ulster fry is the Northern Irish version of the British “full breakfast” that you’ll find throughout the UK and Ireland. It normally includes fried eggs, sausage, back bacon, soda farl, tomato, black pudding, and potato bread. White pudding, hashbrowns, fried mushrooms, and baked beans are also normal accompaniments. Served with tea or coffee and eaten in the morning for breakfast.

You’ll find many of the dishes common throughout Ireland and the UK in Northern Ireland so dishes like Irish stew, bangers and mash, Sunday roasts, and fish and chips are common. Potatoes have long been important to Ireland so you’ll find potato dishes like colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage or kale), potato bread, boxty (potato pancake), and champ (mashed potatoes with spring onion, cheese, and butter). Seafood dishes are common particularly fried eel and salmon.

Agriculture is a major industry in Northern Ireland and you can find a lot of locally grown, raised, and produced food products. These are easy to find at St. George’s Market as well as in local grocery stores and on the menus of local restaurants in Belfast. Some to look out for are dairy products (Abernethy butter, milk, cheese, ice cream), local seafood (salmon, eels, oysters), breads (soda bread and potato bread in particular), Bramley apples (as well as apple juice, jam, and cider), and locally raised meats (beef, pork, venison).

If you have a sweet tooth, a popular Northern Irish candy is Yellowman which is a chewy honeycomb toffee-like candy.   Aunt Sandra’s Candy Factory is a popular local spot to buy handmade candies, chocolates, and fudge.

Things to do in Belfast: Beyond Central Belfast

If you have more than a day or two in Belfast, you may have time to explore beyond central Belfast and the Titanic Quarter. Your choices of things to do in Belfast beyond the central area are varied and include museums, gardens, parks, a zoo, political sites, and a Victorian prison.

We particularly recommend the Queen’s Quarter area which includes Queen’s University, the Ulster Museum, and the Botanic Gardens. The Crumlin Road Gaol will appeal to those who enjoy touring old prisons. The Cave Hill Country Park includes hiking trails, the Belfast Zoo, Belfast Castle, and a children’s playground. The Peace Wall is a popular stop for seeing the political murals, usually during a Black Cab tour. There are also plenty of green places around Belfast for hiking, walks, and even wildlife viewing.

Most of these attractions are located within the city of Belfast but some lie in areas just outside Belfast. Most can be reached by public bus within 30 to 40 minutes, and some can be visited using the hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses. All are located within a 30 minute drive fo the city center, and some are less than a 10 minute drive from the city center.

The first physical divides or peace lines were built in 1969 after the outbreak of riots in Northern Ireland and the beginning of the Troubles. The walls, fences, and other barriers were used to divide predominately Ulster/Protestant/Unionist areas of a neighborhood from predominately Loyalist/Catholic/Nationalist areas of a neighborhood.

The initial walls were meant to be temporary measures to help protect people on both sides, but they became bigger, longer, and more sturdy over time. Today there are over 40 wall structures, called peace lines or peace walls, stretching for miles in Belfast. These are primarily in the residential areas in the northwest areas of Belfast. They also exist in a few other towns and cities in Northern Ireland such as Londonderry/Derry.

Interestingly, the number of Peace Walls has not decreased since the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, but have actually increased. Some of the walls have gates which allow access during daylight hours but these gates are closed after dark. They are sometimes policed, but not so much these days. Sectarian violence has significantly decreased, but many residents still find the walls comforting and many people in these neighborhoods have grown up with the walls.

In recent years, the walls and political murals painted along or near the walls have become tourist attractions. Most black cab tours stop here as ours did. Visitors have the opportunity to write their own message on the Peace Wall, which has been covered in murals, as well as signed by famous people including the Dalai Lama and former U.S. President Bill Clinton.

There is a large movement to remove the Peace Walls in the near future, and the government hopes the walls will be removed by 2023 in cooperation with people on both sides of the wall.

Crumlin Road Goal

The HMP Crumlin, better known as the  Crumlin Road Gaol , is a former prison that opened in Belfast in 1846. For over 150 years, it was one of Northern Ireland’s main prisons, and is today the only surviving Victorian era prison in Northern Ireland.

At the time the prison was built, it was one of the most up-to-date prisons of its time and was designed to house up to 500 prisoners. However, in later years, during the Troubles, there were so many people sent to prison that it was forced to hold many more than this, resulting in cramped conditions. The Crumlin Road Gaol closed in 1996 as a prison, and following an extensive restoration project, was opened as a visitor attraction in 2012.

Visits are timed and guided. Guides lead you through the major parts of the prison and explain the entry process for new inmates. The tour includes a visit to the cell blocks, the tunnel which linked the prison with the courthouse over the road, and the execution chamber. Seventeen prisoners were executed on site by hanging, with the last execution taking place in 1961.

The knowledgeable guides on the tour share lots of information about the history of the prison, its architecture, and notable inmates. The regular tours lasts about 75 to 90 minutes. There are also sometimes specialty tours offered such as paranormal tours and night tours of the prison.

There is a fee to tour the prison, and tour times can be booked in advance online or on site. It’s definitely worth booking your tour in advance, as this is both cheaper and will also guarantee the time you want. Tours run about every 30 minutes.

There is a gift shop and an on-site coffee shop where you can get sandwiches and drinks.

Stormont Estate – Northern Ireland Parliament

The Northern Ireland Parliament buildings are located on the Stormont Estate. The Northern Ireland Assembly, the legislative body for Northern Ireland, was established under the Belfast Agreement 1998 (Good Friday Agreement). Before being used for government purposes, the estate belong to Reverend John Cleland.

The main Northern Ireland Assembly building was designed by Sir Arnold Thornely and is 365 feet wide (one for each day of the year) with six floors and six front pillars (one for each NI county). It was completed in 1932.

The public can visit the Parliament buildings during most of the year, Monday to Friday. Tours are free and last about 1 hour. The tours include stops to learn about the history and architecture of the buildings and to see the Great Hall, the Senate Chamber, and the Assembly Chamber. The public can also sit in on Assembly debates and committee meetings. See latest tour times here .

Outside, you can admire the building and wander along some of the walking nature paths around the parkland. There are several statues and memorials, and there is also a picnic area, fitness area, and children’s play area.

There is a coffee shop and gift shop within the main building. The Members’ Dining Rooms are also open to the public for meals and afternoon tea, reservations are recommended.

The Stormont Estate has parking and can also be visited by public bus or by using the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. There is no fee for visiting the Stormont Estate or Parliament Buildings; however, you will need to go through a security check at the gate and airport-style security to gain entrance to the building.

C.S. Lewis Square

The C.S. Lewis Square is a square located in East Belfast dedicated to the Belfast author Clive Staples Lewis . C.S. Lewis is most famous for his children’s fantasy book series The Chronicles of Narnia series as well as his Christian apologetic adult nonfiction books such as Mere Christianity .

The square contains a number of large bronze sculptures depicting characters from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe  including Aslan, The Beavers, and The White Witch. The sculptures were made by Northern Irish artist Maurice Harron and are situated in a place not too far from Lewis’s birthplace. This is a fun place to bring any fan of the Narnia series!

Fans of C.S. Lewis may also want to see other sites related to Lewis in the area, including this birthplace on Dundela Avenue (Blue Plaque marks spot), Little Lea (family home on Circular drive), St Mark’s Church (where he was baptized and grandfather was rector), Holywood Arches Library (“The Searcher” statue), Belmont Tower, and Campbell College. You can follow a self-guided trail or book a local tour guide.

Next to C. S. Lewis Square is the EastSide Visitor Centre which is a great place to stop to learn more about the city’s attractions and things to do in East Belfast, including self-guided walking trails and walking tours. The local Greenways (walking and cycling routes on disused railway lines) also run right past here. The Centre also has a coffee bar called JACK Coffee Bar which features locally sourced food, products, and artwork.

The square is can be reached by public bus about 20 minute from center. There is parking available nearby.

Queen’s University

Queen’s University was chartered in 1845 and opened in Belfast in 1849. It was built to encourage university education for Catholics and Presbyterians at the time as Trinity College in Dublin was at that time an Anglican university. 

There are some beautiful buildings in terms of architecture on the Queen’s University campus, particularly the Lanyon building designed by English architect Charles Lanyon. You can check out the Naughton Gallery , an art gallery with both permanent and temporary exhibitions, which offers free public admission. You might also want to see what’s playing at the Queen’s Film Theatre , a popular independent cinema. 

Queen’s University is situated next to the Botanic Gardens in Queen’s Quarter, which is a lovely area of Belfast. It is a university student area with lots of coffee shops, independent retail stores, small entertainment venues, and the excellent Ulster Museum. A great place to wander around and explore.

Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens are located in south Belfast within the Queen’s Quarter near Queen’s University. The gardens were originally started as a private park in 1828 but became a public park in 1895. The gardens were one of the most popular Belfast attractions in the Victorian era, and structures in the garden have recently undergone major renovations.

Two of the main features of the gardens are the Palm House conservatory and the Tropical Ravine House. The Pam House is a curvilinear cast iron Victorian glasshouse designed by Charles Lanyon and built by Richard Turner, and display a range of tropical plants. The Tropical Ravine features a sunken ravine and includes a number of the oldest seed plants around today, as well as banana, cinnamon, bromeliad, and orchid plants. There is also a rose garden.

The Botanic Gardens is an important venue for concerts, festivals, and other local events, The Ulster Museum which sits near the main entrance to the gardens. The gardens are a popular place for students of next door Queen’s University to take walks and study.

The Botanic Gardens are open to the public during daylight hours and free to visit. The Palm House and Tropical Ravine have more limited hours.

Ulster Museum

The  Ulster Museum  is Belfast’s largest museum and one we highly recommend taking the time to visit. The museum has over 1 million objects in its collection which include items related to art, history, and natural science. The museum is located near the main entrance to the Botanic Gardens.

We really enjoyed our time in this museum as there is a bit of everything so just about everyone can find a section of the museum to enjoy. There were dinosaur bones, Neolithic stone axes, jewels, fine art, meteorites, and history exhibits detailing ancient and recent history including the partition of Ireland and the Troubles. If you want relative objectivity in relation to Belfast history, this is probably the best place to find it.

The museum has a number of permanent exhibitions, but also has changing temporary exhibitions. When we visited one of the exhibitions was a massive Game of Thrones Irish linen tapestry that tells the full story of the TV series and sewed locally. The GoT linen is not currently on display but you can see it and learn more about it here .

The museum has an on-site coffee shop which serves hot food and drinks. There is also a cloakroom with lockers that can be rented for £1.

The museum is free to visit, although donations are greatly appreciated.

Museum of Orange Heritage

The Museum of Orange Heritage is a museum and interpretive center that covers the history, culture, and traditions of the Orange Order, also known as the Loyal Orange Association. If you want to  learn more about the Orange Order, this is a good place to do it. However, it is a good idea to be aware of the religious, cultural, and political significance of the order before you choose to visit.

If you are not familiar with the Orange Order , they are a Protestant fraternal organization that is strongly associated with the Ulster loyalists and British unionism. The main stated goal of the order is to protect and promote Protestantism, although opponents have criticized the group for being anti-Catholic. The group is probably best known for their marches and parades, known as Orange walks, particularly those that take place on July 12th. Some of these walks have been controversial.

Their history dates back to 1795 and it is from King William III, the Prince of Orange, that the organization gets its name. King William III was a Protestant king who defeated the Catholic king James II in the Williamite-Jacobite War in Ireland in the 17th century. The first Orange Order societies formed to commemorate King William III’s victory at the Battle of the Boyne in July 1690.

The museum includes informational and interactive exhibits, and includes artifacts including items owned by King William II. Obviously, the information is going to have a pro-Loyalist bias given its being presented by the society. A good counterpoint if you are planning to visit is the Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum.

The center also has a research and genealogy facility for those wanting to research their family history within the Orange Order.

The museum is located at Schomerg House in the Castlereagh area of Belfast and is generally open Monday through Saturday. It is a 15 to 20 minute bus ride from the town center.

Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum

The Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum is a small museum in West Belfast dedicated to the history of the Republicans in Ireland since the 1960’s. It is situated in the Conways Mill Complex and the mill dates back to 1842. The museum focuses a lot on internment and imprisonment experiences during the Troubles.

The museum is named after Eileen Hickey, a woman who herself was imprisoned in Armagh in the 1970s, and a large portion of the artifacts were collected by her. The museum includes informational exhibits and a number of objects related to the Troubles, particularly related to internment during that time.

The Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum obviously has a Republican (Nationalist / Catholic) bias and focuses on the more positive aspects of the Republican side. But it does have some inclusive information and objects as well. So just know this when you visit and it can be a good counterpoint to a visit to the Museum of Orange Heritage.

The museum is free to visit although donations are greatly appreciated. Some black cab tours stop here.

There are several parking spaces here for drivers. You can also get here by public bus but there is no bus stop super close by (10 to 15 minute walk away). I would recommend stopping here as part of a Black Cab tour or Troubles related tour as it is not far from the Peace Wall.

RSPB Window on Wildlife (Belfast Lough Reserve)

The Belfast Lough Reserve is an area of grassland, lagoon, and mudflats that is considered a special place for local wildlife. It is protected and maintained by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), a bird charity in the UK. There are four components of the reserve: Belfast’s Window on Wildlife, Harbour Meadows, Holywood Banks and Whitehouse Lagoon.

The area provides a place for local birds and wildlife as well as migrating bird species. Over 100 bird species have been observed here and species that are regularly seen include wigeons, teals, oystercatchers, Arctic terns, curlews, and godwits. There are also konik ponies and small mammals who live here.

The public can best learn about the species and have a chance to observe them by visiting the RSPB Window on Wildlife . It is a small center run by staff and volunteers that provides information on local and migrating species and an area with a large window where you can view species in the lagoon and mudflats surrounding the center. There are also a couple of hides and the staff sometimes offers guided walks during certain times of the year.

At the center, you can borrow binoculars to see more from the window and staff can help point out different birds. When we visited we saw several bird species as well as rabbits. The staff member we talked to was very friendly and this place seems a world away from downtown Belfast!

There is a small charge to visit the center and use the shelters. It is free for RSPB members.

Cave Hill Country Park

Cave Hill, also written as Cavehill, is a large hill formed by basalt lava flows that overlooks Belfast. It has long been a popular spot for local and tourists, and some believe that the hill with its “Napoleon’s Nose” rock formation was the inspiration for the giant in Jonathan Swift’s famous book Gulliver’s Travels .

Cave Hill Country Park is known for its caves, rock formations, ring fort remains, walking and hiking paths, and for being the site of the Belfast Zoo, Belfast Castle, and a large playground. It is a great place if you want to get out of Belfast, do some hiking, and get some nice views over the city (you can see all the way to Scotland on clear days). Given the attractions located here, it is easy to make a whole day of it out here.

The hiking trails are well-signed and range from relatively short and easy to longer and more strenuous. The trails take you near many of the landmarks in the park, including Belfast Castle, Napoleon’s nose, caves, McArt’s fort, Devil’s Punchbowl, and Volunteer’s Well stream, and interpretive signs help point out features, geology, and history.

Cave Hill Country Park is about a 5 mile (8 km) drive out of central Belfast. You can also get here via public bus from Belfast.

Belfast Zoo

The Belfast Zoo  is located on the outskirts of Belfast on the slopes of Cavehill, encompassing 55 acres and has over 1,000 animals from over 100 different species. The zoo offers daily zookeeper talks, feeding times, and other activities.

The zoo opened in 1934 and is one of the most popular paid attractions in Belfast. It suffered a lot during the Belfast Blitz and the 2018 family-friendly film Zoo  focuses on the true story of the “elephant angel” who cared for a baby elephant during WWII.

In addition to the animals, the zoo also recently opened a new children’s playground called the Adventurers’ Learning Centre. The zoo is also home to the 1930’s  Art Deco Floral Hall, once a popular dance and music venue. The Floral hall was shut and became derelict during the Troubles, but there are plans to refurbish and reopen it as an event space in the future.

The zoo has two cafes on site which serve hot food and drinks as well as a picnic area. There is also a large visitor center and a gift shop.

Most of the zoo and its facilities are wheelchair accessible; however, the zoo is situated on the side of Cavehill so many parts are uphill and some of the paths are steep. There are wheelchairs for free rental and a zoo-mobile vehicle, which can be reserved in advance with the zoo.

The zoo can be reached by public bus from central Belfast, and the zoo offers free parking for visitors. You can purchase tickets on-site or in advance.

Belfast Castle

Belfast Castle was commissioned in the 19th century by George Hamilton Chichester, the 3rd Marquess of Donegall and was designed by Charles Lanyon and his son. If you’ve been to Scotland, the castle may look familiar as it was built in Scottish baronial style. There was an original Belfast Castle built in the 12th century by Normans and it sat not far from where the Belfast City Hall stands today.

Only a small portion of the castle is open to visitors today as much is used as space for offices, conference and event rooms, and dining. It is a popular wedding and conference venue today.

But if you are in visiting Cave Hill Country Park, Belfast Castle is definitely worth a stop. Can be a good place to stop before or after a hike or a visit to the nearby Belfast Zoo. Also close to the Fortwilliam Golf Club.

There is a small exhibit inside about the history of Belfast Castle worth taking a look at. There is also a restaurant and cafe where you can get a meal, coffee, or drink. Outside, the formal garden are beautiful and offer nice views over the city, and they also have cat statues!

Ulster Folk Museum & Transport Museum

The Ulster Folk and Transport Museum is two separate museums with the Ulster Folk Museum and Transport Museum being located at different but adjacent sites. You can purchase admission to each museum separately, or buy a dual ticket to visit both museums.

The Ulster Folk Museum focuses on telling the story of the people and culture of Northern Ireland from the past to present, with a focus on the early 1900s. The museum is spread out across over 20 buildings set up to resemble a traditional village which includes a number of dwellings of the early 1900’s as well as replicas. These include thatched cottages, farm houses, schools, churches, shops, a mill, workshops, and more. There are also costumed guides, daily demonstrations, and activities such as open-hearth cooking, needlework, weaving, and craft demonstrations.

The Transport Museum focuses on the history of transport in Ireland from its early history to the modern era, from horse-drawn carriages to airplanes. One of the big draws to the museum is that it contains the largest railway collection in Ireland, and includes steam locomotives, passenger carriages, and a large amount of memorabilia. Other popular exhibits include pogo sticks (invited in Northern Ireland), a DeLorean DMC-12 car (the manufacturing plant was in Northern Ireland), a vertical take-off airplane, and a Titanic exhibition which includes some original artifacts. 

If you plan to visit both museums, be sure to purchase the dual ticket to save money on admission fees. There is a cafe on-site in the Ulster Folk Museum which serves snacks and drinks.

The Ulster Folk Museum & Transport Museum are situated in the town of Cultra which is about 7 miles (11 km) east of Belfast. There is free parking on-site for visitors, the museums can be reached by bus from Belfast (30 to 40 minute ride), or you can take a train (nearest stop is Cultra Halt).

Minnowburn is a natural area of meadows and woodland around the Lagan River on the southern edge of Belfast. It is a perfect place for a walk, family picnic, or gentle hike in a bucolic setting.

Terrace Hill is a popular spot to get a view across the Lagan Valley and to have a picnic, and the trail here is dotted with sculptures and has a garden on top. The garden was built by Frederick Russell who wanted a garden to go with Terrace Hill mansion (circa 1856). The Russell family had earned their money from the linen industry and later the flour industry.

This area is now maintained by the National Trust and is a lovely place to come if you want a bit of an escape from the city. There are a few main trails and paths here that you can follow, some that  run through the small village of Edenderry. It is easy to spend a few hours here on a nice day.

If you are looking for a nice gentle hike, we can recommend the Giant’s Ring trail. It is an easy 2.2 mile circular trail that takes you along the riverbank and through woodland and farmland, and past the Giant’s Ring. The Giant’s Ring is a Neolithic henge earthen monument, believed to have been constructed around 2700 BC.

Located about 4 miles outside of Belfast. No great public transit connections, although there are bus stops within a 15 minute walk of Minnowburn.

Sir Thomas & Lady Dixon Park

Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park is a 128 acre park located in South Belfast. The park consists of woodland, meadows, fields, a walled garden, formal rose gardens, and a Japanese garden. There is also a children’s playground and there is a coffee shop located in the former stables. The park is a popular place for local families and walkers.

The park was laid out around Wilmont House, a Victorian house originally built for James Bristow, but later purchased by Sir Thomas Dixon and Lady Edith Stewart Dixon . The Dixons would leave the house and park to the city of Belfast and it is currently maintained by the Belfast City Council.

The Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park is particularly known for its formal gardens and roses. Its roses are world famous and each year the roses attract thousands of visitors. The annual highlight here is Rose Week, a weeklong event where there is a flower show, games, concerts, puppet shows, family events, food vendors, and more. We attended Rose Week in 2018 and it was a lot of fun.

The park is located about 6 miles from Belfast city center and there is free parking available. You can also reach it by public bus with stops within a 5 minute walk of the park.

Belfast Map of Top Belfast Attractions

The map below shows the locations for each of the mentioned main things to do in Belfast, including the centrally located and nearby attractions. You can use this to help guide and plan your itinerary. We recommend trying to group together locations that are close together.

Click  here   or on the map below for a closer look and to see exact locations:

Things to do in Belfast: Day Trips from Belfast

Run out of things to do in Belfast? If you have more time in Northern Ireland and want to venture further afield, there are lots more things to do within a 1 hour to 2 hour drive of the city.

If you are looking for a day trip or quick overnight trip, our top recommendations depending on your interests would be to drive along a section of the Causeway Coastal Route, visit the Giant’s Causeway, do a whiskey tour, explore Saint Patrick Country, do a Game of Thrones tour of filming sites, or visit a few of the many castles and historic homes in Northern Ireland.

We have some of our favorites below, and we also have a complete guide to the best day trips from Belfast here .

Giant’s Causeway

The  Giant’s Causeway  is the most famous natural attraction in Northern Ireland and its only UNESCO world heritage site. The Giant’s Causeway is a geological feature, which consists of approximately 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns that form a staircase-like pathway out to sea. It has been featured in a number of films, TV commercials, and advertisements.

The site is managed by the National Trust, and there are a number of visitor services here including parking, a shuttle bus, an exhibition center, a gift shop, and a cafe. Although it is free to visit the site if you arrive on foot or by bicycle, there is a fee and ticket needed to park, visit the exhibition center, get the audioguide, use the shuttle bus etc. It is definitely worth it to get a ticket to take advantage of these services.

Entry is free for National Trust members. If you are planning on visiting both the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, you might consider investing in a  National Trust Touring Pass . This will give you free access to both these attractions, as well as many other National trust properties across Northern Ireland and the UK.

You can drive (about 1 hour and 20 minute drive from Belfast), take public transit, or join a group or private tour from Belfast (or Dublin) to visit the Giant’s Causeway. You can see a number of available day tours to the Giant’s Causeway here and here .

Causeway Coastal Route

The  Causeway  Coastal Route is a scenic tourist driving route that winds approximately 120 miles from Belfast to Londonderry (or Derry). Most of the route is along the coast with lots of scenery as well as a number of Northern Ireland’s top attractions.

Some of the most popular stops along the Causeway Coastal Route are the Giant’s  Causeway , Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, and Bushmills whiskey distillery. Just off of the route are also popular stops like the Glenariff Nature Reserve, Rathlin Island, and  the Dark Hedges .

Most of the route is accessible to all drivers, but there is a narrow and windy section that is not suitable for those driving in larger vehicles and campervans. Many of the attractions, depending on the time of the year, can be visited by public transit. I would not recommend this as a day trip if you want to do the full route, but you can visit a few of the highlights on a day trip.

Many people see parts of the route as part of a day tour from Belfast so they can avoid renting a car and don’t have to worry about drinking if stopping for whiskey tasting. Day tour options include tours such as this full day tour  from Belfast.

We have driven the Causeway Coastal Route twice and really enjoyed it! See our guide to the highlights of the Causeway Coastal Route to help plan your own trip.

Learn about Saint Patrick

If you are interested in the history, life, and religious beliefs of Saint Patrick, there are a number of sites within Northern Ireland associated with the saint. Saint Patrick was born in Roman Britain and came to Ireland first as a slave of Irish pirates and later as a Christian missionary. He would become a bishop in Ireland during the 5th century and is often regarded as the founder of Christianity in Ireland.

St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. He is a venerated saint in a number of Christian religious faiths including in the Roman Catholic Church, Anglican Church, and the Lutheran Church. Saint Patrick’s Day, March 17th, is observed in Ireland (and in many other countries) as a religious and cultural holiday, celebrating his life and the arrival of Christianity into Ireland.

A few important places associated with Saint Patrick in Northern Ireland are The Saint Patrick Centre in Downpatrick (an informative and interactive exhibition about Saint Patrick’s life and legacy, a good starting point!), Down Cathedral (where Saint Patrick is believed to be buried) and Struell Wells in Downpatrick, Slemish Mountains (where Saint Patrick is believed to have been forced to work as a slave), and the two Saint Patrick’s cathedrals of Armagh.

Counties Down and Armagh are the two counties that are collectively known as Saint Patrick’s Country and have the most St. Patrick’s related sites. For more places associated with Saint Patrick, see this list of sites . Most of these places are located within a 1 hour drive of Belfast.

If you are looking for one place to go to learn more about Saint Patrick, I’d recommend heading to Downpatrick as there are several sites in and around the town associated with the saint. If you visit Downpatrick and are looking for a guide, this very good value 2-hour walking tour may be of interest.

If you are looking for a day tour, there are not many that are focused on Saint Patrick, but this group day tour  from Belfast includes a visit to The Saint Patrick Centre, Down Cathedral, historic ruins of Monasterboice, and Dublin. There is also this private day tour by minivan from Belfast which focuses on Downpatrick sites and County Down.

Games of Thrones Tour

The popular American HBO TV series Game of Thrones (2011-2019) was filmed primarily in Belfast at Titanic Studios, but also in a number of real-world locations around Northern Ireland. Over 20 filming locations have been used in Northern Ireland, most of them outdoors, to represent different locations such as Winterfell, Lordsport Harbour, Dothraki Grasslands, Kingsroad, Robb Stark’s camp, and the forest of the direwolves.

Note that some filming locations are on private land and are not accessible, but most are open to the public. The locations have included Tollymore Forest, Cushendun Caves, Murlough Bay, the Dark Hedges , Ballintoy Harbour, Larrybane, Castle Ward, Inch Abbey, and Downhill Strand.

You see this list of the Games of Thrones filming sites in Northern Ireland to help you plan your itinerary.

You can visit many of these locations on your own, or you can join a tour. If you want to be amongst other fans and learn more behind-the-scenes information, there are many Game of Thrones themed tours that leave from Belfast and focus on GoT sites and attractions. Many also include the chance to use props and dress up like characters from the Game of Thrones for photos. Some are even led by those who worked on the show.

Here are a few tour options to consider:

• This full day tour includes 9 stops which include Dark Hedges, Ballintoy Harbor, Larrybane, and Cushenden Caves. Also visits the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge.
• This GoT day tour includes filming locations such as Dark Hedges, Carnlough Harbour, Cusheden Caves and Dunluce Castle. Tour also includes the Giant’s Causeway and a view of the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge.
• This full day GoT tour includes visits to Castle Ward, Inch Abbey, and Tollymore Forest.
• This private guided day tour includes a guide who was an actors or extra in the Game of Thrones series

Go Whiskey Tasting

Ireland is well known for its whiskey and one of the most famous and oldest distilleries in Ireland is located in Northern Ireland. Along with Jameson in Dublin, Bushmills is one of the brands most associated with Irish whiskey worldwide.

Bushmills was established in 1784, although the first license to distill whiskey on the current site was granted back in 1608! Today, Bushmills is one of Ireland’s best selling Irish whiskey brands, offering both blended and single malt whiskeys. The whiskey is produced on the Bushmills Distillery site using water from Saint Columb’s Rill, a tributary of the River Bush.

Old Bushmills Distillery is a very popular place to visit and you can take a tour of the distillery to see how and where the whiskey is made, do a tasting, visit the gift shop, and/or have a meal here. Public tours are on a first come, first serve basis unless you are in a group of 15 or more so we recommend arriving at least 20 minutes before you want to do a tour. The distillery is about a 1.5 hour drive from Belfast city center.

Another whiskey distillery Echlinville Distillery , opened in 2013, also offers public tours and tastings. Be sure to make a reservation in advance if you wish to visit here. Echlinville was the first Northern Irish distillery to be granted a distilling license in almost 125 years! The distillery is located about a 50 minute drive from Belfast city center.

There are a number of distilleries expected to open throughout Ireland in the next several years, so if whiskey is a strong interest, I’d do some research on any recent openings. Just note that most distilleries when they first open are not offering their own whiskey yet.

If you do not have a car, you can reach Bushmills Distillery by bus or by a combo of bus and train. You can also book a private transfer or join a group tour that stops at the distillery, like this one .

Just note that most group tours only allow time for you to do a quick tasting, not a distillery tour.

Castles, Palaces, and Country Homes

The UK is known for its many castles, palaces, and stately homes, and Northern Ireland has several that are open to the public to visit. Most are located within a 1 hour drive of Belfast. Some are only open seasonally so do check dates and hours before planning your visit.

Here are several to get you started:

• Carrickfergus Castle – A 12th century castle built for Sir John de Courcy alongside the Belfast Lough (3 sides are surrounded by water). Today it is one of the best preserved medieval buildings in Northern Ireland. This castle saw a lot of action and was besieged  by the Scottish, Irish, English, and French and was used by the military until 1928. There is a fee to visit.
• Castle Coole – A 18th-century neo-classical mansion and landscape park in Enniskillen that was built for the Corry family. The property is now owned and managed by the National Trust but many of the contents of the mansion are still owned by the Earl Belmore (Corry family) who still lives on the estate. The house is open to the public in the summer months and the estate is open year-round. There is a fee to visit.
• Castle Ward – An 18th century mansion house built for Lord Bangor and his wife, known for having two different exterior architectural sides on each side (one side Palladian, one side Georgian Gothic). Estate also has a medieval tower house, farmyard, and gardens, and was home to the Ward family from 16th century until the estate was given to National Trust in 1952. Also a Game of Thrones filming location and there is a GOT archery experience offered here. There is a fee to visit.
• Dunluce Castle – A 15th century castle ruin perched alongside the sea that was lived in by the MacDonnell family until around 1690. Castle ruins are a popular stop for visitors on the Causeway Coastal route. There is a fee to visit.
• Hillsbourgh Castle – An 18th century Georgian house build for the Hill family. It is now an official government residence in Northern Ireland and managed by the Historic Royal Palaces. It is currently used as the residence of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and the official residence of the British Monarch and other member of the British royal family when visiting the region. Fee to visit and best to book in advance if you want to visit the house interior as tickets numbers and tour times are limited.
• Mount Stewart – A grand 19th-century neoclassical mansion house and garden in County Down built for the Marquesses of Londonderry. Now owned and managed by the National Trust. The property is well-known for its beautiful interiors, large collection of art and furniture, family memorabilia, and its world-class gardens. If you love gardens, we recommend visiting here in the late Spring or Summer months to see them in their full glory. Fee to visit.

Note that Castle Ward, Castle Coole, and Mount Stewart are all National Trust properties so members get free entrance. If you are planning to visit these, or other Trust properties in Northern Ireland such as the Giant’s Causeway or Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, you may save money with a National Trust Touring Pass .

So there is our list of things to do in Belfast Northern Ireland!  Have you been to Belfast? If so, any favorites among the above or places you’d add to this list? If you haven’t visited yet, which of these Belfast attractions would make it on your Belfast itinerary?

As always, feel free to ask us any questions you may have about things to do in Belfast or planning a trip to Northern Ireland!

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**Disclosure: We partnered with Discover Northern Ireland who helped us plan the logistics of our second trip to Belfast, and who also covered our accommodation and arranged some of our visits to local attractions in order for us to share our experiences as travel writers. However, as always, this article contains only our own honest thoughts and opinions. You can read more in our Ethics Code about how we accept work.**

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Evie mason Post author

December 21, 2023 at 3:50 am

I stumbled upon a fantastic Belfast itinerary that highlighted the must-visit spots in the city, and it really made my trip planning a breeze. So many helpful hints and great attractions reviewed here. The mention of the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre at Donegall Square was invaluable–helped me snag some discounts for my sightseeing tours and even a bike tour around the city.

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

December 21, 2023 at 3:11 pm

Glad that you had such a wonderful visit to Belfast and that our Belfast Travel Guide was helpful to you in planning your trip. Sounds like you got a chance to do visit a lot of attractions and do a lot of tours, and glad you were able to find some discounts on a couple of your tours!

Best, Jessica

Janell Richison Post author

August 27, 2019 at 10:23 am

I love this site, and it is so informative, thanks so much. I am planning a trip in the very near future, after finding out my ancestry is far from what I thought it was, which I thought was just African and French, turned out to be anything but that. I did two test, and both came back with ties to England, Ireland, Scotland, and Finland, i.e. on the European side, and AMD (Age Macular Degeneration, being the only hereditary ailment, with a low risk, which is common in Ireland). In Ireland, the lineage points to Belfast, only; in Scotland, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Fife; in England Merseyside, Manchester, Wales, Lancashire, and Country Durham. That being said, is it possible to visit all of these places from Belfast? My twin and I would love to kill three birds with one stone. Any suggestions?

August 27, 2019 at 12:41 pm

Glad you are enjoying our travel blog! It is exciting to learn more about one’s genealogy and then go visit the places where one’s ancestors lived.

So it looks like your lineage points to all four countries of the UK: England, Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland. Wales is its own country (not part of England), but both are part of the UK. So that’s a lot of places to try to visit. How much time do you have? I’d recommend at least 2 weeks if you are trying to visit all these places.

Also note that some places you list are cities like Edinburgh and Manchester, but others are counties or regions like Lancashire and Fife, whereas one is an entire country (Wales). So unless you have a lot of time, you would want to narrow those places down to where you’d actually want to visit. For example, maybe you want to visit St. Andrews in Fife and Liverpool in Merseyside. Maybe you want to visit Cardiff and Snowdonia National Park in Wales.

Then I’d decide how you plan to get around. Are you wanting to get around by public transportation, join a tour (or series of tours), or drive yourself? Or some combination of those?

So yes, there are ferries that you can take from Belfast to Scotland as well as England. But you could not use it as a base to visit the other places as they are too far away. But it would be a good beginning or ending point for your trip.

If you want to try to see all (or most of these places) I’d probably recommend flying into London and leaving out of Belfast. Or flying into Belfast and leaving out of London.

Happy to help more once you have an idea of how much time you have and how you’d like to travel around the UK.

Tamara W Post author

July 22, 2019 at 8:33 pm

I love your site! It is very well organized. I’ve spent some time in Northern Ireland on two separate occasions and can vouch for all you have said about the people (the best that I’ve ever met….but I must include Dubliners, as well) and how they do not know their own land as well as they would like. I would like to add that the Mourne Mountains are GORGEOUS and about an hour’s cab drive (but trains go there as well).

My favorite spot is all the way down to the border to Rostrevor for Kilbroney Nature Park overlooking Carlingford Lough. Stunning landscape and views in summer when the heather is in bloom! Beautiful hiking with very good facilities. Also, there is a LOT to do in Bangor which is a 20-minute cab drive (trains and busses also will take you there) from Belfast City Center. In Bangor you will see the marina, the excellent North Down Museum, Bangor Castle and more. Birthplace of Christianity in Ireland! For C.S. Lewis fans, the Old Inn in Crawfordsburn nearby is where many literary authors used to hang out, and where C.S. Lewis took his friends and honeymooned with his wife Helen Joy Davidman. There is a statue to Amy Carmichael, missionary to southern India and founder of Dohnavur Fellowship there, at Hamilton Road Prebyterian Church, as Amy’s family was significant in Millisle where she was from, and then Belfast as well.

In Belfast, you can see her church and mission that is still going in the Shankill district (“The Welcome Evangelical Church” and its new facility for the disabled “The Amy Carmichael Center” next door). Down the road from the Mission is a statue of the mill worker girls called “shawlies” that Amy helped and the old mill where they worked is across the street from the statue. The Welcome church was built just for the mill girls so they could go to church. There are a HOST of C.S. Lewis sites: The Shand Theatre, Campbell College, St. Mark’s (where his grandfather was rector and there is a red door with a lion door pull that played a large part of Lewis’s Aslan imaginings), his home Little Lea on Circle Street, his mural on the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus tour of Belfast, etc. I had more fun with the extremely friendly cab drivers showing them where these places are and what these Belfastians did that they were not aware of. They were happy to learn about it!

I am looking at your Dublin itinerary and will keep coming back as I am planning a third trip out to extend the trip. Glenlara Elite Travel did a WONDERFUL tour of the Antrim Coast if anyone is interested. Frances is an excellent tour guide and made our trip just amazing. Cave Hill park is one of my favorite in-town hikes. Also St. George’s Market in downtown for shopping.

