Top 38 Must-Do Activities in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast, Northern Ireland, is a city that should be on every traveler’s itinerary. It’s a place where the blend of past and present offers an exhilarating array of things to do. Trace the steps of history at the shipyards where the Titanic’s story began, explore its iconic landmarks from the tales behind the Crumlin Road Gaol, or meander through the paths of the Botanic Gardens. We took a journey through Belfast, where each corner has a story, and the list of things to do in Belfast unfolds with a treasure trove of experiences. Prepare for your adventure, and remember to stock up on your British pounds as we guide you through all the best places to visit in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Top Things to do in Belfast

Located just two hours north of Dublin, Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom (not the Republic of Ireland). Although Belfast is close to Ireland’s more famous city, it feels distinctly different. For easy transportation, check RentalCars.com for car rental comparisons.

1. Titanic Belfast

One of the most popular things to do in Belfast is to visit Titanic Belfast. This extraordinary interactive museum is entirely dedicated to the ill-fated Titanic voyage. The RMS Titanic was built right in the shipyards of Belfast. This expansive museum takes you through the journey of constructing the Titanic, as well as the rescue of its survivors off the coast of Canada.

Titanic Belfast features multimedia displays that share first-hand accounts, playing through speakers as you walk through its galleries showcasing replicas of rooms aboard the Titanic and salvaged relics from the site.

There’s even a ride in the middle of the self-guided tour where you hop on a vehicle as you travel to the bottom of the ship, gliding through its structure. Having visited this museum multiple times, we consistently discover something new. The ideal time to visit Titanic Belfast is early in the morning to stay ahead of the crowds. This attraction draws numerous visitors, so being first in line is advantageous.

• Opening Hours: 9 am – 7 pm
• Website: Titanic Belfast
• Address: 1 Olympic Way, Queen’s Road, Belfast BT3 9EP, UK

2. SS Nomadic

After your visit to Titanic Belfast, your ticket includes a self-guided tour of the SS Nomadic, the last surviving White Star Line ship in existence. This fascinating stop allows you to experience what it was like to step aboard a ship that ferried passengers to the Titanic.

The SS Nomadic was specifically designed with finishes reflecting the Titanic, providing a direct first-hand glimpse into the life of Titanic passengers. Often referred to as a “mini Titanic,” it was constructed alongside the ship and is exactly one-third its size. Its most notable voyage ferried first and second-class passengers from Cherbourg, France, to deeper waters to board the Titanic. Unlike the Titanic, it successfully served for another 50 years, hosting famous guests such as Charlie Chaplin, Elizabeth Taylor, and Richard Burton.

• Opening Hours: 9 am – 7 pm
• Website: Explore SS Nomadic
• Address: Hamilton Dock, Queens Rd, Belfast BT3 9DT, UK

3. Titanic’s Dock and Pumphouse

A significant part of your time in Belfast will likely be spent in the Titanic Quarter, immersing yourself in the city’s maritime history. This area centers around the former Harland & Wolff shipyard, where it’s worthwhile to invest a few hours in exploring its rich history. You don’t necessarily need to enter Titanic Belfast to appreciate the Titanic Experience.

Witness the colossal dry dock where the Titanic was constructed, and walk its entire footprint as a visitor. You can even descend 44 feet (13 meters) into the dock. Adjacent to the dock is the pumphouse, historically used to drain water, now hosting exhibits and machinery used during Titanic construction.

Address: NI Science Park, Queens Rd, Queen’s Island, Belfast BT3 9DT, UK

4. Titanic Hotel

Even if you don’t plan on staying at the Titanic Hotel, it’s worth stopping in for a drink or lunch. This hybrid establishment serves as both a hotel and a museum, situated directly across from Titanic Belfast. Located in the former headquarters of Harland & Wolff, guests can explore historic photographs, vintage posters, and memorabilia from the era of the White Star Lines.

