General Information
Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is a city rich in history, culture, and modern vibrancy. Once an industrial powerhouse, Belfast is famous for being the birthplace of the Titanic, which is commemorated at the award-winning Titanic Belfast museum. The city is also known for its lively pubs, historic landmarks, and stunning natural surroundings, including Giant’s Causeway just a short drive away.
With a mix of Victorian architecture, vibrant street art, and a buzzing nightlife, Belfast is a must-visit destination in the UK.
Location
Belfast is situated on the northeastern coast of Ireland, along the banks of the River Lagan, facing the Irish Sea. It is the second-largest city in Ireland and serves as the gateway to the stunning landscapes of Northern Ireland.
Nearby Destinations:
- Giant’s Causeway (1 hour drive): A UNESCO-listed natural wonder.
- Game of Thrones Filming Locations: Includes Dark Hedges and Ballintoy Harbour.
- Dublin (2-hour train): The capital of the Republic of Ireland.
- Causeway Coastal Route: One of the most scenic drives in the world.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Belfast International Airport (BFS): Flights from major European cities.
- George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD): Closer to the city, with UK domestic flights.
- By Ferry:
- Stena Line & P&O Ferries offer services from Scotland and England.
- By Train:
- NI Railways connects Belfast to other Northern Irish towns and Dublin via the Enterprise train (2 hours).
- By Bus:
- Translink Goldline offers express services across Northern Ireland and to Dublin.
- By Car:
- Accessible via the M1, M2, and M5 motorways.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March – May): Pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
- Summer (June – August): Ideal for festivals and outdoor sightseeing.
- Autumn (September – November): Mild weather and stunning autumn foliage.
- Winter (December – February): Christmas markets and cozy pubs.
Key Events & Festivals:
- Belfast International Arts Festival (October): Showcasing music, theatre, and dance.
- Titanic Maritime Festival (May): Celebrating Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage.
- St. Patrick’s Day (March 17): City-wide parades and festivities.
- Belfast Christmas Market (December): A magical festive experience.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- The Fitzwilliam Hotel: A 5-star boutique hotel with elegance.
- The Merchant Hotel: A historic and luxurious stay.
- Mid-range:
- Maldron Hotel Belfast City: Comfortable and centrally located.
- AC Hotel by Marriott: Modern stay along the river.
- Budget:
- ETAP Hotel Belfast: Affordable and well-located.
- Vagabonds Hostel: A lively and social hostel.
Top Attractions
- Titanic Belfast: An interactive museum dedicated to the ill-fated ship.
- Belfast Castle: A scenic castle with stunning views over the city.
- City Hall: A grand building with free guided tours.
- St. George’s Market: A historic market with local food and crafts.
- Crumlin Road Gaol: A former prison turned museum.
- Botanic Gardens & Ulster Museum: Beautiful gardens and a free museum.
- Peace Walls & Murals: A look into Belfast’s complex history.
- Cave Hill Country Park: A great spot for hiking with panoramic views.
- Grand Opera House: A stunning venue for theatre and concerts.
- CS Lewis Square: A tribute to the Narnia author, who was born in Belfast.
Getting Around
- Walking:
- The city center is compact and walkable.
- Buses:
- Translink Metro Buses cover most of the city.
- Trains:
- NI Railways connects Belfast to surrounding towns.
- Bike Rentals:
- Belfast Bikes are available for hire.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing:
- Taxis are available, but Uber is not operational in Belfast.
Local Cuisine
Must-Try Foods:
- Ulster Fry: A hearty Irish breakfast.
- Boxty: A traditional Irish potato pancake.
- Irish Stew: A warming dish of lamb, potatoes, and vegetables.
- Yellowman: A sweet honeycomb candy.
- Champ: Mashed potatoes with scallions and butter.
Top Restaurants & Pubs:
- Ox Belfast: Michelin-starred fine dining.
- The Muddlers Club: A modern Irish restaurant.
- Hadskis: Famous for contemporary European cuisine.
- The Crown Liquor Saloon: A historic Victorian pub.
- The Dirty Onion: A lively pub with live Irish music.
Shopping in Belfast
- Victoria Square: The top shopping center in the city.
- CastleCourt Shopping Centre: Another great spot for retail therapy.
- St. George’s Market: Unique local crafts, souvenirs, and street food.
- Smithfield Market: Vintage shops and quirky finds.
Nightlife in Belfast
- Lavery’s: Belfast’s oldest family-run bar.
- The Perch: A trendy rooftop bar.
- The Duke of York: A classic Irish pub.
- The Sunflower Pub: Known for its live music and relaxed vibe.
- Thompson’s Garage: One of the best clubs in Belfast.
Day Trips from Belfast
- Giant’s Causeway (1 hour): A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning rock formations.
- Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (1 hour): A thrilling coastal walk.
- Dunluce Castle (1 hour): A dramatic medieval ruin by the sea.
- Game of Thrones Locations: Visit The Dark Hedges, Ballintoy, and Castle Ward.
- Derry/Londonderry (1.5 hours): A historic walled city with a vibrant arts scene.