Things To Do In Belfast Ireland

Belfast: A Hidden Gem Waiting to Be Discovered 🇮🇪

Have you ever dreamed of exploring a city that seamlessly blends rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture? Look no further than Belfast, Northern Ireland’s captivating capital. Often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, Belfast is a city undergoing a remarkable transformation, offering visitors an array of experiences that rival those of larger European destinations.

From the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience to the awe-inspiring views atop Cave Hill, Belfast is brimming with surprises at every turn. Imagine strolling through the bustling Cathedral Quarter, where street art and lively pubs create an electric atmosphere, or delving into the city’s complex past on a Black Cab Tour. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or culture vulture, Belfast has something to captivate every traveler’s heart.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best of Belfast, unveiling hidden gems and must-see attractions. From exploring iconic landmarks and immersing yourself in local culture to enjoying family-friendly activities and embarking on scenic day trips, we’ll show you why Belfast should be at the top of your travel bucket list. So, fasten your seatbelts as we embark on an unforgettable adventure through the streets of this enchanting Irish city! 🚗🍀

Holiday Inn Belfast City Centre by IHG

Tara Lodge

The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast

Enjoy Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities

Now that we’ve explored Belfast’s rich history, it’s time to immerse ourselves in the city’s natural beauty and outdoor activities. Belfast offers a stunning array of green spaces and adventure opportunities for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

A. Hike Cave Hill Country Park and Napoleon’s Nose

Cave Hill Country Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s most notable feature is Napoleon’s Nose, a rocky outcrop that resembles the profile of the famous French emperor. This challenging hike rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of Belfast and beyond.

B. Explore Divis Mountain and Black Mountain

For those seeking more hiking adventures, Divis Mountain and Black Mountain offer excellent trails with stunning vistas. These mountains are part of the Belfast Hills and provide a perfect escape from the bustling city life.

C. Relax in the Botanic Gardens

After a day of hiking, unwind in the tranquil Botanic Gardens. This Victorian-era park is ideal for leisurely strolls, picnics, and orienteering activities. The gardens also house the Palm House, a beautiful glass conservatory filled with exotic plants.

D. Visit Belfast Zoo and Streamvale Open Farm

For animal lovers and families, Belfast Zoo and Streamvale Open Farm offer delightful experiences. The zoo is home to a diverse range of species, while Streamvale Open Farm provides a hands-on agricultural experience.

For those seeking more adventurous activities, Belfast and its surroundings offer:

• Colin Glen Forest Park: Features high ropes courses, kayaking, and Ireland’s longest zipline
• Let’s Go Hydro: Ireland’s largest inflatable aqua park and water sports park
• Lagan Adventures: Unique hydrobike experience on the River Lagan
• Barnett Demesne: Biking trails and an official jumps park

These outdoor activities provide a perfect balance to Belfast’s rich cultural heritage. As we transition from nature to culture, our next section will delve into the city’s vibrant arts scene and cultural offerings.

Shop and Dine in Belfast

Now that we’ve immersed ourselves in Belfast’s rich culture and arts scene, let’s explore the city’s vibrant shopping and dining experiences.

Browse St. George’s Market

St. George’s Market, one of Belfast’s oldest attractions, offers a lively atmosphere filled with fresh food, crafts, and live music on weekends. This bustling market showcases local producers, featuring Irish meats, artisan chocolates, and a variety of craft products. It’s the perfect place to experience authentic Belfast flavors and support local businesses.

Discover luxury boutiques in Queen’s Arcade

Queen’s Arcade presents an upscale shopping experience with its collection of luxury boutiques and exclusive brands. Here’s a quick overview of some notable stores:

For those seeking locally designed fashion, Vogue on Lisburn Road specializes in women’s clothing created by Belfast designers.

Experience the vibrant nightlife scene

Belfast’s nightlife offers a diverse range of experiences for food and drink enthusiasts:

• Bullhouse East: Belfast’s original brewery taproom
• Belfast Whiskey Club: An independent club for whiskey aficionados
• Echlinville Distillery: Ireland’s first farm distillery, producing award-winning whiskey, gin, and poitin
• Seasonal markets: Vibrant shopping experiences during Christmas and Spring

For a unique culinary adventure, try the Vegan Table Tour, which promotes plant-based cuisine throughout the city.

Visit the historic Crown Liquor Saloon

While not explicitly mentioned in the reference content, the Crown Liquor Saloon is a must-visit establishment in Belfast. This Victorian gin palace, now owned by the National Trust, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich pub culture and architectural heritage.