July 23, 2019 at 3:50 am

Hi Tamara, So glad you are enjoying our posts on Dublin and Belfast and thanks for providing some of our favorite places in Northern Ireland. We have mainly explored Belfast and surround and then along the coast, but there is definitely much more to see in Northern Ireland and you have listed a number of places we have not been like Bangor. We will have to go there on our next visit! Yes, Cave Hill is nice place to hike in Belfast and we list a few places you might want to try next time if you haven’t been in our Belfast itinerary.

We agree that Dublin is great as well and plenty to do there and in the surrounding area! Wishing you a wonderful return to Ireland & Northern Ireland!

Bea Post author

December 31, 2018 at 2:41 am

I am very keen to visit Northern Ireland this year! Looks like I have great things to look forward to 🙂

January 1, 2019 at 1:28 pm

Hi Bea, Yes, there is lots to do and see in Belfast and the rest of Northern Ireland. Just let us know if you have any questions as you plan your trip. Best, Jessica

Anisa Post author

December 30, 2018 at 12:24 pm

I have wanted to go to Belfast for a few years now but haven’t made it yet. This is a great guide, so comprehensive as always. The Titanic Museum is top of my list, but I also want to go to Giants Causeway. Hopefully, I can find a weekend to fit it in soon. Happy New Year to you both

December 30, 2018 at 4:43 pm

Hi Anisa, Hope you can a chance to visit Belfast soon. Have a wonderful New Year’s! Best, Jessica

Lolo Post author

December 30, 2018 at 3:03 am

Quite an extensive guide to Belfast you have here! There definitely seems to be way more things to do than I originally knew about! I’m especially interested in the Opera House! Saved for later! Happy Holidays!

December 30, 2018 at 6:29 am

Hi Lolo, Yes, if you like opera houses, the Grand Opera House is the only Victorian theater remaining in Northern Ireland. It will be getting a facelift in 2020 😉 Best, Jessica

Anda Post author

December 29, 2018 at 3:53 pm

Excellent travel guide, like always! I’m going to bookmark this for our future travel plans. My husband and I always wanted to visit Ireland and if we make it there we’ll definitely want to see Belfast. Having so much useful information in one single post will make my life so much easier. I usually have to search the web for hours and hours, before I am able to put together a decent itinerary. Thanks for sharing this, Jessica. I wish you and Laurence a wonderful New Year!

December 29, 2018 at 4:57 pm

Hi Anda, Yes, I had been working on this post for a while and I actually took some places off the list that we visited as there were just so many. We were really surprised how many thing we have done there!

If you go to Ireland, I hope you get a chance to visit, there are lots of neat things to see/do in Belfast and Northern Ireland in general. All of Ireland is great of course (we still have much more to see ourselves!) but I do have some special feelings towards Belfast.

In many parts of the UK, people still look at you a bit strange if you say you are going to go spend time in Belfast as most people lived through The Troubles and you did not go to Belfast “for fun”. But we really have loved our two visits. On a few of the tours we did, we were the only people not from Ireland as so many Irish people told us that they never really had the chance to explore their own city growing up and they are excited about all the new things that are available now. It was really nice to be able to hear their stories and hear about how much they’ve seen the city change. It is great to hear about positive change and to see so many derelict buildings getting a second life.

Wishing you and your husband a wonderful 2019!!

Jill Post author

December 29, 2018 at 2:44 pm

I’m visiting Ireland for my first time next year and I’m so excited. Unfortunately, due to time constraints I won’t be visiting Northern Ireland but I am sure I will be back. I’ve heard such wonderful things about Belfast that I know I will visit it someday!

December 29, 2018 at 4:37 pm

Hi Jill, Ireland is a great country to explore and I am sure you’ll have a great trip. If you are going to Dublin, we do have a 3 day Dublin itinerary that may be useful in planning your time there. Northern Ireland will still be there next time, we’d recommend a week to see many of the highlights. Northern Ireland is easy to combine with a trip to the rest of Ireland as well as Scotland as well as there are regular daily ferries between the two 😉 Happy travels! Jessica

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The Perfect 1, 2, or 3 Days in Belfast Itinerary

Last Updated on May 22, 2023

by Lizzie Fitzgerald

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Belfast isn’t usually top of the list for Irish destinations but this is a gross oversight. Just 1, 2, or 3 days in Belfast can offer you a world of insight into the island’s captivating history but also delivers tons of unexpected gems in and around the city. A typical Belfast itinerary is actually a speedy affair on a bus from Dublin but do yourself a favour and stay a few days to really to know the city and some of the nearby attractions.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Belfast?

Belfast has many faces and the question of how many days to spend in Belfast should be determined by what you want to gain from the experience.

To even begin to explore the many threads of the political and historical tapestry here, you will need at least 1 day, but compressing 400 years of history won’t be an easy task.

With 2 days in Belfast, you can fill up on an Ulster fry, visit a few pubs, and do all things Titanic related.

Outside the city are also several must-see stops and you will need at least 3 days if you want to see major attractions like the Dark Hedges and Giant’s Causeway on a day trip. 

Between all the historical sights and day trips, you need another whole day on your Belfast itinerary to just appreciate the city for what it is.

Getting To & Around Belfast

Belfast is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options. If you’re arriving by air, you can fly into Belfast International Airport or George Best Belfast City Airport, both of which offer flights to major cities across Europe and the UK.

If you prefer to get to Belfast by train, the city has two main train stations: Great Victoria Street and Belfast Central. Both stations have regular services to Dublin , as well as other cities across Northern Ireland and the UK.

One major thing to remember is to hold on tight to your train ticket if you booked a return trip. You cannot be reissued a ticket and you will have to buy a new one if seats are available. Save yourself the headache and guard it with your life!

Additionally, Belfast is well-connected by bus, with services to Dublin and other nearby cities. You can view bus schedules here.

You can also drive from Dublin to Belfast in about 2 hours and there are also many interesting stops to make along the way. If you need to rent a car for your trip, you can browse Rentalcars.com to compare options.

Once you arrive in Belfast, getting around the city is relatively easy. The Belfast city centre is compact and walkable, so it’s easy to explore on foot.

If you prefer to use public transportation, Belfast has an extensive bus network that covers most of the city. There is also a city bike-share scheme, which allows you to rent bikes from various locations around the city.

Overall, getting to and around Belfast is straightforward and convenient, with plenty of transportation options to suit different preferences and budgets.

1, 2 or 3 Days in Belfast Itinerary

Day 1 – belfast historic highlights.

The tumultuous history of Belfast and Northern Ireland in general has been well documented and you should spend 1 day in Belfast getting to know both sides of the story.

Black Cab Tour

Taking a black cab tour of Belfast is one of the best ways to learn about the troubles. Your driver cum guide is a local who was personally involved or affected by the unrest that has plagued the country.

They will take you to see the Peace Walls and drive to the famous murals in the residential areas including the famous painting of Bobby Sands.

These tours give you sobering insight into the strife of unionists and loyalists and you will visit the often-overlooked Irish Republican History Museum which delivers a poignant retelling of the civil war. You can book your tour here.

City Hall Tour

Belfast City Hall sits in the centre of Belfast on Donegall Square. One of the best ways to experience this impressive building is through a free guided tour, which offers an insight into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of City Hall.

The tour takes visitors through the various rooms and spaces of the building, including the impressive Great Hall, the Council Chamber, and the elegant Reception Room.

Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of the city, the role of City Hall in local government, and the various events and ceremonies that take place here throughout the year.

Crumlin Road Gaol

Every major city across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland has a historic prison to visit. In Belfast, you can go to Crumlin Road Gaol.

The prison was in operation for over 150 years and was the site of many important events in Northern Ireland’s troubled history.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the prison, which includes the old cells and the execution chamber, and learn about the prison’s history and the lives of the inmates who were held there.

Parliament Building Tour

If you’re interested in politics and history, a tour of the Northern Ireland Parliament Building is a fascinating experience. Located in the Stormont Estate on the outskirts of Belfast, the building is home to the Northern Ireland Assembly and the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister.

During the tour, you’ll learn about the history of the building and the role it plays in the political and cultural life of Northern Ireland.

You’ll visit the impressive Senate Chamber and Assembly Hall, where the country’s politicians debate and make decisions, and see the beautiful artworks and artefacts that decorate the building.

While you are there, pop into the café to enjoy a deliciously warm scone as you drink in the views from the top of the hill.

Day 2 – Titanic, Markets & More!

If you have 2 days in Belfast, spend this time sinking your teeth into classic tourist attractions and getting to know the best local haunts.

The Titanic Belfast

This is one of the main attractions and a top place to visit that pulls people to Belfast and it is worth every ounce of its tourist trap glory.

The impressive iceberg-shaped building sits on the very site where the iconic boat was built and takes you on the journey from conception to construction, its launch, and ultimately to its final resting place at the bottom of the ocean.

This is one of those museums where you are constantly impressed by how much they could have created with only a little.

We all know the story of the Titanic (sans Jack and Rose) but this experience takes you on an immersive journey through the shipyard and there are recreations of the cabins and lifeboats as well as a glass floor projection of the shipwreck that will have you reaching for your seasickness meds. You can pre-book tickets here.

St. George’s Market

St. George’s Market is one of the oldest and most popular attractions in Belfast. This historic indoor market has been a fixture of the city since the 19th century, and it’s still a vibrant hub of activity today.

Visitors can explore the market’s stalls, which sell everything from fresh produce and seafood to handmade crafts and souvenirs.

There’s also a food court where visitors can sample a range of local and international cuisines, making this an excellent lunch stop. If you’re interested in learning more about the food in Belfast, you can take a food tour.

The Victoria Square Dome

The Victoria Square Dome is a striking modern landmark that dominates Belfast’s skyline. This glass dome is part of the Victoria Square shopping centre and it is a quick and free thing to do in Belfast.

Take a lift to the top of the dome to be rewarded with panoramic views of Belfast and the surrounding countryside.

C.S. Lewis Square

C.S. Lewis Square is a charming public space that’s dedicated to the life and work of the famous author and theologian. The square is located in East Belfast and features a range of sculptures and installations that celebrate Lewis’s most famous works, including The Chronicles of Narnia.

Visitors can explore the square’s gardens and take in the sculptures, which include a life-sized depiction of Aslan the Lion.

Head to the pub

No visit to Belfast would be complete without a proper visit to a pub. Bittles Bar is one of the best pubs in Belfast to visit. It is intimate, colourful, and historic and you will be surrounded by paintings of famous figures from local history.

This is one of many fantastic pubs you can find on your trip to Belfast and there are countless that are great options. You’re sure to find some great, cosy vibes and a cool pint of Guinness wherever you choose to visit.

Day 3 – Causeway Coast 

There is a popular circular route from Belfast that takes you north, through the Glens of Antrim, along the coast, and back through the countryside.

You can visit these locations independently if you rent a car, which will give you the flexibility to skip some stops, spend more time at others or even visit Belfast Castle on your way out.

Otherwise, you can book a day tour such as this full-day tour or this full-day tour for a cost-effective and comprehensive experience that will quickly fill the third day in the Northern Irish capital.

Regardless of the option you choose, his day trip is perfect if you’re spending more than just a weekend in Belfast.

Giant’s Causeway

Samuel Johnson famously said that this natural wonder was “worth seeing, yes; but not worth going to see.” Oh, how wrong he was.

The Giant’s Causeway is a collection of hexagonal basalt columns paving a fabled path into the stormy Atlantic. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site but it is surprisingly not too overrun with tourists (not all the time anyway). 

You can pay to enter through the visitor’s centre, however, it is actually free to visit the Causeway itself if you don’t park at or access the visitor’s centre.

There is a shuttle bus available, too but the walk down to the Causeway is lovely and downhill so save your money for the ride back up. Keep in mind that there are numerous longer walking trails at the Giant’s Causeway and you can easily spend a few hours here enjoying all it has to offer – especially if you like to hike around and get spectacular views.

Don’t just clammer around and take a few selfies. Grab a seat on one of the stones away from the crowd and take a second to soak it in.

Dunluce Castle

Dunluce Castle is a medieval ruin perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This historic site offers stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding countryside, as well as a glimpse into Northern Ireland’s rich history.

Visitors can explore the castle’s ruins and learn about its colourful past, which includes sieges, battles, and legends of ghosts and smugglers.

Ballintoy is a picturesque harbour village on the North Coast of Northern Ireland that was also used as a filming location for Game of Thrones.

Visitors can explore the village’s quaint streets and colourful buildings, or take a walk along the harbour wall to enjoy views of the ocean and surrounding cliffs. The nearby Ballintoy Church is as cute as it gets, and the village is also home to several historic buildings and ruins.

Bushmills Distillery

Bushmills Distillery is one of the oldest whiskey distilleries in Ireland, and it’s located in the town of Bushmills, just south of the Giant’s Causeway.

The distillery has been producing its famous Irish whiskey for over 400 years, using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations of master distillers.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the distillery, learn about the history and craft of whiskey production, and sample some of the distillery’s award-winning whiskeys. The tour takes you through the various stages of the whiskey-making process, from the malting of barley to the ageing of the spirit in oak casks.

If you are strapped for time, simply pop into the cosy tasting room and sample some of their finest malts, the perfect way to cap off a day of exploring.

Dark Hedges

The Dark Hedges is another popular day trip destination that could be ruined by Instagrammers but if you time it just right it could be showstopping.

This beautiful avenue of beech trees has become famous in recent years due to its appearance in the hit TV series Game of Thrones and even if you aren’t familiar with the show, the eerie beauty of the avenue is undeniable.

Take a leisurely stroll along the avenue, admiring the stunning natural arches created by the intertwined branches. It is beautiful in all seasons and transforms from a lush leafy lane in the summer to the haunting, almost skeletal-looking King’s Road that was depicted in the series.

The Dark Hedges is located near the town of Ballymoney, and it’s easily accessible by car or bus from Belfast.

Where to Stay in Belfast

Harpers Boutique B&B – This boutique bed and breakfast in the Queen’s Quarter of Belfast is a great choice if you want a clean and comfy place to stay. They have stylish and comfortable rooms on offer and a great breakfast included in the price each morning.

The Warren Belfast – This centrally-located hotel is the perfect choice if you’re after a luxurious stay while exploring Belfast. Situated in the heart of the Queen’s Quarter, there are countless plush rooms available, great amenities, and a filling breakfast included in the room rate.

Central Belfast Apartments: Citygate – If you’d prefer self-catering facilities, then these fully-furnished apartments are a great choice with free parking and a great location in the centre of the city.

Vagabonds – One of the best hostel options in Belfast, this is a great option if you prefer a dorm bed or a private room in a social atmosphere.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Belfast hotels!

Whether you only have 1 day in Belfast or a few to spare, there is more than enough to do in town to fill your time. Strike a balance between historic sightseeing and fantastical attractions on your Belfast itinerary to fully appreciate all the city has to offer.

Are you planning to visit Belfast? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

7 Best Stops on the Dublin to Belfast Drive

The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Days in Northern Ireland Itinerary

Dublin or Belfast: Which Irish City to Visit?

About Lizzie Fitzgerald

Lizzie is a writer for The World Was Here First. She loves travelling and discovering new places but also often finds herself returning to her favourite destinations. She has a particular affinity for Greece where she has visited countless islands and destinations on the mainland.

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15 Cool Things You Should Do in and around Belfast, Northern Ireland @visitbelfast

One of our last adventures as an engaged couple was a road trip at Northern Ireland. But before I list down the things you should do in and around Belfast, you need to know that the trip was AWESOME! You see, this is going to be a long post and I just want you to know that it’s worth your time. 🙂

So if you want to experience what we had, read our tips below.

Table of Contents

1.  Rent a Car – Drive to the Giant Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Bridge

2.Visit the HMS Caroline

This is Belfast’s newest attraction and a must – visit most especially if you are a maritime – buff. HMS Caroline is a World War I Light Battle Cruiser. When you are inside the ship, you would be able to see the engine room, the captain’s cabin, galley kitchen to name a few. But what I love about this place is that there are interactive exhibits which anyone would truly adore. HMS Caroline definitely holds a part of Ireland’s history and visitors are lucky to be able to experience it.

3. Explore the Titanic Belfast and SS Nomadic

4. Take the Train (2 1/2 hour) to Dublin for a day trip!

We also recommend that you visit Dublin for a day trip. Why don’t you take the train and enjoy the view for 2 ½ hours? Ride on Translink  which offers great value, fast and frequent services, in comfortable coaches on key routes around Northern Ireland, to Dublin Airport and Dublin City Centre.The ride is also one of the smoothest we have even been into.

5. Go on a Game of Thrones Tour – North and South

When in Northern Ireland, one should not miss the best Game of Thrones attractions. And this is highly encouraged even if you are not a fan of the series. You can actually choose a tour based on your taste. Regardless if you want to see the Northern Locations with Giant Causeway or Southern Locations with Castle Ward of Game of Thrones, Brit Movie Tours can give what you exactly need.

• Dark Hedges

The amazing tree – formation known as the Kings Road is actually real! If you can recall, it was the scene where Arya Stark pretended to be a boy to escape. Just another quick trivia, we owe these trees to the Stuart Family as they planted these during the 18 th century.

• Castle Ward

Oh Winterfell! Most scenes from Game of Thrones’ pilot season were shot in Castle Ward. It is where King Baratheon first set foot at Winterfell. I’m sure you will have flashbacks here. I know, I did. You can even see how happy we were trying out the wardrobe.

• Tollymore Forest Park

Tollymore Forest Park is known to be the first state forest park in Northern Ireland. For Game of Thrones fans, this is the Haunted Forest. Explore the area and who knows if you might see direwolves here? 🙂

• Cushendun Caves

Do you want to go where Melisandre gave birth to the shadow baby? It’s the Cushendun Caves. Just so you know, the caves were formed over a period of 400 million years! Historical, indeed.

• Ballintoy Harbour Beach

Ballintoy Harbour Beach was the location where Theon Greyjoy went back to the Iron Island. But Ballintoy Harbour is not just about being a Game of Thrones location. Tourists would also enjoy a number of restaurants and can even buy cute souvenirs.

During the ancient times, Inch Abbey used to be a huge monastic site. However, Game of Throne fans would remember this as the site where Lady Catelyn Stark heard the ghastly news about Ned’s death.

More Photos on our Facebook Page:

6. Go on a Bicycle Trip around the City

We would also like you to try a Bicycle Trip around the city organized by Belfast Mic n Bike . This is not your ordinary bike tour because you get to see some of Belfast’s maritime and industrial heritage. Imagine the fun of learning new things, reaching places and at the same time, shedding off pounds from eating too much Irish food. 🙂

7. Do the Black Cab Tour

This is a must do if you are in Belfast. It is highly recommended and you get to enjoy the Black Cab tour and the friendly drivers that will take you back in time by re-telling history on the road. It is very informative, educational and enjoyable all wrapped in one nice cab.

 8.  Pay a tribute to the City Hall – it is free!

Anyone would be truly amazed on how the City Hall of Belfast was made. It’s massive and covers an area of one and a half acres. Its Victorian style is nothing but classic. In the grounds of City Hall, you can also find the Titanic Memorial. We suggest that you visit it at night and see the structure being illuminated.

9. Learn about the history at the Crumlin Road Gaol

If you want something different yet unique in Belfast, you might as well go to Crumlin Road Gaol . But I have to remind you that this tour isn’t for the faint hearted. Just so you know, Crumlin Road Goal is an infamous prison which is more than 150 years old. Apart from housing high – ranking people, it is known to have a number of paranormal activities. In fact, there’s a tour that will specifically give you the creeps. Before we forget, you might want to have a reservation and note that tours start every day at 10AM.

10. Check the Public Arts scattered around Belfast

• Big Fish in Donegal Quay

This is a 10 – meter long salmon created by local artist John Kindness. The scales of the huge fish is made up of ceramic tiles with different texts and images that showcase the history of Belfast.

• Monument to the Unknown Woman Worker in Great Victoria Street

This famous sculpture was made by Louise Walsh. Originally, the sculpture was intended to reflect the red – light district. However, the sculptor had a better idea and made something that will reflect women’s rights.

• The Searcher

You will love this if you are a fan of C.S. Lewis, or if you are a lover of arts in general. Wouldn’t it be nice to pay tribute to the creator of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe?

• Spirit of Belfast in Cornmarket

This amazing sculpture is made by Dan George and was seen by the public last September 25, 2009. It is also known as the ‘Onion Rings’ because of its look. Irish people are certainly witty, don’t you think?

• Beacon of Hope in Queen’s Bridge

Also known as the Thanksgiving Sculpture by Andy Scott, this is the second largest public art sculpture in Belfast.

11. Visit Belfast’s Historic Houses  

Belfast has a number of historic houses which are fortunately, available for the public to visit. We have gathered a few and hopefully you will be able to check most of it during your trip.

• Malone House

Opens at 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Address: Barnett Demesne, Belfast BT9 5PB, United Kingdom

Everything in this Georgian Mansion is just beautiful. To date, a lot of people are using the mansion for different events such as weddings and conferences.

• Belfast Castle

Opens at 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Address: Antrim Rd, Belfast BT15 5GR, United Kingdom

In here, you can find one of the most amazing views of the city as it stands 400 feet above sea level.

• Stormont Parliament Buildings

Opens at 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Address: Belfast BT4 3XX, United Kingdom

This is the home to the Northern Ireland Assembly where you can also marvel its great gardens and surroundings.

• Hillsborough Castle & Gardens

Opens at 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Address: Main Street, Hillsborough BT26 6AG, United Kingdom

Considered one of the best historic properties in Northern Ireland, Hillsborough Castle & Gardens is the official residence of the Royal Family when they are in the area. The State Rooms at the ground floor are actually open for the public.

• Mount Stewart

Opens at 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Address: Portaferry Road Newtownards BT22 2AD

If you want to see amazing gardens, then you better head to Mount Stewart. It has majestic designs and you could see a number of world – famous artifacts.

Address: Strangford, Downpatrick BT30 7LS, United Kingdom

If you really want to be taken back in time, one of the perfect spots would be Castle Ward. The 18 th – century mansion will give you a glimpse of the location used in Game of Thrones. Winterfell, anyone?

Address: 144 Derrycaw Rd, Dungannon BT71 6NA, United Kingdom

You can do so many things at The Argory. Aside from the beautiful interior, your kids will enjoy the garden and farmyard. Perhaps, you can shop a little or sip a hot beverage for a while.

• Florence Court

Address: Enniskillen BT92 1DB, Northern Ireland

The place is well – maintained and you get to feel the history upon entering the structure. You can also have delicious cakes and tea, perfect way to kill time.

Please note however that opening times may vary depending on the area of each historic house.

12. Visit the St George’s Market  

St George’s Market is the last Victorian covered market in Belfast. Don’t miss St George’s Market every Friday, Saturday and Sunday and enjoy wide selection of fresh produce and other trinkets which you can take home for your families and friends.

13. Enjoy your Pint and Cider at Belfast Beer Gardens and Oldest Pub!

If you’re going to have a pint of beer, don’t forget to visit the oldest Irish Pub in Belfast — the historic Kelly’s Cellars in Bank Square! And when you are done with that, go pub hopping at these great places.

• The Bar + Grill Restaurant

Amazing food choices that feature Northern Irish produce. You better prepare for their beef and partner it with a good selection of ciders.

• The National Grande Café

They have a wide selection of drinks and this has become a favorite of locals and tourists for some quick bites. You will also love its atmosphere and most people keep on coming back. That explains a lot, don’t you think?

• Dirty Onion

Would you like to visit one of Belfast’s oldest buildings? Then you should pay Dirty Onion a visit. Everything here is recommended, from the location, food, beers up to the service. One word to describe it – Excellent!

• Duke of York

A traditional pub with amazing interior that will take you back in the old days. It is recommended by most tour guides as locals love this place too.

• The Perch Rooftop Bar

If you want to relax and have a great background music, this is where you need to go. They have great cocktails and the ambiance is perfect to make new friends.

• Cutters Wharf

Looking for tasty food? Cutters Wharf could be your best bet. Recommended if you want to have a quick snack, or if you wish to stay longer with friends.

• The Parlour

Get some of the mouth – watering pizza and enjoy it with your drinks. The price is even reasonable and there’s no doubt that The Parlour usually ends in one’s favorite places to eat in Belfast.

14. Go to Cave Hill and Belfast Castle for the Best View of the City

As mentioned, this is one of the historic places you need to go to most especially if you dream of having the best view of Belfast. This is a spot one should not exclude in their itinerary. We are telling you, it’s worth it.

15. Go on a Titanic Harbour Boat Tours

This is a romantic getaway which I would recommend for couples. But that doesn’t mean that the whole family will enjoy this too. You will be taken to the historic Harland & Wolff shipyards and of course, the Titanic sites around the harbour.

Where to Stay?

• Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast

• Apple Apartments Belfast

• Culloden Resort and Spa

Now, if you want to get the most amazing rooms and have the greatest deals, check out Room Auction ’s services. They helped us with our accommodations and I must say, the service was outstanding and because we are their newest Ambassadors!

When to go?

The best time to go to Northern Ireland would be during summer or from June to August. This is so you can maximize the long days. The sun rises at 5:00 AM and ends at 10:00 PM. That means, you have plenty of time to do your tours and enjoy what Belfast, Northern Ireland has in store for you.

Some of the trips and accommodation mentioned above are given to us on complimentary basis. Thank you to Visit Belfast for the warm welcome but as always all opinion written here is my own.

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5 thoughts on “ 15 Cool Things You Should Do in and around Belfast, Northern Ireland @visitbelfast ”

Good job! I would love to explore these places in North Ireland. Great post with detailed information. Thanks a lot.

Thanks for informative sharing,

Beautiful photos and great post! As a photographer the first photo is very striking!

Wow, this is great! I’ll be traveling to Belfast this coming January and your tips were very helpful.

Great post of Northern Ireland. I always wanted to travel there and I still hope to be able to do it in the future. Thanks for all your detailed information.

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Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

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Things to Do on a Weekend In Belfast: Epic 2 or 3 Days Itinerary!

• May 25, 2023

There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. As ever, all opinions are my own.

When I was asked where I wanted to spend my 21st birthday, I chose to spend the weekend in Belfast. 

It’s maybe not the most common 21st birthday location, but I’ve never been one to follow the herd!

What I was met with in Belfast was, to my delight, a city full of fascinating attractions, a tonne of history, wonderful food and, unsurprisingly, lots of Guinness!

Belfast was much more affordable than I expected, making it a very underrated budget city break in Europe. 

Although Belfast is part of the UK, it’s on the same island as the Republic of Ireland, and the meshing between British and Irish culture is fascinating to explore.

You’ll find that the result of this meshing is a vibe that’s uniquely Northern Irish.

I highly recommend spending a weekend in Belfast, and in this itinerary I’ll cover what to do in Belfast during your short trip, as well as a few hidden gems and free things to do. You’re welcome😉. 

Let’s get started!

How Many Days to Spend In Belfast?

I stayed in Belfast for four days, but, in my experience, you only need a weekend in the city. So, if you’re wondering “how many days do you need in Belfast?” the answer is two or three days.

2 days in Belfast is enough to see the city, but if you want to also take one of the many day trips from Belfast (like Giant’s Causeway) you’ll need to spend 3 days in Belfast – a long weekend.

To help you plan your trip, and to convince more people to cram in a short trip to Belfast, I’ve put together this 2 or 3 days in Belfast itinerary, perfect for a weekend city break !

Here, I’ll share all my travel tips, favourite places, and the best things to do in Belfast that had me desperate to return.

Things to Do on a Weekend in Belfast (Itinerary)

Day 1: titanic, troubles and black taxis, stop 1: titanic belfast.

The best place to start this weekend in Belfast itinerary is at one of the biggest tourist attractions in the city!

The Titanic Belfast is the main reason I first wanted to visit the city, and many other history fans will also be in Belfast for the very same reason.

This huge museum takes you along on an interactive journey through the past, from Titanic’s construction in Belfast to its tragic sinking in the Atlantic Ocean.

It’s far better than a standard museum, though.

There’s an interactive ride taking you through the shipbuilding process, a 3D immersive tour through the ship (this was freaking awesome! ), and a huge projection of the wreck site which you can explore.

There’s SO. MUCH. DETAIL at Titanic Belfast, so you’re gonna have to skim read a lot of it if you’re on a schedule.

If you’re a massive Titanic enthusiast, though, it’s worth budgeting around 3 hours to visit!

To learn more about visiting the Titanic museum check out my post all about it here!

Even if you’re not interested in the Titanic, I think you’ll still enjoy this museum. My brother and father, who both weren’t interested, visited with me and both really enjoyed the visit! 

Since this is arguably the most popular thing to do in Belfast, it can get suuuuper busy at the Titanic Belfast.

For this reason, you’ll save a lot of time if you book your tickets in advance . Tickets cost £19.50 for adults and £8.75 for kids.

Click here to book!

Stop 2: SS Nomadic 

To sweeten the deal, entry to the SS Nomadic is included in your admission tickets for Titanic Belfast.

The SS Nomadic was the tender for the Titanic in Cherbourg, ferrying passengers from the dock to the ship.

It’s also the last remaining White Star Line (the shipping line that owned the Titanic) vessel in the world!

The SS Nomadic has now been restored, and you’re able to board it to have a look around. 

I’m not going to lie – it’s pretty bare inside the SS Nomadic, and there’s not much information on display. Because of this, you won’t need longer than 10 minutes there.

In fact, you probably only need five minutes, but I visited with my brother who is a welder, and, like a true nerd, he wanted to check out the welding on the ship.

Stop 3: St George’s Market for Lunch

From the SS Nomadic, it’s time to head over to St George’s Market, the best place in the city to go for lunch.

It’s one of Belfast’s oldest attractions, and, even in the 21st century, is still going strong! 

St George’s Market contains around 248 market stalls selling everything you can imagine – from souvenirs and cute clothes to delicious food from all over the world.

There are so many food options here that you should probably do a lap of the market to consider your options before making a decision!

Once you’ve enjoyed some lunch, it’s time to check out the other market stalls. I bought a lovely hand-drawn bookmark from this market showing the Belfast skyline, and it’s still one of my favourite souvenirs!

Stop 4: Black Taxi History Tour

This is something you’ll have to book in advance , but it’s definitely worth it. A Black Taxi Tour should be on every Belfast itinerary!  

As somebody who did not live through The Troubles , I barely knew anything about them on my arrival in Belfast.

Chances are, if you’re not from the UK or too young to remember them, you won’t know anything either.

Side Note: The Troubles in Northern Ireland…

In case you have absolutely no idea what I’m talking about, The Troubles, briefly, was a conflict from 1960(ish) to 1998(ish ) – although some people would argue they are still ongoing. 

The conflict was between unionists (predominantly Protestants) who wanted Northern Ireland to remain part of the UK, and nationalists (predominantly Catholics) who wanted Northern Ireland to be part of the Republic of Ireland. 

This is an incredibly simplified version, and I recommend you read more about The Troubles before you visit Northern Ireland so that you have some important historical context.

Black Taxi Tours

Okay, back to the Black Taxi Tours. 

On the Black Taxi Tour you’ll get picked up by someone who lived through The Troubles and will share their experience with you as you tour the most famous sights from the Troubles.

These include the murals from both sides of the conflict, the Falls Road and Shankill Road.

Talking about The Troubles as a tourist can feel off-limits, so a Black Taxi Tour is the perfect opportunity to ask all the burning questions you have without worrying. The reviews of the tour really do speak for themselves! 

Black Taxi Tours last at least one hour and the more people you visit with, the cheaper the tour will be per person!

For up to two people, the tour costs £60 , for three people it’s £85 , for four it’s £95 , and so on.

Click here to find out more & to book!

Stop 5: Belfast City Hall

Next, it’s time for a short visit to Belfast City Hall to snap some photos. The building was completed in 1906 and it’s a beautiful landmark of the city.

You’ll also find the Titanic Memorial Gardens in the grounds, which are a very peaceful place to visit and pay your respects.

Stop 6: Drink at the Duke of York

The Duke of York pub is an unmissable stop during your weekend trip to Belfast! Located down a cobbled alleyway, the Duke of York is as traditional as it gets when it comes to pubs in Belfast.

Their walls are lined with local memorabilia, and they have the largest selection of Irish Whiskey in Ireland!

Of course, they also serve up Guinness, which you can enjoy with some live music , which is on every night from Thursday to Sunday.

Stop 7: Dinner at Jumon

Vegan food may not appeal to everybody, but give Jumon a try and you’ll definitely change your mind! 

This is one of the best meals I’ve ever eaten , and my brother and dad, who are super into their meat, also (begrudgingly) agreed!

Their menu is Asian fusion food, and I’ll be really surprised if you don’t love your meal here!

Dining here is easily one of the best things to do in Belfast for couples.

Day 2: Gaols and Guinness

On day 2 of your weekend in Belfast it’s time to explore the attractions surrounding the city, and the best way to do this is by getting a ticket to the hop-on-hop-off bus!

I have written this part of the itinerary in the order of the bus route of City Tours Belfast , the company I went with, so you won’t need to go back on yourself to get anywhere.

As well as being the easiest way to get between attractions, the hop-on-hop-off bus offers commentary from a local guide, so you’ll learn lots about Belfast as you travel around the city.

The departure point for the bus is Donegall Square West. A one-day ticket costs £15 , and you can get yours here !

I recommend bringing a packed lunch along with you for this second day in Belfast, as there won’t be many opportunities to buy food during the day.

Stop 1: HMS Caroline

The first stop of the day is the HMS Caroline (although this is actually the 4th stop on the hop-on-hop-off bus). The HMS Caroline is the only surviving ship from the Battle of Jutland in 1916.

It was the largest naval battle of WW1, so a visit to this ship is a pretty impressive sight!

The HMS Caroline is now a floating museum, teaching us all about life at sea and the Battle of Jutland. Areas have been restored to look how they did during WW1 and you can even explore the original engine room.

It’s a pretty neat thing to do whilst you’re in Belfast! You can book tickets here .

Stop 2: Falls Road (Irish Republican History Museum)

Next up it’s time to catch the bus to Falls Road , an area you’ll have no doubt visited yesterday on the Black Taxi Tour.

This time, though, you’re here to visit the Irish Republican History Museum.

This place contains thousands of artefacts which bring the story of The Troubles, and the history of Belfast, to life. The museum isn’t a huge place, but it’s full of information and interesting objects.

Admission doesn’t cost a penny , making this one of the best free things to do in Belfast!

A visit here is essential for anybody wanting to learn more about Irish history! 

Stop 3: Crumlin Road Gaol

One of my favourite stops during my weekend in Belfast was Crumlin Road Gaol, which I had not even heard of before I arrived in Belfast! 

Dating back to 1845, this building operated as a prison until 1996. Nowadays, after some renovations, it has reopened as a visitor attraction.

You can’t wander around the prison independently, so to look around you’ll have to join a tour.

Tickets cost around £12 per adult on the door, but if you book in advance on their website you can get them slightly cheaper.

The tour lasts around 90 minutes and is 100% worth the money – it’s one of the best places to visit in Belfast!

Starting at the very beginning of the gaol’s history, you’ll learn why this location was selected to become a prison, you’ll get to explore the underground tunnel connecting the prison to the nearby courtroom, and you’ll learn about the prison’s role in The Troubles.

Our guide was excellent – both entertaining and very knowledgeable, and I highly recommend visiting here!

Stop 4: St Anne’s Cathedral

The final stop on your hop-on-hop-off adventure should be St Anne’s Cathedral, the gem of Belfast’s “ Cathedral Quarter ”. 

It costs £5 to enter the cathedral which goes towards its upkeep. However, you’re able to check it out from the outside for free , which is what I recommend.

Even if you’re not super into the cathedrals it’s still worth checking out St Anne’s for a few minutes as it really is a beautiful building. 

Stop 5: The Salmon of Knowledge

After just a 10-minute walk away from St Anne’s you’ll find the most random stop on this weekend in Belfast itinerary, The Salmon of Knowledge. 

You’ll find this 10-metre long ceramic fish sculpture on lots of Northern Ireland tourism materials. After all, it’s one of Belfast’s most famous (and bizarre) landmarks.

It’s based on a character from “The Boyhood Deeds of Fionn” which tells the tale of a fish that eats some hazelnuts and gains all of the knowledge in the world.

See what I meant when I said it was bizarre?

The sculpture was constructed in 1999 , and each of its tiled scales features text or images relating to some aspect of Belfast’s history.

Local folklore suggests that kissing the fish will give you wisdom. It’s up to you, though, whether wisdom is worth the risk of looking very strange to passers-by!

Visiting the Salmon of Knowledge won’t cost you a penny, making it one of my favourite places to visit in Belfast for free.

Stop 6: The Crown Liquor Saloon

After a long day of sightseeing it’s time for a drink in one of Belfast’s most iconic pubs , The Crown Liquor Saloon.

