Welcome to Belfast, a city where vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes converge to create an unforgettable travel experience. Belfast boasts a unique blend of Victorian elegance and modern innovation. From its pivotal role in the Titanic’s story to its growing food scene and dynamic arts community, this city offers something for every traveler. Whether wandering through the historic Cathedral Quarter, exploring the fascinating museums, or enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside, this travel guide will help you uncover the best things to see and do in Belfast.
When to Go
The city of Belfast is truly an amazing city to visit any time of year. However, the best time to visit is generally from May to September, when the weather is mild and more predictable. Summer is the peak tourist season, with the warmest weather and longest days. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists. While winter in Belfast can be cold and wet, it has its own charm. The city’s Christmas markets and festive decorations create a cozy and festive atmosphere.
Where to Stay
Choosing the best area to stay in Belfast depends on your interests and what you want to get out of your visit. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Belfast, each with its unique attractions and advantages:
- City Centre – Staying in the City Centre means you are within walking distance of many of Belfast’s major attractions, such as City Hall, Victoria Square Shopping Centre, and St. George’s Market. The area is packed with restaurants, pubs, and shops. It is an ideal area for first-time visitors.
- Cathedral Quarter – Known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene, the Cathedral Quarter is home to numerous pubs, restaurants, and art galleries. It is a great area for those looking to experience Belfast’s lively atmosphere.
- Queen’s Quarter – This area is centered around Queen’s University and offers a more relaxed and academic atmosphere. The Botanic Gardens, Ulster Museum, and many quaint cafes and shops make it a pleasant area to explore.
- Titanic Quarter – This redeveloped area offers modern accommodations and is home to the Titanic Belfast Museum, one of the city’s top attractions. It’s a great area for those interested in maritime history and modern urban developments.
- Lizburn Road – Known for its boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, this area offers a more local and upscale experience.
- Ballyhackamore – This is an ideal location if you are interested in exploring Belfast like a local, with plenty of dining options and a community atmosphere.
What to Eat
Belfast’s food scene is a delightful mix of traditional Irish fare and modern culinary innovations. Here are some must-try foods when visiting Belfast:
- Ulster Fry – A hearty breakfast platter featuring bacon, sausages, eggs, black and white pudding, soda bread, potato bread, mushrooms, and tomatoes. It’s a perfect way to start your day with a taste of local tradition. Find it at Maggie Mays, Bright’s Restaurant, and Harlem Cafe.
- Soda Bread – A staple in Northern Ireland, this bread is made using baking soda instead of yeast. It’s often served grilled as part of an Ulster Fry or enjoyed with butter and jam. Find it at Darcy’s Belfast, The Golden Crumb, and Maggie May’s Belfast Cafe.
- Champ – A comforting dish of mashed potatoes mixed with scallions (spring onions), butter, and milk. It’s usually served as a side dish with meat or fish. Find it at The Garrick, The Morning Star Bar and Restaurant, and Brennans’ Bar.
- Potato Bread – Another breakfast favorite, this bread is made with potato, flour, butter, and salt. It’s often served fried and is a key component of the Ulster Fry. Find it at Maggie Mays Breakfast Cafe and Kirk’s Home Bakery.
- Irish Stew – While traditionally made with lamb, many modern versions include beef or chicken. This hearty stew includes potatoes, carrots, onions, and sometimes barley. Try it at Kelly’s Cellars, Whites Tavern, or Fibber Magee.
What to See and Do
Belfast City Hall
Built in 1906, this important Belfast landmark is a stunning example of Baroque Revival architecture. The building features a grand dome, impressive marble interiors, and ornate stonework. The interior includes stained glass windows depicting the history of Belfast. Guided tours are available, offering insights into the history, architecture, and functions of the building. These tours typically include the Council Chamber, the Reception Room, and the Great Hall. Tickets are available to purchase at the City Hall Reception Desk on a first come first serve basis. Be sure to also visit the Titanic Memorial Garden, which is located on the City Hall grounds and commemorates the lives lost in the Titanic disaster.