The Drawing Offices and several key heritage rooms in the hotel open for public tours (subject to availability), allowing visitors to see artifacts, restoration works, and the elegant decor of this significant maritime heritage building. Tours also include glimpses of art deco-themed rooms, as well as former offices, including Lord Pirrie’s Office and the Corridor of Power.

• Address: Titanic Quarter, 8 Queens Rd, Belfast BT3 9DT, UK

5. Titanic Studios

One of Europe’s largest film studios resides in the Titanic Quarter, where Game of Thrones was famously filmed. Although still a functioning studio lacking in tours, another studio tour is available just 30 minutes outside the city. Nevertheless, if you take a walk by Titanic Studios, you may spot your favorite Hollywood or UK movie star.

6. Linen Mill Studio Tours – Game of Thrones

Linen Mill Studios serves as an exciting interactive museum entirely devoted to Game of Thrones. Many pivotal scenes were filmed right in these studios located in Banbridge, Northern Ireland. For avid fans, this museum is one of the best we’ve ever visited, providing a thoroughly engaging experience.

Walk through authentic sets and stand beside characters like Jon Snow and Arya Stark while enjoying recreations of iconic locations such as The Night’s Watch and King’s Landing. There’s even a chance to sit on the Iron Throne and create your own sigil. It’s truly a dream come true for movie buffs.

• Opening Hours: August 9:30 am – 7:30 pm / Nov – Dec 10:00 am – 5:30 pm / All other months 10:00 am – 6:30 pm
• Website: Game of Thrones Studio Tour
  Address: 245 Castlewellan Rd, Banbridge BT32 3SG, UK
• Free parking with shuttle to museum, and there’s a coffee shop on site.

7. HMS Caroline

HMS Caroline is a restored warship from World War I, serving as a floating museum where self-guided tours provide insight into its history and life aboard the last remaining British WW1 light cruiser. It also survived the historic Battle of Jutland. Although it has been closed since 2020, it is scheduled to reopen later this summer.

• Opening Hours: Closed
• Address: Alexandra Dock, Queens Rd, Belfast BT3 9DT, UK

8. Samson & Goliath Cranes

The two giant yellow cranes soaring above the Titanic Quarter are hard to miss. These cranes symbolize Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage from a time when it was home to the largest shipbuilders in the world.

Though they are no longer operational, these cranes are protected and will remain a significant part of Belfast’s history. When in operation, they managed to lift 840 tonnes. Goliath stands 96 meters high, whereas Samson reaches 106 meters.

9. Glass of Thrones

Strolling along the waterfront from the Titanic Quarter to downtown isn’t your everyday waterfront walk. There are numerous attractions along the way, notably the Glass of Thrones. This pays homage to Game of Thrones with six stained glass displays echoing scenes from the acclaimed HBO series.

Each stained glass exhibit portrays different houses or key moments from the show, representing the Starks, Lannisters, Baratheons, Targaryens, White Walkers, and the Iron Throne. Keep an eye out for them as you traverse the Maritime Mile from HMS Caroline, past Titanic Studios, to the AC Hotel across the river.

• Address for display near HMS Caroline: 11 Queens Rd, Belfast BT3 9AD, UK

All Glass of Thrones Locations

The six stained glass exhibits are aligned along the waterfront trails. Many visitors start their walk at AC Belfast, concluding at HMS Caroline. Here is a list of all the windows:

• Glass 1: Stark at AC Belfast
• Glass 2: Baratheon at Lagan Weir
• Glass 3: Targaryen at Odyssey
• Glass 4: White Walkers at SS Nomadic
• Glass 5: The Iron Throne at Titanic Slipway
• Glass 6: Lannister at HMS Caroline

10. Titanic Walkway

The Titanic Walkway, situated within the Maritime Mile, extends from Victoria Wharf and links the Titanic Slipways to Alexandra Dock. At the end of the wharf, you can see the Mew Lighthouse, an installation housing a 130-year-old lighthouse that, in its day, was one of the largest optics ever built.