Some people see it as pretty touristy nowadays, but I genuinely don’t care!

The interior of this place is GORGEOUS and you’d be a fool to skip it.

The pub dates back to 1826 , and most of the pub’s original interiors are still there for you to see today.

It has ten different “snugs” where your group can sit away from the rest of the pub-goers, or you can just have a drink at the bar.

Stop 7: The Dirty Onion and Yardbird

It doesn’t sound like it, but this is one of the best Irish pubs in Belfast and one of my personal favourites.

The candlelit interior of this pub (The Dirty Onion) is perfect for a cosy evening, and they have regular trad music sessions.

When you’re ready to eat, head upstairs to Yardbird, a rotisserie chicken restaurant. Their menu is pretty small, but they serve up some really darn good chicken.

(Optional) Day 3: Giant’s Causeway & The Dark Hedges

If you’re able to spend three days in Belfast you definitely should do, as you’ll be able to explore more of Northern Ireland!

I recommend spending your third day on a day trip from Belfast , and the most popular one by far is a trip to the Giant’s Causeway !

The Giant’s Causeway is an area of uneven basalt columns next to the sea which looks completely otherworldly.

It’s supposed to be the result of a volcanic fissure eruption, but the more romantic explanation, according to local legend, is that the columns are the remains of a causeway built by a giant.

I much prefer this origin story!

Not only is the Giant’s Causeway a UNESCO World Heritage Site , but it’s also one of the most-visited attractions in Northern Ireland.

A visit here is a truly unmissable experience for anybody visiting Belfast!

Getting to Giant’s Causeway from Belfast

The easiest way to get to the Giant’s Causeway from Belfast is by car, but chances are you don’t have one with you in Belfast.

Public transport to the causeway can be a bit of a mission, so your best bet is to join a guided tour from Belfast for the day. 

The reason I recommend joining a tour is that you’ll get to see so much more with your day!

This epic tour will take you to the two most iconic attractions in Northern Ireland in one day – the Giant’s Causeway and The Dark Hedges , which would be a nightmare to combine by public transport.

The Dark Hedges will be well-known to Game of Thrones fans, but even if you’re not interested in Game of Thrones (like me!) they’re still worth visiting.

After all, this avenue of beech trees looks like something from a fantasy world, which would be cool to see even if Game of Thrones had never been filmed there.

The tour I recommend is one of the highest-rated on GetYourGuide (my favourite tour booking website), lasts for the entire day, and includes a ton of facts and interesting history told to you by your guide for the day.

They even throw in a few other famous attractions such as the Carrick-A-Rede Ropebridge, the Caves of Cushendun, and Larrybane Quarry!

At just £25 for the whole tour , you can’t go wrong!

Click here to check prices and availability!

Extra Information for Your Weekend in Belfast

With a weekend in Belfast, you’ll have enough time to check out the best things to do in the city and drink a couple of Guinnesses (or more!).

If you only have 2 days in Northern Ireland, you should stay in Belfast.

However, with 3 days, or a long weekend in Belfast, you’ll also have time to visit the Giant’s Causeway, arguably the best place to visit in Northern Ireland.

Belfast is a great city break year-round since the weather stays fairly mild.

It’s also not a “major” European travel destination, so although it gets busy, it never gets totally swarmed with tourists the way that London and Dublin do.

If you’re looking for more details to help you plan your weekend in Belfast, I’ve got you covered.

Below, you’ll find all the practical information you’ll need to plan your trip.

The official language of Northern Ireland is English , and pretty much everybody in Northern Ireland can speak it.

However, there are two regional languages, Irish and Ulster Scots. 

You could potentially come across these languages if you overhear locals speaking amongst themselves, but I personally didn’t, and you don’t need to learn any in advance of your trip to Northern Ireland.

Belfast Travel Tips

As I mentioned earlier, if you’re planning to take a Black Taxi Tour in Belfast you really need to book this in advance .

If you’re visiting during busy periods, or are just short on time, it’s a good idea to book as much as you can before you arrive in Belfast so you can skip the queues.

Quite a few museums in Belfast offer concession discounts , so it’s a good idea to bring your student card with you if you have one.

You can pay with card or cash in Belfast, although card is definitely more common.

If you pay in cash, don’t worry if the notes you get back in change don’t look like typical British banknotes.

Northern Ireland has its own banknotes which look different, but you’re still able to use them or change them to English notes at a bank at the end of your trip. 

You can still use your English banknotes in Northern Ireland without a problem.

Where to Stay in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Best belfast hostel.

If you’re a solo traveller or just want to keep things as cheap as possible, staying in a hostel for your weekend in Belfast is the ideal solution. 

When it comes to awesome hostels in Belfast, you simply can’t beat this epic hostel .

This place has a 9.5/10 rating on Hostelworld (from over 500 reviews!), offers free breakfast, and is just a few minutes walk from the city centre. It costs around £16 per night for a bed in a 12-bed dorm room. 

Click here to book your stay!

Best Budget Hotel

The hotel I stayed at in Belfast is, for whatever reason, currently closed. So, if I was to visit Belfast on a budget again, I would book to stay at this very budget-friendly hotel .

Not only are its prices some of the cheapest in the city, but its reviews are still great, it’s part of a reputable family of hotels and it’s right in the city centre.

What’s not to love?

Double rooms cost around £42 per night, which is such a steal for a room so centrally located. 

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Belfast

When it comes to mid-range hotels in Belfast, your best bet is this stunning hotel .

Not only is this stylish hotel just a stone’s throw from the Titanic Belfast and beautifully decorated, but some rooms also have views of the iconic Harland & Wolff yellow cranes which hang over the city!

It is, in my opinion, the best place to stay in Belfast 🙂

Double rooms cost around £89 per night, but you can check the latest prices and availability here!

Airport and Transportation Tips

If you’re already in Ireland, the easiest way to get to Belfast is by train, and there are a range of services from most major Irish cities. 

There’s also the option to get the ferry from Liverpool in England to Belfast , but the journey takes around 8 hours and costs around £32 each way for an adult travelling without a car.

From anywhere else, the easiest way to get to Belfast is by flying. The city has two airports , Belfast International Airport and George Best City Airport. Confusingly, both offer international flights. 

George Best City Airport is the closest to the city centre, and you can get into the city in just 10 minutes via the Airport Express 600 bus. Tickets cost just £2 !

To get to Belfast city centre from Belfast International you’ll need to catch the Airport Express 300 bus, which costs £8 for a single ticket and £11.50 for a return.

The bus journey takes around 35 minutes.

If you’re travelling in a group it could be more cost-effective to order an Uber, which costs around £24 each way.

Getting around Belfast is very straightforward – just use Google Maps to plan your route. The city centre is mostly walkable , and if you do need to get anywhere further afield the city has plenty of buses and Ubers which will take you wherever you want to go.

The Uber drivers in Belfast were fabulous, and each one we got took on the role of mini-tour guide.

It was not what we expected at all, but it made paying slightly more for an Uber rather than a bus totally worth it! 

As I mentioned in the Belfast itinerary, I recommend doing all of the attractions that are outside of the city centre in one day.

That way you can get good use out of the Belfast hop-on-hop-off bus pass, which will take you from door-to-door between attractions.

Buy your ticket here!

When is the Best Time to Visit Belfast?

I visited Belfast in mid-May , and I actually thought it was the perfect time to visit! The weather was (mostly) on our side, and it was warm enough to do outdoor sightseeing.

Plus, in spring and summer you get more hours of daylight you can use to explore the city!

The temperatures are mild year-round in Belfast, so I don’t think it would be the worst idea in the world to visit in winter.

However, I always recommend travelling in Europe in spring or autumn so that you avoid the crowds of summer or the short, cold days of winter.

If you’re spending a weekend in Belfast in summer, don’t forget that school holidays mean most attractions are busy, and a lot of accommodation gets booked up far in advance (and will be much more expensive!). 

Saturday is the busiest day in Belfast for tourism, so prices for hotels etc. will be higher.

Is Belfast Safe to Visit?

Even though Belfast used to be notoriously unsafe, it’s a different story nowadays. Of course, typical dangers such as pickpocketing exist, just as they do anywhere, but in general Belfast is safe to visit . 

Every so often disputes will erupt in Belfast and there is sometimes violence, however if you avoid protests and stay in the city centre during times like this you’ll be totally fine.

It’s a really good idea to keep your eye on the news in the months leading up to your trip just to be aware of what the current situation is.

Situations like this are politically motivated, though, and rarely affect tourists.

As a female traveller I felt very safe in Belfast and would have felt fine if I had travelled solo.

I definitely recommend Belfast to other female travellers.

Is Belfast Worth Visiting?

Belfast is 100% worth visiting! It’s unlike anywhere else in the UK, with tonnes of unique history, food and attractions to check out.

Oh, and it’s cheaper than many other UK cities, meaning if you want to have a UK weekend break on a budget Belfast is the perfect destination!

If you fancy reading about any of my other travel experiences, head to my Destinations page to check out where I’ve been!

Don’t forget to Pin this post so you have it saved for later! You can subscribe to my mailing list in the sidebar to be the first to hear about new articles, travel stories and travel tips!

Ella Moore is the founder of Many More Maps. Growing up just 45 minutes away from Liverpool, Ella has spent years exploring the city inside out. In her teenage years, she was introduced to the music of The Beatles, and the rest, they say, is history! Today, she stands as a leading authority on Beatles tourism in Liverpool, helping over 40,000 people a month to plan their dream trip to the city.

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Belfast Travel: A Guide To Visiting The City

About belfast.

Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland and has all the attractions that larger national capitals have such as historic landmarks and a vibrant nightlife. It’s one of the best places to visit in Ireland , for good reason!

Belfast travel is aided by its good transport connections by air, ferry, road, and rail. It can be wet and cool, making summer the best time to travel, but Christmas shopping and sporting events are two of the reasons to consider travelling to Belfast in winter as well. 

Have a look at this Belfast travel guide and start planning your trip!

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The climate is affected by Belfast’s proximity to the North Atlantic, the Irish Sea and the Gulf Stream, which has a moderating influence on the weather.

In Belfast, it’s rare to have prolonged periods of hot weather — although summers are pleasant.

Extremely cold weather is rare as well but winters can be damp and gloomy. There is no season where visitors can be guaranteed to avoid rain, but a rainproof jacket and umbrella will ensure you can enjoy your travels in Belfast.

Peak Season

Belfast travel numbers definitely increase between May and the end of September. This is the main holiday period in Northern Europe with schools having an extended summer holiday.

Many of the outdoor activities around Belfast are best enjoyed when the weather is likely to be at its best, and the chance of rainfall diminishes.

Of course, peak season also means higher costs, but it can be worth it to enjoy nicer weather. 

Shoulder Season

Easter is a popular holiday period and with the weather still mild in October, there are some weeks either side of the peak season when travellers can enjoy decent weather, less crowds and lower prices.

If you decide that is the time for travel, Belfast deserves consideration.

Even on a wet day, travelling in the city is enjoyable with the shopping on offer as well as the bars, restaurants and nightlife — which are open year-round, rain or shine!

Some prices will fall in the off-season and some of Belfast’s main attractions will be quieter, making the off-season a good time to travel Belfast if you’re on a budget, or don’t like crowds.

Neighbourhoods

Where to stay.

Belfast has something for every age and budget, making it a destination that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Of course, being central has its perks (especially if you’re just in the city for a weekend trip ), but there are a few neighbourhoods worth considering. Here are some ideas of where you might stay during your time in the city.

Cathedral Quarter

Centred around St.Anne’s Cathedral, this neighbourhood was formerly home to Belfast’s serious newspapers, it’s the equivalent of London’s Fleet Street.

It remains a busy area with accommodation to suit all budgets right up to the 5-star Merchant Hotel .

The nightlife in the Cathedral Quarter is just one of its attractions; the shopping is great as well.

Central Belfast

City Hall is the heart of the Central District and a tour of the Hall and relaxing in its gardens is certainly worth your time.

St. George’s Market and shopping, in general, is close at hand.

This neighbourhood is another with plenty of bars and restaurants. Head to the Welcome Centre to get all the information needed to enjoy this Quarter.

Queen's Quarter

Queen’s is one of the most famous universities in Ireland and this southern neighbourhood of Belfast takes its name from the educational institution.

The university architecture is impressive while the neighbourhood is the heart of Belfast’s cultural life. This is the place to stay if you’re travelling Belfast on a budget.

November’s International Arts Festival is held here while several venues within Queen’s host events attracting impressive audiences.

Anyone interested in theatre is spoilt for choice in this area where you can find Lyric Players’, Cresent Arts Centre and Queen’s Film Theatre.

Titanic Quarter

This former shipyard is one of the newer neighbourhoods in Belfast, and is a more modern area. 

Known for being where the Titanic was built, this quarter is a good place for families visiting Belfast. 

It’s home to a strong maritime theme, with the Titanic Belfast tourist experience and great museums nearby. 

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Belfast is a compact city. Getting around by foot to see the top attractions a breeze. 

The introductory city bus tour and the availability of plenty of tourist information make visiting Belfast very easy. Here are a few top things to do to get you started!

The Titanic was built by Harland & Wolff in Belfast and the museum dedicated to the work of the shipyard is something every visitor should experience. The building itself is impressive while the historical content is amazing.

Guided tours are available and are a means of avoiding queues.

Tickets must be booked in advance and will provide a time slot. Click here to find out more and get your tickets online.

Museum & Botanic Gardens

The National Museum is full of historical and cultural exhibits, the best place to learn about Ireland from its very early days. It is set in the beautiful Botanic Gardens of Belfast.

It would be easy to spend a whole day here. It is closed on Mondays giving you plenty of time to pay a visit.

Admission is free but donations are most welcome. Find it here on the map.

St. George's Food Market

Visit St. George’s Food Market on a weekend morning — it’s a favourite of the locals here. This bustling market is Belfast’s only surviving Victorian indoor market. Here you’ll find local food, flowers, fish, crafts and much more. 

You can’t go to the market without ordering up a Belly-Buster Belfast Bap!

The market is open from Friday – Sunday and is located on May Street. Click here  for directions. 

TOP TOURS IN BELFAST

Join one of the walking tours of Belfast to get your bearings and see the main landmarks — there is no better way to familiarize yourself with the city.

Here are 3 top tours to join when visiting Belfast.

Belfast Murals Tour

There are two main ways to see the stunning art around Belfast; a guided walk or travel in a taxi.

In both cases, you can expect a knowledgeable guide who can explain the importance of each illustration.

The Peaceline Wall is the most significant of the places where you will be taken, while if you already know anything of the Troubles , you will have heard about the Falls Road and the Shankill Road either side of the Wall.

The Belfast Murals tour is a must-do in the city. With a guide, you’ll learn about this divided area and what the Loyalist and Republican murals represent. 

The “ Political Taxi Tour ” is one of the most highly rated, and is worth every £. Find out more and book online here .

Crumlin Road Gaol Guided Tour

Crumlin Road Gaol played a significant role in the Troubles but it was in use many decades previously. An underground tunnel links the prison to the courthouse and more than 25,000 took that walk during the Troubles.

You can see a typical cell where a prisoner was held, and the place where convicts were hanged in Victorian times and during republican struggles.

The graveyard holds the bodies of those executed, but all in unmarked graves which was part of the sentence that was handed down by their judges.

Find out more and join this highly rated, affordable tour .

The Troubles Walking Tour

The religious conflict in Ulster is well-documented but to learn more and to get further insight into the origins of the Troubles, join a walking tour with a knowledgable guide. 

There are several sites within the tour which will give you  a feel for what life must have been like in those times before the 1990s saw peace prevail. 

£19 ($25) is a small price to pay for the tour giving so much insight. Find out more here .

BEST DAY TRIPS FROM BELFAST

This northeast corner of the Island of Ireland is rich in history and has many incredible sites to see! Here are 3 to get you started.

Giant's Causeway

This Causeway on Ulster’s northeast coast is the Province’s most impressive natural feature with a guided day trip the best way to see it.

Myth has it that the formation was built by an Irish giant who sought conflict with a Scottish giant and needed a ”bridge” to get to him.

In reality, the blocks were formed by volcanic activity and it is no surprise that this site has been recognised by UNESCO . You can walk on the rocks but take care because they are slippery.

The Giant’s Causeway is one of the best places to see in the UK in September . A day tour from Belfast will cost less than £22 ($30).

Game of Thrones

The hugely popular HBO Series was filmed at several locations and Ulster was one of the most important.

Fans of the series will love to take this tour and imagine the scenes from GOT while standing in the place where they were filmed!

It is a long but very enjoyable day by coach from Belfast. Find out more about this highly rated day trip here .

Northern Highlights & Castles

There are over 40 impressive castles built by the Normans for defensive reasons centuries ago and many are open to the public.  They are a ”must” for visitors!

Dunluce, which gives its name to Royal Portrush’s Championship Course (one of the top golf courses in Ireland ), is located on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea and was built by the Earl of Ulster in the 13th Century.

Carrickfergus is the Province’s largest castle, built by John de Courcy in 1177

WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT

Belfast offers a large range of international cuisine these days, but if you want to try some truly Irish food , the three dishes below are great suggestions.

The Ulster Fry

This hearty breakfast is available everywhere, from simple cafes to top hotels. It is a good way to fuel yourself for a day out exploring during Belfast!

You can expect potato bread and soda bread as well as black pudding, sometimes white, together with bacon, sausage, tomato, eggs and baked beans.

Colcannon, Bacon & Soda Bread

Colcannon combines potatoes with green leaf vegetables and spring onions, mashed using milk and butter. Add bacon and eat soda bread with this filling dish.

This is an inexpensive dish for lunch (unless you have already had a huge Ulster Fry) or for dinner in simple cafes.

Hot and filling food has been key to the health of the Irish working class. Lamb or mutton cooked slowly with root vegetables make up the filling dish on a winter’s day.

Cost varies with where you eat it, but it’s a tasty meal you’ll want to try in Belfast.

Best Restaurants in Belfast

Holohan’s At The Barge : Moored next to the Waterfront Theatre in the heart of Belfast, this restaurant puts emphasis on local produce although its fine wines concentrate on France.

Salmon and venison are both worth sampling, the seafood in general and local meat will match anything you have tried.

A 3-course lunch costs around $25, while for dinner you can spend $40 and be more than satisfied.

The restaurant is closed on Mondays but serves lunch from 1300 – 1600 and dinner 1700 – 2300, Tuesday to Saturday. Sunday is just lunch between 1300 and 1900. Find it on the map, here .

The Hoose Bistro : The novelty of the Hoose is its all-day menu with plenty of choice for all tastes. The food uses largely local produce that can be accompanied by fine wine, a range of gins and cocktails.

It can cater for large parties, pre-booked of course, as well as for an intimate dinner for two.

Opening hours are 1600- 2100, Wednesday to Saturday and 1300 – 1900 on Sundays when the roast is just $12. A three-course meal should cost you around $35 and there is a kids’ menu. Find it on the map, here .

Ox Belfast: This innovative restaurant offers a 6-course summer menu for $75 and three days a week, mid-week, a 4-course version for $62.50 so it is not cheap but if you want a treat, go for it!

At lunchtime, try 2 courses for $30 or 3 for $37.50.

There is plenty of choice in this Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking the River Lagan. Lunch is 1300 – 1430 and dinner 1800 – 2130 midweek. Find it here on the map.

BEST PUBS IN BELFAST

When in Ireland it has to be a pint of Guinness, but cider production has also become popular.

“Atmospheric” is a word often used to describe Irish pubs and you are certain to find that in these places as you visit Belfast and its amazing pubs!

Duke Of York

This traditional bar is found in a narrow cobbled street in Half Bap. It is filled with memorabilia and the air is full of music and craic any day of the year.

Live music is played Thursday to Sunday and the famous group Snow Patrol made their debuts here just over 20 years ago. Find it on the map, here .

Kelly's Cellars

The Cellars are 300 years old and began as a tavern for the lower classes. Musicians would appear here looking for a little money and dancing was popular, especially after a few ales.

Many of its original features are still here today so take a look and enjoy yourself. Music plays every night while in the summer, sessions take place in the garden Friday to Sunday.

Irish stew is sometimes served but nothing else; this is truly a bar and not a restaurant. Find it here on the map .

Crown Liquor Saloon

This saloon was popular in Victorian times and its original gaslighting is still on display. Gin is an ever more popular drink these days and the Crown was one of the original gin palaces.

Many of Belfast’s top attractions are close by so take a break from sightseeing and drop in. Find it on the map here .

LIVE MUSIC VENUES

Ireland and music are synonymous. There is plenty to enjoy in many pubs but there are also larger venues which attract famous acts as well as those trying to carve out careers in entertainment.

Here are a few live music venues in Belfast you won’t want to miss.

The Empire Music Hall

Seemingly a feature of Belfast life forever, the Empire only opened in 1987 but its architecture, a Victorian church, gives the impression of age.

The acoustics are excellent so everyone is keen to display their talents there while it also has a bar which attracts customers of its own, many going to watch live screenings of sporting events. Find it here on the map.

This large complex also opened in 1987 and comprises Limelight 1 and 2, The outdoor Rock Garden and Katy’s Bar. It is famous for its assistance to emerging local talent and who knows, you may see the next Irish international stars if you pay a visit.

After suffering financial problems, it was refurbished and rebranded by the current owners, MCD & Shine Productions, live Irish music promoters. Find directions here .

Oh Yeah Music Centre

A converted warehouse in the Cathedral Quarter, this is a place where you can enjoy the best of musical talent in Ulster.

It runs a musical bus tour which includes the places that Van Morrison used to frequent and for those more interested in more classical music, James Galway. Find it on the map here .

FESTIVALS IN BELFAST

Several cultural events appear on Belfast’s calendar and they are in no way confined to the peak summer season making Belfast travel an idea for any time of the year.

International Arts Festival

Belfast Festival at Queen’s began in 1962 until 2015 when the responsibility for hosting what is now the I nternational Arts Festival was handed to a new organisation with charity status.

Enjoy everything from music and dance, film and theatre. Venues are used throughout Belfast over a period of two weeks and in the past, Laurence Olivier, Billy Connolly, Jimi Hendrix and Rowan Atkinson have all appeared.

C S Lewis Festival

One of Ireland’s most influential writers has his life and work celebrated in November each year. C S Lewis is perhaps most famous for “The Chronicles of Narnia.”

A few days of workshops and events for all the family take place in different Belfast venues, run by Eastside Arts in C S Lewis Square where you will see seven sculptures of his most famous characters from “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”.

Cinemagic Film Festival

This is the largest festival of its kind in the UK and Ireland, offering the chance for youngsters to display their talents.

HIKING IN BELFAST

Belfast is in a beautiful area of Northern Ireland, so there are quite a few worthwhile hikes located nearby. When visiting Belfast, there’s no better way to get acquainted with the Northern Ireland landscape than to take a hike.

Here are a few of the best hiking trails to visit when you travel Belfast.

Giant's Ring Trail

Giant’s Ring is only a 15-minute drive outside of the city of Belfast, and it’s a perfect trail for beginners. It’s a scenic 3.5 km trail that takes a little over an hour to hike depending on the number of times you stop to soak up the view.

Along the trail, you can expect to see breathtaking woodlands, streams, bridges, and wildlife. Of course, the real highlight of the trail is the Giant’s Ring, which is a historical monument from the Neolithic period.

Though the route is short and easy, come prepared by wearing sturdy hiking shoes and packing water in case you get thirsty. You’ll also want to bring your camera to take photos of the monument! Find it here on the map.

Cavehill Trail

This beautiful trail is located 13 minutes north of Belfast up near Belfast Castle and is easily accessible by both car and public transportation. It’s a moderate loop trail through mainly the forest that is 6.6 km long.

Try to do this hike in the warmer months or around a time where Belfast doesn’t get a lot of rain. It’s known for getting muddy and slippery if the weather takes a turn which can make it a bit dangerous at times.

The Cavehill Trail is said to offer the best views of the entire city, but it does have different hours depending on the season. Be sure to pack water and snacks because you’re bound to get hungry during the hike. Find it here .

Slieve Croob "Twelve Cairns" Walk

Twelve Cairns Walk is a 4.3 km out and back trail that is perfect for moderate hikers located 45 minutes south of Belfast. It offers some of the best views of Slieve Croob and the Northern Ireland countryside, and, on fogless days, you can even see the Isle of Man and Scotland!

This trail is consistently voted as one of the best paths to do with a family because it’s not super challenging and offers views that you can’t get elsewhere. Just make sure you pack layers and wear good hiking shoes for your hike.

When you’re done, be sure to stop by the Slieve Croob Inn for a pint and a warm meal! Find it here on the map .

BEACHES IN BELFAST

Belfast is located right on Northern Ireland’s coast and is the perfect home base for visiting some of the country’s very best beaches.

The water in Northern Ireland is unlike the water anywhere else, and there’s no better way to spend the afternoon (or entire day) than with your toes in the blue sea.

Below are some of the most magnificent beaches you won’t want to miss out on when you visit Belfast!

Helen's Bay

Helen’s Bay is only a short 20-minute drive or 1-hour ride on public transportation from Belfast. It’s located in the Carwfordsburn Country Park and is a tranquil sandy beach that is considered to be a hidden gem.

It’s a great place to go swimming or even to relax while the waves crash along the sand. There’s a cafe on-site in addition to a visitor centre and multiple spots to sit and have a picnic. Find it here .

Tyrella Beach

Tyrella Beach is on Northern Ireland’s southern coast, and it takes just 45 minutes to get there by car from Belfast. This beach has won a few awards, including the 2011 Blue Flag Award for being beautiful and clean.

It covers 25 hectares and is incredibly scenic. There are breathtaking walking trails near the water that show some of the area’s most magnificent sights that are unforgettable.

There are multiple fun activities to do at this beach, including swimming and surfing, among other water sports. Tyrella Beach prides itself on being open every day of the year. Find it on the map, here .

Cushendun Beach

The magnificent Cushendun Beach can be reached in just an hour by driving north of Belfast. It can be reached by public transportation as well, though this takes twice as long.

This sandy beach is picturesque and features lovely walking tours and swimming spots. It’s also located closeby one of the best Game of Thrones locations in Northern Ireland, Cushendun Caves, which is another must-visit when you travel to Belfast.

Cushendun Beach is the perfect place to go for a quick city getaway from Belfast, no matter the time of year. Families will particularly love this beach because of how quaint and spread out the beach is. Find it here on the map.

COST OF TRAVEL IN BELFAST

Belfast caters for those on a budget and those who want to splurge. Travel costs are not so important because of the size of the city, especially for those arriving at the nearby City Airport.

You will find accommodation in all price ranges and food is cheap in cafes if that is what you want.

Budget £45 / Day

Hostel accommodation, still central in Belfast, should be available for £12 ($15) per person so it is possible to live on £45 ($60) a day including food, drinks and public transport.

Mid-Range £130 / Day

You can get a double room in the heart of Belfast for   £45 ( $60) so adding a few drinks in a pub and a pleasant dinner, then perhaps a taxi home will not break the bank.

Top-End £200 / Day

Stay at the Merchant Hotel and eat in a top restaurant and you will spend up to   £300 ( $400) for a couple before you think about wine with dinner, drinks in a popular pub and taxis.

Transportation

Getting around belfast.

Belfast has a well-developed travel infrastructure for those wishing to travel extensively. Anyone staying within the heart of Belfast can walk to many of the attractions and to enjoy the nightlife.

• Public Bus: Belfast's public bus service called Metro runs high-frequency routes between 06:00 and 23:00, all passing through Donegall Square. Tourist passes and pre-paid cards can be bought at a kiosk in the Square. Buses are relatively expensive, even if the routes cover all the places you might want to go.
• Taxi: Black Taxi tours are famous in Belfast. They are the best way to get to and from the airport at night. Locals regularly share taxis, especially in the North and West and originate from the time when buses were often disrupted. They follow set routes with a fixed price of $1.25. Minicabs can only be booked in advance and not hailed in the street.
• Walking: Belfast has a compact city centre so visitors can see many of the main attractions and enjoy the best nighttime venues without worrying about transport until very late.
• To & From The Airport: George Best City Airport is just a short distance from the city centre. Regular buses run into town for just $3 until 2300 while the train fare is just $2 although trains are less frequent. Belfast International Airport is further away and is served by a bus service every 30 minutes until 2300 with the journey taking up to 45 minutes depending on traffic.  The cost is $9 while taxis from this airport will cost at least $30.

IS BELFAST SAFE?

Central Belfast with its bars and restaurants is an extremely safe city at nighttime which is sometimes the time when tourists feel most vulnerable in a strange city.

There is even a strong case that it’s safer than other cities throughout the UK and Ireland. Your hotel will provide you with all the information you need in your immediate vicinity.

There are neighbourhoods to avoid in Belfast but none include attractions that tourists would visit at night. Falls Road, Turk Lodge, Shanklin and Crumlin Roads should not be visited at night and tourists should not write on the Peace Wall because it is a sensitive place.

Common sense should always be applied in any strange place and this applies to Belfast — but no more than anywhere else.

Images in this article are sourced on Shutterstock.com .

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The Best 3 Days in Belfast Itinerary

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Belfast, United Kingdom is a top destination for anyone visiting Northern Ireland. The city hosts a handful of fun attractions, features fascinating districts and is within easy reach of the idyllic coastline. Travelers can use our useful Belfast Itinerary to plan their perfect trip!

That said, there is more to planning a trip to Belfast than figuring out what to see and do. Therefore, we share helpful travel tips, our top picks for places to stay and advice about what to pack. With the help of our Belfast, Northern Ireland Itinerary, you will have your entire vacation planned in no time! 

Belfast Itinerary

Belfast might not have an abundance of tourist attractions, per se, but the city is so much more than a checklist of sights. In our Itinerary for Belfast, we feature the must-see spots, but also allow time to learn about the city’s poignant history and delve into the unique culture. 

While our day-by-day outline offers an excellent sightseeing plan, we share more detailed information in our list of the Best Things To Do in Belfast . We also include suggestions for eating and drinking, but refer to our complete guide to the Top Pubs and Restaurants in Belfast  for more ideas.

How Many Days in Belfast?

Many travelers wonder how long to stay in Belfast for a vacation. Is one day in Belfast enough? Is a week too long? We think spending 3 days in Belfast is ideal for most visitors. It’s just enough time to see the top sights and go on a day trip from Belfast to the coast. Therefore, we have outlined exactly what to do in 3 days in our Belfast Itinerary. 

In our trip plan, we recommend using local transportation and guided tours to experience the best of Belfast. Those touring Northern Ireland by car could possibly spend just 2 days in Belfast and quickly cover it all if necessary.

How To Create a Belfast Itinerary

When we were researching cool things to do in Belfast, we came up with a long list of interesting places. However, we struggled a little when it came to fitting everything into a Belfast 3-Day Itinerary. 

Now that we have visited the city and understand the layout, we optimized our trip plan. Based on our experiences, we have created a perfect 3-Day Belfast Itinerary that features the best things to see!

Planning a Trip to Belfast

Belfast is often just one destination on a longer trip including the Republic of Ireland and more of the UK. If your Belfast travelers include other nearby destinations – like cities in Scotland, England or Ireland – we can help! 

Our travel articles are designed to make the most of your trip! Get top tips on Dublin Sightseeing . Learn how to spend One Day in Glasgow , Manchester or Birmingham . Use our guide to the Best Things To Do in Edinburgh  and how to Plan a 3-Day Trip to London .

Additionally, visitors coming from overseas can use our detailed guide to Planning a European Vacation .

In order to stay organized while planning a Belfast trip, we recommend using a Travel Planner . Our printable planner comes with 26 pages of travel organization!

Belfast City FAQs

Before we jump into our 3 Days in Belfast Itinerary, we want to answer a few frequently asked questions. These are the basic things to know about Belfast before you set off on your trip.

Is it Belfast, Ireland or Belfast, Northern Ireland?   

Okay, let’s clear up some of the confusion. First, Is Belfast in Ireland? Well, yes and no. Belfast is in Northern Ireland, which is part of the UK. Northern Ireland is not part of the Republic of Ireland. Both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are located on the same island, which is named Ireland. 

What is Belfast Famous For?

Belfast has many claims to fame – including the construction of the Titanic, being a filming location for Game of Thrones and home to a hefty concentration of fun pubs and bars.

Is Belfast Safe to Visit?

Belfast has a reputation as a dangerous place (which stems from the times of The Troubles), but recent data shows otherwise. Belfast experiences a rather low crime rate – and the rate of petty crimes (like pickpocketing) is very low when compared to bigger European cities.

Is Belfast Affordable?

Generally speaking, the United Kingdom is a fairly expensive place to visit. The cost of accommodations, entry to sights and meals in restaurants can all add up quickly. That said, while some of the attractions on our list require a ticket, many are free of charge. Throughout our itinerary, we share money-saving activities for Belfast budget travelers.

Are There Belfast Attractions for Kids?

Yes, there are many family-friendly sights. Although our list is not specifically geared towards things to do in Belfast with kids, we do feature many family-friendly activities.

How To Spend 3 Days in Belfast

During our Belfast trip, we planned three full days of adventures. We believe this is an ideal itinerary for Belfast in 3 Days that includes what to do as well as where to eat.

Save, Pin or Bookmark this Belfast Travel Guide to plan your trip to Northern Ireland!

DAY 1 in Belfast

Check into your hotel early – or at least leave your luggage so you can start exploring Belfast. We share recommendations for the best hotel in Belfast in the next section. Now, let’s begin the fun times in Belfast!

Tour Belfast City Centre

Set off on foot to see the best Belfast sights in the center of the city. Start your exploration at City Hall on Donegall Square. The stately building dates to year 1906 and is surrounded by gardens, monuments and statues. Travelers interested in touring the interior can join a free City Hall Tour . 

From City Hall, set off to discover more of the city center. We recommend climbing to the top of The Dome at Victoria Square Shopping Centre, looking up at the Albert Memorial Clock, standing on the stairs of The Merchant Hotel and visiting St. Anne’s Cathedral.

You can use this map for a route that begins at Belfast City Hall – or let a guide lead the way to the top sights on this tour .

Lunch on Day 1

After touring Belfast City, rest your legs and get a bite to eat at The Common Market. The food hall features multiple food trucks under one roof. The vendors dole out international eats in a very hip  and fun space. Alternatively, for an upscale mid-day lunch experience, make a reservation for an extravagant Afternoon Tea at The Merchant Hotel.

Titanic Quarter Exploration

Continue your sightseeing in Belfast in the Titanic Quarter. The district is dedicated to preserving the city’s ship building past.

The highlight of the area is the fascinating Titanic Museum. Visitors learn the history of the world-famous ship from it’s beginnings on the Belfast docks right through to the moment it sank in the Atlantic. The museum is one of the top attractions in Belfast, so it’s best to book your ticket in advance .

If time allows, walk the Maritime Mile to see the SS Nomadic tender boat, The Slipways, the Great Light and the Titanic Dock and Pumphouse. Along the route, stop to admire the HMS Caroline and catch a glimpse of the nearby H&W Samson and Goliath Cranes, which are a symbol of Belfast. Use this map for the route or download the DC Tours app.

Pro Tip: To get back to the center of Belfast, either retrace your steps or hop on the G2 Glider Bus at Queens Road (likely the Catalyst Inc stop). 

Dinner and Drinks in City Centre

End your first day in Belfast with a pint of Guinness at The Duke of York. While sipping your stout, spend some time admiring the plethora of memorabilia that decorates the walls.

For dinner, eat at the historic Whites Tavern. The long-time eatery is said to be the oldest pub in Belfast. It’s incredibly popular, so be sure to make a reservation.

Day 2 of your Belfast Trip

It’s best to get a fairly early start on your second day in Belfast – as there is still a lot to see and do!

St. George’s Market for Breakfast

If it’s Friday or you’re spending a weekend in Belfast, start off at St. George’s Market for a filling Breakfast Bap. It’s Belfast’s version of an egg and sausage sandwich, and it’s absolutely amazing! While at the market, take a quick look at local products from the various vendors. It’s a great place to pick up a unique Belfast souvenir!

If the market is closed, go to Maggie Mays Belfast Cafe and indulge in a utterly satisfying Ulster Fry. The hearty breakfast meal comes complete with eggs, sausage, tomatoes, mushrooms, soda bread and a potato cake. 

Peace Wall and The Troubles

Spending some time learning about The Troubles is a must for your Belfast Itinerary. During the second half of the 20th century, Belfast was a divided city. The conflict was spurred by political and religious tensions – and a physical wall was built to keep communities apart.

Today, visitors can tour the Falls Road and Shankill Road neighborhoods that are divided by, what is now referred to as, the Peace Wall. The area features several memorials and the Irish Republican History Museum helps visitors to understand the conflict.

Use this map for a looping route if you want to walk the area on your own. Alternatively, hire a Black Taxi Tour driver for a better introduction to The Troubles. The guide will share their honest opinions and personal experiences of living during The Troubles.