Grand Opera House
Opened in 1895, the Grand Opera House features a stunning Victorian facade with Orientalist influences, including a distinctive minaret tower. The interior is opulently decorated with intricate plasterwork, rich colors, and ornate details. The Grand Opera House hosts a diverse range of performances, including musicals, plays, operas, ballet, comedy shows, and concerts. Check the official website for the latest schedule and to book tickets in advance. Guided tours are available, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the theatre’s history, architecture, and the process of staging productions. These tours often include access to areas not usually open to the public, such as the stage and dressing rooms.
St. George’s Market
One of Belfast’s oldest attractions, St. George’s Market offers local culture, delicious food, and unique crafts. St. George’s Market operates on different days, each with its unique offerings. The Friday Variety Market is open from 9 A.M. to 2 P.M. You can find a wide range of goods including fresh produce, fish, meat, baked goods, clothing, books, antiques, and a mix of local crafts. Saturday Food and Craft Market is open from 9 A.M. to 3 P.M. This market features organic vegetables, homemade jams, fresh fish, artisan bread, and a selection of crafts such as handmade jewelry and artwork. The Sunday Market is open from 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. and combines the best of the Friday and Saturday markets with live music. One of the best ways to experience St. George’s Market is by taking a guided tour.
Victoria Square Shopping Centre
This shopping center offers a diverse range of shops, dining options, and entertainment facilities. The center features modern architecture with an iconic glass dome, providing panoramic views of Belfast. The dome is free to visit and is accessible via a lift. The design includes both indoor and outdoor shopping streets, blending seamlessly with the surrounding urban landscape.
Albert Memorial Clock
This iconic Belfast landmark is beautifully designed in the Gothic Revial style with intricate carvings and decorative elements. The tower is dedicated to Prince Albert, the consort of Queen Victoria. In fact, a statue of Prince Albert is located on the western side of the tower. Due to being built on reclaimed land from the River Farset, the clock developed a noticeable lean of about 4 feet off the vertical axis, earning it the nickname “Belfast’s Leaning Tower.” You can visit the tower any time of day, though it is particularly striking at night.
Belfast Cathedral
This beautiful Romanesque Revival style church is a great stop for those interested in architecture and history. Notable features of the Belfast Cathedral include the Celtic Cross, which is the largest in Ireland, and the Belfast Spire, which symbolizes hope and light. The interior is adorned with intricate mosaics and beautiful stained glass windows, depicting biblical scenes and saints. Visitors can explore the cathedral on their own for a small fee. There is also an option to pay a little more for a guided tour or audio guide.
The Metropolitan Arts Centre
The Metropolitan Arts Centre (MAC) houses three major galleries that showcase rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, including works by local, national, and international artists. The exhibitions cover a wide range of media, from painting and sculpture to video and installation art. Two performance spaces host theatre productions, dance performances, and concerts. Tickets can be purchased online or in person. However, it is advisable to book in advance for popular performances and exhibitions.
Crumlin Road Gaol
This historic Victorian-era prison opened in 1846 and remained operational for 150 years before closing in 1996. During its years of operation, the jail housed numerous prisoners, including political prisoners during the Troubles, suffragettes, and even children. The primary way to explore Crumlin Road Gaol is by guided tour, which provides in-depth insights into the prison’s history, architecture, and the lives of its inmates. The tour covers the reception area, prisoner cells, solitary confinement cells, execution chamber, exercise yard, and the tunnel connecting the jail to the courthouse. Book your tickets in advance, especially for guided tours, as they can sell out quickly.
Black Taxi Tour
The Black Taxi Tours typically focus on Belfast’s political history, particularly the Troubles. Tours options also include other areas of interest such as street art, famous landmarks, and cultural sites. The tours are conducted by knowledgeable local drivers who provide personal anecdotes and historical context. They typically last between 1.5 to 2 hours but can be customized based on interest and time available. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Several companies offer Black Taxi Tours, including this one.
