Belfast, Northern Ireland is an underdog when it comes to UK cities. Whilst everyone else is flocking to Dublin, they have no idea what they are missing out on, just a couple hours north. We recently spent 3 days in Belfast and came away with a piece of our hearts left in the city. Belfast is a city with soul, a deep connection to its roots, a strong, fascinating history and warmth in every local you meet.
By the end of this guide, we guarantee that you will be itching to book flights to Belfast for your next long weekend. Whilst 3 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in the city. We highly recommend that you allow for extra time in Northern Ireland, to explore beyond Belfast.
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Furthermore, this post is written in collaboration with Visit Belfast who hosted us during our stay & organised many of the awesome activities we are going to share below. Therefore, a huge thank you goes out to them.
The best time of year to visit Belfast
Belfast is easily visited all year round, fortunately most of the activities discussed in this guide are available at any time of the year. However, we believe that the best time to visit is Spring or Summer. Purely because you will have the best chance of good weather during these months, although still not guaranteed, this is Northern Ireland after all! We visited Belfast in late April and during our visit we experienced a heatwave. Which made exploring the city that extra bit special in the sunshine.
How to get around
The majority of flights arrive in Belfast through Belfast International Airport, which is located around 16 miles outside of the city centre. In order to reach the city, you can easily hop on the Airport Express that is located outside of the departure’s terminal. Th journey into Belfast will take around 40 minutes and costs £9.
Once you are in the city most attractions will be within walking distance, Belfast is fortunately not a huge city and is very pedestrian friendly. However, if you don’t fancy walking everywhere, you can utilise the Translink buses that service pretty much all areas of the city and outer suburbs.
Where to stay in Belfast
To be close to the city centre, you should keep your search for a hotel within walking distance of the Cathedral Quarter, which is essentially the centre of town and where you will find some of the best pubs and restaurants. Belfast has many options for accomodation, we always use Booking.com to search for places to stay.
We can definitely recommend the Europa Hotel for your stay in Belfast. The location is very central, and the rooms are stylish yet cosy. Moreover, they offer a free breakfast buffet with most of their stays, which always makes a nice touch. We loved that the Europa has a unique claim to fame, as the most bombed hotel in the world. Referring to its past during the period known as the Troubles in Northern Ireland.
Day 1: Discover the Maritime History of Belfast
Belfast has a strong maritime history, known worldwide as the birthplace of the infamous Titanic. The city is home to Harland & Wolff, the shipping company that built the Titanic right here on their shipyards, overlooking the bay. A visit to Belfast wouldn’t be complete without stepping back in time, starting with a walk down the Maritime Mile.
Maritime Mile
The Maritime Mile is the cities historical waterfront, start your visit in Belfast with a stroll here. Taking in the views out across the harbour, as you make your way towards the end of the mile. On your way, stop by the information signs that will explain more about Belfast’s Maritime history. Particularly, once you reach the end of the mile you will stand in front of the SS Nomadic which served as the tender to the Titanic, it is the only surviving White Star Line ship left in the world.
Titanic Hotel
At the end of the mile, you will find the Titanic Hotel, stop here for lunch in the drawing room. It is such a unique setting, as the hotel sits inside the original Harland & Wolff offices. Enjoy their delicious menu and after lunch the staff will even offer you a tour of the building. As you walk the corridors of the old offices, you can almost feel the history that lingers around every corner. You will even be able to glimpse inside the office where the news of the Titanic disaster broke, a truly remarkable piece of history that hasn’t changed since that fateful day in 1912.
Titanic Belfast Experience
Just across the road from the Titanic Hotel lies the incredible Titanic Experience. An absolute must do on any Belfast itinerary. It is here where you will get the opportunity to learn everything there is to know about the Titanic. From its humble beginnings here in the shipyards to international news after its sinking in the Atlantic. The experience will take you on a journey through time, offering an insight into what life would have been like on board the Titanic on its transatlantic crossing.
This was an absolute highlight of Belfast for us, if you are a Titanic fan or into maritime history at all, then you will love this experience, and it may even jerk some tears. It is recommended that you book your tickets in advance to secure your time slot. You will also receive a better price than on the door this way.
Entry fees:
On the door: Adults – £26.95 Children – £13.00
Online: Adults – £24.95 Children – £11.00
The entrance fee also covers you to step inside the SS Nomadic. You can find more information for your visit by visiting the Titanic Belfast website.
Dinner at Holohan’s Pantry
You absolutely must visit Holohan’s Pantry for a taste of Ireland. This cosy pub serves traditional Irish cuisine and has the most warm and welcoming staff on hand to make your experience unforgettable. Whilst you are here, you must try to Pan Boxty, which is an Irish potato cake and is so delicious. It is recommended that you book a table at Holohan’s especially on weekends as they have limited dining space.