• Address: Titanic Quarter, The Maritime Mile, Belfast BT3 9FH, UK

11. Belfast City Hall

Take time to stroll around Belfast City Hall and admire its stunning architecture and the grounds of the civic buildings of Belfast City Council. Numerous displays and memorials surround the City Hall, including the Titanic Memorial Gardens. Visit during dusk to appreciate its enchanting illumination.

Due to its growing population, economy, and industrial progress, Queen Victoria granted Belfast city status in 1888. Shortly after, City Hall was built to reflect the city’s burgeoning prosperity.

Free tours of Belfast City Hall are available daily, lasting about an hour. The experienced guide will take you through the building without needing reservations, as tours are conducted on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Website – www.belfastcity.gov.uk
• Address: Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GS, UK

12. Victoria Square Shopping Center

We stumbled upon this Belfast attraction unexpectedly while seeking a shortcut back to our hotel. Tucked amidst the downtown pedestrian streets, Victoria Square is a delightful shopping center featuring name-brand stores in a covered gallery.

Upon entering the modern complex, we discovered a high-tech dome at its center. After walking around all day, we were thrilled to find an elevator leading to a stunning panoramic view of the city of Belfast.

13. Victoria Square Lookout

In-house tour guides are on hand to offer insights into the sights, but a local visitor kindly pointed out attractions like Belfast City Hall, The Titanic Quarter, and Cave Hill. It’s free to access and is one of the highly recommended things to do in Belfast.

From the lookout at Victoria Square, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. There’s a staircase or elevator to the top of the lookout available.

14. Black Taxi Tour

During our first trip to Belfast, we joined a Black Taxi political tour through Shankhill and Falls Roads. This informative tour provided insights into the Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods of Belfast, which remain divided today. The walls dividing these communities are nearly 25 feet high.

These gates continue to be locked, and since the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, more walls have been constructed to separate the territories. Dubbed Peace Walls, they serve as a means of ensuring safety among residents in these neighborhoods. Visiting these sites fosters a complex understanding of the reality of peace between communities in Northern Ireland.

For a deeper understanding, TouringBelfast.com offers tour options.

The Troubles

When people think of Belfast in Northern Ireland, they often envision the Troubles of the 20th century, during which religious tensions fueled conflicts and divided the city, both physically and emotionally. The iconic walls separating Shankhill Road and Falls Road still stand today, although the Northern Ireland Executive is making efforts to dismantle them.

During our initial visits to Belfast, we succumbed to focusing only on the Troubles, undertaking day trips to the Causeway Coast. On subsequent visits, we dedicated more time to the city center, uncovering the attractions that set Belfast apart from other European cities. Today, Belfast has evolved beyond its tumultuous past, offering many things to explore, making it an enriching destination.

15. Taxi Tour Today

During a recent tour this summer, we noticed a shift from our previous Black Taxi Tour a few years prior. Today, our driver focused less on the political landscape and more on sharing positive stories about the city. While several murals still remain, the number appears to be dwindling compared to our earlier experiences.

Our driver explained ongoing efforts to foster new community role models and build a brighter future. Having completed two diverse tours, we appreciate that Black Taxi tours are not solely political; they also offer broader overviews of the city and assist with navigation.

16. Crumlin Road Gaol (Jail)

A must-visit during your taxi tours is Crumlin Road Gaol, though it merits a proper exploration. “Gaol” represents the term for jail in Gaelic. Operational until 1996, this facility housed both republican and loyalist prisoners, including women and children.

Here, you can learn the origin of the phrase, “take him down.” Crumlin Road Gaol is situated directly across from the Crumlin Road Courthouse. When a sentence was handed down, the condemned were taken through an underground tunnel leading to the jail. Your visit includes a tour through this tunnel, as well as views of prison cells and execution rooms where many of the 17 executed individuals were held.

17. Street Murals and Political Murals

The best way to view the political murals is via a Black Taxi political tour, though we have also explored them independently. During our first visit over a decade ago, the murals along Shankhill and Falls Roads were predominantly political, but now they are interspersed with positive messages and street art, honoring the past while looking towards a hopeful future.

