Things To Do
in Belfast
Belfast is the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland, located on the eastern coast of the country. It is known for its rich history, especially its turbulent past during The Troubles conflict. Today, Belfast is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a booming arts and culture scene.
Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Titanic Belfast museum, enjoy traditional Irish music in local pubs, and admire the stunning landscapes of the surrounding area.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Titanic Belfast museum. Learn about the city's maritime history and the ill-fated ship's story.
Enjoy lunch at a local café before exploring the nearby SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line ship. Stroll through the Titanic Quarter and enjoy the views of the River Lagan.
Dine in one of the lively restaurants in the city center. Wrap up your day with a visit to a local pub for some traditional live music.
Visit the lush Botanic Gardens to enjoy the beautiful scenery and the Palm House. Take a relaxing stroll and appreciate the Victorian architecture.
Head to the Ulster Museum to explore its extensive exhibits on art, history, and nature. The museum also has a lovely café for a midday break.
Experience Belfast's vibrant dining scene in the Queen’s Quarter. Sample local cuisine and perhaps catch a live performance at a nearby venue.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with numerous museums and historical sites to explore.
- Vibrant arts scene, including theaters, galleries, and music venues.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and nearby countryside.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other UK cities.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Weather can be unpredictable and often rainy.
- Limited public transportation options outside the city center.
- Job market can be competitive, particularly in certain sectors.
- Some areas may face challenges related to socio-economic disparities.
- Occasional sectarian tensions due to historical conflicts.
Best Activities in Belfast
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful gardens, including the Palm House and Tropical Ravine, and enjoy a peaceful outdoor setting.
Hike or walk the trails in this scenic park, and take in stunning views of Belfast and the surrounding areas.
Visit the outdoor grounds of the Titanic Belfast museum and learn about the historic Titanic ship and its connection to Belfast.
Tours
Uncover the best of Belfast with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Belfast
Visit one of these nice places.
Perched on the slopes of Cave Hill, Belfast Castle offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for photographers.
Home to the Titanic Belfast museum, the Titanic Quarter provides waterfront views and a mix of historic and modern architecture for great photo opportunities.
These neighboring mountains offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape, making them ideal for capturing the beauty of Belfast.
Food in Belfast
Belfast Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty breakfast featuring bacon, sausage, black and white pudding, eggs, and potato bread. Enjoy this iconic dish at Maggie May's, Harlem Café, or St. George's Market.
Must-Try!
A warming stew made with lamb or beef, potatoes, and root vegetables. Sample this classic comfort dish at The Crown Liquor Saloon or The Cloth Ear.
A traditional bread made with buttermilk, flour, and baking soda, resulting in a hearty and unique flavor. Visit the St. George's Market or Avoca for a taste of authentic soda bread.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Belfast better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of Belfast's oldest attractions, this market offers a wide range of artisanal foods, fresh produce, and street food stalls. Don't miss the diverse selection of international cuisines and local specialties.
This annual festival showcases a variety of gourmet treats from food trucks, offering an opportunity to savor diverse street food flavors from around the world.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Belfast, it is important to respect personal space and not stand too close to others, especially when engaging in conversation.
Being mindful of the complex history and cultural sensitivities in Belfast is essential. Avoiding contentious topics related to the Troubles and showing empathy towards different perspectives is crucial.
Politeness and courtesy are valued in Belfast. Saying 'please' and 'thank you', as well as showing consideration for others, is an integral part of respectful behavior in the city.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Belfast with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Belfast
Ensure a smooth experience
In Belfast, tipping is generally discretionary and not mandatory. It is common to tip around 10-15% in restaurants, cafes, and bars if the service is good. Some places may include a service charge, so it's worth checking the bill before adding an additional tip.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Belfast, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Contactless payment is also becoming increasingly popular. Cash is still accepted in most places, but it's always good to have some form of card payment as well.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Belfast.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Belfast, with mild weather and blooming flowers. The city comes alive with events and festivals, and you can expect longer daylight hours for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Belfast, with warm weather and longer days. You can expect many outdoor events, bustling pubs and restaurants, and opportunities to explore the stunning coastline and countryside.
Autumn in Belfast brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures. It's a great time to visit if you want to experience the city's cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions, as well as enjoy cozy pubs and traditional Irish music.
Winter in Belfast can be cold and wet, but it's also a magical time to visit, especially around the holidays. You can expect festive markets, ice skating, and cultural events, as well as cozy pubs and restaurants offering warm hospitality.
Belfast at Night
Hiking in Belfast
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination located just north of Belfast, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
A range of hills on the outskirts of Belfast featuring various trails with panoramic views, suitable for different hiking abilities.
Part of the Belfast Hills, this area has hiking trails that lead to the summit of Divis with expansive views over Belfast and beyond.
A picturesque park with a series of walking and cycling paths alongside the River Lagan, offering numerous accessible trails.
Located a little further out, this forest park features a network of trails through scenic woodlands and past rivers, making it a great spot for longer hikes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Belfast through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Belfast by plane.
The main airport serving the city of Belfast, located approximately 18 miles northwest of the city center.
Located about 3 miles east of Belfast city center, primarily serving domestic flights.
Approximately 100 miles south of Belfast, Dublin Airport is the largest airport in Ireland and offers a wide range of international flights.
Located around 140 miles southeast of Belfast, it serves as a base for domestic and international flights.
Situated about 200 miles north of Belfast, GLA provides a significant number of international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly the largest ethnic group in Belfast.
A significant demographic, with many identifying as ethnically Irish.
Includes a variety of ethnicities such as Chinese, Indian, and Pakistani communities.
A collective group which includes African, Caribbean, and other minority communities.
Individuals identifying with two or more ethnic backgrounds.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups not categorized above.
The Soul of Belfast
Discover the essence of Belfast through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Belfast, with numerous clubs and a passionate fan base. The city is home to teams like Linfield and Glentoran.
Rugby Union is another popular sport, with Ulster Rugby representing the province in the top tier of club competitions in Ireland.
The GAA is highly popular in Belfast, particularly Gaelic football and hurling. Many local clubs participate in community leagues and competitions.
Cricket has a dedicated following in Belfast, with various clubs and leagues, especially during the summer months.
Basketball is part of the growing sports culture in Belfast, with several clubs and youth programs promoting the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Belfast.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Belfast's dining scene is accommodating to vegetarian and vegan diets, with many restaurants offering dedicated menus and innovative plant-based dishes. Check out The MAC, Howard Street, or 387 Ormeau for impressive vegetarian and vegan options.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find a range of gluten-free options across Belfast, including gluten-free bakeries, cafes, and restaurants. Consider The Dirty Onion, Home, and The Pocket for satisfying gluten-free fare.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Belfast with these cultural adventures.