Lunch on Day 2

Swing into Sawers, an old-school gourmet deli, for a stacked sandwich and salad for lunch. While at the deli, peruse the goods in the market and consider purchasing a few items that could serve as lunch or snacks for tomorrow’s adventure!

Discover Queens Quarter, Belfast

After lunch, catch a bus or walk to the Queens Quarter, which is the center of Belfast culture and home of Queens University. Take in the beautiful architecture as you visit Queens University campus and consider stopping at one of the many cafes.

Next, head for the spacious and lush Botanical Gardens, which were established in 1828. After strolling the grounds and visiting the Palm House Conservatory, stop by the free Ulster Museum that details the history of Belfast.

Dinner and Drinks on Day 2

If you are enjoying the youthful vibe of the University District, stay for dinner and drinks. Holohan’s Pantry is a low-key diner offering good traditional fare, like Boxty – and The Parlour is a local pub popular with students that serves woodfired pizza.

Otherwise, head back to Belfast City Centre for drinks and dinner. Consider stopping by Kelly’s Cellar or Bittles Bar for a drink. For dinner, eat at McHugh’s, where they make a decadent Boxty. We recommend making advance reservations to ensure you get a seat. 

Day 3 in Belfast

On the last of your 3 days in Belfast, NI, take a day tour to the northern coastline – but be back in the city for one last festive evening!

Breakfast on Day 3

Start your day early at Harlem Cafe, because there will likely be a queue. The eclectic space is quirky and fun – and the pancake stacks are a sweet way to get ready for the long day ahead. 

Note, however, that if you are joining an organized tour on Day 3, you likely won’t have time for Harlem Cafe. Instead, sit down for an early breakfast at The Grand Cafe at the posh Grand Central Hotel so that you don’t miss your tour! 

Giant’s Causeway Tour

Embark on an adventure to the northern Irish coastline to see the UNESCO Giant’s Causeway. The fascinating coast features stacked basalt column rocks that seem to simply rise up from the sea. 

Exploring the area is free of charge, but those interested in learning more about history – and legends – of Giant’s Causeway can buy a ticket to the Visitor’s Center. 

Travelers can plan their own DIY trip using public bus or car rental . However, it could be more enjoyable to leave the logistics to someone else and take a tour . Organized excursions to Giant’s Causeway include additional sights, such as visiting a castle, walking through the Dark Hedges and the seeing the famous Rope Bridge. Either way, plan on spending the entire day seeing the incredible coastal sights of Northern Ireland.

Dinner at Crown Liquor Saloon

After touring the stunning coastline, eat your final dinner in Belfast in an iconic location, the Crown Liquor Saloon. Classic and charming, Crown Liquor dates to the 1820s and features sumptuous decor. 

Order the Irish Stew with a side of soda bread – it’s one of the house specialties and it is oh-so delicious. After dinner, stick around for a round of drinks and relish the jovial atmosphere to close out your 3 Days in Belfast!  

Travel Tips for Belfast, UK

Now that you are well on the way to planning your 3-day Belfast Travel Itinerary, we have a few tips to help you prepare for the trip!

How To Get to Belfast

Belfast can be reached by plane, train, boat, bus or car. How you get to Belfast will likely depend on where you are coming from!

Plane to Belfast

There are two airports in Belfast: Belfast International Airport (BFS) and George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD).

The international airport in Belfast is located 20 miles northwest of the city center. Travelers can get from this airport to the city center in about 30 minutes using the bus, a taxi or booking private transport in advance . 

The Belfast City Airport, which is used mostly for flights within the United Kingdom or from the Republic of Ireland, is just 2 miles northeast of the city center. On arrival, visitors can make the short trip into Belfast using public bus 600, taxi or private transport . 

Begin your search for flights to Belfast on Skyscanner – but use our tips on Getting the Best Fares first!

Getting Around Belfast

It is relatively easy to get around Belfast on foot – especially when discovering the center, Titanic, Cathedral and Linen Quarters.

Visitors who want to explore the Peace Wall or Queens Quarter – or hop a ride back from the Titanic Quarter – can utilize the public transit system. Check the Translink website to find routes, fares and timetables. 

Hop On Hop Off Bus

Belfast Tourists might find it convenient to use the Belfast Hop On Hop Off Bus . The tour offers both 1-day and 2-day passes for unlimited rides and includes stops at 20 top tourist destinations, making it incredibly easy to get from sight-to-sight.

Where To Stay in Belfast

The best place to stay in Belfast is in the heart of the city, just steps from the top attractions and bars and restaurants. With a range of accommodations in Belfast, there is a place to stay for every budget.  

Belfast Hotels and Hostels

On short trips to any city, we recommend staying in a hotel. There are many hotels in Belfast for travelers to choose from – we are highlighting two of the best.

Pro Tip: Use our top tips for Booking Hotels before starting your search!

The Flint Hotel

On our Belfast trip, we stayed at The Flint Hotel – an affordable hotel in the heart of the city. From start to finish, we loved everything about The Flint!

Check in was a breeze – as they offer pre-check in online. The hotel was easy to find; it’s ideally situated between City Hall and the bus/train station and just steps to some of the best sights in Belfast.

The spacious rooms feature comfortable beds, black out curtains, air conditioning and a big shower. Although the hotel does not offer breakfast, each room is equipped with a small kitchen and outfitted with everything you need to make simple meals (and there is a Tesco Express just around the corner).

Without question, we would stay at The Flint Hotel again and cannot recommend it enough! Check rates and availability for your trip!

The Merchant Hotel

If you want to splash out on your trip to Belfast, The Merchant Hotel is the place to stay! The luxurious property is centrally located in the Cathedral Quarter. The grandiose building features well-appointed rooms with comfortable beds, on-site dining in the domed Great Room Restaurant and a spa. Check rates and availability!

Airbnb Belfast

Travelers who prefer staying in vacation rentals will find many to choose from in Belfast. Both Airbnb  and Booking.com offer numerous short-stay apartment rentals.

What To Pack for Belfast

Hopefully it’s almost time to load up your backpack or suitcase ! We are sharing a few must-have items for your Belfast trip, but you can find all of our advice on our Travel Packing Page . Also grab your FREE Packing Checklist !

Walking Shoes

We cover some ground in our Belfast Itinerary! Be sure to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes for your trip. I wear versatile and lightweight sneakers for city sightseeing – and they worked great for the trails at Giants Causeway, as well. Kris is prefers wearing Merrell Trail Shoes . Find more tips and reviews in our article, The Best Shoes for Traveling .

Belfast Weather Gear

The weather in Belfast can be warm, hot, cool, cold, windy and rainy…all within an hour. Travelers should be prepared for changing weather when visiting Northern Ireland. It is best to dress in layers, bring a raincoat and a travel umbrella .

Travel Camera

Belfast sights are intriguing and the coast is absolutely stunning! Upgrade to a real travel camera for your trip so that you can properly capture the memories of the city and region.

We travel with a DSLR Canon Rebel and use an everyday 18-135mm lens . It’s an excellent camera for budget travelers , as it is affordable, takes quality photos and comes with heaps of accessories.

For our Belfast 3-Day Itinerary, we planned long stretches of sightseeing, which meant that we had to carry everything we needed with us the entire time. To make sure it can all be stowed and secured, we use these small backpacks . Use our reviews on the Best Day Bag for Traveling to pick one out that’s right for you!

UK Travel Insurance

Trip Insurance may cover lost luggage , cancelled trips and even illness abroad . If you haven’t already purchased insurance for your Vacation to Europe , review rates and coverage at World Nomads . 

Start planning your trip to the UK ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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How To Spend 3 Days in Belfast Solo + Map

Looking for ways to spend 3 days in Belfast solo? More and more women are traveling to Belfast solo, and I was one of them!

I had only planned on visiting Belfast for one day, but I loved it so much I stayed for three! Belfast itself is pretty small, so if you don’t have a lot of time, you could do Belfast in one day. But preferably, you want to have a little more time. This is how to spend 3 days in Belfast solo!

This post will give you information on what to do, where to stay, and the restaurants you must check out in Belfast.

Enjoy exclusive travel tips written by a solo traveler for a solo traveler!

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How To Spend 3 Days In Belfast Solo

Before we get into everything you will do solo in Belfast, first we need to get you to Belfast!

Your Trip to Belfast – Getting Here

There are a few different ways to get to Belfast City Centre.

If you are coming directly from the United States, you will likely fly into Belfast International Airport .

Below is the list of how to reach Belfast City Centre from various starting points:

• Belfast International Airport to Belfast City Centre by bus or taxi is approximately 30 minutes traffic, depending. Take the Airport Express 300,  which runs every 15 to 20 minutes on weekdays and weekends. You will find the bus stop is located opposite the terminal exits. The timetable Cost of the ticket is £8 (single) £11.50 (return).
• Belfast City Airport to Belfast City Centre is very convenient via public transportation. Take Airport Express 600 Service from the airport to the city center. The journey only takes about 10 minutes. Buses run every 30 minutes. Here is the timetable .
• Belfast Main Train Station to Belfast City Centre is reachable by foot in only about 10 minutes. If you are not traveling with many bags, I suggest walking.

Renting a Car? Read all about renting a car in Northern Ireland.

Once you have arrived, it is time to plan how to spend 3 days in Belfast!

And if you are still unsure should travel to Belfast alone, I have listed some reasons below why you should highly consider it!

📲 Downloadable Map of Belfast

📍 Download my pre-pinned Google map of all the best locations in this post!

My favorite restaurants, bars, hotels and top sights are all saved and ready to use!

👩🏻‍💻 Need Help Planning Your Trip? Get a customized itinerary !

Reasons Why It’s Great To Visit Belfast Solo

Belfast ranks high on my list for solo travelers for many reasons.

#1. Belfast is reasonably priced . For a solo traveler, you do need to be budget-conscious. Northern Ireland is on the pound , so the exchange isn’t always the best, but in general, it’s less expensive than other UK cities.

#2. So much to do! Many day tours available will take you from Belfast, further north! If you are traveling as a solo female, making connections throughout your travels enriches the whole journey experience.

Joining a day tour is the easiest way to have a chat and make new friends on the way. You will have several choices from Belfast.

#3. Safety, it’s safe. Is Belfast safe for solo travelers? As a solo female traveling myself, safety is the most critical factor in booking a trip.

If you don’t feel comfortable walking around alone, then what’s the point? I felt protected and welcomed in Belfast.

But I do highly recommend you research where you are planning to stay. Not every section of every city is safe, and the same goes for areas in Belfast.

Is Belfast Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

The key to feeling safe when visiting Belfast alone is staying in a well-reviewed area.

There are parts of Belfast you don’t want to visit solo or otherwise.

I recommend you always cross-reference your safety inquiries on sites like Numebo . And keep in mind most cities have a “bad section” so don’t let the internet freak you out.

Pro Tip:  Even though I found solo travel to be safe, I ALWAYS recommend getting   travel insurance  to avoid any mishaps. Lost luggage or getting sick can happen at any time.

For all you fact lovers, here some fun facts about Belfast !

Belfast Day 1 Itinerary Overview

• 9 am – 9:45 am Breakfast at Pottinger’s Belfast
• 10 am -2 pm Titanic Museum & Lunch
• 2:15 pm – 2:30 pm Check out the Glass of Thornes art installation
• 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm Crumlin Road Gaol Prison Tour
• 5:30 pm Cathedral Quarter Explore & Dinner

Day 1 in Belfast

Breakfast at pottinger’s belfast.

If you want to go out for breakfast on your 1st day in Belfast, Pottinger’s Belfast is just the place!

They serve up delicious French toast with real maple syrup and make a great cappuccino.

Located in the heart of Belfast, this breakfast spot is a good place to fuel up and start your day!

Wear comfortable shoes and check the weather for other accessories you may need to keep warm and dry. There will be a fair amount of walking today!

Self-Guided Tour of the Titanic Museum

Titanic Queen’s Road, The Titanic Quarter 1, Olympic Way, Belfast BT3 9EP

Opening Times – Daily 10 AM to 5 PM

One day one of your 3 days in Belfast itinerary let’s start at the Titanic! For me, it was a truly memorable day!

Typically I am not a museum person , but this a part of history I had to check out.

This impressive museum opened its doors in 2012 at the Harland & Wolff shipyard.

The Titanic Museum sits in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter in the same spot where the RMS  Titanic  was built.

Relive the stories of the  Titanic that hit an iceberg and sank during her maiden voyage in 1912.

Inside the museum, you can enjoy the visuals of presentations via video and sound. Outside you can visit the yard where the ship was constructed.

Probably the coolest interactive museum I have ever been to! You will experience the first-hand sights, sounds, and smells of what it was like to be part of the Titanic story.

Plan to spend at least 3 – 4 hours here including eating lunch at the onsite restaurant!

>> GET TICKETS TO TITANIC MUSEUM

Visit the Iron Throne- Glass of Thrones

Victoria Road, Belfast BT3 9DU

Opening Times 24 hours daily

After your visit to the famous Titanic museum, you should go get a look at the Glass of Thrones!

The Glass of Thrones is a mesmerizing public art installation located within a 10-minute walk from the Titanic!

Inspired by the hit HBO series Game of Thrones, this installation features over 90 stained glass panels that depict the scenes from the show.

Each window was handcrafted by local artists, who used a variety of techniques like sandblasting and painting to bring this installation to life!

The windows tell the tale of the series and its characters in a unique way, while also paying homage to Belfast’s industrial past.

Although the installation isn’t linked to Game of Thrones filming locations , it is a cool thing for any GOT fan to check out!

Take a Tour of Crumlin Road Gaol

After your tour of the Titanic and Glass of Thrones grab a taxi with B Cabs they have an app for both Andriod and iPhone. I suggest you download it before arriving. The journey from The Titanic and Crumlin Road is about a 10-15 min ride for about £5.

Crumlin Road Gaol is a top attraction and a stop on the Hop On Hop Off bus tour .

The Crumlin Road Gaol (also known as Belfast Prison) is a former prison located on Crumlin Road in Belfast, NI.

It was built between 1843 and 1845 by Sir Charles Lanyon and his brother W.H. Lynn to replace an earlier gaol on the site which had become overcrowded.

The goal was closed in 1996 and has since been transformed into a museum and tourist attraction.

They offer a variety of tours such as daily guided, historic evening, paranormal, and ghost walk. I did a daytime tour and it was spooky enough for me.

I can’t quite explain it, but you feel a sense of dread still lingering in those halls. Before the tour ends you get to visit the executioner room. This is where all the hanging took place, fantastic, right?

The tour of this historic site should take you about 2 hours to complete.

❤︎ GET TICKETS TO CRUMLIN ROAD GAOL

Explore the Cathedral Quarter

After your prison tour, it will be getting close to dinner time! A great place with lively pubs and good food is the Cathedral Quarter! The walk from the prison to the Cathedral Quarter is 15 minutes.

The Cathedral Quarter in Belfast is a historic and vibrant area located in the heart of the city. It’s home to many of the city’s iconic landmarks, including St. Anne’s Cathedral and its two spires that dominate the skyline.

My FAVORITE pub for some drinks and food is The Dirty Onion . If you are wanting something more upscale you should check out Six By Nico .

The Cathedral area of Belfast is safe for solo females traveling! I spent all my time in the evenings here alone. Just always be aware of your surroundings as you would be in your home city.

Belfast Day 2 Itinerary Overview

• 10 AM – 11 AM Political Taxi Tour
• 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Belfast Castle Or Belfast Zoo
• 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm Botanical Gardens or Belfast City Market
• 5:30 PM Dinner at White’s Tavern, the oldest pub in the city

Day 2 in Belfast

Political taxi tour of belfast peace wall.

To kick off your 2nd solo day in Belfast, take a tour of the Belfast Murals and Peace Walls in Northern Ireland. The Hop-on Hop-Off bus ticket also has a stop to view these murals but taking by taking this private one-hour tour is better.

One of the great features of this tour is the flexible booking time. This tour starts on the hour each hour. You can choose a little later time than I suggest if that works better for you. The pickup of this tour is at Jury’s Inn in central Belfast.

The Peace Walls have been around since the 1970s. They are a representation of what is referred to as The Troubles of Northern Ireland.

These peace walls are quite literally a physical barrier used to separate neighborhoods between the Catholics and Protestants.

On this tour, you will visit murals from both sides of the conflict and learn interesting facts about Belfast. Get exclusive tips on what to see and do in Belfast from a local!

>> BOOK THE POLITICAL TAXI TOUR

Take A Solo Tour of Belfast Castle

Belfast Castle Antrim Road, Belfast BT15 5GR

Opening Times 9 am to 6 pm Daily

After the Peacewall Tour, plan to go check out Belfast Castle! The fastest and most direct route to the castle from The Jury Inn is by taking a Taxi. It is only 15 mins away, without traffic.

The Belfast Castle dates back to the 12th Century. Built originally by the Normans. The Castle itself is perched up on the hill of Cavehill Country Park overlooking Belfast.

This impressive castle is open to tourists to tour the inside and grounds.

Also, you will find the on-site cafe great for coffee and other refreshments.

Visit The Belfast Zoo

Alternatively, you could opt out of the castle and opt in for the Belfast zoo. If you are a zoo lover, Belfast Zoo is a lovely place to spend an afternoon.

The Zoo is located a bit far away from the center of town, but easy to reach by local bus. The website link has all the information on the opening times, costs, and directions.

Belfast Zoo is one of the #1 tourist attractions in Northern Ireland.

Annually about 300,000 people visit. The zoo is 55-acre (22 ha) and contains more than 1,200 animals and 140 species.

Check Out The Belfast Food Market

The United Kingdom’s largest indoor food market is a great place to hit, especially for lunch. It’s located in the center of Belfast and is a great place to check out if you are solo in Belfast.

If you are visiting on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, have a look below at what you can expect from the Belfast City Market!

The Variety Market On FRIDAY

Dating back to the year 1604, Fridays are called The Variety Market. Stroll around the 200 market stalls and shop for fruit, vegetables, antiques, books, clothes, and crafts.

Saturday City Food and Craft Market

If you visit on Saturday, you can experience a variety of local and specialty foods. Saturdays is also a host to many vendors of handmade crafts, plants, flowers, and local photography. This market is a place where you can relax and enjoy some music and food.

Craft & Antique Market For Sunday

The market is packed with local artists and vendors if your visit falls on a Sunday. Often you can enjoy live music and local foods, and chocolates.

There is something for everyone at this wonderful food market. Be sure to squeeze in some time in your 3 days in Belfast. Have a look at the website for opening times.

Tour The Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens of Belfast are located on the opposite side of the city from the Zoo. It is located very close to Queen’s University and by the Botanic train station. A lovely area of town to check out while in Belfast.

Established in the year 1828, the Botanic Gardens were created for the public interested in horticulture and botany. The park originated with exotic tree species and various plant collections. Even today, these can be seen all around the park.

Belfast Day 3 Itinerary Overview

Full Day Giant’s Causeway & Game of Thrones Tour! This 9.5-hour tour takes you all over Northern Ireland’s most incredible spot! Full tour details are below! The tour ends around dinner time, check out the list of my most recommended restaurants further on down.

Day 3 In Belfast

Giant’s causeway coast & game of thrones tour.

Giants Causeway & Game of Thrones Tour

For your 3rd and final day solo in Belfast, take a tour of Giants Causeway!

From Belfast, you can experience all Northern Ireland has to offer. The coastal route to Giant’s Causeway is one of a kind! And unless you are renting a car on your own, you will need to book a tour.

There are SEVERAL companies to choose from when booking this tour . My advice is to research precisely what you are looking for and get tickets ahead of time. You can book this tour even if you are unfamiliar with the HBO show Game of Thrones.

The tour will take you to all the significant film locations while explaining the history of the land. The guide will unveil detailed information on the filmed scenes and props for photography. It was fantastic!

The stops on this tour include:

Crossing of Carrick-A-Rede-Rope Bridge

You can cross the Carrick a rede rope bridge if you are brave enough! It is a suspended bridge across a 30-meter deep and 20-meter-wide chasm. If you are not visiting with a tour, book in advance.

Visit Unesco World Heritage Site Giant’s Causeway

On this guided tour, you explore the 40,000 interlocking hexagonal stone columns at Giant’s Causeway. Along the way, the tour operator will fill you in on the history of the stones and the surrounding area.  

Take Photos at the Dark Hedges

One of the highlights of this tour was visiting the famous Dark Hedges in Ballymoney. The Stuart family planted a long landscape of mystical-looking trees in the eighteenth century.

This tour is Game of Thrones-themed, and props are made available if you want to participate.

I would highly recommend this tour as a way to spend one of your 3 days in Belfast. As a solo traveler, this is a great way to make friends.

>> BOOK GIANT CAUSEWAY TOUR

What Else to Do Solo in Northern Ireland

One of the best parts about traveling solo is being in charge of your itinerary. There are many things to do in Belfast to keep you busy! These are some great tours to join if you are looking to make some friends on your trip!

• Belfast City Tour
• Political Walking Tour

Key sites and tours to consider in Belfast

Visit albert memorial clock.

Albert Memorial Clock stands in near the docks in Queen’s square and looks like a mini Big Ben. The memorial was constructed between 1865 and 1869 and, in history, was a meeting place for sailors and prostitutes.

Now it’s a lovely square to visit and a perfect spot for those Instagram-worthy photos.

Where to Spend 3 Nights Solo in Belfast

When traveling solo, I spend a little extra on the hotel. It can enhance your experience when you are on your own. It’s true; I am a sucker for a boutique hotel. I value quality for the money, so I recommend only the best!

Ten Square Hotel

I stayed at the Ten Square Hotel located in the center of Belfast! Very stylish, clean, and modern rooms. The hotel has free Wi-Fi and a nice restaurant/bar on the first floor.

Check Rates & Availability

Bullitt hotel.

When I return to Belfast, I will stay at the hip and trendy Bullitt hotel . They have three room choices, something for every budget. Dinky Room, Comfy Room, and Roomy Room.

Have a look at the website for more details.

Malmaison Hotel

Malmaison Hotel is a centrally located hotel that offers a modern and contemporary style and high classic comfort.

Modern bars and restaurants serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Check Rates & Availability

The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast

The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast might be the fancier hotel I’ve seen. Champagne wishes and caviar dreams can be fulfilled while staying at this luxurious hotel.

Don’t forget to book afternoon tea for a true British Experience. Check Rates & Availability

Titanic Hotel Belfast

Titanic Hotel Belfast -If you are obsessed with the Titanic, you will be enchanted by this high-end hotel! Decorated in theme, this hotel is located on-site with the famous museum. Check Rates & Availability

The Merchant Hotel

The Merchant Hotel is the crown jewel in Belfast. It’s a historic palace-like building transformed into a world-class hotel, making it the most desirable place to stay.

No other hotel can compete with the rooftop pool and views. Check Rates & Availability

Eat Like A Queen For 3 Days in Belfast

One of the best things about being in Belfast solo is that you don’t have to compromise! You know what I mean if you have ever traveled with someone.

Making decisions on where to get a meal can sometimes be difficult. When you are on your own, the choice is all yours!!

Breakfast & Lunch

Town sq – university district.

Town Square is the solution to breakfast and lunch while visiting Belfast.

This place offers quality and creativity in its menu.

French Village -University District

French Village is a cute and comfy spot to enjoy a nice breakfast or lunch.

Located a bit south of the city center in the University area.

Harlem Cafe -City Center

This place has a lively and fresh interior, offering breakfast and weekend brunch! Located centrally near a live music venue, Ulster Hall.

Dinner & Drinks

• Ox City Center-Ox served up one of the best meals on my trip. A Michelin-starred restaurant in downtown Belfast, they have a prefix for lunch and dinner and an Irish Drink Menu.
• Ginger Bistro -Ginger Bistro is located in the city center. This bistro has been awarded as one of the finest restaurants in Belfast!
• The Dirty Onion – Cathedral Quarter- When you are in the mood for a casual, end-of-the-tour day, great food…go to the Dirty Onion. This place is great for drinks and fancy bar food fare. Indoor/outdoor seating, live music, and fantastic beer selections. The Cathedral Quarter is one of Belfast’s more lively and trendy areas.

The End of Your 3-day Belfast trip

When the journey through the history of Northern Ireland ends, keep that party going and perhaps take a trip to Dublin !

Travel solo down south and enjoy the live music of Irish folk songs and the home of the Guinness.

FAQ’s

I have visited Belfast solo a number of times. While there are areas of Belfast you don’t want to walk around alone at night, there are many safe neighborhoods for solo females. Just like you would do in your own city or town, look up the safety reports and stay in the central tourist areas. I would highly recommend solo travel in Belfast.

There is no bad time to visit Belfast, but the month of September or October is my favorite time. The weather can be somewhat unpredictable, so when you visit pack for all seasons! The busiest time to visit Belfast is July and August. Early June is also a great time to visit Belfast!

Solo female travel to Ireland is very popular! If you join walking tours or tours of small groups you will often find women traveling alone.

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Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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Great blog! I’ve done a few of the Belfast spots and they’re great. North Coast and Game of Thrones will be next!

Wow I would kill to go on a game of thrones tour! Looks like so much fun!!

I did a solo trip to Ireland and LOVED it! Would absolutely love to go back and see Northern Ireland, though, as your photos look amazing. That one of you holding the sword looks EPIC haha.

I would love to come check out Northern Ireland sometime! It looks beautiful, and I think it would be a fun place for a road trip!

Belfast is high on my list! When I’m back in Europe I definitely want to go. Thank you for these recommendations, the Belfast castle looks absolutely stunning (huge castle fan here!)

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30 fun things to do in belfast in 2024 (by a local).

Being Irish, I was born and raised in Belfast, so I know the place extremely well. I often think that Belfast is underrated, and not enough people visit.

So to encourage you to witness the wonderful Irish charm that Belfast possesses, I’ve created a list of 30 fun things to do in Belfast .

Travellerspoint

1. Head out Axe Throwing

Whilst visiting North America, I came to realize just how popular throwing an axe at a target is, and I'm happy that the trend has spread to Belfast.

Not only is it fun, unique and require some skill, it's a great form of couples therapy ;) 

Check out Black Axe Throwing Belfast out for a super unique experience on your next trip.

Definitely more of the more unique fun thing to do in Belfast.

2. Explore the history at Crumlin Road Gaol

This jail was established in 1845 and closed its doors as a working prison in 1996. It’s a key part of the history in the Northern Ireland troubles.

During those 150 years, the Gaol has housed suffragettes, murderers, and loyalist and republican prisoners.

It has witnessed deaths, births, and marriages and has been the home to escapes, executions,hunger-strikes and riots.

It is truly a place bursting in history and a must-see destination in Belfast!

It’s £9 per adult if you book online (£12 if you buy at the door).

They do theme tours, especially at Halloween on their fright nights.

3. Explore parliament buildings (Stormont)

Stormont is home to our parliament buildings.

The building itself is beautiful!

It’s open to the public and it’s a beautiful walk to the top.

You can see it from different angles as it sits perched on top of a hill.

After you’ve made the walk you can pop into the coffee shop and grab a cup of tea and coffee and a homemade bun or pastry.

Read Also: Our Ultimate 16 Day Ireland Road Trip Itinerary

4. Take a city bus tour and visit the murals

Belfast is bursting with a unique and sad history.

It’s important history and one that hasn’t fully resolved itself, despite best efforts.

Take an open top bus tour, or a black taxi cab and visit all the Belfast murals which are dotted around the city.

You’ll need a guide who can explain to you the meaning behind each picture and you’ll even get to visit the famous peace wall that was once used to divide up the two communities that live in the North of Ireland.

You will truly be fascinated by history, and don’t forget to ask lots of questions.

You can book onto these tours via GetYourGuide, or you will often find men in red coats in the city centre advertising the tours.

Bring an umbrella, it can rain even when it says it won’t in Northern Ireland .

5. Take a pub crawl

Belfast has one of the best nightlife in all of Europe, and I am not just saying that!

It’s got something to suit absolutely everyone.

It’s got a thriving gay scene (With some amazing gay clubs), it’s got nightclubs galore, authentic Irish pubs with traditional Irish music, and much more.

The best way to experience the nightlife of Belfast is to arrange a pub crawl.

There are a variety of companies organizing one via tours online, or you can make your own.

So, if you decide to make your own, these I recommend a spot at these bars/clubs:

• Ollies Belfast
• The Dirty Onion
• Bert’s Jazz Bar
• Filthy McNasty

6. Enjoy a picnic at Botanic gardens

Botanic garden is a name you’ll hear once the sun shines in Belfast.

People flock to these beautiful gardens to enjoy a game of football, sunbathing, picnics or even a drink in the park.

It’s spacious and there are walking opportunities and beautiful flowers of course.

Its free to enter, and I think it’s a wonderful place to enjoy a picnic on a sunny day or a place to relax and cure your hangover of that pub crawl I just suggested above!

Read Also: What To Do In Ireland

7. Walk up Black Mountain

Black Mountain is a national park area located about 20 minutes outside Belfast city centre.

It’s owned by the national trust and you can take a variety of walks around the mountain for free.

Parking is also free.

If you walk along the edge of the mountain you are greeted with amazing views over Belfast city and the surrounding areas.

For those who love hiking, then this is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Belfast.

8. Hit the shops

Belfast is BURSTING with amazing shopping opportunities.

You’ve got the classic Castle Court which is filled with all the shops you need, including lots of great places to eat .

Castle street which has lots of other shops and home to the massive Primark.

There is also the upscale Victoria Square which is home to an array of designer shops, and TopShop, River Island and Build-a-Bear.

It’s also got an Odeon cinema and some of the best restaurants in Belfast, including TGI Fridays, Five Guys and much more.

9. Visit W5

W5 is located in the SSE arena, which was previously known as the Odyssey.

The Odyssey itself is a great place to explore since it’s got a brilliant bowling alley which is very cheap.

On Tuesdays, games are around £3 per game, and there is always some sort of discount deal on.

There is also a cinema here, which I will speak more about in my next point.

But it’s home to W5, which is a popular place for children, families and well, adults.

It’s definitely one of the unique fun things to do in Belfast.

It’s basically like an amazing interactive science museum.

You can learn so much whilst actually testing out scientific theories and playing games with over 250 interactive exhibits.

This one is hard to explain, but if you have children, then you can’t go to Belfast and not visit here!

Cost of entry is £8.10 for adult and £7.10 for a child.

They offer family discount tickets. Find out more here.

10. Opt for a luxury cinema experience

The Odyssey Cinemas Belfast offers a luxury cinema experience like no other.

If you find it’s raining outside, then treat yourself to a movie at the Odyssey cinema.

Upgrade to the VIP option and get extreme comfort in seats, free popcorn and a free drink in an intimate cinema setting.

A cute couples date idea!

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Galway, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

11. Go Ice Skating at Dundonald

Dundonald ice skating rink is located near Parliament buildings in the same direction.

It’s the only ice skating rink in Northern Ireland and Belfast and it’s a lot of fun.

It’s not expensive either.

So if you want to get your skates on, (one of the fun things to do in Belfast when it's raining), then head to Dundonald.

There is even a bowling alley here too so you can combine double the fun.

Prices start at £6 per adult, and if you want you could even get an ice skating lesson!

Check for more information on their website here.

12. Dine in style at Cathedral Quarter

Known for its picturesque setting and cobbled streets, many visitors find themselves at Cathedral Quarter at some stage during their Belfast city break.

There are a lot of amazing restaurants, brilliant bars and lots of craic.

It’s actually the best place to start off your pub crawl, or a great idea for things to do in Belfast for couples.

Have the perfect date night!

I’ve included some history of Cathedral Quarter and a guide to the bars and restaurants in the area here.

13. Watch a show at the Grand Opera House

The Grand Opera House in Belfast is an iconic building, and it’s located next to the famous “Europa hotel”, which is famous for being the most bombed hotel in Europe, most bombed hotel in Europe" and the " most bombed hotel in the world " after having suffered 36 bomb attacks during the Troubles.

It’s a 4-star hotel that oozes luxury, and whilst I have never stayed here myself, I was here for an awards event and it was beautiful!

You can book a stay in the Europa here .

Anyway, the Grand Opera house is located next to it and it’s our equivalent of the theatre.

Lots of different shows tour here at various stages of the year.

Popular shows that have visited include, the Bodyguard, Chicago, Grease and every Christmas season there is a pantomime.

You can find out what’s on when you’re there here.

14. Explore Belfast Castle

Belfast Castle is located on the slopes of Cavehill Country Park.

It’s a beautiful setting and offers stunning views over the city.

It’s no surprise that is one of the top things to do in Belfast and a highly popular site for weddings.

It’s a beautiful place to explore, then grab a bite to eat at the Cellar restaurant that’s located there.

Or you can enjoy a classic Irish beer.

Try and visit here on a dry day with no mist to get the best views.

Read Also: The 35 Best Castles In Ireland That You Need To Visit

15. Eat your heart out at St Georges Market

St Georges Market is one of the best (if not the best) market in Belfast.

It offers an array of fantastic markets daily.

It was built between 1890 and 1896 and is one of the best markets in the UK and Ireland.  

It holds a weekly Friday Variety Market, the City Food and Craft Market on Saturdays and the Sunday Market.

It also hosts a range of events throughout the year.

Make sure you visit this very fun thing to do in Belfast!

It’s easy to get there too: There is a free city centre and market link service runs every 10 minutes on Monday to Saturdays and every 20 minutes on Sundays.

No excuse really!

16. Visit Lady Dixon Park

This is one of my ultimate favourite fun things to do in Belfast basically because it holds many fond memories for me.

Lady Dixon Park is best visited in Spring and Summer.

It’s famous for its beautiful surroundings, walks and it’s amazing rose gardens.

It’s a popular spot for wedding photos and when you see rose gardens you’ll see why!

There is also a little pond area that’s like hidden and it feels like “the secret garden”.

It’s truly a magical place and every year during summer the hold a “rose day” festival where there are little rides and puppet performances, so it’s a great place for families.

There is also a brilliant playpark and the ice cream van is always there to enjoy delicious ice cream.

17. Explore the Ulster Museum

This one of the best things to do in Belfast because it’s free! It’s also awesome.

I have fond memories of discovering dinosaurs and seeing Egyptian mummies, and that’s only some of the amazing things you can discover at this museum.

There is also a gift shop and cafe to enjoy after learning some amazing historical facts.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Tipperary, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

18. Wander around Belfast City Hall

Belfast city hall is actually the backdrop of the Christmas market held there every winter, but it’s also very beautiful to visit on a general day.

You can wander inside or you can opt for an organised tour of the city hall and here some interesting history about Belfast and the role of the city hall during the troubles.

19. Visit the animals at Belfast Zoo

Zoos are often a controversial topic, but I visited the zoo in Belfast when I was younger and I have this memory of being stuck in the zoo during a storm, it was fun.

But anyway, Belfast zoo is very well maintained and the animals have lots of space.

It’s also perched on the hills so a lot of steep walking is required to visit.

You could easily spend a whole morning and afternoon here.

Entrance is £13 for an adult and £6.50 for children.

Find out more on their website.

20. Take an Antrim Coastal Road Drive

There is nothing quite like you’re own little Northern Irish road trip up the Antrim Coast.

It’s one of the most beautiful coastlines in Ireland and you’ll discover many castles and ruins along the way.

It will also take you to the Giants Causeway, so it’s a good way to rent a car and explore another side of Ireland just outside Belfast.

Read Also: Driving The Ring Of Beara: What To See And Why You Should Do It!

21. The Ulster Hall Belfast

The Ulster Hall is not only a beautiful building both inside and out, but it is host to many concerts, comedians and shows throughout the year.

There is always something on at the Ulster Hall, so if you have an evening free, find a show that is on whilst you are there and make an evening of it.

You can check the Ulster Hall website to find out more about listings and timings.

22. The Irish Linen Museum

This is a museum housed in a grand 18th-century public building showcasing the Irish linen industry and local history.

It’s actually located in Lisburn which is also considered a city (But it’s very small), that is only 15-20 minutes from Belfast.

Lisburn itself also has a shopping complex, cinema, bowling alley and swimming pool with slides, which is a perfect day out with children!

You can get a train from Lisburn to Belfast too and vice versa.

23. Marvel at St Anne’s Cathedral

St Anne's Cathedral, or known to locals as Belfast Cathedral , is a Church of Ireland cathedral that is the beating heart of the famous Cathedral Quarter. The first foundation stone was built in 1899 on the old site of the St Anne’s parish church, and has since become one of Belfast’s iconic landmarks.

One of my favorite things about this church is its intricate neo-Romanesque architecture. Exploring its stained glasses, patterned floors and ceiling mosaics, it is difficult not to be entranced by this old-world charm.

There’s also an impressive Celtic Cross sculpture on the exterior, while the carefully laid arts and tapestries within tell a rich and stunning history.

