Uncover the events that shaped Belfast City

Belfast is a city that tells its story through its people, its landmarks, and its vibrant art scene. A cultural day in the heart of the city gives you the opportunity to explore its many layers, from the iconic Titanic Quarter to the historic streets of the Cathedral Quarter. Whether you're passionate about history, art, or simply want to experience the local charm, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s take you on a journey through some of the must-see attractions that make Belfast so unique.

DC Tours – A Personalised Belfast Experience
One of the best ways to see the city is through a personalised tour with DC Tours. Their engaging, expert guides will take you through the streets of Belfast, offering fascinating insights into the city's troubled past and its remarkable transformation. Their tours provide a unique opportunity to visit important sites, all while learning about Belfast’s history from the local perspective.

Ulster Museum – Northern Ireland's Cultural Gem
Step into the Ulster Museum, where you can experience Northern Ireland’s rich history through art, natural history, and archaeology exhibits. From prehistoric artefacts to contemporary art displays, the museum offers an educational yet fun way to connect with the past. Whether you're exploring the art collections or learning about the Titanic's legacy, the Ulster Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Belfast's heritage.

Crumlin Road Gaol – History Behind Bars
For a deeper dive into Belfast's past, a visit to the Crumlin Road Gaol is a must. This historic prison, which operated from 1845 to 1996, is now a popular tourist attraction offering guided tours. You’ll walk through the same cells once occupied by political prisoners and learn about the important role the gaol played in Northern Ireland’s turbulent history. The gaol’s fascinating stories provide a gripping insight into Belfast's political landscape.

Seedhead Arts – Belfast’s Creative Heartbeat

Discover the vibrant side of Belfast with Seedhead Arts’ Street Art Walking Tour, where you'll explore the city's most iconic murals and urban artworks. Led by an engaging guide, this tour offers fascinating insights into the stories behind the street art, reflecting Belfast's rich cultural and political history.

City Sightseeing Belfast Bus Tours – See It All in Comfort
If you're looking for an easy and convenient way to explore Belfast’s top attractions, the City Sightseeing Belfast Bus Tour is an ideal choice. This hop-on, hop-off bus service allows you to explore the city at your own pace, with stops at key locations like Belfast City Hall, the Titanic Quarter, and the Ulster Museum. It’s the perfect way to get a comprehensive view of Belfast’s history, architecture, and cultural landmarks.

Belfast City Hall – Iconic Landmark of the City
At the heart of Belfast stands the stunning Belfast City Hall, an iconic building that’s central to the city’s civic life. Completed in 1906, this beautiful Edwardian building is open to the public and offers free tours where you can learn about the city's history, from its industrial past to its modern-day role as Northern Ireland’s capital. The surrounding gardens are a lovely place to relax after a day of sightseeing.

EastSide Visitor Centre – Discover East Belfast’s Rich Heritage
The EastSide Visitor Centre offers an immersive experience into the vibrant history of East Belfast. Located in the heart of this lively area, the centre highlights the contributions of East Belfast to the city's industrial past, as well as its cultural evolution. The centre also provides access to a variety of walking tours that take you through the historic streets, showcasing everything from the shipyards to murals that reflect the region’s political and social history. Beyond the exhibits, discover Belfast’s greenways, landmarks and hidden corners at a relaxed pace with Hometown Tours, learning about the city’s past, present and future from someone who helped shape it.

Clifton House Poorhouse – A Glimpse into Belfast’s Social History
For those interested in the social history of Belfast, a visit to Clifton House Poorhouse is a must. This former poorhouse, established in the 19th century, offers tours that explore the harsh conditions of life for the city’s most vulnerable inhabitants. The building itself is a stunning example of Georgian architecture, and the tour provides fascinating insights into the social issues faced by Belfast’s working class during the industrial revolution.

James Connolly Visitor Centre | Áras Uí Chonghaile – A Revolutionary Legacy
The James Connolly Visitor Centre | Áras Uí Chonghaile celebrates the life and legacy of one of Ireland’s most iconic political figures. Connolly, a leading figure in Irish history and one of the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising, has a strong connection to Belfast. The centre provides a deeper understanding of his role in shaping Irish history and offers a thought-provoking glimpse into the social and political movements that shaped the modern-day landscape of Ireland.

Hillsborough Castle – A Royal Experience
Located just outside Belfast, Hillsborough Castle offers a regal experience that contrasts beautifully with the city’s industrial past. As the official residence of the Royal Family in Northern Ireland, this 18th-century Georgian mansion is surrounded by stunning gardens. Visitors can explore the beautifully decorated rooms and take a walk through the manicured grounds, offering a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

The Linen Hall - An Archive of History
Founded in 1788, The Linen Hall is Belfast’s oldest library and the last subscribing library in Ireland. Renowned for its Irish and Local Studies Collections, including 250,000 items in the Northern Ireland Political Collection, it also houses the Theatre and Performing Arts Archive. A vibrant cultural hub, it hosts exhibitions, readings and lectures, and features a unique CS Lewis collection.

Belfast Traditional Music Trail - Authentic Irish Music
The Belfast Traditional Music Trail offers an authentic way to experience Irish music. Led by two local musicians, you’ll visit historic bars in the Cathedral Quarter, where traditional tunes, stories and instruments like the uilleann pipes come to life. Enjoy lively sessions, join in the fun, and raise a glass as you soak up the sounds and spirit of Belfast’s musical heart.

Belfast Music Walking Tour - Musical Heritage
Discover Belfast’s vibrant musical heritage on this guided walking tour led by Dolores Vischer of Creative Tours Belfast. Visit iconic sites like Ulster Hall, Cathedral Quarter and the Oh Yeah Music Centre, where legends and new talent alike shine. With stories, history and a live local performance, this engaging tour captures the spirit of Belfast, a proud UNESCO City of Music.

Wrap Up Your Cultural Day in Belfast
With so much to see and do, Belfast offers an unforgettable cultural experience. From its historic buildings and museums to its vibrant arts scene, there's something to pique every interest. So, grab your walking shoes and prepare to discover the heart of Northern Ireland’s capital.