Belfast
Belfast is bursting with buzzing culture and industrial prowess. Having been included in National Geographic Traveller's 'Cool List 2024', and home of the Belfast 2024 initiative, there has never been a better time to visit. Whether you’re exploring the restaurants of the Cathedral Quarter or the birthplace of the world's most famous ship, there is something for everyone in Northern Ireland’s dynamic capital city.
Things to Do & Events
Embrace the city's rich blend of history and culture through the unique set of experiences and activities on offer. Take a tour of Belfast City Hall, an architectural masterpiece known for its grand interior and beautiful gardens, followed by the historic Crumlin Road Gaol, a former prison that offers a fascinating look into Belfast's troubled past.
Enjoy panoramic views of Belfast from Divis and Black Mountain, or hike through Cave Hill Country Park, to take in scenic views before stopping in at Belfast Castle for light refreshments and absorbing the castle's history.
For those searching for music and culture, take in the vibrant arts scene in the Cathedral Quarter, with galleries, street art, live music, and the MAC theatre all within walking distance of each other. Check out our What's On section for full event listings across the upcoming weeks and months ahead.
Places to Eat
Belfast has become a food mecca and it’s impossible to walk the city without being lured in by world-class food. If you’re looking for pointers, check out the multi-award winning Taste & Tour NI. As well as a four hour Belfast Food Tour, they offer a Belfast Gin Jaunt, Belfast Whiskey Walk, Belfast Bites, Brewery Tour and Belfast Bar Tour amongst others.
An absolute must on any short break in Belfast is a wander around St George’s Market. Friday’s Variety Market is a real treat with offerings of everything from fresh fish, fruit and vegetables to antiques, books and clothes. Saturday mixes specialty foods from around the world with stalls displaying handmade crafts, flowers, plants, local photography, pottery, glass and metal work. Sunday includes the lot and even throws in music from local bands.
The nearby Cathedral Quarter was once considered Belfast’s Fleet Street and was a centre for literature and newspapers. Today, it’s full of Belfast’s young and those in the know out for a night of craic and fine food. It’s hip, it’s trendy and has that touch of class. The nearby Muddlers Club has become something of a Belfast institution as famous for its theatrical open kitchen as its mouth-watering food.
Belfast now boasts three Michelin starred restaurants. OX overlooks the River Lagan and offers the finest of refined dining using Irish ingredients with a gallic twist. The third recipient of the coveted star, The Muddlers Club, is named after a secret society and has an intimate, modern and relaxed atmosphere. Only the best of homegrown, local produce makes its way onto their seasonal menus.
Things to See
The first port of call for many is the stunning 5* Titanic Belfast visitor experience. Voted the World's Leading Visitor Attraction in 2017, this shimmering landmark dominates Belfast's Titanic Quarter and has become a beacon for Northern Ireland. Inside, you’ll discover the story of the most famous ship in the world, the people who built her, and its ill-fated journey across the Atlantic Ocean. Not to be missed.
For history buffs and lovers of art, a trip to the Ulster Museum is a must - while horticulturalists, or really anyone who appreciates beauty, will enjoy a stroll through the adjoining Botanic Gardens, home to the glorious Victorian Palm House and recently-restored Tropical Ravine.
In fact you’ll find fine architecture is everywhere in Belfast. The grounds of Queen’s University Belfast are well worth a visit and just outside the city you’ll find the iconic Belfast Castle, both designed by architect John Lanyon. No trip to Belfast would be complete without a walk up the nearby Cave Hill. This spot offers beautiful views out over Belfast and its surrounding sea.
Accommodation and Places to Stay
After such a busy day of sights, sounds and the finest food, you’ll need the finest place to stay. The Grand Central Hotel (4*) has an exclusive cosmopolitan vibe. It is conveniently located and perfect for exploring all that Belfast has to offer. It also has a 23rd floor cocktail lounge. Oh la la indeed.
The luxury in The Fitzwilliam Hotel (5*) also offers wonderful views of the city and is perfectly located, next to the Grand Opera House on Great Victoria Street. We have already mentioned the jazz at the Merchant Hotel (5*), in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, but we forgot about the spa, the gym and the rooftop jacuzzi. A city centre haven.
In the Titanic Quarter you’ll find the Titanic Hotel, a deluxe boutique hotel offering a unique maritime experience in its Harland & Wolff inspired rooms. And of course, we can’t forget the world famous, Europa Hotel (4*). With a bistro, bar and piano bar lounge all on site, this hotel is as central as it gets.
That’s Belfast in a very small nutshell – sourced from a stall in St George’s Market of course. To get the full picture, start exploring our website and pretty soon you’ll be finding your way down our narrow Victorian cobbled laneways on your way to your own special place in this remarkable city.
