Discover Northern Ireland: A Traveler’s Guide

Northern Ireland’s charms draw more and more visitors each year. First timers head straight for the Giant’s Causeway, a worthy destination, but only one star in a constellation that twinkles with many others. Sip whiskey at the oldest distillery in the world. Visit Titanic Belfast and learn the story of the world’s most famous ship. Stroll the walls of Derry to uncover local history. Be won over by the friendliness, knowledge, and enthusiasm of the people. Your first visit won’t be your last.

Statistics

• Population: 1.8 million
• Visitors: 3.8 million
• Daily budget: £110
• Food to try: Champ (mashed potatoes with spring onions – delicious)
• Best time of year to go: April to September
• Number of Game of Thrones doors: 10 (and you can visit all of them)

Areas & Sights

Northern Ireland is geographically part of the island of Ireland and politically part of the UK. It’s the smallest of the latter’s constituent countries but crams in a lot, and three key areas, running from east to west, reward first time visitors with a good selection of highlights. If you’re a Throner (if you don’t know what that means, then you’re not) you will definitely have a few Game of Thrones-related places on your checklist.

Belfast

The change in status of NI’s capital over the last 20 years, from must-avoid to must-visit city, has been dramatic and well-deserved. Building on a substantial architectural heritage, with City Hall the jewel in the crown, Belfast has blossomed on the back of the peace process. Two areas in particular are now top tourist attractions: the Cathedral Quarter, where excellent restaurants, bars, and hotels flourish; and the revamped riverfront district known as the Titanic Quarter. The perfect day would begin in the latter with a visit to Titanic Belfast, a museum dedicated to the story of shipbuilding in the city and the ill-fated vessel which was built here. Over in the centre, take a tour of City Hall and enjoy lunch at Home, followed by more museum visits at the Ulster Museum and a stroll around the Botanic Gardens. Grab a drink at the beautiful Crown Liquor Saloon and then embark on a Black Taxi Tour to see the murals and hear the stories of Northern Ireland’s recent, troubled past. Round off the day with dinner and some live music in the Cathedral Quarter, and bed down in one of the stylish hotels.

The Causeway Coast

You can’t, and shouldn’t, miss the Giant’s Causeway on any trip to Northern Ireland – UNESCO named this as NI’s only World Heritage Site for a reason. Whether you believe giant Finn McCool constructed it (he didn’t) or cooling lava did (it did), this is a spectacular sight. The best way to enjoy it and the rest of the coast is to hike. The trail joins enticing spots like the Carrick-a-Rede footbridge (head for heights required) and Dunluce Castle, via dramatic cliffs offering photogenic views. To toast your hike, raise a glass at Old Bushmill’s Distillery, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey producer, and enjoy a meal at the pretty seaside town of Portrush.

Derry-Londonderry

Divisions over what to call it don’t detract from the appeal of Northern Ireland’s second city. Start a visit by walking the 400-year-old walls. Pop into the Tower Museum for a further dose of history and a great view, then take a look inside the Guildhall before strolling over the Peace Bridge in search of fine food. For a ‘fortified’ sleep within the city walls, choose a stylish hotel that offers comfort and history.

What to Pack

There’s a reason Northern Ireland is stunningly green, and that’s the rain, which often comes at you horizontally. Therefore, forget umbrellas and pack waterproofs, good walking shoes, and a sweater for the evenings – even in summer, it’s wise to prepare for cooler temperatures after sunset.

Getting Around

Belfast and Derry-Londonderry are both highly walkable. Outside the cities, NI’s trains will transport you to or close to most major attractions. Tours are available for exploring the Causeway Coast, but having your own vehicle will provide the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Safety

Fears of sectarian violence previously deterred tourism in Northern Ireland, but in the 20 years since the Good Friday Agreement, there’s been a remarkable turnaround. Today, the region is considered one of the safest places to visit. However, it’s advisable to avoid the mid-July Orange marching season when Loyalists hold parades, as they occasionally lead to small-scale trouble.

Etiquette

• Politics: People are generally willing to discuss the topic, but it’s best to ask rather than tell when it comes to Northern Ireland’s political landscape.
• Tipping: 10% is a standard tip in restaurants (service charges may already be included). No tip is needed in pubs when ordering drinks.
• Driving: Drive on the left side of the road, and note that distances are given in miles. If you accidentally cross into the Republic of Ireland, distances will be in kilometers.

Booking Ahead

During the peak summer season, it’s advisable to secure hotels, tours, and dining reservations as far in advance as possible. Purchasing tickets in advance for Titanic Belfast can save time upon arrival, allowing you to skip the ticket queue. The Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge’s popularity means a timed-ticket system is now in place, so get there early in the morning to avoid disappointment.