Ulster Museum
Situated in the Botanic Gardens, the Ulster Museum offers a rich variety of exhibits spanning art, history, and natural sciences. In the art section, visitors will find significant works by renowned artists, including J.M.W. Turner, John Lavery, and William Scott. History exhibits cover Irish History, as well as an Egyptian artifact collection. The Troubles Gallery, which provides an in-depth look at the Northern Ireland Conflict, is another notable history highlight. In the area of natural sciences, visitors will find dinosaur skeletons, an extensive geology collection, and flora and fauna exhibits. Admission to the Ulster Museum is free. Check the museum website for more information and to help plan your visit.
Botanic Gardens
This stunning public park is known for its historical significance and beautiful landscape. The main attractions include the Palm House (i.e. a glass house with a variety of tropical plants), the Tropical Ravine House (i.e. a sunken ravine filled with exotic plants), the Rose Garden, and the Rock Garden. Open lawns provide space for picnics, relaxation, and recreational activities. A cafe located within the gardens offers refreshments, light meals, and beverages. There is also a children’s play area providing entertainment for younger visitors. Admission to the Botanic Gardens is free.
Samson and Goliath Cranes
This iconic Belfast landmark is a testament to the city’s rich shipbuilding history. The Samson and Goliath Cranes are located in the Harland & Wolff shipyard in the Titanic Quarter of the city. The shipyard is famous for constructing the RMS Titanic, as well as her sister ships RMS Olympic and HMHS Britannic. The cranes are used for shipbuilding and heavy engineering tasks, with each crane capable of lifting 840 tons. The cranes are prominent features of Belfast’s skyline and are visible from many parts of the city.
Titanic Belfast
This world-renowned visitor attraction and museum offers an immersive and educational experience centered around the story of the RMS Titanic, from its conception to its tragic sinking. The museum features nine interactive galleries, each detailing a different aspect of the Titanic’s story. Visitors can also explore the original slipways where the Titanic and her sister ship Olympic were built. The SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line ship, which served as a tender for the Titanic, is located adjacent to Titanic Belfast and is included in the admission. Purchase tickets in advance online to avoid queues. Various ticket options include general admission, family tickets, and combination tickets with other attractions. Guided tours and audio guides are also available for a more in-depth experience.
HMS Caroline
This historic naval vessel offers visitors a unique glimpse into naval history and life at sea. The HMS Caroline is one of the last remaining ships that fought in the Battle of Jutland, the largest naval battle of World War I. After the war, it continued to serve in various capacities, including as a training ship for the Royal Naval Reserve in Belfast from 1924 onwards. In 2011, the HMS Caroline was decommissioned and restored as a museum ship, opening to the public in 2016. Visitors can explore different areas of the ship including the Captain’s Cabin, Crew’s Quarters, the Engine Room, and Weaponry. You can purchase your tickets online or at the visitor center. Various options are available, including family tickets and combination tickets with other nearby attractions. Guided tours are available for a more in-depth exploration.
Belfast Castle
This historic landmark is located on the slopes of Cave Hill and offers stunning views, beautiful gardens, and rich history. The original Belfast Castle was built in the city center in the late 12th century but was destroyed by fire in 1708. The present structure was built by the 3rd Marquess of Donegall. The Donegall family moved in after its completion and later, in 1934, donated it to the city of Belfast. The castle is built in a Scottish Baronial style and has turrets, gables, and stone construction, which gives it a fairy-tale-like appearance. Visitors can explore various rooms adorned with period furnishings and décor, reflecting the castle’s historical grandeur. The beautifully maintained gardens are perfect for leisurely walks and offer a picturesque backdrop for photography. The castle and the garden grounds are free to visit, although some special events or exhibitions may have a fee.
Cave Hill Country Park
This sprawling and scenic public park is known for its distinctive geological features, rich history, and stunning views. A major highlight of the park is the moderately difficult Cavehill Circular Trail, which takes visitors to McArts Fort, the summit of Cave Hill. The view from here offers panoramic vistas of Belfast and beyond. There are five caves within the park, with only three caves easily visible. Designated picnic areas are available throughout the park, offering scenic spots to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The visitor center at Belfast Castle provides information about the park, maps, and exhibits on the area’s history and wildlife. The park is free to visit.