It’s free to visit for a quiet prayer, and you can see this stunning church almost any time of the day. But we would check with their official website for any services.

Price: Free

24. Stroll Around Queen’s University

Opened in 1849, Queen's University Belfast is perhaps one of the country’s most revered universities. Its research-intensive approach and prestige are not the only things of note here. 

You can find it near the Botanic Gardens. And considering this is a student area, it is teeming with charming coffee shops, boutique stores, and indie entertainment centers!

The university grounds have over 250 buildings and flaunt some charming architecture that have attracted plenty of non-student visitors.

For instance, I would recommend seeing the Lanyon Building, the campus’ centerpiece that was named after its architect Charles Lanyon. Try taking a tour of this building to learn some fascinating stories. From the former circus ringmaster-slash-University Secretary, to a pioneering cardiologist.

I also find that the free Naughton Gallery has some interesting exhibitions - perfect for art lovers! Meanwhile, the Queen’s Film Theatre often has popular films playing too.

25. See the HMS Caroline

The HMS Caroline is a decommissioned cruiser of the Royal Navy and last surviving warship that fought the 1916 Battle of Jutland. Moored in the Alexandra Dock of Titanic Quarter, this museum offers free parking, a play park and picnic area.

It’s a family-friendly attraction where you can learn about sailors and the city’s maritime history. This ship was used as the Northern Ireland headquarters for the Navy during the Second World War. Then, it became a training ship.

Of course, it only became a floating mission after being decommissioned in 2011. The quayside is home to an exhibition space of personal stories. You can come on board to watch some impressive films and observe the restored cabins and deck areas.

Opening Times: 10am - 5pm

26. Walk the Cave Hill Country Park

Are you a fan of nature who always appreciates a good walk? If so, then the Cave Hill Country Park is something you shouldn’t miss when in Belfast. Set along basalt cliffs that are home to five caves, this hiking trail is the perfect place to enjoy the cityscape from above.

Stretching over 4.5 miles, this path will take between 1.5 to 2 hours. You will cross moorlands, heaths and meadows and see some of the picturesque sceneries in this area. Feel free to stop by some of its archaeological sites, picnic spots, and ecotrails.

One of the must-see sites is McArts Fort, an old ráth perched on an elevation of 1,200 feet! It’s located on top of Napoleon’s Nose, which is an iconic natural feature visible from the streets of Belfast.

More impressively, the rumor is that this impressive landmark inspired Jonathan Swift in his most famous work, Gulliver’s Travels. Apparently he mistook the rock for the shape of a sleeping giant!

Opening Times: 7:30 am daily, closing time varies.

27. Immerse yourself in the history of the Giants Causeway

Oh, the Giants Causeway, the mystical place of Ireland, the story of the Giant and the beautiful natural phenomenon.

I don’t want to give away the story of the Giants Causeway, because that’s part of the fun of it!

But when you go, you’ll fall in love. Wear your best walking shoes as it can be slippery and there are some beautiful walks and trails to take.

It’s actually free to enter the Giants Causeway itself, but you can pay extra to get an audio guide.

I definitely think it’s worth hearing the audio guide as you get to learn so much about the area!

I’ve been about 12 times, and I did the audio guide once and it truly gave me another meaning to the experience.

I love the Giant’s Causeway, it’s one of my favourite places in Northern Ireland.

It’s located on the Antrim Coast, and while you are there you could take a tour of the Bushmills Whiskey Factory (if that’s your thing!)

Go there via organised tour, or rent a car for the day and see this site and the other sites I am going to list below.

Read Also: Driving The Ring Of Kerry: Everything You Need To Know!

28. Visit the beautiful coastal town of Newcastle and the Mourne Mountains

When I was 10 years old I moved from the bustling Belfast to the peaceful Mourne Mountains in Co Down.

I lived in an area called Castlewellan (which is worth a visit for its peace maze which is the largest in Europe!)

But Newcastle is where I worked for about 8 years. Newcastle is a coastal town bursting with charm and wonderful people.

Head down early, catch breakfast, walk along the beach (if it’s sunny, actually swim in the sea), then head for a walk up the Mourne Mountains and witness of the best beauty Ireland has to offer.

There are arcades, 2 outdoor swimming pools and lots of amazing bars for you to visit, so it’s even worth staying a night if you wish.

If you’re interested, I worked in a place called “Broadway Cafe” which offers an American vibe with American style cuisine (massive portions!). So if you want somewhere to eat, head there! They are well known for the delicious homemade chips.

You can take the bus to Newcastle from Belfast bus station, or get a taxi if you wish.

29. Visit Game of Thrones Sites

Northern Ireland is one of the key filming spots of the hit TV show Game of Thrones (which you NEED to watch if you haven't yet!)

I took him to a few spots including the Dark Hedges, which was very pretty (As you can see below!), but I’ve included an article that locates all the Game of Thrones sites for you.

You could easily spend a day doing this!

This is a great tour that combines the Giant's causeway too.

30. Explore the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

This rope bridge is another picture perfect place to visit.

If the weather is really bad then they tend to close it. It doesn’t cost to go visit the rope bridge, but it costs to cross it.

It’s a rickety ole rope bridge, but it’s not very long so I wouldn’t be afraid.  

It’s a very beautiful site, and I recommend grabbing some drone footage here!

You can go via tour too .

Where should I stay in Belfast?

Belfast has lots of brilliant hotels. And I've stayed in quite a few of them, the Hilton, Ibis, Jurys Inn, Holiday Inn, etc but my most recent stay was in the Maldron which is a budget friendly, 4 star hotel that is honestly in the perfect location for the perfect price!

You can book here!

Read Also: Where To Stay In Belfast

Getting around Belfast

In Belfast the main forms of transport are walking, buses (also known as gliders) and car/taxi.

Uber is available in Belfast City and it's reasonable so I always recommend using that.

We also have a train system, but not a great one.

You can however get trains to Lisburn, Bangor (another cool coastal town), and even Dublin if you fancy a day trip down to the South of Ireland.

The main bus and train company is called "Translink" and you can buy tickets from machines via card or on the bus via cash.

Please have correct change or bus drivers can be grumpy.

Read Also: How To Travel Around Ireland

How to get to Belfast

You can easily get to Belfast via flights.

There are multiple flights from all across the world that enter Belfast city airport or Belfast International airport.

Popular airlines include Ryanair, Easyjet and Aer Lingus.

You can also get to Belfast via ferry from England, Scotland and Wales.

Try Skyscanner for the best prices.

Getting from the airport

Whether you fly to Belfast City, Belfast International or even Dublin, you can easily get buses to and from the airport.

They all leave regularly from the Europa bus station, which is them main bus terminal is Belfast.

Taxis are also an option but honestly are ovepriced so I would just suggest getting the bus.

There are also car rental desks at the airport if you do decide to rent your own car for your trip. Driving in Belfast isn't complicated.

You can rent a car via RentalCars right here.

Read Also: Our Guide To Hiring A Campervan In Ireland

When is the best time to visit Belfast?

Belfast is truly wonderful all year round.

So I wouldn’t say there is a “best time” to visit.

Summer is great for outdoor festivals and concerts, food fairs, and some decent weather every now and again.

Autumn is great for beautiful autumn scenery and colours, Winter is the home of the Belfast Christmas market, which truly brings Belfast to life. (I’ve been going with my dad and sister every year since it started!), and Spring brings pleasant walks and much more.

How long should I stay in Belfast?

Belfast is the perfect place for a city break. I would recommend giving yourself 3 nights for a trip to Belfast.

You should be able to experience all the best highlights, but you could easily stretch this to longer and experience even more.

There are lots of great places located just 40 minutes to an hour outside Belfast such as the Giants Causeway, which is well worth seeing.

So there you have it, my ultimate guide on the 30 most fun things to do in Belfast (and beyond!). Belfast truly is a city where you will never go bored.

There is always so much to do, and I’ve not even listed everything.

If you’ve got any more suggestions you think I should add to the list then let me know.

• What To Pack For Ireland
• ‍ Things To Do In Northern Ireland
• Things To Do In Dingle
• Things To Do In Mayo
• Things To Do In Dublin
• The Best Places To Visit In Ireland

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New Travel Vlog Episode – Belfast, Northern Ireland Guide

Until I visited Belfast , I didn’t truly realize just how amazing the city really is.  It is a city that is steeped in history, and so much of that history can still be explored.  When I visited, I felt like I was taking a trip back in time thru some of Europe’s most historical moments.  That is one of the things that makes this city so special and one of the reasons why I am creating this travel vlog on tips for visiting this amazing city.

The city of Belfast, which is currently the island of Ireland’s 2nd largest city, played a large role in the Industrial Revolution.  In fact, this is where the legendary ship the Titanic was built, and the city is very proud of being a part of that history.

Belfast has also seen its fair share of troubles over its lengthy history.  Starting in the 1960’s, and lasting until the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, the island of Ireland was locked in a bitter and often bloody conflict known as “the Troubles”.  The dispute over whether the land in Northern Ireland would be part of the Republic of Ireland or the United Kingdom cast a dark cloud over the region, and Belfast was at the epicenter of the conflict. In this travel vlog, I will give you some other fun historical facts about the city of Belfast that will help you understand the city when you visit.

In this Travel Vlog, I am going to provide you with all of the resources you will need to explore this wonderful city and all of its amazing history.  I will be providing you with tips on the best way to get to Belfast, when the best times of the year are to visit the city, and where to stay while you are in town.  I also outline the top things to see and do in the city, including the best tours and excursions.   With this information in hand, you can rest assured knowing that your trip to Belfast will be one you will remember for a lifetime.

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Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

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38 Best Things to Do in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Written By: The Planet D

Northern Ireland

Updated On: April 4, 2024

Belfast, Northern Ireland, is a city that must be added to any Ireland Itinerary. It’s a place where the blend of past and present offers an exhilarating array of things to do. Trace the steps of history at the shipyards where the Titanic’s story began, explore its iconic landmarks from tales behind the Crumlin Road Gaol, or meander through the paths of the Botanic Gardens. We took a journey through Belfast, where each corner has a story, and the list of things to do in Belfast unfolds with a treasure trove of experiences. So, stock up on your British pounds and learn how to convert from kilometers to miles, we’re taking you on a journey of all the best places to visit in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Table of Contents

Top Things to do in Belfast

Located just two hours north of Dublin , Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom (not the Republic of Ireland). Belfast may be just a hop, skip, and jump from Ireland’s more famous city, but it feels worlds away. Check RentalCars.com for car rental comparisons.

1. Titanic Belfast

Undoubtedly, one of the most popular things to do in Belfast is to visit Titanic Belfast. This incredible interactive museum is dedicated to the ill-fated Titanic voyage. The RMS Titanic was built right here in the shipyards of Belfast. This huge museum takes you through the journey of building the Titanic to the rescue of survivors off the coast of Canada.

Titanic Belfast houses multimedia displays that share first-hand account stories playing over loudspeakers as you walk through its galleries showcasing replicas of rooms on the Titanic and relics salvaged from the site.

There’s a Disney-like ride in the middle of the self-guided tour where you hop on a ride as you journey to the bottom of the ship, gliding through the bowels of the mighty ship. We have visited this museum three times, and we always find something new. The best time to visit Titanic Belfast is early in the morning. This is the most popular attraction in Belfast, and tour busses arrive quickly, so stay ahead of the crowds by being first in line.

Get your tickets ahead of time so that you can walk right in instead of standing in line for entry tickets. Read more about another Titanic Museum in Canada: The Best Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia

• Opening Hours: 9 am – 7 pm
• Website: Titanic Belfast
• Address: 1 Olympic Way, Queen’s Road, Belfast BT3 9EP, UK

2. SS Nomadic

Once you finish off in Titanic Belfast, your ticket includes a self-guided tour of the SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line ship in the world. It’s an interesting stop to see firsthand what it was like to step aboard the Titanic.

The SS Nomadic was used to ferry passengers to the Titanic and was built with the same finishes as the Titanic herself, giving you a first-hand look at what it was like for passengers on the Titanic.

It was often referred to as the mini Titanic as it was built alongside the ship and is exactly one-third its size. Its most famous voyage took first and second-class passengers from Cherbourg, France, to the deeper waters to board the Titanic. It did not follow the Titanic’s fate, however, and served for another 50 years, seeing many famous passengers walk its halls, including Charlie Chaplin, Elizabeth Taylor, and Richard Burton.

• Website: Explore SS Nomadic
• Address: Hamilton Dock, Queens Rd, Belfast BT3 9DT, UK

3. Titanic’s Dock and Pumphouse

When visiting Belfast, you’ll probably spend a good chunk of your time in the Titanic Quarter learning about the city’s maritime history. The Titanic Quarter centers around the former Harland & Wolff shipyard and it’s worth spending a few hours in this area taking in its fascinating history. You don’t necessarily need to go inside Titanic Belfast for the Titanic Experience.

See where the massive ship sat in the dry dock before launching. This is where the Titanic was constructed and you can walk its entire footprint. Visitors can descend 44 feet (13 meters). Located right next door is the pumphouse that was used to drain water from the dock that was then known as the Thompson Dry Dock today there are exhibits and machinery used when building the Titanic on display.

Address: NI Science Park, Queens Rd, Queen’s Island, Belfast BT3 9DT, UK

4. Titanic Hotel

Even if you are not staying in the Titanic Hotel, it’s worth going inside for a drink or to grab some lunch. Half hotel, half museum, this historic hotel is located directly across the street from Titanic Belfast. Located in the former headquarters of Harland & Wolff, the builders of the Titanic, there are historic photographs, vintage posters, and memorabilia from the heydays of the White Star Lines.

The Drawing Offices and half a dozen key heritage rooms within the hotel are open to public tours (subject to availability) providing an opportunity to view the artifacts, restoration works, and interior decoration of this important maritime heritage building. Tours can be booked to see the art deco themed rooms, and former offices including Lord Pirries Office and the Corridor of Power.

• Book your stay at the Titanic Hotel
• Address: Titanic Quarter, 8 Queens Rd, Belfast BT3 9DT, UK

5. Titanic Studios

One of Europe’s largest film studios is located in the Titanic Quarter. Game of Thrones was filmed right within these walls. While it is still a working studio and there aren’t any tours, you can go to another studio tour just 30 minutes outside the city. But if you take a stroll by, you just may catch a glimpse of your favourite Hollywood or UK movie star.

6. Linen Mill Studio Tours – Game of Thrones

Linen Mill Studios is an incredible interactive museum dedicated to Game of Thrones. During its filming, many integral scenes were filmed right in these studios in Banbridge, Northern Ireland. This is one of the best museums we’ve ever visited and Game of Thrones fans will want to spend at least a few hours participating in the exhibits. Read about our full experience here.

Walk through authentic sets and stand side by side with John Snow and Arya Stark as you admire recreations of iconic sets such as The Night’s Watch and Kings Landing. You can sit on the Iron Throne, create your own sigil, and try your hand at capture motion. It’s truly a movie buff’s dream. Read more: A Game of Thrones Tour of Northern Ireland

There is even a gift shop where you can pick up some of your favourite Game of Thrones memorabilia.

• Opening Hours: August 9:30am- 7:30pm / Nov – Dec 10:00 am to 5:30 pm / All other months 10:00am to 6:30 pm
• Website: Game of Thrones Studio Tour Address: 245 Castlewellan Rd, Banbridge BT32 3SG, UK
• Free parking with shuttle to museum and there is a coffee shop on site.

7. HMS Caroline

The HMS Caroline is a restored warship from World War I. It is a floating museum that you can do self-guided tours on to learn about its history and what life was like on board the last remaining British WW1 light cruiser still afloat. It is also the sole survivor of the Battle of Jutland. It has been closed since 2020 but is scheduled to reopen later this summer.

• Opening Hours: Closed
• Address: Alexandra Dock, Queens Rd, Belfast BT3 9DT, UK

8. Samson & Goliath Cranes

You can’t help but notice the two giant yellow cranes towering above the Titanic Quarter. The cranes have become a symbol of Belfast hailing to a time when it was home to the largest shipbuilders in the world.

They are not in operation anymore, but they are protected and will remain a part of Belfast’s heritage for years to come. When in operation, they could lift 840 tonnes. Goliath stands 96 meters high, while Samson is 106 metres tall.

9. Glass of Thrones

Strolling along the waterfront from the Titanic Quarter to downtown isn’t your usual waterfront walk. There are plenty of stops and attractions along the way, most notably the Glass of Thrones. Paying tribute to Game of Thrones, there are six stained glass exhibits housing scenes from the popular HBO Series. Check out Game of Thrones Filming Locations You Can Visit in Real-life

Each stained glass displays a different house or key moment in the Game of Thrones, representing the Starks, Lannisters, Baratheons, Targaryens, White Walkers, and the Iron Throne. Watch for them as you walk the Maritime Mile from HMS Caroline past Titanic Studios to the AC Hotel across the river.

• Address for display near HMS Caroline 11 Queens Rd, Belfast BT3 9AD, UK

All Glass of Thrones Locations

The six stained-glass exhibits line the waterfront trails. Many people walk in the opposite direction starting at AC Belfast and ending at HMS Caroline. Here is a list of all the windows.

• Glass 1: Stark at AC Belfast
• Glass 2: Baratheon at Lagan Weir 
• Glass 3: Targaryeon at Odyssey 
• Glass 4: White Walkers at SS Nomadic 
• Glass 5: The Iron Throne at Titanic Slipway 
• Glass 6: Lannister at HMS Caroline

10. Titanic Walkway

Located within the Maritime Mile is the Titanic Walkway that spans from Victoria Wharf which connects the Titanic Slipways and Alexandra Dock. The Mew Lighthouse is featured at the end of the wharf with a modern installation housing the 130-year-old lighthouse that in its time was one of the largest optics ever made.

• Address: Titanic Quarter, The Maritime Mile, Belfast BT3 9FH, UK

11. Belfast City Hall

It’s worth taking a stroll around Belfast City Hall to see its lovely architecture and the grounds of the civic buildings of Belfast City Council. There are plenty of displays and memorials around City Hall, including the Titanic Memorial Gardens. Make sure to visit it at dusk to see it lit up with colorful lighting.

Due to its booming population, economy, and industrial advancements, Queen Victoria granted Belfast city status in 1888. Soon after, City Hall was constructed to mirror the city’s expanding prosperity,

You can also book tours of Belfast City Hall, they happen every day and are free. The experienced guide will take you on an hour-long tour through the building. No reservations are needed, tours are available on a first come first served basis.

• Website – www.belfastcity.gov.uk
• Address: Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GS, UK

12. Victoria Square Shopping Center

We stumbled upon this Belfast attraction by accident. Wanting to take a shortcut back to our hotel, we noticed Victoria Square among the walking streets of downtown Belfast. Located in the heart of Belfast City Centre, Victoria Square was a lovely shopping centre with name-brand stores in a covered gallery.

When we entered the modern shopping center we noticed a high-tech dome in its center. We’d already been walking a lot that day and were happy to see an elevator to the top. We came out to a panoramic view of the city of Belfast.

13. Victoria Square lookout

There are in-house tour guides to offer guidance on the sights, but luckily for us, there was a local man with his daughter up there with us who pointed out Belfast attractions such as Belfast City Hall, The Titanic Quarter, and Cave Hill. It’s free to enter and one of the things to do in Belfast that we highly recommend.

From the Victoria Square lookout, we had a panoramic view of Belfast city and the surrounding area. You can walk up or take the elevator to the top of the lookout.

14. Black Taxi Tour

During our first trip to Belfast, we took a Black Taxi political tour through Shankhill Roads and Falls Road. This was a fascinating tour through the Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods of Belfast that are still divided today. The 25-foot-high walls divide the areas where strong lines are drawn between Loyalists and nationalists.

The gates are still locked today, and since the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, more walls have been built to divide territories. The walls are called Peace Walls which are designed to keep the peace in the neighborhoods. There is a tenuous peace between the two communities in Northern Ireland, and they still feel the division, but these walls keep that feeling of safety. Book your tour at TouringBelfast.com

The Troubles

When thinking of Belfast in Northern Ireland , people often envision The Troubles of the 20th century, where religions fuelled violence and divided the city (quite literally). The long walls separating the areas of Shankhill Road and Falls Road are still standing today. However, the Northern Ireland Executive is working to dismantle them. It has been a slow process, so for now, they are still standing.

During our first few visits to Belfast, we were guilty of focusing only on the troubles and doing day trips to the Causeway Coast. When visiting again, we spent more time in the city centre to really discover things to do in Belfast that set it apart from other European cities. Today, Belfast is so much more than a city struggling with religious differences. There are many things to do in Belfast that set it apart from its troubling past and make for an amazing city to visit.

15. Taxi Tour Today

We took another tour this summer and noticed a difference from our Black Taxi Tour a few years ago. Today, our drive didn’t focus as much on the political tour as he did on talking about positive messages. While the murals are still standing, there seem to be fewer than we remember.

Our driver said that they are trying to create new role models and build the community. It was good to take two different tours, as the Black Taxi tours don’t only focus on politics. We went through all the quarters of Belfast getting an overview of the city which helped us get our bearings and navigate where to go next on our own.

16. Crumlin Road Gaol (Jail)

One of the places you’ll drive by during your taxi tours is the Crumlin Road Gaol, but make sure to go back and visit it properly. Gaol is the word for jail in Gaelic. This was a working jail up until 1996 and both republican and loyalist prisoners were held here including women and children.

Here, we learned where the phrase, “take him down originated” The Crumlin Road Gaol is located directly across from the Crumlin Road Courthouse. When a person was condemned, they were taken down to an underground tunnel connected directly to the jail. Your visit includes a walk to this tunnel. You’ll also see the prison cells and execution cells where the majority of the 17 men were executed.

17. Street Murals and Political Murals

One of the best ways to see the political murals is to take a black taxi political tour, but we have also explored them on our own. During our first visit to Belfast more than a decade ago, the Shankhill and Falls Roads murals were all political murals, but they are now interspersed with street art and positive messages of looking forward while still paying tribute to the past and those who gave their lives for their cause.

The murals are important in Belfast culture, depicting historic events from Shankhill Road to Clonard Martyrs Memorial Gardens and the walls along Falls Road. We got in our rental car and drove around the neighborhoods, searching for murals and memorials. One of the easiest ways to find murals we didn’t know of was to look for the black taxis. They were pretty easy to find.

If you don’t have a rental car, this tour is a great option  when visiting Belfast to learn the story of “The Troubles” and events in Northern Ireland’s tumultuous history. You’ll discover the Belfast murals and go through the former conflict areas of The Falls and Shankill Road.

18. Belfast Castle

It took us three visits to Belfast before we finally stopped at Belfast Castle. Located in Cavehill Country Park, Belfast castle stands high above Belfast on a hill within the grounds of Cave Hill Country Park. It is free to enter and inside you can tour its rooms and grab a bite to eat at the cafe.

We felt like we had the rooms to ourselves as we walked through the floors. It didn’t take long, but it’s always cool to go inside. We also explored a bit of the hiking trails and if you are into that sort of thing, the Belfast Zoo is located nearby.

There is free parking for the castle and a coffee shop inside.

19. Cave Hill Country Park

Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to truly explore Cave Hill Country Park, but for outdoor lovers, this is one of the best things to do in Belfast. It can easily be combined with a tour of Belfast Castle. explore the caves but you can explore the history and caves along this historic 7.2 km path (4.5 miles) in around 3 hours.

There are plenty of things to keep you occupied for an afternoon at Cave Hill Country Park, including hiking trails to archaeological sites and gardens leading to Belfast Castle. Whether you are in the mood for a serious hike or a casual walk, there’s something for everyone.

A fun fact is that the hill that Cave Hil Country Park is situated on is believed to have been the inspiration for Jonathan Swift’s novel, Gulliver’s Travels.

20. Colin Glen Forest Park

Nestled on the outskirts of Belfast, Colin Glen Forest Park is a great place for families. As a sprawling woodland located in the Belfast Hills, this park has a SkyTrek high ropes course, and the exhilarating Black Bull Run, Ireland’s first official Alpine Coaster.

This is one of Belfast’s most popular attractions as tourists and locals alike spend a day Colin Glen Forest Park to enjoy outdoor activities like golfing at the state-of-the-art Toptracer driving range. Whether you’re hiking through its forest paths, taking in the panoramic views, or seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, Colin Glen is a must-visit destination on any Belfast itinerary.

21. Belfast’s Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens are located in the university district, and a visit here can be combined with a trip to the Ulster Museum. This area is just about one mile from the Belfast city centre and is within walking distance from City Hall.

Established in 1828 by the Belfast Botanic and Horticultural Society, Belfast’s Botanic Gardens are a quiet retreat within the busy university area of bustling Belfast. Don’t miss stopping by its greenhouse to see an early example of this iron glasshouse.

Make sure to go inside the Palm House standing at the heart of the gardens. This iconic Victorian greenhouse invites visitors to explore its two wings: the cool wing, home to temperate plants worldwide, and the tropical wing, where exotic plants and towering palm trees thrive. There is also a coffee shop in the Botanic Gardens where you can grab a coffee and relax.

22. Lady Dixon Park

If you want more outdoor experiences in Belfast, Lady Dixon Park is another option. Located in South Belfast, Lady Dixon Park is an extensive park dedicated to the memory of Lady Edith Dixon, who is renowned for her significant contribution to the city’s greenery.

Lady Dixon Park features a rose garden that hosts an annual Rose Week festival, drawing visitors from all over. Ideal for families, nature lovers, and those looking to unwind, the park offers a variety of activities.

Visitors can enjoy walking trails that wind through woodland and along the River Lagan, spacious picnic areas for a leisurely lunch, and playgrounds for younger guests. The park is also equipped with a café for refreshments. Whether you’re interested in a peaceful stroll, bird watching, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

23. Ulster Museum

Located within the Botanic Gardens, Ulster Museum is the largest museum in Northern Ireland. When visiting the Ulster Museum, you’ll take a walk through history dating back to the dinosaurs through to the history of Northern Ireland to today.

Ulster Museum is part of the national museums and galleries of Northern Ireland combined with the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum and the Ulster American Folk Art Museum, which is worth stopping to see just outside of Belfast.

24. Queen’s University

After visiting the Botanic Gardens and Ulster Museum, take a stroll over to another famous Belfast Landmark at Queen’s University. This area is a great place to hang out and the buildings of Queen’s University offer some of the greatest architectural designs in the country. In fact, the Lanyon Building is often seen in advertising for Northern Ireland Tourism.

As with the case of visiting so many cities, we love strolling university grounds. They are the heartbeat of the city with gorgeous architecture, and Queen’s University in Belfast reminded us a bit of Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario.

25. St. Anne’s Cathedral

No visit to any European city would be complete without visiting its cathedral, and Belfast is no exception. St. Anne’s Cathedral (Also known as the Belfast Cathedral) is aptly located in the Cathedral Quarter. The cathedral began construction on the sight of St. Anne’s parish Church in 1895 after deciding that a cathedral was needed in the city.

Fun fact, St. Anne’s Parish church was used until 1903 as the building was built up around it. It took another 80 years to complete. Between the World Wars, The Troubles, and inflation there were several delays in completing St. Anne

St. Anne’s Cathedral is less than a kilometer from the Belfast city centre. You can book tours of the Cathedral Quarter.

26. Metropolitan Arts Centre (MAC)

Located directly behind St. Anne’s Cathedral in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, The Metropolitan Arts Centre is a place for music, art exhibitions, and live theatre. If you are looking for things to do in Belfast at night, check out one of the performances here.

Or you can go inside during your stop at the Belfast Cathedral to peruse its galleries. Exhibitions are free, and you can try your hand at creating some of your own art at its interactive imagination stations. (Donations welcome)

27. The Salmon of Knowledge (The Big Fish)

One of our favourite things to do in Belfast is to stroll along the waterfront taking in the sights from Titanic Belfast to the Belfast City Centre. From Glass of Thrones displays to the other murals including the Big Fish at Lagan Lookout.

This is a great place to cross the Lagan River to begin your walk towards Belfast City Centre as from the fish, there are plenty of attractions. Take in the views of the river, before heading up Queen’s Square to see the Albert Memorial Clock.

28. Albert Memorial Clock

Pisa may be the most famous leaning tower in the world, but Belfast has its own leaning tower with the Albert Memorial Clock. The tower was built on reclaimed land and weighs a whopping 1,000 tonnes which caused it to sing into the ground. Whether you are walking or taking a tour, it’s easy to see the lean of the tower

29. Go, Pub Hopping

No trip to Belfast (or Ireland for that matter) would be complete without visiting its pubs throughout central Belfast. If you are looking for things to do in Belfast at night, head out to the bars around Belfast city center and go pub hopping. Make sure to start at McHughs Bar located just a hop skip and a jump from Albert Memorial Clock. It dates back to 1711 making it the oldest surviving pub in Belfast.

30. Crown Liquor Saloon

Located on Grand Victoria Street, the Crown Liquor Saloon is a beautifully preserved Victorian gin palace owned by the National Trust.

One of Northern Ireland’s best-known pubs, the Crown Liquor Saloon, dates back to 1826 and was once the mightiest of Victorian gin palaces. Its ornate exterior attracts customers from around the world, and inside, it has been meticulously restored by the national trust. It is probably one of the most beautiful pubs you’ll ever visit.

31. St. George’s Market

Who doesn’t love a market? St George’s Market is one of Belfast’s oldest attractions. If you happen to be in Belfast on a Friday, check out St George’s market that has been running on this exact site since 1604. It is also open on Saturdays and Sundays for the City Food and Craft Market with rotating craft, food, antique and garden markets.

Food lovers can indulge in various culinary delights, from gourmet street food to fresh, local produce, making it an ideal spot for a delicious breakfast or lunch.

Meanwhile, craft aficionados will find themselves enthralled by the variety of handmade goods, ranging from jewelry to ceramics and beyond. Whether you’re after a taste of Northern Ireland’s culinary offerings or searching for a one-of-a-kind souvenir, a visit to St George’s Market is an essential part of any Belfast itinerary.

32. Parliament Buildings (Stormont)

The Parliament Buildings of Northern Ireland are located on the Stormont Estate in East Belfast and are often referred to simply as Stormont. The seat of the Northern Ireland Assembly offers visitors a chance to explore Northern Ireland’s political history and enjoy walking trails in the surrounding parkland.

The parliament buildings are open to the public for free guided tours from 9:00AM to 4:00PM daily. (closed on public and bank holidays). It is an interesting thing to tour parliament buildings, we have done so a couple of times in our nation’s capital of Ottawa Canada.

The Parliament Buildings are located in Stormont Park, where you can enjoy an escape from the hustle and bustle of Belfast. There is a 4km long woodland walk and even a 1.6km fitness trail with outdoor gym equipment.

33. Grand Opera House Belfast

If you want to catch a live performance in Belfast, consider booking tickets to a show at the Grand Opera House Belfast. From ballet to opera to musical theatre, it has it all.

If you don’t catch a show, consider taking a tour of the Grand Opera House Heritage Exhibition to explore this venue that has been a large part of the city’s history. The Grand Opera House has a 125 year history where the likes of Charlie Chaplin and Luciano Pavarotti have walked its halls.

Located on Great Victoria Street the Grand Opera House is a splendid example of Victorian architecture that has hosted countless performances since its opening in 1895.

34. Belfast Barge Museum

A great complement to your Titanic Belfast tour is to visit the Belfast Barge Museum. This permanent exhibit showcases what is called “The Greatest Story Never Told.” Learn of the people who worked on the River Lagan, most notably Harland & Wolfe, the company that built The Titanic.

The Museum is free to enter and is worth giving a donation to see its artifacts and visual displays from this bygone era.

35. Ulster Folk and Transport Museum

Located just outside Belfast, The Ulster Folk and Transport Museum offers a unique glimpse into Northern Ireland’s past. This expansive museum is divided into two distinct sections: the Folk Museum, where visitors can wander through a meticulously recreated early 20th-century town, complete with costumed actors and traditional crafts, and the Transport Museum, which houses an impressive collection of steam locomotives, electric trams, motorcycles, and automobiles, showcasing the evolution of transport in the region.

Ideal for history buffs, families, and anyone interested in the cultural heritage and technological advancements of Northern Ireland, the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum provides an educational and enjoyable day out. With its interactive exhibits and picturesque setting, it ranks high on the list of must-visit destinations for those exploring the best things to do in Belfast and its surrounding areas.

36. Mussenden Temple

Belfast is a great place to make a base in Northern Ireland and because many of the top Belfast attractions are just a short drive away, you can see a lot of the country quickly.

37. Dark Hedges

The Dark Hedges aren’t as lush and attractive as they once were after pruning in recent years, but they are still one of Northern Ireland’s most photographed attractions. This beautiful row of beech trees lines an old country lane. It has gained in popularity thanks to Game of Thrones which featured it in season one as Arya Stark rode away from King’s Landing along the King’s Road. Read more: The Dark Hedges of Northern Ireland – Tips to Visit and What you Need to Know

The Dark Hedges are located on Bregagh Road on privately owned land. So please be respectful as they are in bad shape. In an independent expert review, it was revealed that 11 out of 86 trees along the road were in deteriorating condition, presenting a possible danger to the public. 6 trees have been removed, and 4 others are being monitored.

Derry ended up being one of our favorite places to visit in Northern Ireland and it can be done on a day trip from Belfast. Officially known as Londonderry by the British Government, Derry is a small city that can be explored in a day or two. Derry was ground zero for the troubles and when walking through the Bogside area of Derry, you’ll still see murals and monuments to victims of Bloody Sunday and the conflict.

The walls of Derry are our favourite Londonderry attraction. It surrounds the city centre and is considered one of the best-preserved walled cities in Europe. A visit to Derry is a fascinating way to learn about Northern Ireland’s history. Read more: Things to do in Derry – Londonderry, Northern Ireland

39. Giant’s Causeway

Giant’s Causeway is Northern Ireland’s most famous attraction, and it is just a 90-minute drive from Belfast City Hall. This extraordinary natural phenomenon was formed by a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago. The UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases more than 40 thousand basalt pillars that are stacked perfectly, leading out to the sea.

It looks as if each pillar has been laid there by some sort of giant entity. In fact, there is a legend about the Giant’s Causeway and how the giant Fionn McCool built it. Read more: How To Visit the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland

Giant’s Causeway is one of the most popular day trips from Belfast and it can easily be done in just one day. However, we suggest staying overnight at the Causeway Hotel so that you can visit at sunrise and sunset before the tour busses arrive.

If you don’t have the time or the budget, you can book this highly rated day trip from Belfast to Giant’s Cause to explore it and other attractions on the Causeway Coast.

Where to Eat in Belfast

Dining in Northern Ireland has come a long way baby and we thoroughly enjoyed our dining experiences in Belfast. These venues were modern with sophistaced foods and wine pairings.

• Deane’s Meat Locker – Meat lovers will enjoy this restaurant but there are vegetarian choices as well.
• James Street & Co – fantastic cocktails, fine wine and grilled dishes with a modern feel
• Drawing Office – Located in the Titanic Belfast Hotel this is a great stop for lunch or an elegant dinner.

Where to Stay in Belfast

Ten Square Hotel Belfast – We stayed at the Ten Square Hotel and can highly recommend it. Located directly across from Belfast City Hall, we loved this hotel. We were within walking distance of many attractions and the rooms were modern and chic.

Titanic Hotel Belfast – We didn’t stay here, but we did tour it and if you want to explore more of Titanic Belfast, this is an excellent location. It’s not located in the city center, so you’ll really only be near Titanic Quarter attractions, but this historic hotel will take you back in time with restored art-deco themed rooms and the grand elegance from the era of the Titanic.

How to Get to Belfast

We drove to Belfast from Dublin as it is only a two-hour drive between the cities. There are even day tours that will take you from Dublin should you only have a short amount of time.

You can also get to Belfast by bus and train. There is a direct train that connects Dublin from Dublin Connolly and arrives at Belfast Central.

International tourists will fly into Belfast International Airport.

If you are flying from Europe or anywhere within the United Kingdom, you will land at George Best Belfast City Airport, which is located just 5 minutes from Belfast City Centre.

Getting Around Belfast

Belfast is small, or as our taxi driver liked to say, it’s cozy. Belfast is easy to get around by walking, driving or taxi, and you can see a lot of the city in a short amount of time. We’ve visited Belfast on three separate occasions and found renting a car to be the best way to get around, but Black Taxi Tours and the Hop on Hop Off busses are also a fantastic way to see the top tourist attractions.

Belfast is a small city that is easy to get around. We found that many of the top Belfast attractions were within walking distance of the Belfast city center. Belfast is divided into four quarters that all meet at Belfast City Centre. North Belfast, East Belfast, South Belfast, and West Belfast.

A great place to start your trip to Belfast is to stop at the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre where you can get in depth information on tours and you can pick up bus and rail tickets.