The murals hold a significant place in Belfast’s culture, depicting historical events from Shankhill Road to Clonard Martyrs Memorial Gardens along the walls of Falls Road. We explored these neighborhoods by car in search of memorials and murals. One of the best ways to spot the notable murals is to look for Black Taxis; they are common to see roaming the streets.

If you lack a rental car, this tour is an excellent option for learning about the intricate story of “The Troubles” and exploring significant events in Northern Ireland’s tumultuous history.

18. Belfast Castle

Despite visiting Belfast three times, it was only on our last trip that we finally explored Belfast Castle. Situated in Cavehill Country Park, the castle overlooks Belfast from a hill within the park area. Admission is free, and guests can tour the castle rooms or relax at the café.

While walking through the building, we enjoyed its peaceful atmosphere, as it felt relatively secluded. We also ventured along a portion of the hiking trails nearby. If hiking strikes your fancy, you’ll be pleased to learn that the Belfast Zoo is located nearby.

There is free parking available at the castle, and a coffee shop inside offers refreshments.

19. Cave Hill Country Park

Regrettably, our schedule didn’t permit us to fully explore Cave Hill Country Park, but for outdoor enthusiasts, this destination ranks among the best things to do in Belfast. This area can easily be combined with a visit to Belfast Castle, providing an opportunity to explore with a historic 7.2 km path (4.5 miles) to enjoy.

With numerous activities available, including hiking trails leading to archaeological sites and gardens that provide access to Belfast Castle, there is something for everyone, whether you prefer a vigorous hike or a more leisurely stroll.

Fun fact: The hill holding Cave Hill Country Park is believed to have inspired Jonathan Swift’s renowned novel, Gulliver’s Travels.

20. Colin Glen Forest Park

Proudly situated on the outskirts of Belfast, Colin Glen Forest Park is ideal for families. This expansive woodland area is part of the Belfast Hills, featuring a SkyTrek high ropes course and the exhilarating Black Bull Run, which is Ireland’s first official Alpine Coaster.

This beloved attraction draws both tourists and locals alike to enjoy outdoor activities, such as golfing at the state-of-the-art Toptracer driving range. Whether you’re hiking through scenic woods, soaking in the breathtaking views, or seeking thrilling adventures, Colin Glen is an essential stop on any Belfast itinerary.

21. Belfast’s Botanic Gardens

Situated in the university district, the Botanic Gardens offer a lovely opportunity to relax, especially when combined with a visit to the Ulster Museum. Just a mile from the city center, the gardens are easy to reach from City Hall.

Established in 1828 by the Belfast Botanic and Horticultural Society, these gardens serve as a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling university ambiance of Belfast. Don’t overlook the greenhouse; it features one of the earliest examples of an iron glasshouse.

Be sure to enter the Palm House at the heart of the gardens. This Victorian greenhouse invites exploration of its two wings: one for temperate plants worldwide and the other showcasing exotic plants and towering palm trees. The Botanic Gardens also feature a coffee shop for a delightful break.

22. Lady Dixon Park

If you’re in search of more outdoor experiences, consider visiting Lady Dixon Park. Located in South Belfast, this expansive park pays tribute to Lady Edith Dixon, renowned for her pivotal contributions to the city’s greenery.

Lady Dixon Park is home to a rose garden that hosts an annual Rose Week festival, attracting visitors from all parts. Perfect for families, nature lovers, and those wishing to unwind, it offers a variety of activities.

Visitors can enjoy walking trails winding through wooded areas and along the River Lagan, spacious picnic areas for leisurely lunches, and playgrounds for younger visitors. The park also has a café for refreshments, making it an excellent venue for a peaceful stroll, bird watching, or simply enjoying nature.

23. Ulster Museum

Located within the Botanic Gardens, the Ulster Museum stands as the largest museum in Northern Ireland. Here, you’ll be able to traverse history, from the age of dinosaurs to the contemporary narratives of Northern Ireland.