Side Trips From Belfast
Game of Thrones Studio Tour
The Game of Thrones Studio Tour offers fans of the show a chance to step behind the scenes and explore sets, props, costumes, and more. Some of the iconic sets you will see include Winterfell, interior shots of King’s Landing, Castle Black, and Dragonstone. Visitors can see the evolution of costumes for characters like Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, Arya Stark, and Cersei Lannister. Visitors also have the opportunity to view significant props from the series, including the Iron Throne and iconic swords. Another interesting highlight of the visit includes a chance to learn more about behind-the-scenes content like special effects and CGI. The studio also houses a gift shop offering exclusive “Game of Thrones” merchandise and a theme cafe, inspired by the culinary styles of the Seven Kingdoms.
Purchase tickets in advance online to ensure availability and avoid long queues. The studio is located in Banbridge, approximately 30 minutes from Belfast. The studio also offers package options with transportation from both Belfast and Dublin.
The Dark Hedges
This iconic avenue of beech trees is located in County Antrim, about an hour’s drive from Belfast. Planted in the 18th century by the Stuart family, the trees were intended to create an impressive entrance to their Georgian mansion. Over time, the trees have grown and intertwined, forming a natural tunnel that is both picturesque and eerie. The Dark Hedges gained international fame when it was featured as the King’s Road in “Game of Thrones.” This exposure has made it a popular tourist attraction. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, which offers good lighting and a chance to avoid crowds. This is generally a stop for most tours from Belfast going to Giant’s Causeway.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
This famous tourist attraction spans a chasm between the mainland and the small island of Carrick-a-Rede, providing stunning views and a thrilling experience for those who cross it. The bridge was originally constructed by salmon fishermen over 350 years ago. Over time, it has been replaced and reinforced to ensure safety for visitors. The current bridge is about 20 meters (66 feet) long and 30 meters (98 feet) above the rocks and water below. Walking across the bridge can be an exhilarating experience, especially on windy days when the bridge sways. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but it offers a unique thrill and breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a popular tourist destination and is often included in tours from Belfast to Giant’s Causeway.
Giant’s Causeway
This world-famous natural wonder is located on the north coast of County Antrim, approximately 87 kilometers (60 miles) from Belfast. Giant’s Causeway is composed of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, which were formed by volcanic activity around 60 million years ago. When the lava cooled rapidly, it contracted and cracked into the distinctive hexagonal shapes seen today. A much more captivating story derives from Irish legend. Specifically, that the causway was built by the giant Finn McCool to create a pathway to Scotland to fight his rival, the Scottish giant Benandonner. One version of the story says that Finn’s wife disguised him as a baby to trick Benandonner, who fled in fear of the “giant baby” and destroyed the causeway behind him.
There are several walking trails of varying difficulty that offer different perspectives of the causeway and the surrounding landscape. The visitor center offers interactive exhibits, audiovisual presentations, and information about the geological, historical, and mythological significance of the site. If you are planning to visit Giant’s Causeway without an organized tour, be sure to book your tickets in advance. Admission is included in most organized tours departing from Belfast. This tour includes Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dark Hedges, and several other stops.
Dunluce Castle
Also located County Antrim is one of the most picturesque and historically significant castles in Ireland. The present castle ruins date mainly from the 16th and 17th centuries. According to legend, part of the castle’s kitchen fell into the sea during a storm in the 17th century, taking with it the kitchen staff. Visitors can explore the castle ruins, learning about its history and legends through informational panels and guided tours. The site also offers stunning views of the coastline and the ocean. Some visitors may recognize the site as one of the filming locations for “Game of Thrones,” where it represented the seat of House Greyjoy. The castle is accessible by car, with parking available at the visitor center. It is also a stop on most of the Giant’s Causeway tours from Belfast.
Belfast Travel Itinerary
Are you ready to start planning your adventure to Belfast? Start by downloading our easy to customize sample travel itinerary. Easily make changes to the itinerary to make it fit your schedule and interests. Looking for more? Check out our Cliffs of Moher blog post.