Belfast Districts

Belfast is then divided into 7 districts, The famous Titanic Quarter, Cathedral Quarter, Queen’s Quarter, Linen Quarter, Market Quarter, Gaeltacht Quarter, and Smithfield and Union Quarter

• Titanic Quarter – Belfast’s Titanic Quarter is one of the most popular places to visit in Belfast. Titanic Museum
• Cathedral Quarter – St. Anne’s Cathedral, street art of Hill Street, plenty of pubs and coffee shops.
• Queen’s Quarter – Named after Queen’s University, here is where you’ll find Ulster Museum and Belfast Botanic Gardens.
• Linen Quarter – The city’s center is situated around Belfast City Hall. Here you’ll find the Grand Opera House, the Crown Bar and plenty of other pubs and restaurants.
• Castle District – Belfast Castle, Cave Hill Country Park
• Gaeltacht Quarter – Murals and Peace Wall, Black Taxi Tours
• Smithfield and Union Quarter and Market Quarter

We have visited Belfast Northern several times on our own, with different tour companies and with the aid of Tourism Ireland.

• A Game of Thrones Tour of Northern Ireland
• The Dark Hedges of Northern Ireland – Tips to Visit and What you Need to Know
• 34 of the Best Things to do in Dublin, Ireland
• Where to Stay in Dublin, Ireland: Best Areas and Hotels for Every Budget
• 23 of The Very Best Things to do in Ireland

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

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2 thoughts on “38 Best Things to Do in Belfast, Northern Ireland”

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Wow! this place is looking so beautiful and You shared amazing information about beautiful Belfast. Love your photos. Thanks…

Belfast Travel Guide: Exciting Things to Do in Belfast

The capital of Northern Ireland offers a plethora of attractions to explore, and there is no shortage of things to do in Belfast! Known for its historical significance as the birthplace of the RMS Titanic and its turbulent past during The Troubles in the latter part of the 20th century, Belfast has transformed into a vibrant destination.

Today, the city boasts a lively historic city center, the renowned Titanic Quarter, vibrant pubs, exceptional museums, a myriad of street murals, picturesque gardens and green spaces, stunning Victorian architecture, and a thriving tourism industry. While not as globally recognized as Dublin , Belfast provides a more intimate and authentic experience due to its less crowded nature.

My guide to Belfast attractions will showcase the top things to do in Belfast, spanning from the heart of the city to its outskirts. I will also provide insights on transportation options, ideal times to visit, day trip suggestions, and essential travel details to help you plan your Belfast itinerary.

Before delving into the things to do in Belfast, let’s cover the fundamental details you need for trip planning, including transportation tips, and the best times to visit.

Location of Belfast

Belfast, the capital and largest city in Northern Ireland. It is situated along the River Lagan on the northeast coast of the island of Ireland.

How To Get To Belfast

Belfast has two airports, Belfast International Airport and George Best City Airport, with connections to various domestic and international destinations. Connecting flights are available from cities such as London, Manchester, Edinburgh, or Glasgow.

From Belfast International Airport

Easily accessible via a short shuttle bus (Airport 300 service), taxi ride, or private transfer to Belfast.

From George Best City Airport

Alternatively, travelers can fly into Dublin Airport for more international connections. Then, take a bus, train, or drive to Belfast.

Belfast is accessible by train from locations within Ireland, including Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and Galway. Advance booking for train tickets can offer cost savings.

Daily coach services connect Belfast with various cities in the UK and Ireland, with ferry transport included for routes from England, Scotland, and Wales.

Driving distances to Belfast include approximately 70 miles from Derry/Londonderry (about 1 hour, 30 minutes), 105 miles from Dublin (about 2 hours), and 260 miles from Cork (about 4 hours, 15 minutes). Travelers coming from England, Scotland, Wales, or continental Europe will need to take a ferry.

Ferries to Belfast depart regularly from Liverpool (England), Cairnryan (Scotland), and the Isle of Man. Stena Line is a recommended ferry company for checking routes and schedules.

Getting Around Belfast

Belfast benefits from a well-organized public bus transport system operated by Translink, with Metro being the primary bus service covering the entire city.

Driving in and around Belfast is relatively convenient, although parking in the central area can pose challenges. Paid public parking structures are available, but for central locations, it is advisable to walk or utilize the bus system.

Taxis and Uber services, primarily operating to and from the airport, are additional transportation options. Taxi tours, guided by knowledgeable drivers, are popular for exploring the city.

Bike rentals are facilitated through the city’s bike share program, with kiosks conveniently located in various tourist hubs.

The City Sightseeing Bus offers a convenient hop-on, hop-off service, guiding visitors to key city attractions while providing informative commentary.

Currency in Belfast

Belfast operates with the pound sterling (GBP) as its official currency, consistent with the rest of the United Kingdom (England, Wales, Scotland).

Travelers should note that if they venture south to the Republic of Ireland, where Dublin is located, euros are the accepted currency.

Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, while the Republic of Ireland is not, leading to different currency usage in the respective regions.

Best Time to Visit Belfast

Choosing the best time to visit Belfast largely depends on your preferences and planned activities. For those seeking warm weather, the summer months from June to August offer the highest temperatures. April typically experiences lower chances of rain, humidity, and crowds.

My preferred travel seasons in Northern Ireland are May, June, and September. Weather conditions are generally favorable, daylight hours are longer, and attractions are less crowded.

While most attractions in Belfast typically remain uncrowded, the Titanic Quarter sites can be bustling during the summer season.

Nevertheless, Belfast welcomes visitors year-round as most attractions operate throughout the year. Summer months tend to be warmer, while winter brings cooler temperatures. Although weather fluctuations can occur unpredictably—ranging from sunny days in January to cooler, rainy conditions in August.

I recommend checking the weather forecast before your visit. Prepare for variable weather by packing layers and rain gear, regardless of your chosen travel time.

Duration of Stay in Belfast

The ideal duration for your stay in Belfast primarily hinges on your available time and desired activities. I recommend dedicating a minimum of 2 full days and nights in Belfast to truly immerse yourself in the city’s offerings.

Even with just a day to spare, you can still capture glimpses of Belfast’s key highlights. To optimize your time, consider planning your itinerary in advance or joining a guided tour.

For those with more than a couple of days, Belfast serves as a fantastic base for various captivating day trips. I will outline them towards the end of this article. With an extended stay exceeding a couple of days, you can easily spend a week in Belfast without exhausting the multitude of activities available.

Discount Pass Options in Belfast

While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all pass for Belfast, there are a few discount passes available that could potentially help you save money.

Belfast Visitor Pass

The Belfast Visitor Pass provides complimentary public transport within the city, offering unrestricted travel on all Metro buses, NI Railways, and Ulsterbus services.

It also covers Airport Express 600 services to and from George Best Belfast City Airport. Excluding the Airport 300 service to Belfast International Airport. Passes are obtainable for 1, 2, or 3 days.

Moreover, the pass incorporates discount benefits at various restaurants, attractions, and shops throughout Belfast.

Presently, pass holders can enjoy reduced entry fees at prominent locations like:

• Titanic Belfast;
• Crumlin Road Goal;
• Ulster Folk & Transport Museum;
• W5 Odyssey;
• Belfast Zoo;
• Belfast City Tours.

The Belfast Visitor Pass can be procured from Visit Belfast Welcome Centre (9 Donegall Square North), the tourist information desks at both Belfast airports, or any Translink station in Belfast. Alternatively, you have the option to purchase it online before commencing your trip.

National Trust Touring Pass

For individuals planning to travel across the UK and explore numerous historical and cultural sites, the National Trust Touring Pass offers potential savings. The Pass grants free admission to over 300 stately homes, gardens, castles, and historical venues within the country.

Some of the well-known sites covered by the pass in Northern Ireland include:

• Carrick-a-Rede;
• Castle Ward;
• The Giant’s Causeway;
• Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House.

Safety Considerations in Belfast

Northern Ireland is generally regarded as a safe destination for travelers. I have not encountered any safety issues during my visit.

Belfast had a tumultuous past marked by conflict and division during the period known as “ The Troubles ” from the 1960s to the late 1990s. However, the city has since undergone significant transformation. Although remnants of this history persist, instances of sectarian violence are now infrequent.

Although sporadic incidents of rioting over political and religious matters have occurred, it is advisable to steer clear of protests, gatherings, or marches should you encounter them.

As with any location, I recommend safeguarding your valuables, remaining vigilant against pickpockets , and staying aware of your surroundings at all times.

Top Things to Do in Belfast: Central Belfast

There is no shortage of things to do in Belfast with a bulk of them conveniently situated within central areas. Belfast City Centre, the Cathedral Quarter, and the Linen Quarter are roughly defined as locations that can be accessed within a 20-minute walk or less from each other.

Belfast City Hall

Serving as the city’s focal point, Belfast City Hall stands at the heart of the urban landscape. Adjacent to this landmark is the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre, an ideal starting point for embarking on your city tour.

Cathedral Quarter

Named after St. Anne’s Cathedral, the Cathedral Quarter embodies Belfast’s historical trading hub. It is characterized by Victorian architecture, charming cobbled streets, and an array of distinctive pubs and eateries.

Linen Quarter

South of Belfast City Hall, the Linen Quarter harkens back to its 19th-century prominence in the linen industry. This area showcases a blend of vintage architecture, dining establishments, and the iconic Grand Opera House.

Titanic Quarter

You can reach any of the attractions above within a 25-minute bus journey from Belfast City Hall (Donegall Square).

Exploring by Sightseeing Bus or Walking Tour

Embarking on a walking tour or hopping onto a sightseeing bus offers an immersive experience of a city. It allows you to witness its key attractions and immerse yourself in its ambiance.

These tours are particularly delightful on your initial day in a new destination, with most commencing from the city center.

Walking Tours

Delve into a particular area or theme of the city by joining a guided walking tour. These excursions cater to diverse interests, covering highlights:

• The Titanic Quarter;
• Architectural marvels;
• Whiskey tastings;
• Queen’s University;
• Historical insights into “The Troubles.”

For a unique perspective, consider exploring Belfast on a bike tour. These range from standard options to the entertaining beer bike tours where you can savor your own beverages while pedaling a 16-seat bike, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.

Food and Drink Tours

Elevate your culinary journey with Taste and Tour, offering gin, whiskey, beer, and food-focused walking tours across central Belfast.

Hop-On Hop-Off Buses

Opt for the convenience of hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses such as City Sightseeing or City Tours. Both make stops at 20 to 30 different locations, facilitating easy access to the city’s top attractions.

Black Cab Tours

Delve into the political history and vibrant street art of Belfast through popular Black Cab tours, providing an insightful exploration of the city’s past.

Consider a boat sightseeing tour, for a delightful cruise past the Titanic Quarter. It offers a unique vantage point of Belfast’s maritime heritage.

Within the premises lies a spacious public exhibition area, surprising visitors with its vastness spanning across 16 distinct rooms.

This exhibition intricately narrates Belfast’s history through informative displays, photographs, and artifacts. It sheds light on the city’s governance, populace, notable events, industries, cultural diversity, and more.

Visitors can partake in complimentary guided tours of City Hall. It offeres insights into Belfast’s governance, history, and access to its most opulent spaces like:

• The Grand Staircase;
• Principal Rooms;
• Reception Room;
• The Chamber.

Noteworthy are the building’s numerous original stained glass windows dating back to 1906, adding to its allure.

To secure a spot on the guided tours, it’s recommended to register 10 to 15 minutes prior to the scheduled time, arriving early to guarantee participation.

These tours typically last around an hour, operating at various times throughout the day, contingent on the season.

Surrounding City Hall is a sprawling park and garden area that serves as a popular gathering spot, occasionally hosting family events and open-air cinema screenings.

The vicinity also features several statues and memorials of significance, such as:

• The 11-foot Queen Victoria statue;
• The Belfast Cenotaph;
• The Titanic Memorial Gardens.

The latter features a memorial statue and a poignant list of casualties of the Titanic disaster.

St. Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast

St. Anne’s Cathedral, also known as Belfast Cathedral, stands as a renowned Anglican sanctuary and a prominent religious edifice.

Consecrated in 1904, this cathedral holds the distinction of serving two distinct dioceses, each with their respective Bishop’s Seats.

Initially, a smaller church known as St. Anne’s, consecrated in 1776, occupied the location until the necessity for a larger place of worship arose due to Belfast’s rapid population growth during the Industrial Revolution.

The foundation stone for the present-day cathedral was laid in 1899, with subsequent expansions and renovations shaping its current form over the ensuing century.

Notably, the installation of the stainless steel Spire of Hope in 2007 was a striking addition. Initially, a church spire was omitted due to structural constraints, with the illuminated Spire of Hope now gracing the skyline.

Within the cathedral’s precincts, visitors can marvel at distinctive features such as:

• The Good Samaritan Window;
• The sole remnant from the 1776 St. Anne’s Church;
• Exquisite mosaics adorning the baptistery and Chapel of the Holy Spirit;
• The poignant Titanic funeral pall.

Noteworthy within St. Anne’s is the solitary tomb of Lord Edward Carson. He was a 20th-century unionist politician, who received the rare honor of a British state funeral, reserved for select non-royal individuals.

While a nominal fee is applicable for tourist visits, self-guided exploration is permitted, with the option to arrange guided tours in advance. Belfast Cathedral remains an active place of worship, hosting regular services and events. This Cathedral is must if you’re looking for free things to do in Belfast.

St. George’s Market, Belfast

Dating back to 1604, St. George’s Market stands as one of Belfast’s enduring treasures, hosting a weekly market at its historic location.

The current Victorian-style structure, constructed between 1890 and 1896, has become a vibrant hub for commerce and culture. It is welcoming visitors every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

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Following a notable refurbishment in 1997, the market has garnered several prestigious accolades across the UK and Ireland.

Additionally, visitors can relish in prepared foods, sandwiches, steaming coffee, and delectable snacks available at the food stalls.

The lively ambiance is enhanced by local musicians and bands performing live music on most days, enhancing the market’s appeal as a vibrant weekend destination.

Operating on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the market’s schedule can be checked for the latest hours. To facilitate visitor access, a complimentary market shuttle bus operates every 20 minutes from 11 am to 3 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. It offers convenient transportation to and from central Belfast locations.

With each day heralding a distinctive lineup of vendors, St. George’s Market guarantees a dynamic experience for patrons, though a few vendors remain constant throughout the weekend.

Beyond its regular market days, the venue transforms to host an array of events throughout the year. Those range from captivating musical performances to charitable initiatives, ensuring its status as a versatile community space for varied things to do in Belfast.

Grand Opera House, Belfast

Designed in 1895 by the renowned English theater architect Frank Matcham, the Grand Opera House stands as a revered city landmark celebrated for its opulent interior.

As the sole surviving Victorian theater in Northern Ireland, it exudes historical charm and architectural splendor.

Initially accommodating over 2,500 spectators, the Grand Opera House staged a diverse repertoire encompassing operas, plays, musicals, and pantomimes.

Its role evolved to host variety shows during the early 20th century before undergoing a transformation into a cinema in the 1950s, followed by a closure in 1972.

Amidst the tumultuous era of The Troubles in the 1970s, the theater narrowly escaped demolition, culminating in its revival as a theatrical venue in 1980.

Enthusiasts of theatrical history can delve deeper into the Grand Opera House’s legacy by embarking on a guided theatre tour.

These tours offer exclusive insights into the venue’s rich history, daily operations, and the enthralling behind-the-scenes realm inhabited by the staff and actors.

Visitors traverse diverse rooms and areas of the theater during the approximately one-hour tour. It is typically conducted twice a month on weekends, promising an illuminating exploration of this iconic institution.

Albert Memorial Clock, Belfast

The Albert Memorial Clock stands as a striking sandstone clock tower situated in Queen’s Square.

Erected in honor of Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s consort, the Memorial Clock was crafted by Irish architect W.J. Barre in 1869.

The Albert Memorial Clock holds a cherished status as a beloved local icon in Belfast.

Rising to a height of 113 feet, the clock tower showcases a plethora of intricate carvings, with a prominent focal point being a statue of Prince Albert bedecked in his Knight of the Garter regalia.

Notably, the clock’s bell weighs an impressive 2 tonnes. Despite enduring damage from both German World War II bombs and IRA-related incidents, the clock tower perseveres as a resilient symbol of remembrance and resilience.

Dubbed Belfast’s own version of the “leaning tower of Pisa,” the Albert Memorial Clock exhibits a notable tilt owing to its construction on reclaimed marshy terrain.

The leaning phenomenon emerged shortly after its completion and has exacerbated over time, adding to the tower’s distinctive charm.

In 2002, the city undertook a comprehensive restoration initiative aimed at fortifying the foundation, preserving its historical significance.

Metropolitan Arts Centre (The MAC), Belfast

Opened in 2012, the Metropolitan Arts Centre, known as The MAC, stands as a vibrant public art hub in Belfast.

To stay informed about current exhibitions, visitors are encouraged to explore the art exhibition page for up-to-date details.

Complementing its visual offerings, The MAC hosts a dynamic array of events and workshops. It features art classes, shows, performances, and family-friendly activities, fostering creativity and engagement within the community.

The full event listing provides a comprehensive overview of the enriching experiences available at this cultural institution.

Furthermore, The MAC boasts an inviting all-day café bar, serving an assortment of beverages ranging from coffee and tea to snacks, hot meals, and alcoholic drinks.

It is a welcoming space for relaxation and socialization amidst a backdrop of artistic inspiration.

Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum

The Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum serves as a poignant tribute to the region’s contributions during World War II.

It offeres informative insights into pivotal events such as:

• The Belfast Blitz;
• The wartime roles of women;
• The Ulster Home Guard.

Housed within a compact yet thoughtfully curated space, the museum showcases uniforms, medals, and a memorial screen, illuminating the wartime experiences of Northern Ireland.

The museum offers free admission, symbolizing a heartfelt dedication to preserving wartime memories, with donations gratefully accepted to support its ongoing mission.

As a central repository of historical significance, the Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum stands as a poignant reminder of the region’s wartime legacy.

Crown Liquor Saloon, Belfast

Established circa 1826 by Felix O’Hanlon as The Railway Tavern, the Crown Liquor Saloon , stands as an iconic gem among Belfast’s pubs.

Ornately adorned, the Crown Bar has meticulously preserved many of its original fixtures and embellishments.

Intricate tiled mosaics, vintage gas lamp features, captivating stained glass windows, a resplendent granite bar top, and cozy heated footrests collectively contribute to its opulent ambiance.

Presently overseen by the National Trust for protection, the pub operates under the guidance of Mitchells & Butlers, ensuring its continued legacy as a cultural treasure.

Renowned as one of the best things to do in Belfast, the Crown Bar has welcomed a distinguished array of notable guests. Including luminaries like Brad Pitt, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

A comprehensive bar menu, offering delectable lunch and dinner options, caters to patrons seeking a culinary experience alongside their libations.

For those seeking elevated dining, the upstairs dining area provides an enchanting backdrop for indulging in a sumptuous meal.

Given its popularity, reserving a table in advance is recommended for those planning to savor the distinctive offerings.

Belfast Black Cab Tours

Discovering the best things to do in Belfast through Black Cab tours ranks among the top attractions in the city.

During The Troubles, the use of taxis surged as a vital means of transportation, deemed safer than the frequently targeted city buses.

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Throughout that period, many taxi drivers navigated defunct bus routes, primarily operating within specific community delineations. These were commonly labeled as Loyalist/Unionist/Protestant or Republican/Nationalist/Catholic regions.

Reflecting this social landscape, drivers often catered to passengers from corresponding backgrounds, with both groups utilizing the iconic London black taxi models.

With the advent of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998 heralding a more secure public transit environment, the necessity for taxi services among locals dwindled.

Today, the enduring fleet of iconic black taxis continues to facilitate immersive city tours for visitors. They are focusing predominantly on Belfast’s political history, The Troubles, and the distinctive political murals. As well as offer unparalleled insights into the city’s turbulent past.

Beyond political narratives, these tours encompass neighborhood explorations, historical revelations, and cultural showcases, providing a comprehensive tapestry of Belfast’s multifaceted identity.

Certain tours may include stops at poignant sites like:

• The Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum;
• The Shankill Bombing Memorial.

Should these locations pique your interest, communicating your preferences to your driver enhances the tailored experience.

Victoria Square Shopping Centre, Belfast

Victoria Square encompasses a vibrant public square renowned for its array of shopping and dining options.

The crowning jewel of this locale is the Victoria Square Shopping Centre. This is a dynamic 4-storey shopping mall and leisure complex that debuted in 2008, catering to diverse tastes.

Within its expanse, visitors can explore a myriad of retail outlets, dining establishments, a rejuvenating spa, and a cinema, offering a comprehensive shopping and entertainment experience.

An architectural highlight of the shopping centre is the central glass dome, housing a captivating viewing platform that affords panoramic vistas of the cityscape. It invites patrons to bask in the scenic splendor from this elevated vantage point.

The fountain serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Jaffe family within the fabric of Belfast’s history, enriching the cultural tapestry of this bustling urban hub.

Exploring the Waterfront Area Along the River Lagan

Nestled along the picturesque River Lagan, the waterfront area beckons with a tapestry of cultural and maritime wonders.

Delve into an array of things to do in Belfast. These range from striking sculptures to historic landmarks such as:

• The Sinclair Seaman’s Church;
• The captivating Barge Museum;
• The expansive Waterfront Hall.

A prominent entertainment venue within the locale.

For an enriching experience, consider embarking on the Maritime Mile, an engaging outdoor trail spanning approximately 1 mile.

This scenic route weaves through a series of maritime sites, offering informative panels that illuminate the area’s nautical history.

Commencing at the City Quays, the trail meanders across the river, culminating in the Titanic Quarter.

A pivotal addition to the area’s connectivity, a pedestrian footbridge established in 2015 spans the River Lagan. It links the Waterfront region to the prestigious Titanic Quarter, facilitating seamless exploration between these vibrant locales.

Immerse yourself in Belfast’s maritime legacy by visiting the Heritage Room exhibition housed within the Belfast Harbour offices at Corporation Square.

Boasting an array of artifacts and artwork, this exhibition provides a compelling glimpse into the city’s rich maritime heritage.

Embark on a visual odyssey along the Waterfront as you encounter the first of six Games of Thrones large stained glass windows, unveiled in 2019 outside the AC Hotel.

Celebrating a decade of the show’s filming, each window portrays iconic scenes from the series, inviting visitors to traverse the Maritime Mile to discover all six evocative installations.

Should time be fleeting, make a point to witness two beloved landmarks in the area. These are the Salmon of Knowledge and the Beacon of Hope. Each of them offers a unique blend of artistry and symbolism.

Salmon of Knowledge – The Big Fish Sculpture

Standing proudly along the waterfront, the Salmon of Knowledge is a monumental sculpture depicting a grand salmon, envisioned by local artist John Kindness.

Nestled at the confluence of Belfast’s two major rivers—the River Farset, and the River Lagan—this awe-inspiring creation serves as a captivating landmark enriching the cityscape.

Rooted in the rich tapestry of Irish mythology, the Salmon of Knowledge originates from the Fenian Cycle, embodying a mythical creature of extraordinary significance.

According to folklore, whoever captures and consumes the Salmon of Knowledge obtains boundless wisdom. An intriguing narrative immortalized in the tales of Fionn mac Cumhaill, who achieved enlightenment through this mystical encounter.

Adorned with intricate printed ceramic tiles, the Big Fish sculpture narrates a mosaic of stories reflective of Belfast’s vibrant history.

Each tile intricately weaves together diverse narratives, encompassing historical imagery and illustrations contributed by local school children. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Belfast today, the Big Fish offers a multi-faceted exploration of the city’s heritage.

Belfast Barge Museum – MV Confiance

The Belfast Barge Museum offers a unique narrative of the city’s industrial legacy and maritime lore within the confines of the MV Confiance.

A former cargo barge, the MV Confiance was acquired in 2006, voyaging to Belfast where it underwent a transformation, evolving into a captivating museum, versatile event venue, and charming café.

Moored in the picturesque waterfront area of Belfast, the MV Confiance serves as a floating testament to the city’s rich heritage. It invites visitors to embark on a captivating voyage through Belfast’s industrial past and maritime traditions.

A nominal fee grants access to this immersive experience, where the museum’s exhibits and stories unfold against the serene backdrop of the River Lagan.

The Belfast Barge Museum offers a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of Belfast’s history aboard this storied vessel. The museum can be ranked high on the list of top cheap things to do in Belfast.

Beacon of Hope – Thanksgiving Square Beacon

Nestled within Thanksgiving Square, the Beacon of Hope, emerges as a striking stainless steel and bronze sculpture embodying a figure of a woman cradling a sizable ring. A poignant symbol of gratitude and appreciation.

At her feet, a globe symbolizing peace and harmony is adorned with the names of global cities closely intertwined with Belfast’s people and industries, underscoring the city’s interconnectedness on a global scale.

Conceived by artist Andy Scott in 2006, this monumental sculpture resonates as a beacon of unity and goodwill. It encapsulates the spirit of thanksgiving and the universal pursuit of peace, as it stands as a testament to the enduring bonds that tie Belfast to the world at large.

Titanic Belfast Museum

The Titanic Belfast is one of the top things to do in Belfast. It captivates visitors with its immersive journey into the history of the legendary RMS Titanic.

This colossal edifice beckons as a must-see spectacle, guiding guests on a self-guided odyssey through a series of galleries that unravel the gripping tale of the iconic vessel.

The Titanic Belfast museum finds its roots in the city’s shipbuilding heritage, epitomized by the construction of the RMS Titanic at the esteemed Harland & Wolff shipyards.

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This historical site birthed other renowned vessels like the RMS Olympic and the HMS Belfast, now a revered museum ship in London .

While shipbuilding operations ceased in 2003, the shipyards transitioned towards the production of offshore wind turbines.

Embark on a exploration within the museum, where a self-guided itinerary awaits, complemented by optional audio guides for a nominal fee.

The voyage commences with insights into Belfast’s 20th-century landscape, progressing through a series of galleries delving into the intricacies of shipbuilding.

Here you can also familiarize yourself with the Titanic’s construction, its maiden voyage, tragic demise, and the enduring legacy post-catastrophe.

Engage with an array of informational panels, lifelike models, and archival photographs. Explore replicated Titanic interiors, curated artifacts, and interactive displays that breathe life into the legendary saga.

For enthusiasts of maritime history or the RMS Titanic, the museum proves an indispensable destination. Visitors typically spend 1.5 to 2 hours immersed in its captivating exhibits.

Anticipate exploring further if your passion for Titanic lore runs deep or if you fancy a bite at the on-site dining options. Adjacent to the museum lies Hickson’s Point pub, offering a delightful respite post-exploration.

Operated with a timed ticketing system, the Belfast Titanic museum requires pre-booked timed tickets for entry every 15 minutes.

To evade queues and maximize your experience, secure your tickets online in advance, granting access not only to the museum but also to the SS Nomadic. It can be found adjacent to the Titanic Museum.

Embrace the allure of Belfast’s maritime legacy and Titanic’s enduring mystique within this evocative enclave, brimming with historical resonance and cultural richness.

SS Nomadic – Last White Star Line Survivor

Crafted by Harland & Wolff in Belfast, the SS Nomadic was meticulously constructed as a tender vessel to cater to White Star Line’s huge passenger ships.

Embarking on its maiden voyage in April 1911, the SS Nomadic stands today as the sole surviving White Star Line vessel across the globe.

Noteworthy personalities like John Jacob Astor IV, Margaret Brown, and Benjamin Guggenheim embarked on this historic journey aboard the SS Nomadic, en route to the ill-fated Titanic.

Beyond its association with the Titanic, the versatile SS Nomadic continued to serve as a passenger tender for the RMS Olympic. It later expanded its services to Cunard ocean liners.

Throughout the tumultuous periods of World Wars I and II, the vessel transitioned into roles as a minesweeper and troop transport ship.

Retiring from active service in 1968, the SS Nomadic found a new chapter as a floating restaurant ship along the Seine River in Paris.

In a poignant return to its roots, the Northern Ireland government acquired the SS Nomadic in 2006. They orchestrated an extensive restoration to preserve its storied heritage.

Unveiled to the public in June 2013, the beautifully restored SS Nomadic now stands as a living testament to its illustrious past. It now invites visitors to unearth its construction, diverse uses, restoration journey, and enduring historical significance.

The SS Nomadic offers a unique glimpse into the bygone era of maritime opulence. It echoes the grandeur and tragedy intertwined with its White Star Line counterparts.

An exploration of the SS Nomadic can be seamlessly integrated with a visit to the Belfast Titanic museum. Both museums can be visited by a combined entry ticket on the same day.

HMS Caroline – Last Survivor of the Battle of Jutland

The HMS Caroline was commissioned as a light cruiser in 1914 in Birkenhead, England. She served valiantly during World War I, notably in the pivotal Battle of Jutland, where she emerged as the sole survivor from that monumental conflict.

In 1924, the HMS Caroline was relocated to Belfast Docks, assuming the mantle of headquarters for the Ulster Division of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve.

Transitioning into a depot ship and essential operational base for convoy defense during World War II, she played a pivotal role in safeguarding maritime interests within the tumultuous wartime landscape.

Continuing her legacy as an integral part of the Ulster Division of the Royal Navy reserve until 2009, the HMS Caroline eventually underwent decommissioning in 2011.

Following an extensive restoration effort, the ship was inaugurated as a captivating maritime museum within Belfast’s Titanic Quarter in 2016. She now invites visitors to embark on a self-guided expedition through her storied past and architectural grandeur.

A journey through the HMS Caroline unfolds a tapestry of construction marvels, historical milestones, and insights into the daily life and operational dynamics aboard the vessel. Visitors can find immersive exhibits, cinematic showcases, meticulously recreated historic spaces, and interactive touch screen displays.

Commence your exploration at the Dockside Museum, an intimate enclave adjacent to the ship. Delve into the narratives of crew members who served aboard this legendary vessel. Enjoy picturesque harbor views from the ship’s decks, adding a touch of maritime allure to your museum experience.

Enriching your visit, the ship houses a cozy café and a curated gift shop. Both offer mementos to commemorate your maritime odyssey. Secure your entry tickets on-site or opt for advance online bookings, availing yourself of cost-saving opportunities for an enhanced museum excursion.

Visitor amenities include convenient parking facilities, in addition to accessible public bus routes and hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses.

Samson & Goliath Cranes – Iconic Harland & Wolff Landmarks

Erected within the storied precincts of the Titanic Quarter, the Samson and Goliath cranes stand as towering emblems of Harland and Wolff’s shipbuilding legacy.

Commissioned in 1969 and 1974 during the zenith of Harland & Wolff’s prominence as one of the world’s premier shipbuilders, these colossal structures pay homage to their Biblical namesakes.

While not instrumental in the construction of the Titanic, the Arrol Gantry, a monumental steel gantry dating back to 1908, graced the slipways where the Olympic and Titanic were crafted.

Adorning the Belfast skyline for decades, the Arrol Gantry stood sentinel until the 1960s, embodying an era of maritime prowess and engineering excellence.

The Samson and Goliath cranes, cloaked in their distinctive yellow hue emblazoned with the H&W insignia, loom large against the cityscape. Their imposing presence visible from various vantage points across Belfast.

Though Harland & Wolff’s shipbuilding activities have dwindled, the cranes endure as iconic symbols of Belfast, cherished for their historical significance.

Honored under the guardianship of the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, the Samson and Goliath cranes evoke a sense of pride and nostalgia, anchoring Belfast’s identity within its maritime roots.

As enduring fixtures in the city’s skyline, these legendary cranes embody the resilience and heritage of Belfast.

Titanic Walkway – Nautical Path of History

Another great thing to do in Belfast along Victoria Wharf, the Titanic Walkway serves as a maritime promenade linking the grounds of the Titanic Slipways to the HMS Caroline.

Tracing the waterside expanse, the Titanic Walkway meanders past a tapestry of landmarks, including:

• The Titanic Belfast museum;
• The Titanic and Olympic Slipways;
• The Great Light;
• A collection of public art installations.

The pathway also unveils the presence of the HMS Caroline, alongside the enigmatic Titanic Dock and Pump House. Each oozing with historical charm and maritime allure.

Offering a panoramic vista of the Titanic Exhibition Center, and the famed Titanic Studios, where the epic Game of Thrones saga was brought to life, the walkway unfurls a tapestry of architectural marvels and cinematic history.

Against the distant backdrop, the silhouettes of the Samson & Goliath cranes punctuate the skyline, adding a touch of industrial grandeur to the maritime narrative.

A standout feature along the Titanic Walkway is the illustrious Mew Light, renowned as the world’s largest hyper-radial Fresnel lighthouse lens.

It originates from the Tory Island Lighthouse in 1887 before finding its home at Mew Island in 1928. This historic beacon was meticulously restored and relocated to adorn the walkway in 2014, accentuating the maritime heritage with panels narrating its rich history and intricate workings.

Embark on a captivating journey along the Titanic Walkway.

Doing so you can seamlessly connect a visit to the Belfast Titanic with the HMS Caroline and the Titanic Pump Room & Dock.

Commencing your stroll outside the Titanic Belfast museum, venture towards the picturesque Olympic and Titanic Slipways before meandering northeast along the waterfront trail to encounter the storied HMS Caroline.

For a fresh perspective on the Titanic Quarter, consider a scenic River Lagan boat cruise. It offers a unique vantage point to behold the maritime splendor from the waters, complemented by insightful onboard commentary.

In the summer months, seize the opportunity to catch a glimpse of seals, adding a whimsical touch to your maritime escapade through Belfast’s historic heart.

Titanic Dock & Pump House – Maritime Marvels of the RMS Titanic

Immerse yourself in the grandeur and scale of the illustrious RMS Titanic by venturing into the Titanic Dock and Pump House. A compelling site that offers a firsthand glimpse into the monumental dimensions of the iconic ocean liner.

The RMS Olympic and RMS Titanic were the largest ocean liners of their era. They necessitated the construction of expansive dry docks to accommodate their colossal proportions.

Following their construction at the adjacent slipways opposite the Titanic Belfast museum, these White Star liners were meticulously outfitted and completed within the confines of the Thompson Graving Dock, now colloquially referred to as the Titanic Dock.

The Thompson Graving Dock emerged as the birthplace where the illustrious Titanic was meticulously finished and readied for her maiden voyage.

Adjacent to this historic dry dock stands the Titanic Pump House. It played a pivotal role in draining water from the Thompson Graving Dock and the neighboring Alexandra Graving Dock.

Embark on a self-guided exploration of the Titanic Pump House and Titanic Dock. Here you’ll be able to descend into the Thompson Graving Dock, offering an immersive encounter with the sheer magnitude of these storied ocean liners.

Informative plaques dotting the landscape illuminate the site’s construction, outfitting processes, the laborious lives of dock workers, and the operational intricacies of the pump room.

Entrance to the Titanic Pump Room & Titanic Dock entails a nominal fee payable at Cafe 1404. It serves as the gateway to these historic sites.

Opting for a guided tour or joining a comprehensive walking tour inclusive of this visit presents an alternative avenue to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Titanic’s legacy.

Conveniently situated a mere minute’s walk from the esteemed HMS Caroline and a brief 10-minute stroll from the Titanic Museum, the Titanic Pump House and Dock beckon visitors to embark on a captivating voyage through time.

Explore Belfast’s Vibrant Street Murals

Belfast’s street murals have garnered international acclaim, establishing the city as a revered destination for aficionados of urban art. Seeing these original murals, is one of the best things to do in Belfast.

Whether you harbor a deep passion for street art or simply chance upon these captivating creations, the city’s kaleidoscopic murals are an omnipresent feature.

Many of the politically charged murals are predominantly clustered around the Peace Wall, stretching beyond the bustling city center.

Venturing on specialized Black Cab and street art tours unveils a tapestry of these evocative murals. There is a significant focus on the historical and memorial aspects linked to the Troubles.

These poignant artworks pay homage to those who endured untold tragedies during the conflict. They lend a voice to the enduring legacy of resilience and remembrance.

While the outskirts echo the echoes of political history, the city center unveils a vibrant array of street art that transcends the realms of politics and religion.

Delve into a myriad of themes ranging from whimsical portrayals of dogs, legendary figures, iconic landmarks, mythical dragons, and mischievous monkeys.

Crafted by a blend of local talents and acclaimed artists like Smug, these murals underscore Belfast’s creative spirit and cultural diversity.

Embark on immersive street art tours such as the one offered by Seedhead Arts, tailored to showcase the enchanting non-political murals that ornament the cityscape.

From walking tours to Black Cab excursions, an array of guided experiences awaits. They all promise a deeper insight into the artistic evolution and community initiatives that have fostered legal street art in Belfast.

Indulge in Belfast’s Distinctive Libations

One of the best things to do in Belfast is to try some local drinks. Belfast stands as a mecca for libation enthusiasts. The city boasts a diverse array of beverages that traverse the realms of beer, whiskey, and the burgeoning popularity of gin.