Day 2: A Walk-Through Belfast’s History and Culture
On your second day in Belfast, it’s a good idea to take some time wrapping your head around the controversial conflict that this city still bares scars from today. We are referring to the period of time from the late 1960’s to the late 1990’s known worldwide as ‘the Troubles’.
Breakfast at Amelia Hall
Stop by Amelia Hall on your way towards Belfast City Hall. They serve stunning breakfasts; we definitely recommend the avocado on toast. The setting here is also lovely, it’s very instagrammable and would make for some great photos of your trip in Belfast.
Belfast Lad Taxi Tour
The best way to understand more about the Troubles is definitely by hopping on a Belfast Lad Taxi Tour. You will be driven through the city by Belfast local, Frank, who will take you to significant locations in Belfast related to the conflict. Frank was born and raised here and served as a soldier in Belfast during the Troubles.
You will get the opportunity to visit the 20-mile-long Peace Wall, that still divides Belfast today. A lasting memory for many local residents who still live in a segregated society. Moreover, Frank will take you to Shankill Road, a well-known Unionist area and a poignant location for conflict during the Troubles. As you drive through Belfast, you will also stop at memorials, political street art and even personal locations to Frank. As he helps you to understand this confusing and still rather contentious conflict.
Frank has written multiple books about the Troubles and is extremely knowledgeable on the topic, as he lived through it all! If you are interested in history, war or politics then you can’t miss this tour. It was truly fascinating, eye opening and heart breaking all at the same time.
Cost of the tour is £150; this covers up to 6 passengers in the taxi.
For more information and where to book visit this website.
Afternoon drinks in the Cathedral Quarter
After your tour it’ll be time for a stiff drink or two! The place to be is the Cathedral Quarter, this charming corner of town is home to the best pubs and restaurants on offer in Belfast. If it’s a Guinness you are after, then look no further than the beautiful Duke of York pub.
On the umbrella lined Commercial Street you will find this traditional and cosy pub. Step inside, and you’re greeted by walls draped in drinking culture memorabilia and service with a smile. If you are in Belfast on a sunny day, then sat out the front on the benches is the perfect spot to enjoy your drinks in the sunshine. Don’t forget to snap some photos here too, Commercial Street is an iconic Belfast location.
The Grand Opera House
A visit to the Grand Opera House is a wonderful way to finish off day two in Belfast. The Europa Hotel is conveniently located next door and also offers a pre-theatre dinner menu. Built in 1895 the Grand Opera House is the best example in the United Kingdom of oriental theatre architecture. Look up in the auditorium and you’ll be greeted by the most beautiful and intricate design on the ceiling of the theatre.
Throughout the year you can catch a show here. We had the opportunity to watch The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, which was spectacular, and we would highly recommend going to see it! For more information on what’s on and tickets, click here.
Day 3: Belfast’s Natural Wonders
Belfast is blessed with many opportunities to enjoy nature, right on its doorstep. In fact, throughout Northern Ireland nature is at your fingertips. If you have more time to spend here beyond 3 days, then we definitely recommend that you rent a car and head into the countryside. For all that Northern Ireland has to offer.
Belfast Castle
Sat at the foot of Cave Hill Country Park, overlooking the city is the stunning Belfast Castle. This 1800s castle is a must visit, with perfectly manicured gardens and breathtaking views out across the city and the bay. We personally think that the gardens are worth the visit alone, they make for a lovely backdrop in photos.
Spend an hour or so wandering the gardens, admiring the views and you can even stop by the restaurant or coffee shop, that is located inside the castle. A visit to Belfast Castle is also totally FREE!
Cave Hill Country Park
From Belfast Castle you can easily access Cave Hill Country Park. Follow any number of the trails into the forest and give yourself some time to get lost in nature, so close to the city. Our recommendation is that you follow the trail uphill that leads you to McArt’s Fort Viewpoint. Along the way there are many spots to stop at that provide wonderful views. However, once you arrive at the top, you will have 360 degree views out across the whole city, the bay and the surrounding countryside/mountains. It’s a truly unbelievable sight and well worth the 1.5 hours walk from the castle.
Make sure you take a picnic to enjoy at the top, before making your way back down the hill and catching a bus back to Belfast International Airport.
Final thoughts on Belfast
Belfast in our opinion is one of the most underrated city breaks in the United Kingdom and perhaps Europe. Offering visitors a chance to enjoy its unique history, plethora of nature spots and vibrant pub scene. If you are looking for an exciting new city to visit, then don’t sleep on Belfast! We will certainly be back one day…
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