The Ulster Museum forms part of the national museums and galleries of Northern Ireland, which also includes the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum and the Ulster American Folk Art Museum—both worth visiting just outside of Belfast.

24. Queen’s University

After exploring the Botanic Gardens and Ulster Museum, make your way to another prominent Belfast landmark, Queen’s University. This locale offers a vibrant atmosphere, with the university’s architecture considered among the most beautiful in the country. The Lanyon Building is frequently featured in promotional material showcasing Northern Ireland tourism.

As with many cities, we enjoy visiting university grounds, which often symbolize a city’s heartbeat through their beautiful architecture, and Queen’s University in Belfast evoked memories of Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario.

25. St. Anne’s Cathedral

No visit to Belfast would be complete without a stop at its cathedral, and St. Anne’s Cathedral (also known as the Belfast Cathedral) is located in the Cathedral Quarter. Construction began here on the site of St. Anne’s parish Church in 1895, as the city recognized the necessity for a cathedral.

A fun fact is that St. Anne’s Parish church continued in use until 1903, serving as the centerpiece while the cathedral was being built around it. Unfortunately, the completion took over 80 years due to challenges brought on by World Wars, The Troubles, and inflation.

St. Anne’s Cathedral lies less than a kilometer from Belfast’s city center, and guided tours of the Cathedral Quarter are available.

26. Metropolitan Arts Centre (MAC)

Located directly behind St. Anne’s Cathedral in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, the Metropolitan Arts Centre hosts music, art exhibitions, and live theatre. If you’re searching for nighttime activities in Belfast, be sure to check out one of their performances.

Alternatively, you can stop by during your visit to Belfast Cathedral to peruse its galleries. Many exhibitions are free, and interactive imagination stations allow guests to create their own art (donations welcomed).

27. The Salmon of Knowledge (The Big Fish)

A favorite pastime in Belfast is walking along the waterfront and taking in the sights from Titanic Belfast to the Belfast City Centre. Discover displays like the Glass of Thrones and other murals, including the famous Big Fish at Lagan Lookout.

This spot provides a picturesque crossing point over the Lagan River, leading to many attractions. Enjoy views of the river before heading up Queen’s Square and seeing the Albert Memorial Clock.

28. Albert Memorial Clock

While Pisa may boast the most famous leaning tower in the world, Belfast has its own version, the Albert Memorial Clock. Constructed on reclaimed land, this tower weighs an impressive 1,000 tonnes, causing it to gradually sink into the ground. Whether you’re walking or touring, it’s unmistakably visible in its leaning posture.

29. Go, Pub Hopping

No visit to Belfast—or any part of Ireland—would be complete without exploring its vibrant pub scene throughout the city. If you’re seeking things to do in Belfast at night, venture out to bars in the city center to go pub hopping. Start at McHugh’s Bar, located just a stone’s throw from the Albert Memorial Clock; it dates back to 1711, making it the oldest surviving pub in Belfast.

30. Crown Liquor Saloon

Located on Grand Victoria Street, the Crown Liquor Saloon is a beautifully preserved Victorian gin palace, under the care of the National Trust.

Renowned throughout Northern Ireland, the Crown Liquor Saloon dates back to 1826, having once been the epitome of Victorian gin palaces. Its ornate exterior attracts worldwide visitors, while the interior has been meticulously restored by the National Trust, resulting in what is perhaps one of the most beautiful pubs you’ll ever visit.

31. St. George’s Market

What’s not to love about a market? St. George’s Market is among the oldest attractions in Belfast. If you find yourself in Belfast on a Friday, be sure to check out St. George’s Market, which has operated from this location since 1604. It’s also open on Saturdays and Sundays for the City Food and Craft Market, offering rotating craft, food, antique, and garden markets.

Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in various delights, from gourmet street food to fresh, local produce, making it an ideal spot for a delightful breakfast or lunch.