The emergence of craft breweries and innovative distilleries across Northern Ireland heralds an exciting era for sampling these novel concoctions.

For those inclined towards craft beers, keep an eye out for esteemed breweries such as:

• Hercules Brewing (renowned for their Yardsman beers);
• Whitewater;
• Farmageddon.

Embrace the renaissance of Northern Irish gins with labels like Shortcross, Jawbox, and Copeland, heralding a contemporary twist to the traditional spirits landscape.

While Bushmills remains a stalwart in Northern Irish whiskey, embark on a journey of discovery with Echlinville and Rademon Estate whiskies that encapsulate the essence of local craftsmanship.

Dive into the realm of premium Irish whiskey at The Friend at Hand whiskey shop nestled in the Cathedral Quarter. It is home to an extensive collection that promises an enriching insight into the country’s revered spirit.

Take a specialized tour such as the gin exploration offered by Taste and Tour. It features an array of international and local gin labels alongside delectable samplings.

Elevating the experience, the company also hosts whiskey walks, beer crawls, and culinary escapades that beckon intrepid imbibers to savor Belfast’s eclectic drinking scene.

Sweet Afton Bar & Brewery

A Linen Quarter gem offering classic favorites and a selection of local and American craft beers.

John Hewitt Bar

A quintessential bar featuring live music and an extensive beverage selection, operated by the Belfast Unemployed Resource Centre.

Muriel’s Cafe Bar

The local haunt for tantalizing cocktails and a diverse selection of craft gins, complemented by a fusion of culinary delights.

The Duke of York

A cherished pub in the Cathedral Quarter boasting a rich history, distinctive decor, and vibrant outdoor murals.

The Crown Bar

An opulent Victorian gin palace, renowned for its ornate décor and culinary offerings. Reservation recommended for dining.

Sunflower Public House

A quaint corner pub resonating with charm, featuring live music and a relaxed ambiance.

Elevate your experience at this rooftop haven nestled in the Bullitt Hotel, offering panoramic views and an array of cocktails.

For an enriching brewery excursion, venture just beyond Belfast to Lisburn and visit Hilden Brewery, Ireland’s oldest independent brewery.

Savor Authentic Irish Cuisine

Delight in the ulster fry experience.

Northern Ireland’s culinary landscape is epitomized by the renowned Ulster fry. A local rendition of the classic British “full breakfast” prevalent across the UK and Ireland.

This hearty dish features a medley of fried eggs, sausage, back bacon, soda farl, tomato, black pudding, and potato bread, accented with white pudding, hash browns, fried mushrooms, and baked beans.

Best enjoyed with a steaming cup of tea or coffee, the Ulster fry serves as a quintessential morning indulgence.

Embark on a Gastronomic Journey

Dive into a tapestry of traditional Irish and British fare that permeates Northern Ireland’s vibrant culinary scene.

From comforting Irish stew, succulent bangers and mash, and sumptuous Sunday roasts to the classic fish and chips, the region’s culinary offerings captivate the palate with their rich flavors and nostalgic charm.

Embrace the legacy of potatoes, a staple ingrained in Irish history, through delectable dishes like colcannon, potato bread, boxty, and champ. Each offers a unique twist on this versatile ingredient.

Explore an array of seafood delights, from crispy fried eel to succulent salmon.

Celebrate Locally Sourced Delights

With agriculture as a cornerstone of Northern Ireland’s economy, the region prides itself on an abundance of locally grown, raised, and crafted food products.

Discover a treasure trove of farm-fresh offerings at St. George’s Market, local grocery stores, and restaurants in Belfast.

Indulge in dairy delights such as Abernethy butter, milk, cheese, and ice cream. Relish in the flavors of locally sourced seafood like salmon, eels, and oysters, and savor the artisanal craftsmanship of bread including soda bread and potato bread.

Indulge in Sweet Temptations

Cater to your sweet cravings with Northern Ireland’s iconic delicacy, Yellowman—a chewy honeycomb toffee-like candy that captivates the senses.

Treat yourself to a mesmerizing candy-shopping experience at Aunt Sandra’s Candy Factory, offering a tantalizing array of confectionery delights.

Things to do in Belfast: Beyond Central Belfast

For travelers with more than a fleeting stay in Belfast, the city beckons with a myriad of attractions beyond the bustling central area and the storied Titanic Quarter.

Venture into a realm of museums, gardens, parks, a zoo, historical sites, and even a Victorian prison. It offers a tapestry of experiences to enrich your Belfast itinerary.

Discover the Queen’s Quarter

Journey into the vibrant Queen’s Quarter, home to Queen’s University, the illustrious Ulster Museum, and the serene Botanic Gardens.

Immerse yourself in the historical allure of the Crumlin Road Gaol, a site that appeals to enthusiasts of prison tours. It offers a glimpse into the past through its solemn corridors.

Embrace Nature at Cave Hill Country Park

Indulge in the natural splendor of Cave Hill Country Park. This is where hiking trails meander through picturesque landscapes, leading to the enchanting Belfast Zoo, the stately Belfast Castle, promising a day filled with outdoor delights.

Admire the panoramic views and revel in the tranquility of this verdant oasis.

Engage with Belfast’s Political Legacy

Witness the iconic Peace Wall, a popular stop for observing the political murals. It is often visited as part of a Black Cab tour, unveiling the complex narratives of Belfast’s tumultuous history.

Delve into the significance of these structures that delineate communities and symbolize the enduring spirit of reconciliation.

Hop Beyond the City Limits

While there are plenty of things to do in Belfast, some are nestled just outside its bounds. They can be easily accessible by public transportation within 30 to 40 minutes.

Opt for the convenience of hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses to explore these sites or embark on a short 30-minute drive from the city center.

Evolution of Peace Walls

Delve into the history of Belfast’s Peace Walls. These were erected in 1969 as temporary barriers in the aftermath of riots and the onset of the Troubles, subsequently evolving into enduring structures dividing neighborhoods along sectarian lines.

Despite the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, the number of Peace Walls has increased. Though efforts are underway for their removal by 2024 in collaboration with local communities.

Embrace the Heritage

Engage with the legacy of these structures, where visitors have the opportunity to leave their mark through messages, surrounded by murals signed by notable figures.

Unveiling the Legacy of Crumlin Road Gaol

Discover the historical tapestry of HMP Crumlin, renowned as the Crumlin Road Gaol. A former prison that first welcomed inmates in Belfast back in 1846.

It has been one of Northern Ireland’s primary correctional facilities for over a century and a half. This iconic landmark stands as the sole surviving Victorian-era prison in the region, steeped in tales of resilience and reformation.

Architectural Marvel and Turbulent Times

Initially crafted as a state-of-the-art penitentiary with a capacity for 500 prisoners, the Crumlin Road Gaol epitomized modern prison design of its era.

However, during the tumultuous years of the Troubles, the prison grappled with overcrowding as a surge in incarcerations stretched its limits, reflecting the societal unrest of the times.

In 1996, the gaol ceased its operations as a correctional facility, paving the way for an extensive restoration initiative that culminated in its transformation into a compelling visitor attraction in 2012.

Immersive Guided Tours

Embark on a meticulously curated journey as knowledgeable guides lead visitors through the labyrinthine corridors of the prison.

Delve into the past of the gaol, encompassing enlightening visits to the cell blocks, the historic tunnel connecting the prison to the courthouse across the road, and the solemn execution chamber. This is where seventeen prisoners met their fate by hanging, with the final execution taking place in 1961.

Enriching Experiences Await

Engage in a riveting 75 to 90-minute tour that unveils the multifaceted facets of Crumlin Road Gaol, offering insights into its legacy and significance.

Enthusiasts can also opt for specialized tours, including paranormal excursions and nocturnal explorations of the prison.

Plan Your Visit

Secure your spot for an enlightening tour by booking in advance, ensuring a seamless experience and preferred timing.

A nominal fee grants access to the prison tours, available every half hour.

Embark on a journey through time at Crumlin Road Gaol. This is where history and heritage converge to narrate tales of resilience, reform, and the enduring spirit.

Exploring Stormont Estate

Nestled within the picturesque surroundings of Stormont Estate lies the distinguished edifice that houses the Northern Ireland Parliament buildings.

Enshrined in the Good Friday Agreement of 1998, the Northern Ireland Assembly serves as the legislative powerhouse for the region.

Architectural Splendor and Symbolism

Designed by the acclaimed Sir Arnold Thornely, the main Northern Ireland Assembly building stands as a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and symbolic representation.

Spanning 365 feet in width to signify each day of the year, the structure features six floors and six stately front pillars. These are paying homage to the six counties of Northern Ireland. Completed in 1932, the building exudes grandeur and historical significance, reflecting a rich tapestry of heritage.

Immersive Public Tours and Engagements

Unlock the doors to the Parliament buildings with complimentary hour-long guided tours offered to the public throughout the week.

From the Great Hall to the Senate Chamber and the Assembly Chamber, visitors are treated to an enriching journey through the corridors of power.

Witness Assembly debates and committee sessions, providing a firsthand glimpse into the legislative process.

Enchanting Outdoor Experiences

Venture outdoors to revel in the beauty of Stormont Estate, meandering along scenic nature paths that wind through verdant parklands adorned with statues.

Culinary Delights and Amenities

Indulge in a culinary escapade at the Members’ Dining Rooms, open to the public for delectable meals and afternoon tea. Reservations are encouraged to savor an exquisite dining experience.

Unwind at the on-site coffee shop and peruse the gift shop for mementos to cherish the memories of your visit.

Access the Stormont Estate and Parliament Buildings hassle-free through ample parking facilities or public bus services. There is also an option to hop on the sightseeing bus for a seamless journey.

While entrance to the estate and buildings is free, be prepared to undergo a thorough security screening akin to airport protocols.

Journey into C.S. Lewis Square

Immerse yourself in the enchanting C.S. Lewis Square, a captivating homage to the revered Belfast wordsmith Clive Staples Lewis. He is renowned for his iconic works such as The Chronicles of Narnia series and profound Christian apologetics like Mere Christianity.

Nestled in East Belfast, this square beckons with a trove of whimsical wonders and literary treasures awaiting discovery.

Bronze Marvels and Narnian Delights

Marvel at the exquisite bronze sculptures adorning the square, masterfully crafted by Northern Irish artist Maurice Harron. Capture beloved characters from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.

Set against the backdrop not far from Lewis’s birthplace, these sculptures offer a rendezvous for aficionados of the Narnia series, evoking a sense of nostalgia.

Tracing the Footsteps of C.S. Lewis

Embark on a captivating exploration of C.S. Lewis-related sites in the vicinity. From his birthplace on Dundela Avenue marked by a Blue Plaque to Little Lea, his cherished family abode on Circular Drive.

Uncover the historical significance of St Mark’s Church, where Lewis was baptized and his grandfather served as rector.

Delve deeper into Lewis’s legacy through a self-guided trail or engage a local tour guide for an immersive narrative of his life and literary contributions.

EastSide Visitor Centre: Gateway to Exploration

Adjacent to C. S. Lewis Square stands the EastSide Visitor Centre. A veritable hub of information on East Belfast’s myriad attractions and activities.

Discover self-guided walking trails and tours while basking in the scenic allure of the local Greenways. Former railway lines repurposed for walking and cycling enthusiasts.

Savor a moment of respite at JACK Coffee Bar within the Centre. It showcases delectable locally sourced fare, artisanal products, and captivating artworks that epitomize the essence of East Belfast’s creative spirit.

Planning Your Visit

Easily accessible by public bus, a mere 20-minute ride from the city center, C.S. Lewis Square offers convenient parking facilities for visitors.

Immerse yourself in the magic of C.S. Lewis’s legacy at this enchanting square, where imagination intertwines with reality.

Queen’s University Belfast

Established through a royal charter in 1845 and officially inaugurated in Belfast in 1849, Queen’s University stands as a beacon of academic excellence and inclusivity. Queen’s University was founded with the noble aim of fostering higher education opportunities for Catholic and Presbyterian communities.

Its inception marked a milestone in providing educational avenues beyond the Anglican-centric Trinity College in Dublin, welcoming diverse voices and perspectives into the realm of academia.

Architectural Splendor and Cultural Enclaves

Admire the architecture gracing the Queen’s University campus, notably the iconic Lanyon building envisioned by the English architect Charles Lanyon.

Delve into the realm of artistic expression at the Naughton Gallery. A cultural sanctuary hosting a blend of permanent exhibits and rotating displays, welcoming visitors with complimentary access to enriching visual narratives.

For cinephiles and art enthusiasts alike, the Queen’s Film Theatre beckons as a distinctive independent cinema. It offers a platform for diverse cinematic experiences and storytelling.

Exploring Queen’s Quarter

Nestled alongside the verdant Botanic Gardens in the heart of Queen’s Quarter, Queen’s University epitomizes a blend of academia and serenity.

The surrounding neighborhood exudes a charm of its own, adorned with coffee shops, boutiques, entertainment venues, and the Ulster Museum, serving as a cultural oasis.

Embark on a leisurely stroll through this bustling student district, immersing yourself in a tapestry of experiences that celebrate art, and education.

Ulster Museum

A diverse array of treasures.

Explore a myriad of wonders within the museum’s walls, where dinosaur bones, Neolithic stone axes, meteorites, and riveting historical exhibits await curious minds.

Delve into the annals of ancient and contemporary history, including narratives of Ireland’s partition and the Troubles.

Immersive Exhibitions and Artistic Marvels

Enrich your museum experience with an eclectic mix of permanent exhibitions and dynamic temporary displays.

Marvel at the intricately woven Game of Thrones Irish linen tapestry, a monumental tribute to the iconic TV series, meticulously crafted by local artisans.

While this masterpiece may not be currently on view, the museum remains a hub of cultural exploration and artistic revelation.

Culinary Delights and Visitor Amenities

Indulge at the museum’s cozy on-site coffee shop, serving up a delectable array of hot food and beverages to recharge your senses.

Take advantage of the convenient cloakroom equipped with lockers available for rental at a nominal fee.

Exploring the Museum of Orange Heritage: The Legacy of the Orange Order

Embark on a riveting journey through the annals of history at the Museum of Orange Heritage.

A dynamic museum and interpretive center dedicated to illuminating the rich cultural tapestry and traditions of the renowned Orange Order, also known as the Loyal Orange Association.

Delve into the captivating narratives and heritage of this Protestant fraternal organization, offering unique insights into its historical significance.

Unraveling the Tapestry of the Orange Order

Discover a wealth of knowledge and understanding at this immersive museum. It provides a comprehensive overview of the Orange Order’s history, culture, and traditions.

Gain valuable insights into the religious, cultural, and political dimensions of the organization. The museum offers a nuanced perspective on its role within the context of Ulster loyalism and British unionism.

Before embarking on your visit, acquaint yourself with the complex significance of the Orange Order to fully appreciate the depth of its heritage.

Commencing a Journey Through Time

Trace the origins of the Orange Order back to its inception in 1795, paying homage to King William III, the Prince of Orange.

Commemorating historic milestones such as the Battle of the Boyne in July 1690, the museum showcases a fascinating array of artifacts. These include items associated with King William III, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.

A Hub of Information and Exploration

The museum offers informative and interactive exhibits, designed to enlighten visitors on the multifaceted facets of the Orange Order’s heritage.

While acknowledging the inherent pro-Loyalist perspective of the society, visitors can engage with the rich history and artifacts on display.

For a contrasting viewpoint, consider exploring the Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum to gain a comprehensive understanding of both narratives.

A Gateway to Research and Genealogy

For enthusiasts seeking to delve into their family history within the Orange Order, the museum offers a dedicated research and genealogy facility. It provides valuable resources and insights into tracing ancestral connections and unraveling personal legacies within the organization.

Located at Schomberg House in the vibrant Castlereagh area of Belfast, the Museum of Orange Heritage is easily accessible via a 15 to 20-minute bus ride from the town center. Visitors are welcome Monday through Saturday.

Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum

The Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum stands as a tribute to the enduring legacy of Republicans in Ireland since the tumultuous 1960s. It can be found in the historic Conways Mill Complex of West Belfast.

Exploring a Legacy of Resilience

Familiarize yourself with the compelling history of Republicanism as told through the lens of the Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum. It is named in honor of Eileen Hickey, a courageous woman who bore witness to the harrowing experiences of internment in Armagh during the 1970s.

A significant portion of the museum’s artifacts were meticulously collected by Eileen herself. They offer a tangible connection to a pivotal chapter in Ireland’s history.

A Window into Troubled Times

Journey through the museum’s informative exhibits, delving into the experiences of internment and imprisonment that defined the era of the Troubles in Ireland.

The museum proudly embraces a Republican (Nationalist/Catholic) perspective. It also offers inclusive insights and narratives, shedding light on the multifaceted aspects of the Republican cause.

A Hub of Knowledge and Reflection

Gain a deeper understanding of Ireland’s Republican history at this evocative museum.

As you explore the museum’s offerings, be mindful of its distinct perspective. It celebrates the positive facets of the Republican movement while acknowledging the complexities of its narrative.

Admission to the Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum is free, with donations warmly welcomed.

Convenient parking spaces are available for visitors arriving by car. Those opting for public transportation can access the museum via a brief 10 to 15-minute walk from the nearest bus stop.

Consider paying a visit to this museum as part of a Black Cab tour or Troubles-related excursion.

Exploring Cave Hill Country Park

Ascend to the stunning heights of Cave Hill, a majestic hill shaped by ancient basalt lava flows that commands panoramic views of Belfast.

Known for its rugged beauty, this iconic landmark has captivated locals and tourists alike. Some even draw a literary connection to Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels through its distinctive rock formation dubbed “Napoleon’s Nose.”

A Sanctuary of Natural Wonders

Cave Hill Country Park beckons adventurers with its blend of caves, rock formations, and ring fort remnants. As well as a network of scenic walking and hiking trails.

Home to the renowned Belfast Zoo, and the majestic Belfast Castle, this sprawling park offers a myriad of recreational opportunities.

Embarking on a Day of Exploration

Escape the confines of Belfast and venture into the tranquil expanse of Cave Hill Country Park. This is where trails of varying lengths and difficulties cater to hikers of all levels.

Traverse paths that wind past notable landmarks such as:

• Belfast Castle;
• Napoleon’s Nose;
• McArt’s Fort;
• Devil’s Punchbowl;
• Volunteer’s Well stream.

Each offers a glimpse into the park’s rich geological and historical tapestry.

Informative interpretive signs dot the landscape, shedding light on key features and narratives that enrich your journey.

Unveiling Belfast’s Magnificent Vistas

Revel in the breathtaking views that stretch across Belfast and beyond, with clear days offering glimpses all the way to the shores of Scotland.

Cave Hill Country Park delivers a memorable experience that invites you to linger and savor the beauty of the surroundings.

Hiking its trails, visiting Belfast Castle, and hill walking, all top the list of things to do in Belfast.

Belfast Castle

The castle was envisioned in the 19th century by George Hamilton Chichester, the 3rd Marquess of Donegall. Belfast Castle stands as a testament to architectural finesse.

Designed by the esteemed Charles Lanyon and his son, this imposing structure exudes the elegance of Scottish baronial style.

Notably, the castle’s resemblance to Scottish castles may strike a chord of familiarity for those who have ventured through the landscapes of Scotland.

A Tapestry of History and Heritage

The current Belfast Castle stands as a resplendent symbol of 19th-century opulence. It also pays homage to its predecessor—a 12th-century Norman castle that once graced the nearby grounds, near the present Belfast City Hall.

A portion of the castle offeres glimpses into its rich history and serving as a versatile space for offices, conferences, events, and dining experiences.

Renowned as a sought-after venue for weddings and conferences, Belfast Castle exudes an aura of sophistication and charm.

A Destination of Delight

Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Cave Hill Country Park, Belfast Castle beckons explorers seeking a moment of respite.

Whether you’re embarking on a hike, or visiting the nearby Belfast Zoo, a stop at Belfast Castle promises an enriching experience.

Explore the castle’s small exhibit, offering insights into its captivating history. Next, indulge in a delightful meal, coffee, or drink at the on-site restaurant and cafe.

Unveiling Nature’s Splendor

Step outside to discover the formal gardens that adorn the castle’s grounds, offering sweeping views of the city and a serene ambiance for relaxation.

Whether as a prelude or conclusion to your adventures, the castle is one of the best things to do in Belfast.

Things to do in Belfast: Day Trips from Belfast

While there is no shortage of fun things to do in Belfast City, one moment you may want to discover waiting just a stone’s throw away.

Within a 1 to 2-hour drive from Belfast, a world of enchanting destinations beckons, perfect for a day trip or a brief overnight excursion.

Giant’s Causeway

Venture along the picturesque Causeway Coastal Route, where each turn unveils breathtaking vistas and hidden treasures waiting to be explored.

Delve into the mystical allure of the Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s most renowned natural wonder and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Marvel at the mesmerizing hexagonal basalt columns, a geological masterpiece that forms a majestic pathway leading out to sea.

Immerse Yourself in History

Dive into the rich tapestry of Saint Patrick Country, where myths and legends intertwine with historical landmarks and cultural heritage.

Embark on a whiskey tour to sample the flavors of the region, or traverse the landscapes that served as the backdrop for the epic saga of Game of Thrones, exploring filming sites that transport you to a realm of fantasy and intrigue.

Unveil the Charms of Northern Ireland’s Castles and Estates

Indulge in a journey through time as you visit the myriad castles and historic estates that dot the Northern Irish landscape, each offering a glimpse into the region’s storied past and architectural splendor.

Planning Your Escape

If the Giant’s Causeway beckons, consider practicalities such as transportation. A 1-hour and 20-minute drive from Belfast, public transit options, or the convenience of group or private tours departing from Belfast or even Dublin.

Take advantage of the visitor services provided by the National Trust at the site. This will ensure a seamless and enriching experience at this iconic destination.

Explore Historic Residences in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland boasts a rich heritage of castles, palaces, and stately homes, many of which are open to the public for exploration.

Located within an hour’s drive of Belfast, these sites offer a glimpse into the region’s past.

Notable Sites to Visit:

Carrickfergus castle.

Built in the 12th century for Sir John de Courcy, this castle sits adjacent to Belfast Lough, with three sides surrounded by water. It remains one of Northern Ireland’s best-preserved medieval structures, witnessing various sieges throughout history. Entry fee required.

Castle Coole

An 18th-century neo-classical mansion and landscape park in Enniskillen, constructed for the Corry family. Managed by the National Trust, the estate is partially owned by the Earl Belmore. The mansion is open seasonally, while the estate welcomes visitors year-round. Entry fee applies.

Castle Ward

Dating back to the 18th century, this mansion built for Lord Bangor features a unique architectural design with Palladian and Georgian Gothic elements on each side. The estate includes a medieval tower house, farmyard, and gardens. Formerly home to the Ward family, it is now a National Trust property. Entry fee required.

Dunluce Castle

A 15th-century castle ruin overlooking the sea, once inhabited by the MacDonnell family. A popular stop along the Causeway Coastal route, it offers a glimpse into the region’s past. Admission fee applies.

Hillsborough Castle

An 18th-century Georgian house built for the Hill family, now serving as an official government residence. Managed by Historic Royal Palaces, it hosts the British Monarch and other royal family members during visits. Advance booking recommended due to limited tour times. Entry fee required.

Mount Stewart

A grand 19th-century neoclassical mansion and garden in County Down, originally built for the Marquesses of Londonderry. Managed by the National Trust, it is renowned for its exquisite interiors, art collection, and stunning gardens. Entry fee applies.

Note: Castle Ward, Castle Coole, and Mount Stewart are National Trust properties, offering free entrance to members. Consider a National Trust Touring Pass for savings on visits to these and other Trust properties in Northern Ireland.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Belfast!

Have you explored Belfast and its historic attractions? Share your favorites among the list or suggest additional sites to visit. If you’re planning a trip, which of these attractions would you include in your Belfast itinerary?

Feel free to reach out with any questions about Belfast or trip planning to Northern Ireland!

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13 comments.

I’d love to go <3

Mindy McNally

I dream of going to Ireland! My birthday is Saint Patrick’s Day…I would love to visit then!

Ryan Biddulph

Oh my goodness. How beautiful.

Wow I have been traveling with some bus drivers like that. You feel like you are going to die, and want to get off the bus, as these nut jobs – or, friendly-enough but distracted folks, who are just pushing it way too much – barrel around curbs.

Good deal you could speak to him. I recall this happening in many spots, including Laos. 24 hour bus to Chiang Mai and these guys start snoring, I cough out loud to wake them up, while they are going around hairpin curves, thousands of feet up. No barriers of course in a few of these areas. And in some areas, the barriers busted through as cars, trucks and buses obviously plummet thousands of feet, to folks’s death. Crazy.

Thanks for the rocking share Ivan.

MindTheTravel

Thanks, Ryan for commenting!

Were lucky to travel by day so there wasn’t a chance for the driver to nap. In fact, that is just terrible they could do such things.

Tracey Clark

Looks like I may need to fit Belfast in on my Ireland trip. What a colorful city and the Giant’s Causeway seems like a sight worth seeing.

Belfast is totally worth spending at least four days there! If you are a history buff, make sure to have a week for exploring all the murals!

Shannon Stuntebeck

What a great post! So thorough and exciting!

Thank you, Shannon!

Thanks for the great photos and tips. The background and history you provided helps visitors understand the culture, and people of this remarkably beautiful country. Enjoyed the fun video too!

Pura vida, Penny

Julie Torres

This place looks really amazing and I would really love to visit here and see these amazing places.

Agness of Fit Travelling

Belfast seems so charming and magical, Ivan. How long would you recommend staying there to enjoy all of the highlights?

Hey, Agness! Thanks for stopping by!

You can explore all main sites in four-five days, but if you want to get the most out of your Belfast trip, make sure to have at least a week. This will allow you to visit a Carrickfergus Castle and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. The views are just splendid!

Great place. Would love to visit after the pandemic is over.

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The North’s largest city by some distance, with a population of some 270,000 in the inner city rising to 600,000 across its wider metropolitan area, Belfast has a pace and bustle you’ll find nowhere else in Northern Ireland. For many, however, the city will always be remembered as the focus of the Troublesthat dominated Northern Ireland’s politics for almost three decades from the late 1960s and scarred so many lives. Indeed, as the North continues to come to terms with the aftermath of the peace process, instigated by the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, the city remains in some ways on a knife’s edge, always expecting some new predicament to emerge.

Some history

Accommodation in belfast, eating in belfast, belfast drinking and nightlife, lgbt travel information for belfast, sports and outdoor activities in belfast, donegall square, the entries and around.

• Belfast's Cathedral Quarter

The Laganside

The golden mile, south belfast, west belfast, belfast’s murals, belfast and the titanic, east belfast, george best, the botanic gardens.

In appearance Belfast closely resembles Liverpool, Glasgow or any other industrial port across the water, and, similarly, its largely defunct docklands– in which, famously, the Titanic was built – are undergoing massive redevelopment. Though the city centre is still characterized by numerous elegant Victorian buildings, there’s been an enormous transformation here, too, not least in the greater prosperity of the shopping streets leading northwards from the hub of Belfast life, Donegall Square. Yet economic improvement is not reflected in every aspect of Belfast life. Some areas of the city display obvious economic decline, most notably North Belfast and the once-thriving so-called Golden Mile (now little more than a silver two hundred yards at each end). On week-nights the city centre can resemble a ghost town, though there’s no doubt that Belfast continues to thrive culturally. Theatre and the visual arts are flourishing, and there are plenty of places to catch the city’s booming traditional-music scene.

A couple of days are enough to get a feel for the city, although it is a good base from which to visit virtually anywhere else in the North. In the city centre, concentrate on the glories resulting from the Industrial Revolution – grandiose architecture and magnificent Victorian pubs – and the rejuvenated area from Ann Street to Donegall Street now known as the Cathedral quarter. To the south lies Queen’s University and the extensive collections of the Ulster Museum, set in the grounds of the Botanic Gardens. A climb up Cave Hill, a couple of miles to the north, rewards you with marvellous views of the city spread out around the curve of its natural harbour, Belfast Lough. The River Lagan flows towards Belfast Lough along the eastern side of the city centre and offers riverside walks, and is also the focus for the most radical development in the last few years, the Laganside, focused on the Waterfront Hall and the Odyssey Complex across the water. In East Belfast, across the river beyond the great cranes of the Harland & Wolff shipyard, lies suburbia and very little of interest apart from Stormont, the former Northern Irish parliament and home to the modern Assembly. The city’s once-formidable security presence and fortifications are now virtually invisible, but the iron blockade known as the Peace Line still bisects the Catholic and Protestant communities of West Belfast, a grim physical reminder of the city’s and country’s sectarian divisions – and there are certain flashpoints such as the Short Strand in East Belfast and North Belfast’s Ardoyne area that it is still inadvisable to visit.

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Belfast began life as a cluster of forts built to guard a ford across the River Farset, which nowadays runs underground beneath the High Street. An Anglo-Norman castle was built here in 1177, but its influence was limited, and within a hundred years or so control over the Lagan Valley had reverted firmly to the Irish, under the O’Neills of Clandeboye. In 1604, Sir Arthur Chichester, whose son was to be the First Earl of Donegall, was “planted” in the area by James I, and shortly afterwards the tiny settlement was granted a charter creating a corporate borough. It was not until the end of the seventeenth century though that Belfast began to grow significantly, when French Huguenots fleeing persecution brought skills which rapidly improved the fortunes of the local linen industry – which, in turn, attracted new workers and wealth. Through the eighteenth century the cloth trade and shipbuilding expanded tremendously, and the population increased tenfold in a hundred years. With economic prosperity, Belfast became a city noted for its liberalism: in 1791, three Presbyterian Ulstermen formed the Society of United Irishmen, a gathering embracing Catholics and Protestants on the basis of common Irish nationality, from which sprang the 1798 Rebellion.

However, the rebellion in the North was quickly and ruthlessly stamped out by the English, and within two generations most Protestants had abandoned the Nationalist cause. Presbyterian ministers began openly to attack the Catholic Church, resulting in a sectarian divide that as time drew on became wider and increasingly violent. At the same time, the nineteenth century saw vigorous commercial and industrial expansion, and by the time Queen Victoria granted Belfast city status in 1888, its population had risen to 208,000, soon exceeding that of Dublin.

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With Partition came the creation of Northern Ireland with Belfast as its capital and Stormont as its seat of government. Inevitably this boosted the city’s status, but also ensured that it would ultimately become the focus for much of the Troubles. Though its fortunes now reflected the status of the British economy, Belfast mainly fared well, despite major German bombing raids during World War II. However, the economic status of the Catholic population was deliberately maintained at a low level by the Stormont government, largely consisting of Protestant landowners and businessmen, which saw no reason to challenge existing sectarian employment, housing and policing policies – all fuel to the fire which was to follow.

For 25 years from 1969, Belfast witnessed the worst of the Troubles and, by the time the IRA declared a ceasefire in 1994, much of the city resembled a battle site. Then followed a sea change in the city’s fortunes as Britain and the EU funded a revitalization programme costing billions of pounds. Major shopping centres were built, swish hotels, bars and restaurants seemed to spring up almost overnight, and buildings such as the Waterfront Hall and Odyssey complex have fundamentally altered the city’s skyline. Young Belfast partied like never before – and to some extent still does – while the atmosphere of the whole city centre changed irrevocably.

Nevertheless, Belfast remains a city divided and all evidence suggests that sectarian attitudes are hardening, especially among young people, some of whom, though not old enough to remember the Troubles, regard the Orange Order marching season as an opportunity to confront both their “opposing” community and the police with bricks and petrol bombs. Yet while the peace is fragile, there is still optimism for the future as seen in the ambitious centenary celebrations that commemorated the launch of the Titanic, a product of Belfast’s once thriving docklands.

Belfast has a broad range of accommodation, especially at the top end of the market. However, there’s still a relative dearth of budget places. Much of the city’s accommodation is concentrated around Great Victoria Street and south of the centre in the university quarter, particularly on and around Botanic Avenue and in the network of streets running between the Malone and Lisburn roads. Many hotels and guesthouses are geared towards business travellers and so frequently offer significant reductions for weekend breaks; most hotels offer free wi-fi.

Eating out in Belfast is very much a movable feast with new places popping up and others vanishing or relocating. There are plenty of options for food during the day in the centre and at the southern end of the Golden Mile, ranging from new cafés (many of which in the city centre stay open until 8.30pm on Thurs nights) to traditional pubs (which generally only serve lunch but in some cases continue providing food until 9pm).

Most of the city’s well-established restaurants are around Donegall Square or in the university area. Bear in mind that they are often fully booked on Friday and Saturday evenings, so reserving a table’s essential unless you’re prepared to eat early. There is a fair choice of cuisine, from modern Irish and European, with French and Italian especially popular, to a smattering of Indian and East Asian restaurants. Standards are generally high and often exceptionally good value for money. The choice is limited for vegetarians but many places include veggie options on their menus.

Belfast has numerous excellent pubs concentrated in the city centre and the club and music scenes continue to thrive on Fridays and Saturdays, although Sundays can be quiet, with many bars closing early or remaining shut all day. To tap into the city’s pulse, your best bet is to wander around the Entries or up and around Donegall Street, while there’s plenty of action at each end of the Golden Mile. For the latest information on what’s going on, the monthly listings freesheet The Big List is essential, though the Belfast Telegraph also features extensive, if somewhat disorganized, listings.

As always in Ireland, the pubs are the heart of the city. The liveliest in the evenings are on Great Victoria Street, on and near Donegall Street, and around the university, and if you start drinking at the famed Crown Liquor Saloon you can manage a substantial pub crawl without moving more than a few hundred yards. Several of the finest pubs also offer regular traditional music sessions, usually free with your pint. If you’re short of time, you could always join the Historical Pub Tour, covering six of Belfast’s best-known bars. For pub reviews, check wwww.belfastbar.co.uk.

As well as the traditional music on offer in pubs, Belfast also benefits from a thriving indie and rock scene. There are always good up-and-coming bands playing in the city, just waiting to get noticed and the number of visiting international performers has increased dramatically since the opening of the Waterfront Hall and Odyssey Arena. Rock venues may charge between £5 and £20 depending on the act’s reputation. Pre-booked tickets for the biggest names will usually cost much more – between £15 and £75.

Clubs and DJ bars

Belfast’s club scene isn’t what it was ten years ago, but there are still plenty of dance dens, as well as pre-club DJ bars around. Check The Big List for who’s on when; you’ll find most venues run different clubs on different nights. Venues are scattered fairly evenly around the city centre; students – not surprisingly – tend to dominate those closest to the university area. Admission may be free early in the week (and at some places all week) and as low as £2 or £3 up to Thursday nights, while weekend prices are usually around £5 to £15. Many places stay open until 1am Monday to Thursday and till 2am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Classical music, opera and theatre

Almost all classical-music concerts take place in the Ulster or Waterfront halls, while opera fans are catered for by the Grand Opera House. Most of Belfast’s theatres are concentrated in the south of the city. Although the choice is relatively limited, there is still enough to please most tastes.

The main resource of Belfast’s gay scene is Queerspace, part of Cara-Friend, 9–13 Waring Street (wwww.queerspace.org.uk), a collective that aims to serve the needs and raise the profile of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community of Belfast and Northern Ireland; it holds weekly drop-in sessions on the afternoons of the first and third Saturdays of the month (3–6pm). Alternatively, there’s wwww.gaybelfast.net which provides plenty of information on entertainment and nightlife. Helplines include Cara-Friend (t028/9032 2023; Mon–Wed 7.30–10pm) and Lesbian Line (t028/9023 8668; Thurs 7.30–10pm). Belfast’s Gay Pride (wwww.belfastpride.com) week begins on the last Saturday in July.

The number of gay bars and venues has increased substantially over the last few years and the majority are geared towards men (check wwww.gaybelfast.net/scene.htm for listings) though there are occasional lesbian club nights organised by The Glory Box (wwww.gloryboxgurlz.com).

Though watching, discussing and betting on sport is as much of a pastime in Belfast as anywhere else, you’ll find very few locals expressing particularly passionate opinions about the city’s teams and players, with the notable exception of boxing. Indeed, when people watch sport here, it’s usually the televised variety, and attendances for most events are relatively small, an indifference that applies equally to the North’s national teams. Nevertheless, if you’re interested in attending a match of whatever kind, there are plenty of opportunities, and the Belfast Telegraph usually has the details.

The Northern Ireland football (soccer) team has enjoyed little success on the international stage over the last twenty years, but lit a blaze of glory in the summer of 2005 when it defeated England 1–0 in Belfast, reignited by a 3–2 victory over Spain the following year. Internationals are played at Windsor Park (the home ground of the Linfield club) near the Lisburn Road (buses #9A and #9B to Lower Windsor Avenue). The biggest club sides in Belfast – paradoxically enough – are Glasgow’s Celtic and Rangers, generally supported respectively by Catholics and Protestants, as well as Liverpool and Manchester United.