With our shopping and dining exploration complete, we’ll next take in Belfast’s iconic landmarks, further immersing ourselves in the city’s fascinating history and architectural marvels.

Take in Iconic Landmarks

Now that we’ve explored Belfast’s shopping and dining scene, let’s turn our attention to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. These architectural marvels and historical sites offer a glimpse into Belfast’s rich past and vibrant present.

Tour Belfast City Hall

Belfast City Hall stands as a testament to the city’s architectural grandeur. Built between 1898 and 1906, this neoclassical masterpiece serves as a cultural hub in the heart of the city. Visitors can explore its ornate interiors and learn about Belfast’s civic history through guided tours.

Visit St. Anne’s Cathedral

St. Anne’s Cathedral, also known as Belfast Cathedral, is renowned for its striking architecture and historical significance. Some notable features include:

• Impressive stained glass windows
• Unique mosaics
• The Spire of Hope, a modern addition to the cathedral’s exterior

See the Albert Memorial Clock

The Albert Memorial Clock is an iconic leaning tower dedicated to Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s consort. This Victorian-era landmark offers a unique photo opportunity and serves as a reminder of Belfast’s connection to British royalty.

Explore Stormont Parliament Buildings and Estate

Stormont, the seat of Northern Ireland’s Parliament, is a must-visit landmark. Here’s what you can expect:

These iconic landmarks offer a fascinating journey through Belfast’s history and architecture. From the grandeur of City Hall to the political significance of Stormont, each site tells a unique story of the city’s development.

As we wrap up our exploration of Belfast’s iconic landmarks, it’s worth noting that many of these sites are also family-friendly. In our next section, we’ll delve into more specific attractions that cater to visitors of all ages, ensuring that your Belfast experience is enjoyable for the whole family.

Day Trips and Scenic Routes

Now that we’ve explored family-friendly attractions in Belfast, let’s venture beyond the city limits to discover some of the most breathtaking day trips and scenic routes Northern Ireland has to offer.

A. Drive along the A2 Antrim Coast Road

The A2 Antrim Coast Road, part of the renowned Causeway Coastal Route, offers a stunning 185 km journey along Northern Ireland’s northeastern coast. This scenic drive typically takes about 3.5 hours, not including stops for sightseeing. Along the way, you’ll encounter:

• Carrickfergus Castle
• Dramatic coastal cliffs
• Charming seaside towns like Portrush and Ballycastle

B. Visit the Giant’s Causeway

No trip along the Antrim Coast is complete without a stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Giant’s Causeway. This natural wonder features:

• 40,000 interlocking basalt columns
• Visitor center with interactive exhibits (£12.50 per adult)
• Free access to the causeway itself

To reach the Giant’s Causeway:

1. Take a Translink UK bus to Coleraine
2. Transfer to another bus to the Causeway
3. Total transport costs range from €34-52

C. Explore historic distilleries

Northern Ireland boasts a rich tradition of whiskey-making. A highlight of your day trip should include:

• Bushmills Distillery: One of the oldest licensed distilleries in the world
• Guided tours showcasing the whiskey-making process
• Tasting sessions of premium Irish whiskeys

D. Discover hidden gems beyond popular attractions

While the well-known sites are certainly worth visiting, Northern Ireland offers numerous off-the-beaten-path experiences:

• The Dark Hedges: An atmospheric avenue of beech trees
• Gobbins Cliff Path: A thrilling walkway along coastal cliffs
• Rathlin Island: Accessible by ferry, offering unique wildlife and landscapes

For those without a car, consider:

• Organized tours along the Antrim Coast
• Train trips to Derry City or Newcastle
• Game of Thrones-themed tours visiting various filming locations

These day trips provide a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and unique experiences, all within easy reach of Belfast.

Belfast offers an incredible array of experiences for visitors, from natural beauty and outdoor activities to iconic landmarks and vibrant shopping districts. The city’s rich history and culture are evident in attractions like the Titanic Belfast, Crumlin Road Gaol, and the Ulster Museum. Nature enthusiasts can explore Cave Hill Country Park and Divis Mountain, while foodies and shoppers will delight in St. George’s Market and the diverse dining options throughout the city.

Whether you’re interested in delving into Belfast’s complex past through Black Cab Tours, enjoying panoramic views from Belfast Castle, or taking scenic day trips along the Causeway Coastal Route, there’s something for everyone in this captivating city. With its blend of historical significance and modern charm, Belfast truly offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Plan your visit to Northern Ireland’s capital and discover the warmth of its people, the beauty of its landscapes, and the richness of its heritage.