Belfast has transformed into one of the UK's most exciting city breaks. Northern Ireland's capital is where the Titanic was built, and it's packed with fascinating history, lively pubs, great food markets, and easy access to the stunning Causeway Coast. Here are the best things to do in Belfast.
Things to Do in Belfast
1. Titanic Belfast and the Titanic Quarter
The RMS Titanic was designed and built in Belfast's shipyards. Titanic Belfast, an award-winning museum shaped like the bows of ships, tells the story of the ship and the city's industrial past. Nearby, you can visit the SS Nomadic, the Titanic's tender ship, and walk around the dry dock where the Titanic was fitted out.
2. Cathedral Quarter
Belfast's cultural district is full of cobbled streets, street art, live music pubs, and restaurants. Don't miss the Duke of York pub's laneway, decorated with colorful umbrellas and lights.
3. Black Cab Tour
A black taxi tour is one of the best ways to understand Belfast's recent history. Local drivers explain the Troubles, the decades of conflict that ended with the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, and take you to the political murals of the Falls and Shankill Roads.
4. The Peace Walls
Some of the walls that separate communities are still standing. Visitors can write messages of peace on them, and they're often included on black cab tours.
5. St. George's Market
Open on weekends, this Victorian market hall is filled with local food, crafts, and live music. Try an Ulster fry or a soda bread sandwich.
6. Belfast City Hall
The grand Edwardian City Hall dominates Donegall Square. Free guided tours explore its marble interiors, and in winter, the Christmas market takes over the grounds.
7. Ulster Museum and the Botanic Gardens
The free Ulster Museum covers art, history, and natural science, including an Egyptian mummy. Next door, the Botanic Gardens have a beautiful Victorian Palm House.
8. Queen's Quarter and Queen's Arcade
Wander around Queen's University's red-brick campus, then shop in the elegant Victorian Queen's Arcade in the city center.
9. Hike Cave Hill
Climb to the top of Cave Hill for sweeping views over Belfast and Belfast Lough. The rocky outline is said to have inspired Jonathan Swift's sleeping giant in Gulliver's Travels. Belfast Castle sits on its lower slopes.
10. Game of Thrones Studio Tour
Much of Game of Thrones was filmed in Northern Ireland. In Banbridge, about 40 minutes from Belfast, the studio tour displays original sets, costumes, and props. See more Game of Thrones filming locations.
11. Crumlin Road Gaol
Tour this Victorian prison, which operated until 1996, and walk through the tunnel that once connected it to the courthouse across the road.
12. Day Trip to the Causeway Coast
Drive the Causeway Coastal Route to the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of around 40,000 basalt columns, and cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. The Dark Hedges, a famous avenue of beech trees, is nearby.
Getting Around Belfast
- On foot: The city center, Cathedral Quarter, and Titanic Quarter are all walkable.
- Glider buses: The rapid transit Glider connects east and west Belfast with the Titanic Quarter.
- Airports: George Best Belfast City Airport is close to the center, while Belfast International Airport is about 30 minutes away by express bus.
- Trains: Regular trains run to Dublin in about two hours.
Tips for Visiting Belfast
- Northern Ireland is part of the UK and uses the pound sterling.
- Many visitors need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter.
- Be respectful when discussing politics and the Troubles.
Running a race while you're there? See the best UK half marathons.
Stay Connected in Belfast
An egoViet UK eSIM gives you data in Belfast and across Northern Ireland. If you're also visiting Dublin and the Republic of Ireland, choose a Europe eSIM, which covers both the UK and Ireland. See also our guide to things to do in Dublin.
FAQs: Things to Do in Belfast
Is Belfast worth visiting?
Yes. Belfast offers fascinating history, the Titanic Belfast museum, lively pubs, great food, and easy access to the Causeway Coast.
How many days do you need in Belfast?
Two days covers the city's highlights, with an extra day for the Giant's Causeway.
Where was the Titanic built?
The Titanic was built at the Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast and launched in 1911.
Can you visit Dublin from Belfast?
Yes. Trains and buses connect the two cities in about two to two and a half hours.