Craft lovers will be captivated by the assortment of handmade goods, ranging from jewelry to ceramics and more. Whether you’re in search of Northern Ireland’s culinary flavors or seeking unique souvenirs, St. George’s Market is a must-visit on your Belfast journey.

32. Parliament Buildings (Stormont)

Located on the Stormont Estate in East Belfast, the Parliament Buildings of Northern Ireland, commonly referred to as Stormont, offer visitors the chance to explore the political history of Northern Ireland while enjoying the scenic walking trails in the surrounding parkland.

The Parliament Buildings are open for free guided tours from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily (excluding public and bank holidays). Touring the Parliament Buildings proves to be engaging, as we have experienced in the capital city of Ottawa, Canada.

Stormont Park features a delightful escape from the busy streets of Belfast, with a 4 km long woodland walk and a 1.6 km fitness trail equipped with outdoor gym equipment.

33. Grand Opera House Belfast

If you’re keen on catching a live performance in Belfast, consider attending a show at the Grand Opera House. This venue offers a variety of performances, from ballet and opera to musical theatre.

If you miss a show, contemplate taking a tour of the Grand Opera House Heritage Exhibition to discover the importance of this venue in Belfast’s history. With a rich past spanning 125 years, it has hosted talented individuals like Charlie Chaplin and Luciano Pavarotti.

Situated on Great Victoria Street, the Grand Opera House exemplifies stunning Victorian architecture, having showcased countless performances since its opening in 1895.

34. Belfast Barge Museum

A excellent way to complement your Titanic Belfast experience is to visit the Belfast Barge Museum. This permanent exhibit shares “The Greatest Story Never Told,” highlighting the lives of the people who worked along the River Lagan, particularly focusing on Harland & Wolfe, the builders of the Titanic.

Admission to the museum is free, and although donations are encouraged, it’s certainly worth a visit to see its artifacts and visual displays capturing this historical era.

35. Ulster Folk and Transport Museum

Located just outside Belfast, the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum provides a fascinating overview of Northern Ireland’s history. This sprawling museum consists of two distinct sections: the Folk Museum, where visitors can roam through a meticulously reconstructed early 20th-century village with costumed actors and traditional crafts, and the Transport Museum, showcasing an impressive range of steam locomotives, electric trams, motorcycles, and automobiles that display the evolution of regional transportation.

A great destination for history enthusiasts, families, and individuals intrigued by the cultural heritage and technological advancements of Northern Ireland, the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum guarantees a pleasurable and educational experience. With its engaging exhibits and beautiful setting, it holds a solid position among the must-visit sites for anyone exploring Belfast and its outskirts.

36. Mussenden Temple

Belfast serves as an excellent base for exploring Northern Ireland, with many of the top attractions just a short drive away, allowing for quick visits to some of the country’s highlights.

37. Dark Hedges

The Dark Hedges may not be as vibrant as they once were, following recent pruning efforts, yet they remain one of Northern Ireland’s most photographed sights. This picturesque row of beech trees lines an old country lane that gained fame through its feature in Game of Thrones, specifically in season one when Arya Stark escaped King’s Landing along the King’s Road.

Located on Bregagh Road, the Dark Hedges exist on privately owned land; thus, visitors are encouraged to be respectful, especially since some trees are showing signs of deterioration. An independent expert review indicated that 11 out of 86 trees along the route are in poor condition, and some have already been removed while others are being monitored.

38. Derry

Derry turned out to be one of our favorite excursions in Northern Ireland, easily manageable in a day from Belfast. Officially known as Londonderry by the British Government, this small city can be explored in just a day or two. Historically significant during the Troubles, many murals and monuments honoring victims of Bloody Sunday and the wider conflict can still be observed in the Bogside area.

One of the attractions not to be missed is the city walls, which envelop the center of Derry and are regarded as some of the best-preserved city walls in Europe. Exploring Derry offers an engaging opportunity to learn about Northern Ireland’s rich history.