Since football is the Belfast sport, success at either hurling or Gaelic football has been lacking, and County Antrim (which in this case includes Belfast for sporting purposes) has never won either All-Ireland Senior Final. You can see both sports most weekends at Roger Casement Park, on Andersonstown Road (buses #10A, #10B, #10C and #10D).

The provincial rugby-union team, Ulster, plays its games at the Ravenhill Grounds, Ravenhill Park (bus #78), and features in both the Celtic League and the Heineken Cup. Perhaps the most popularly attended matches are the ice-hockey games at the Odyssey Arena, featuring the Belfast Giants.

The core of Belfast is the stately, though often traffic-clogged, Donegall Square. In its centre stands the City Hall, a vast, Neoclassical bulk. Completed in 1906 and made of bright white Portland stone, its turrets, saucer domes, scrolls and pinnacle pots are all representative of styles absorbed by the British Empire. In front stands an imposing statue of Queen Victoria, the apotheosis of imperialism, her maternal gaze unerringly cast across the rooftops towards the Protestant Shankill area. At her feet, sculpted in bronze, stand proud figures showing the city fathers’ world-view: a young scholar, his mother with spinning spool and his father with mallet and boat, the three of them representing “learning, linen and liners”, the alliterative bedrock of Belfast’s heritage.

The predominantly pedestrianized streets north from Donegall Square lead you into downtown Belfast. The main shopping street, Donegall Place, continues into Royal Avenue and houses familiar chain-store names. Castle Place, off Donegall Place, was once the hub of Victorian Belfast, and the grand old department stores here, in creams, pinks and browns, have been transformed into a plethora of voguish shops, though happily only the ground-floor frontages have been converted, leaving the lofty grandeur of the storeys above undisturbed.

East along Castle Lane or Castle Place leads to Ann Street and the High Street, interlinked by the narrow alleyways known as the Entries. You’ll stumble across some great old saloon bars down here, like The Morning Star in Pottinger’s Entry, with its large frosted windows and Parisian-café-like counter, and White’s Tavern in Winecellar Entry, which dates from the seventeenth century. Crown Entry was where the Society of United Irishmen was born, led by the Protestant triumvirate of Wolfe Tone, Henry Joy McCracken and Samuel Nielson. Nielson also printed his own newspaper in this area, the Northern Star; heavily influenced by the French revolutionary ideals of liberty, equality and fraternity, the newspaper’s inflammatory material led to his being hounded out of town.

From the High Street, a similar set of Entries used to run through to Waring Street to the north, but was destroyed by bombing in World War II. Still, this end of the High Street, with the River Farset running underground, is the oldest part of the city, its atmosphere in places redolent of the eighteenth century.

Belfast's Cathedral Quarter

The area north of Waring Street has seen much redevelopment in recent years, with plenty of new restaurants and bars opening up – some of which offer a wide range of entertainment, such as the excellent John Hewitt – leading to its acquisition of the term Cathedral quarter to suggest a Parisian ambience, though one as far removed from the Left Bank as it’s possible to imagine.

A couple of hundred yards up Donegall Street you’ll find the most monolithic of all the city’s grand buildings, the Protestant St Anne’s Cathedral, a neo-Romanesque basilica started in 1899, but not fully completed until 1981. Entrance is via the huge west door, immediately to the right of which is the baptistery, with an intricately designed representation of the Creation on its ceiling consisting of 150,000 tiny pieces of glass. Most significant, however, is the cathedral’s only tomb, marked by a simple slab on the floor of the south aisle, which contains the body of Lord Edward Henry Carson (1854–1935). The symbol of Partition, he’s seen either as the province’s saviour or as the villain who sabotaged Ireland’s independence as a 32-county state.

Lord Edward Carson

Lord Edward Carson is a name that Northern Ireland has never forgotten. A Dubliner of Scots-Presbyterian background, he took the decision in 1910 to accept the leadership of the opposition to Home Rule, which in effect inextricably allied him to the Ulster Unionist resistance movement. Yet, though this association is about the only thing for which he is remembered, his personality and integrity went far deeper than this. He abhorred religious intolerance, and behind the exterior of a zealous crusader was a man who sincerely believed that Ireland couldn’t prosper without Britain and only wished that a federalist answer could have involved a united Ireland. Nonetheless, this was the same man who, as a brilliant orator at the bar, and in the role he loved the most, brought about the humiliating destruction of Oscar Wilde at the writer’s trial in 1895.

On Donegall Quay is the ambitious Laganside development project, the first component of which to be completed was the Lagan Weir, designed to protect the city against flooding. Millions of pounds have been pumped into dredging the river to maintain water levels and revive the much depleted fish population – successfully it seems: there was salmon fishing on the weir’s inauguration day. However, little can be done to restore the river’s erstwhile crucial role in the successful development of the city as a centre for industries as diverse as linen, tobacco, rope-making and shipbuilding – a glance across the river to the Harland & Wolff shipyard confirms that the last-named still survives.

If the sea air’s twitching your nostrils, head a few hundred yards further north towards the ferry terminals, where you’ll find the restored Harbour Office and nearby Sinclair Seamen’s Church on Corporation Square. The latter is yet another Lanyon design, but it’s the contents that are most intriguing. Sailors must have felt truly at home among the cornucopia of maritime equipment – an old-fashioned wooden wheel, the bell from HMS Hood, assorted navigation lights and a ship’s prow for a pulpit.

The most obvious changes to the city’s skyline can be seen from almost any river viewpoint: further south along Oxford Street sits the glittering two-thousand-seater Waterfront Hall concert venue, a housing development and a Hilton hotel.

The Odyssey

Across the river on Queen’s Quay, the massive Odyssey leisure complex features a ten-thousand-seater indoor arena, cinemas and a complex of bars, restaurants and shops. Also here is the Whowhatwherewhenwhy scientific discovery centre, known as W5 with over 150 interactive exhibits, aimed primarily at children. Best of these is the See/Do section in which you can create your own animated cartoon and have a go at composing on a laser harp. From mid-July to August, W5 also runs a series of special workshops for children – the subjects change annually.

The strip of Belfast running south along Great Victoria Street to Shaftesbury Square and thence to the university area and beyond is ascribed the name of the “Golden Mile”, though in its present state its middle is, in truth, mostly a pretty depressing stretch of boarded-up businesses and building sites.

It begins at the grandiose, Victorian Grand Opera House, which sits just a short distance west of Donegall Square at the northern end of Great Victoria Street. At the northern head of the street, almost opposite the Europa Hotel, stands one of the greatest of Victorian gin palaces, the Crown Liquor Saloon. The saloon has a glittering tiled exterior resembling a spa baths more than a serious drinking institution, while inside the scrolled ceiling, patterned floor and the golden-yellow and rosy-red hues led John Betjeman to describe it as his “many coloured cavern”. Once armed with drinks (and if it’s not too crowded, or lunchtime when they’re reserved for diners only), grab one of the snugs and press the button to receive service. If the snugs are all busy, it’s still a great experience to sit or stand at the bar, with its carved-timber dividing screens, painted mirrors and frieze-decorated oak panelling.

Before heading into the university quarter, sidestep off Great Victoria Street into Sandy Row, which runs parallel to the west. A strong working-class Protestant quarter (with the tribal pavement painting to prove it), it’s one of the most glaring examples of Belfast’s divided world, wildly different from the city centre’s increasingly cosmopolitan sophistication, yet only yards away. In Blythe Street and Donegall Road, off to the west, are some of the murals that characterize these sectarian areas (see Belfast’s murals). Sandy Row used to be the main road south and, although hard to credit today, it was once a picturesque stretch of whitewashed cottages.

Towards the Golden Mile’s southern extremity lies the university area, the focal point for South Belfast’s attractions (wwww.visitsouthbelfast.com). You’re likely to spend much of your time in the area, since it boasts plenty of eating places, pubs and a range of accommodation. Near Queen’s University are the lush Botanic Gardens, within which sits the vast Ulster Museum, displaying everything from dinosaur bones to contemporary art. Heading south from here along Stranmillis Road it’s a relatively short step east to the Lagan Towpath, running several miles southwest to Lisburn, while a detour along the way leads to the Neolithic earthwork known as the Giant’s Ring.

The university quarter

Towards the Golden Mile’s southern extremity lies the university quarter. You’re likely to spend much of your time in the area, since it boasts plenty of eating places, pubs and a range of accommodation. Just south of Shaftesbury Square stand three churches – Moravian, Crescent and Methodist – whose distinctive steeples frame the entrance to the university quarter. From here, leading up to the university buildings, the roads are lined with early Victorian terraces that represent the final flowering of Georgian architecture in Belfast. The Upper Crescent is a magnificent curved Neoclassical terrace, built in about 1845 but sadly neglected since; it is now used mainly for office space. The Lower Crescent, perversely, is straight.

Queen’s University is the architectural centrepiece of the area, flanked by the most satisfying example of a Georgian terrace in Belfast, University Square, where the red brickwork mostly remains intact, with the exception of a few bay windows added in the Victorian era. The university building itself was constructed in 1849 as a mock-Tudor remodelling of Magdalen College, Oxford, to a design by Lanyon, and houses a visitor centre, which provides information about the university, hosts a series of art exhibitions, and runs guided tours. Across the road from here is the Students’ Union, a white 1960s design. The Italianate Union Theological College, nearby on College Park, also by Lanyon, was temporarily the site of the Northern Ireland Parliament until 1932 when Stormont was built. A little further south down University Road, the university bookshop is especially good for Irish history and politics and has particularly impressive fiction, drama and poetry sections.

The Ulster Museum

Within the Botanic Gardens is the Ulster Museum which reopened in 2009 after a long redevelopment programme. Retaining its original eighty-year old shell, the Museum now incorporates a bold modernist design and sheds light both literally and figuratively on subjects from the North’s troubled history to Ireland’s geological past. The grand open-plan ground floor, which also features a much-improved café, introduces some of the museum’s themes via its “Window on the World” displays which include everything from an impressive dinosaur skeleton to an Alexander McQueen dress. From here it’s best to head up to the third floor to explore the art exhibits. The undoubted highlights here are the modern art collection (featuring Francis Bacon’s macabre Head II, Bridget Riley’s unnerving Cataract IV and Stanley Spencer’s parochial The Betrayal), and the stunning landscapes and rural scenes by painters such as Belfast’s Sir John Lavery, plus Turner’s highly symbolic Dawn of Christianity.

The second floor features the “Nature Zone”, depicting the Earth’s origins and Ireland’s development up to the Ice Age. Far more engrossing are the first floor’s history galleries which begin with Neolithic remains and Bronze Age finds (including a remarkable three-foot wide decorated shield), before taking a detailed look at the medieval period – two exhibits to look out for here are the somewhat skew-whiff stone inauguration chair of the O’Neills of Clandeboye and the silver gilt arm-reliquary supposedly created to house St Patrick’s hand. The Armada gallery includes plenty of relics from the ill-fated Girona which sank off the Antrim coast in 1588, while the Ascendancy section includes a remarkable rag-bound tally-stick, used to record the number of prayers said during the then illegal outdoor Catholic service, as well as highlighting the effects of the Great Famine.

From here the exhibits quicken up a pace, especially when focusing upon the War of Independence and the North’s resistance to Dublin rule, before looking at Belfast during World War II and concluding with a disappointingly bland space devoted to The Troubles.

For an unsurpassable overview of the whole city and lough, a climb up Cave Hill, to the north, is a must. Several paths lead up from Belfast Castle’s estate to the hill’s summit – a rocky outcrop known as “Napoleon’s Nose”. From here you can’t help but appreciate the accuracy of the poet Craig Raine’s aerial description of the city in his Flying to Belfast as “a radio set with its back ripped off”. Cave Hill was once awash with Iron Age forts, for there was flint (for weapon making) in the chalk under the basalt hill-coverings. In 1795, Wolfe Tone, Henry Joy McCracken and other leaders of the United Irishmen stood on the top of Cave Hill and pledged “never to desist in our efforts until we have subverted the authority of England over our country and asserted our Independence”.

Though the nexus of the Troubles for 25 years, today West Belfast is as safe as anywhere else in the city to visit. However, there’s little of architectural note among the mainly residential streets and most of the “sights” are associated with the area’s troubled past. Much of the old terraced housing has been replaced in recent years by rows of modern estates, but it’s impossible to miss examples of the partisan mural paintings that decorate walls and gable ends in both Catholic and Protestant areas. Tourist information about the area is available from the West Belfast Tourist Information Point.

The Troubles in West Belfast

The Troubles in West Belfast have their origins in the nineteenth century, when the city’s population expanded dramatically as people flocked from the countryside to work in the booming new flax and linen industries. Many of these migrants were crammed into jerry-built housing in the grids of streets which still today define this part of the city. Conditions were deplorable and did nothing to ease tensions between Catholic and Protestant residents. There were numerous sectarian riots – the worst was in 1886, during the reading of the Home Rule Bill, when 32 people died and over 370 were injured – leading to the almost inevitable definition of two separate neighbourhoods, as Protestant and Catholic families alike began to migrate to more secure surroundings.

In 1968 and 1969, this division was pushed to its limit when, across the city, sectarian mobs and gunmen evicted over eight thousand families from their homes, mainly in Catholic West Belfast. The Royal Ulster Constabulary, or RUC, called for government assistance, and British troops arrived on the streets on August 15, 1969. A month later the makeshift barrier dividing the Catholic Falls from the Protestant Shankill had become a full-scale reinforced “peace line”. British intervention may have averted a civil war, but it failed to prevent an escalation in sectarian conflict. Indeed, the army soon came to be viewed as an occupying force and a legitimate target for a reviving IRA, though local sympathies for its aims were much diminished by the 1972 Bloody Friday bombings. In return, Loyalist paramilitaries sought to avenge Republican violence, often through indiscriminate killings, such as the atrocities carried out by the Shankill Butchers in the 1970s, so called because they used butchers’ knives to first maim then murder their Catholic victims. These in turn sparked Republican “tit-for-tat” attacks against Loyalists and commenced a cycle which finally reached its nadir with the Shankill Road bombing, a botched attempt to blow up Loyalist paramilitary leaders supposedly meeting above a fish shop on the Shankill Road in 1993, which instead killed customers and the shop’s owner.

Over the next 25 years, West Belfast remained the major battleground of the Troubles. The busy Westlink motorway separates West Belfast from the rest of the city, and at the height of the conflict the various overhead bridges and roundabouts were used by the police and army as virtual border crossings to control access to and from the area.

From the city centre, Divis Street, a westward continuation of Castle Street, leads to the Falls Road, which heads on for a further two miles west past Milltown Cemetery and into Andersonstown. The first part of the Falls Road is known as the Lower Falls where most of the land to the left (south) consists of modern red-brick terraced housing estates. The right-hand side of the road is more of a hotchpotch and features some of the local landmarks: the bright blue swimming baths and the DSS (the Department of Social Security, known as “the Brew” – a corruption of “bureau”), cooped up in an awning of chicken-wire. Down Conway Street (by the DSS), stands the old Conway Mill, revitalized by a concerted community effort. Inside you can investigate the wares of the numerous small businesses and local artists who operate from here, as well as an art gallery and a small exhibition depicting the mill’s history. All the way along the Falls Road you’ll spot, blocking the ends of the streets to the right, walls of iron sheeting. These comprise the “Peace Line”, and directly behind them is the Protestant working-class district of Shankill.

Further west lie the red-brick and more recent buildings of the Royal Victoria Hospital, at the junction with Grosvenor Road. During the Troubles, the Royal, as it’s known locally, received international acclaim for its ability to cope with the consequences of the violence. Just beyond it, in a disused Presbyterian church at 216 Falls Rd, is the Cultúrlann MacAdam Ó Fiaich, a cultural centre for Irish-speakers, housing an extensive bookshop (also selling traditional-music CDs), an excellent café and a thriving theatre, often the host to musical events. Although you are unlikely to hear it being spoken on the streets or in most pubs, the Irish language is flourishing in Catholic areas of Belfast and throughout the North.

The Protestant population of West Belfast lives in the area abutting the Falls to the north, between the Shankill Road and the Crumlin Road. As with the Falls, there’s little here of special interest, apart from an array of Loyalist murals (some even including web addresses). Along the Crumlin Road, in particular, are a number of evocative sites symbolizing the worst years of the Troubles. From the Westway you’ll pass between the courthouse and the notorious Crumlin Road Gaol, the two connected by an underground tunnel; former inmates include Éamon de Valera, Gerry Adams and Ian Paisley and it closed in 1996. The gaol is currently being refurbished with a view to reopening in 2011 with visitors’ tours and occasional cultural events planned. Despite many other obvious signs of redevelopment and renovation – the most apparent being the recently constructed leisure centre – the area is in decline, its population shrinking in inverse proportion to the Catholic population on the other side of the Peace Line.

As much a marker of an area’s allegiances as painted kerbstones or fluttering flags and bunting, the politically inspired murals of Northern Ireland are among the most startling sights not just in Belfast, but of the whole country. This ephemeral art form, which recycles the images and slogans of the Troubles, characterizes the violent struggles of the last few decades. Though many have been in place now for a decade, some of the slogans and murals mentioned here may have vanished by the time of your visit: new murals are painted over old ones or the houses they adorn are demolished. A detailed archive of Northern Ireland’s murals is maintained by the University of Ulster at wcain.ulst.ac.uk/mccormick and another large collection of photographs can be found at wwww.belfast-murals.co.uk.

Loyalist murals

For most of the twentieth century, mural painting in Northern Ireland was a predominantly Loyalist activity. The first mural appeared in East Belfast in 1908 and, like many of its successors, celebrated King Billy’s victory at the Battle of the Boyne. Loyalist murals have tended to use imagery symbolic of power, such as the clenched scarlet fist, known as the Red Hand of Ulster, or flags, shields and other heraldic icons. However, the Loyalist response to the Troubles translated into what is now the most common form of painting, the militaristic mural. If King Billy appears at all, it is often with a guard of balaclava-clad, weapon-toting paramilitaries, accompanied by a threatening slogan. Inspired by the desire for “no surrender” and preservation of the status quo, Loyalist mural-painting is certainly less dynamic and diverse than its Republican counterpart. A typical example, on Hopewell Crescent in the Lower Shankill, shows two masked gunmen crouching beside a clenched red fist which is surrounded by the Union Flag and the flags of Ulster, the UFF and UDA – part of the slogan reads “Lower Shankill UFF. Simply the best.”

Recently, Loyalist murals have sought to undermine Sinn Féin’s role in the peace process by attacking the IRA – a striking five-panelled example on the Shankill Road recalls a number of IRA bombings of Loyalist targets and carries the slogan, “30 Years of Indiscriminate Slaughter by So-Called Non-Sectarian Irish Freedom Fighters”.

The greatest concentration of Loyalist murals is to be found on and around the Shankill Road, especially the Shankill Estate, to the north, and Dover Place, off Dover Street, to the south. Other areas are Sandy Row and Donegall Pass in South Belfast, and Newtownards Road, Martin Street and Severn Street in East Belfast.

Republican murals

Republican murals were at first limited to simple sloganeering or demarcation of territory, the best-known example being the long-standing “You are now entering Free Derry” in that city’s Bogside district. As with much else in Republican politics, however, the 1981 hunger strikes had a significant influence. Murals in support of the ten hunger strikers abounded and the (usually smiling) face of Bobby Sands – the IRA commander in the Maze prison who led the strike – remains an enduring image. Murals soon became a fundamental part of the Republican propaganda campaign and an expression of the community’s current cultural and political concerns, though militaristic images have never really dominated Republican murals as much as they have done Loyalist ones. Prominent themes have been resistance to British rule, the call for the withdrawal of troops and questioning the validity of the police.

More recently, however, Republican muralists have turned increasingly to Irish legends and history as their sources of inspiration and the only militaristic murals tend to be found in flashpoints such as the Ardoyne. Equally, artists have paid tribute to other international liberation movements, as in a striking series of murals on Divis Street just before the beginning of the Falls Road. Further Republican murals can be found nearby on Beechmount Avenue, on Lenadoon Avenue in Andersonstown, and on New Lodge Road in North Belfast.

Belfast has numerous festivals throughout the year and a full calendar can be found at www.belfastcity.gov.uk/culture/festivals.asp .

• Guinness Belfast Nashville Songwriters Festival wwww.belfastnashville.com.The North’s love of country music is reflected by this citywide weeklong event in late February, featuring local talent and major US names.
• St Patrick’s Day wwww.belfastcitygov.co.uk/events. Carnival parade on 17 March, followed by a major open-air concert in Custom House Square.
• Titanic Made in Belfast Festival wwww.belfastcity.gov.co.uk/events. More than a week of events early in the month celebrating the city’s maritime culture.
• Belfast Film Festival t028/9024 6609, wwww.belfastfilmfestival.org. The second half of April sees a host of left-field movies and related events with screenings in cinemas, pubs, clubs and other venues.
• Festival of Fools www.foolsfestival.com. Five-day international street theatre festival, held over the first weekend in May, with events around the city centre.
• Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival wwww.cqaf.com. Lively arts festival, featuring Irish and international acts, spread over ten days in early May.
• Belfast City Carnival www.belfastcarnival.com . Annual themed festival in mid-June centred around a parade and live music in Donegall Square.
• Orange Order Parades Orange Order Lodges throughout Belfast commemorate the Battle of the Boyne with parades on 12 July.
• Féile An Phobail wwww.feilebelfast.com. Week-long music and dance festival at the beginning of August based in West Belfast.
• Belfast City Blues Festival wwww.belfastcityblues.com. Three days of 12-bar honky-tonk and foot-stomping riffs at the end of August.
• Open House Festival wwww.openhousefestival.com. Rock, folk and traditional music festival held at various venues around the Cathedral Quarter early in September.
• Belfast Festival at Queen’s wwww.belfastfestival.com. Fortnight-long event held in late October which claims to be Britain’s second-biggest arts festival after Edinburgh.

Much of Belfast’s waterside heritage is associated with English engineer Edward James Harland (1831–1895) who together with his German-born assistant Gustav Wilhelm Wolff (1834–1913) founded the Harland and Wolff shipbuilding company here in 1861. Starting from a small shipyard on Queen’s Island, the company grew rapidly and over the following decades had gained a reputation for innovations such as iron (rather than wooden) decks and flatter, squarer hulls designed to maximise capacity. The firm continued to flourish after Harland‘s death and Wolff’s retirement, most notably when it constructed three steamships for the White Star Line – the Olympic, the Britannic and, most famously, the Titanic. Completed in 1912, the Titanic, then the world‘s largest passenger-carrying steamship, sank on April 14 of the same year, just four days into her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York, having collided with an iceberg in the North Atlantic. More than 1500 of the 2200-plus passengers and crew drowned, a tragedy that continues to hold a macabre fascination today.

East Belfast’s skyline is dominated by the Samson and Goliath cranes which tower above the Harland & Wolff shipyard. The shipyard is the city’s proudest international asset – the ill-fated Titanic was built here – and is said to possess the largest dry dock in the world: over 600m long and 100m wide. Unfortunately, the area is very security-conscious and access is impossible without making a formal application.

East Belfast is trying hard to draw interest to its few attractions: there are notable murals at Freedom Corner near the beginning of the Newtownards Road, and the area does have some well-known scions. The theologian and author of the Narnia chronicles, C.S. Lewis, was born in Dundela Villas, and there’s a plaque commemorating him at Dundela Flats, which stand on the site where the house once stood, off Dundela. Another plaque on Burren Way in the Cregagh estate commemorates the childhood home of the late footballer George Best. And Van Morrison fans might get a thrill from seeking out his birthplace, a private house (with no public access) at 125 Hyndford St, off Beersbridge Road, and the many streets that feature in his songs (Cyprus Avenue, Castlereagh Road and others).

Maradona good, Pele better, George Best (popular Belfast sporting adage).

Born in East Belfast in 1946, George Best became (and remains to this day) Northern Ireland’s most celebrated footballer. Rejected by local clubs, he was signed by Manchester United, then as now England’s glamour team. Making his debut aged 17, Best starred in the 1964-65 and 1966-67 Championship-winning teams, cementing his reputation as a dazzling, jinking and goal-scoring winger. His good looks, long hair, gift of the gab and love of the high life also led to his acquisition of the sobriquet “the fifth Beatle”. Further fame was assured when United beat Benfica 4–1 in the 1967 European Cup Final, Best scoring one of the goals and running the Portuguese team’s defence so ragged before a vast televised audience that his award of European Footballer of the Year was a foregone conclusion.

The latter half of the 1960s saw Best’s celebrity lifestyle (by then he owned nightclubs and boutiques and had dated at least one Miss World) consumed by gambling, alcoholism and chasing women. He walked out of United in 1974, and after that his footballing career declined rapidly, taking in spells in the US and Australia. Alcohol addiction led to a stint in prison in 1984, after which Best was found guilty of drunk driving and assaulting a police officer. By 2002 his health was so poor that he underwent a liver transplant, but continued to drink after its success and eventually succumbed to multiple organ failure in November 2005.

Some 100,000 mourners lined the streets of Belfast as Best’s coffin travelled to his funeral service at Stormont. Belfast City Airport was subsequently renamed in his honour and, in 2006, the Ulster Bank issued one million £5 notes bearing his picture – the entire issue was rapidly snapped up for keepsakes. The great sadness of Best’s football career was that, despite 37 caps for Northern Ireland, he never appeared in a major international competition such as the World Cup) but he inspired a host of young footballers and, indeed, numerous jokes, not least his own oft-quoted remark: “I spent a lot of my money on booze, birds and fast cars. The rest I just squandered.”

Four miles east of the centre, off the Newtownards Road, is Stormont, the home of the Northern Ireland Parliament until the introduction of direct rule in 1972, and now housing the Assembly created by the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. You can’t visit the house itself, unless invited by an Assembly member, but it’s an impressive sight, a great, White Neoclassical mansion crowning a rise in the middle of a park (with adjacent cricket field) at the end of a magnificent long, straight drive. You can wander freely in the grounds, a popular place for a walk. Also here, though obviously not open to the public, is Stormont Castle, the office of the British Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

Just below Queen's University are the popular Botanic Gardens, first opened in 1827 and well protected by trees from the noise of the surrounding traffic. Within the gardens is the Palm House, a hothouse predating the famous one at Kew Gardens in London, but very similar in style, with a white-painted framework of curvilinear ironwork and glass. It was the first of its kind in the world, another success for Lanyon, who worked in tandem on this project with the Dublin iron-founder Richard Turner. The nearby Tropical Ravine is a classic example of Victorian light entertainment – a hundred-year-old sunken glen chock-full of “vegetable wonders” extracted from far-flung jungles and replanted for the delight of the visiting Belfast public.

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The Travel Blogger’s Guide to Ireland

By: Author Monica Stott

Categories Ireland , UK

If you’re looking for a guide to Ireland you’ll already know there’s endless amounts of information out there!  There are so many Ireland guides, road trip itineraries and lists of things to do in Ireland it can be overwhelming so I’ve pulled together some of my favourite blogger’s guides to Ireland into one giant, handy guide.

I love reading travel blogs to hear about real experiences from genuine and authentic people. Blogs are a great place to discover things to do and what to avoid and bloggers often create the best travel guides because they are based on their own personal experiences.

After visiting Ireland recently, I wrote about my 1 week road trip itinerary for Ireland  and 50 of my favourite things to do in Dublin but I wanted to pull together a travel blogger’s guide to Ireland to give you a comprehensive guide to Ireland to help you plan your perfect Ireland itinerary.

Rather than you having to search for the best travel blogs while you’re researching your Ireland trip, I’ve rounded up the ones that I think are the most useful, interesting and inspiring!

The Travel Blogger’s Guide to Ireland

Tips for visiting Ireland

If you’re planning your first trip to Ireland, this useful first-timer’s guide to Ireland will help you to decide when to go, what to pack, where to stay, how to get around, and what activities you can’t miss off your Ireland itinerary when you get there.

From currency to street signs (and plenty of helpful tips in between), the couple behind Pages of Travel really do offer the ultimate resource for planning a trip to Ireland. They even share packing tips and ideas for getting online on the road.

To make sure that you don’t miss any of the best things to do in Ireland, Dave and Deb at ThePlanetD are sharing their 21 favourite things to do in Ireland, in a guide that covers the whole country!

Another brilliant and comprehensive guide to Ireland for first-timers, this post offers a sample Ireland itinerary, as well as some delicious food tips so you can eat your way around the country. There’s also a helpful section on whether a road trip is right for you.

Another gem from the guys at Hand Luggage Only, a blog you can always rely on for great travel guides. This is not your average Ireland guide, this one offers tips for exploring Dublin and the ancient east coast of Ireland, while getting to know more about the Vikings that used to inhabit the area. Visit museums, take virtual reality tours and enjoy an immersive night of Viking-themed entertainment that you’ll never forget!

Ireland Itineraries

With just seven days to explore, you might not feel like you’ll be able to see a lot, but Helene proves just how much you can do in Ireland in a week. She includes a handy map in this post, and also shows you how you can cuddle a sheepdog along the way – sounds like the perfect Irish trip, right?

Got a little bit longer than just a week in Ireland? This Ireland itinerary takes 10 days, covering Dublin, the Rock of Cashel, Galway, the Cliffs of Moher, the Dingle Peninsula, and Northern Ireland. They also offer some extra stop suggestions in case you have time to spare.

Follow in the footsteps of the incredible Amber Fillerup (A.K.A. Barefoot Blonde) as she travels with her gorgeous family for a week in Ireland. This is great inspiration for anyone travelling with small kids, as Amber shares what her two little ones enjoyed, and what they’d do differently next time. A great example of an honest blogger (and so much mum inspo here!)

If you’re not sure how long to travel in Ireland for, this post gives a great idea of how much you can see and do with different amounts of time.

An 18-day road trip for Ireland – The Irish Road Trip

This epic guide is amazingly detailed with day-by-day information for a full road trip around the entire coast of Ireland. This is road trip goals right here!

Food and Drink in Ireland

There’s nothing better than a great cup of coffee before a day of exploring, and Sophie’s guide to the best coffee shops in Dublin will get your day off to the best start. Check out these local caffeine hotspots, which all offer just a bit more character than your average Starbucks!

If you love to eat your way around a destination as much as I do, this food guide to Western Ireland will help you to explore while making sure that food is at the centre of your trip. Caution: don’t read this post while you’re hungry!

Whether you consider yourself a foodie or not, there are certain dishes or items you just can’t leave Ireland without tasting. From soda bread to boxty, and plenty in between, use this guide as an Irish food bucket list.

There’s more to Dublin’s culinary scene than just the Guinness Storehouse, and in this post, the guys over at Hand Luggage Only explore some food experiences that will make your trip to Dublin even more delicious!

Ireland Road Trip Tips

Written by a blogger who’s visited Ireland seven times, this really is an expert guide to an Ireland road trip, and offers tips on where to stop, where to stay, where to eat and what to do in each of the locations in the itinerary.

Loads of guides to Ireland try to cover both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in one massive post, but That Backpacker focuses only on Northern Ireland in a road trip guide that’ll make you want to pack your bags immediately.

Can’t decide which Irish road trip to do? Vicky shares the three road trips she thinks are the most unmissable. The trouble is, after seeing these photos, you’re probably going to want to do all three!

This popular Ireland road trip route is part of the Wild Atlantic Way, and it offers those doing the trail loads to see, do and experience. Christobel Travel lists the must-stop places along the Dingle Peninsula Drive to help you plan your trip.

Having been named one of the best road trip routes in the world, the Causeway Coast is quickly gaining popularity among road trip lovers across the globe. This comprehensive guide to Ireland’s Causeway Coastal route shares tips and hidden gems to discover along the way.

Things to do in Dublin

In this helpful post, Hayley shares her top 20 favourite things to do in Dublin, including where to eat and drink, where to shop, which museums to visit and where to go on day trips from Dublin, if you fancy exploring a bit further afield.

If you don’t have time to see everything in Dublin, Helene has listed the top ten things that she thinks no traveller should leave without doing. Think of it like a bucket list for those who are short on time when visiting Dublin!

If you’ve read a couple of Dublin guides by now, you’ll know about The Temple Bar, the Book of Kells and the Guinness Storehouse. But Sophie shares a few lesser-known attractions in this post, such as the Molly Malone statue and the medieval Malahide Castle.

Once you’ve ticked off your Dublin bucket list, it’s time to see a bit more of the surrounding area. This post shares five amazing day trip ideas that are just a hop, skip and a jump away from Dublin. I never knew some of these famous sights were so easy to reach, so next time I’m in Dublin I’ll be sure to do at least a couple of these!

Want to do something totally unique in Dublin? Visit during the Bram Stoker Festival, which takes place the weekend before Halloween, and which celebrates the Dublin-born author of Dracula. Expect plenty of thrills and a totally different experience of Dublin!

Things to do in Galway

If you’re looking for somewhere to base yourself for your Ireland road trip, this post argues that Galway City is the place to be. With tips on where to fly into, what to do in Galway, and what to see in the area, Karisa shares just how breathtaking this slice of Ireland really is.

Still not convinced that Galway is the destination for you? This post may just change your mind, with 7 great reasons why you’ll love Galway. My favourite? Ed Sheeran used to busk here!

Now that you’ve been convinced to visit Galway, it’s time to start planning what you’ll be doing there. This post shares 15 fantastic things to do in Galway, and the best part is that they’re all free!

Things to do in Belfast

Belfast can sometimes be overlooked, or used just as a gateway to the Causeway Coast, and other attractions in Northern Ireland. But anyone who’s been will attest to the fact that it’s a brilliant and vibrant city, worth getting to know before moving on. This 24 hour guide shares the best things to see and do (and drink!) while you’re there.

Looking for something different to do in Belfast? Lucy’s got you covered with these fun suggestions, from watching an ice hockey game to taking a cooking class. They might not be the best-known things to do, but they certainly are memorable!

Belfast really is beautiful, and in this guide, Jess shares the best that there is to see in this city, from its history to its food, drink, culture and even politics.

If you’ve got a little bit more time to explore, this 48 hour itinerary shares how to spend a weekend in Belfast, seeing the sights, testing the flavours, and exploring the history of this fascinating city. Don’t miss the most Instagrammable restaurant in town!

Ireland Packing Lists

Do you ever get frustrated that most packing lists are geared just towards women? Well, this one’s got the guys covered, too. Get tips on footwear, layering, the best jacket to pack for a trip to Ireland, as well as what kind of weather you can expect. Oh, and don’t forget your umbrella!

If you’re not lucky enough to be visiting Ireland in the middle of summer, packing for your trip might be a little tricky. This packing guide helps you to know what to pack for the off-season, when you will definitely need a few extra layers to stay warm and dry.

Alex from TravelFashionGirl is basically the queen of packing lists, so this post all about what to wear in Dublin is about as comprehensive as they get. This particular post was written with the help of a Dublin local, and it offers tips on what to pack for every season, so it’s an essential resource for your trip to Ireland.

Castles in Ireland

Did you know that there are something like 30,000 castles in Ireland? That’s a lot to choose from, but this post by Wanderlust and Lipstick highlights five of the most amazing castles to visit in Ireland so you don’t have to try to check all 30,000 off your list!

If you’re travelling to Ireland with kids, it can be difficult to know which sights and attractions are going to be family-friendly. This post by BattleMum shares the best castles in Ireland that are kid-friendly (as well as being spectacular) so everyone will have a good time.

If you’re brave enough to visit a haunted castle (which I’m definitely not), this blog post shares 15 castles in Ireland where you might encounter a ghost. Some are hotels (so you can be haunted while you sleep, if you dare), while others are sites you can wander around in – keep your eyes peeled for strange occurrences, though!

One of the most famous among Ireland’s incredible array of castles, Blarney Castle is located in County Cork, and it’s got a lot more to it than just the Blarney Stone, as Julie discovers in this charming post. Even if this is the only castle you see, you’ll get to know it in depth thanks to these 8 secrets.

Film Locations in Ireland

It’s almost impossible to mention a trip to Northern Ireland without also mentioning Game of Thrones, as many of the show’s epic scenes were filmed along the Causeway Coast. Take a look at the best bits of Westeros in Northern Ireland, including the beautiful Dark Hedges and some furry stars!

Anyone who’s watched the romantic comedy P.S. I Love You will know that the real star of the film was the stunning Irish scenery featured throughout. Use this guide to see some of the incredible locations that were used for filming this tear-jerker of a movie.

It’s not only Game of Thrones that brings mega-fans to Ireland from all over the world – Star Wars fans flock here in droves thanks to one short scene in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. The location is Skellig Michael, and although it can be difficult to reach (especially without a booking), this blogger was determined…and found a way!

There you have it, the ultimate travel blogger’s guide to Ireland!

Do you have any more tips to add to this guide to Ireland?

Thursday 19th of August 2021

very beautifull place, keep sharing and thanks

Anna Makridi

Thursday 28th of June 2018

Ireland is amazing! Helpful tips! Thanks for sharing!

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