39. Giant’s Causeway

As Northern Ireland’s most famous attraction, Giant’s Causeway is a mere 90-minute drive from Belfast City Hall. This extraordinary natural wonder, formed by a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago, features over 40,000 perfectly stacked basalt pillars leading to the sea.

The visual spectacle appears as if each pillar was placed by a giant. A legend surrounding Giant’s Causeway tells of the giant Fionn McCool, who allegedly built these structures. If time permits, consider staying overnight at the Causeway Hotel to enjoy sunrise and sunset visits before the arrival of tour buses.

If you’re limited on time or budget, you can opt for a well-rated day trip from Belfast to explore Giant’s Causeway and other attractions along the Causeway Coast.

Where to Eat in Belfast

Culinary experiences in Northern Ireland have greatly evolved, and we genuinely relished our dining experiences in Belfast. These establishments offer modern cuisine, sophisticated dishes, and remarkable wine pairings.

• Deane’s Meat Locker – A haven for meat lovers, the restaurant also features vegetarian options.
• James Street & Co – Presenting fantastic cocktails, fine wines, and grilled delicacies in a modern setting.
• Drawing Office – Located in the Titanic Belfast Hotel, this venue is perfect for lunch or elegant dinner experiences.

Where to Stay in Belfast

Ten Square Hotel Belfast – Our stay at Ten Square Hotel was delightful. Its prime location across from Belfast City Hall offers easy access to numerous attractions, alongside chic and modern rooms.

Titanic Hotel Belfast – While we didn’t stay at this hotel, we toured it, and those interested in exploring Titanic Belfast further will find an excellent location here. It’s not located within the bustling city center, making it ideal for those eager to remain near Titanic Quarter attractions. This historic hotel elevates your experience with art-deco themed rooms and remarkable elegance from the Titanic era.

How to Get to Belfast

We drove to Belfast from Dublin, as the distance is only about a two-hour journey. Day tours from Dublin are also available for those with limited time.

Belfast is accessible by bus or train, with direct trains connecting via Dublin Connolly to arrive at Belfast Central.

International travelers can arrive at Belfast International Airport.

If you’re flying from Europe or within the UK, you’ll likely land at George Best Belfast City Airport, just 5 minutes from Belfast City Centre.

Getting Around Belfast

Belfast is a cozy city that is easy to navigate by walking, driving, or taxi. Throughout our three visits, we found that renting a car is the most convenient method for transportation, although Black Taxi Tours and Hop on Hop Off buses are also fantastic options for seeing the leading tourist attractions.

Belfast’s compact size means that numerous attractions reside within walking distance of the city center. The city divides into four quarters that converge at the center: North Belfast, East Belfast, South Belfast, and West Belfast.

A helpful starting point when traveling to Belfast is the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre, where visitors can gather comprehensive information about tours and purchase bus and rail tickets.

Belfast Districts

Belfast consists of seven districts, including the famous Titanic Quarter, Cathedral Quarter, Queen’s Quarter, Linen Quarter, Market Quarter, Gaeltacht Quarter, and Smithfield and Union Quarter.

• Titanic Quarter – Home to the Titanic Museum and numerous attractions.
• Cathedral Quarter – Featuring St. Anne’s Cathedral, street art of Hill Street, along with numerous pubs and coffee shops.
• Queen’s Quarter – Centered around Queen’s University, the vicinity hosts Ulster Museum and Belfast Botanic Gardens.
• Linen Quarter – The city center encapsulates Belfast City Hall, Grand Opera House, the Crown Bar, and various pubs and eateries.
• Castle District – Home to Belfast Castle and Cave Hill Country Park.
• Gaeltacht Quarter – Features murals, the Peace Wall, and exclusive Black Taxi Tours.
• Smithfield and Union Quarter and Market Quarter

We have individually explored Belfast, engaged in numerous tour companies, and relied on Tourism Ireland for informative insights.

Ulster Museum photo is courtesy of