Visit Belfast: plan your trip

Titanic Belfast

This is the world's largest Titanic visitor experience and a definite must-see. Enter the iconic six-floor building and come face-to-face with a state-of-the-art experience. The story of the world-famous ship is told through immersive, interactive displays that unveil facts about her construction, launch, and ill-fated maiden voyage.

Crumlin Road Gaol

Dating back to 1845, this Victorian-era prison is the only one of its kind in Northern Ireland. It’s been out of service since 1996, but was once home to 25,000 prisoners ranging from murderers to suffragettes. Take a tour and learn all about the people that once resided in the cells.

The Cathedral Quarter

Striking venues, outdoor performance areas, cobbled streets and beautiful timeworn buildings intertwine in a charming creative space. From dance shows and photography exhibitions to community events and theatrical works, there’s something to capture everyone’s imagination, all set against a gorgeous Belfast backdrop. Head to the Mac Theatre to catch a performance before listening to some live music at one of the traditional pubs, or just wander around and see what’s on.

S.S. Nomadic

Find out about the Titanic’s little sister, the S.S. Nomadic. This steamship is the only surviving vessel from the White Star Line that’s still afloat today. As a tender to the Titanic, her job was to carry first and second class passengers to the main ship. She later acted as a troop ship in the 1940s and a floating restaurant in Paris. Step on board to learn more about the S.S Nomadic’s fascinating past.

Ulster Museum

Dinosaurs and Ancient Egyptian mummies live alongside modern masterpieces and zoology displays at the Ulster Museum. A treasure trove of art, history and natural science collections, it’s free to all visitors and the perfect attraction for a day trip in Belfast.

Belfast has all the right ingredients for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a quality cup of coffee or a relaxing pint. The city boasts a fantastic choice of venues for drinking and eating out, and is home to some of Ireland’s most accomplished chefs.

Niall McKenna’s award-winning restaurant set in an old linen mill offers the best of Northern Irish produce married with classic French cooking.

Discover an impressive gastronomic experience thanks to this restaurant’s modern, creative approach to seasonality. Together, co-owners Alain Kerloc'h and Stephen Tom have a wealth of experience, and the proof is in the taste.

This very popular eatery serves fresh, locally-sourced seafood, either traditionally prepared, or with an Asian twist. Try the oysters and mussels – they’re superb.

Skilled chefs and quality meat combine at this welcoming Belfast restaurant, and the results are fantastic. From melt-in-the-mouth scallops to moreish meat dishes, there’s something exquisite to suit every taste.

Coppi is Belfast’s first cicchetti/bacari – a traditional Italian eatery inspired by the food of Venice. You’ll discover classic, flavoursome Italian food, from fresh pasta dishes (cooked daily) to bite-sized savoury snacks.

From lively pubs and clubs to exciting theatres and music venues, there’s plenty to entertain in Belfast after the sun goes down.

This traditional pub is known for its eclectic choice of real ales and hearty menu of pub grub. The Crown is a place that transcends the ages; and you can expect a good serving of Irish hospitality with every pint.

This gem of a pub will enchant you with its friendly atmosphere and mixed crowd. Marvel at the external wooden structure – an original feature – as you get cosy by the warm open fire or socialise in the lively beer garden.

Order a smooth pint of Guinness or a quality Irish whiskey and then take a wander around this enchanting pub, which features a selection of original pictures and memorabilia. The Duke of York is a pub that’s packed with character.

Imagine elegant art deco surroundings bathed in smooth, jazz sounds. Now add in some delicious bistro food and show-stopping cocktails, and you arrive at Bert’s Jazz Bar. This spot is perfect for a day or nighttime visit to the 1930s.

An elaborate, decorative interior acts as the ideal backdrop for friendly service, delicious food and fine drinks. The building that plays host to Café Vaudeville used to be a bank, and everything about its Art Nouveau style makes it a truly sophisticated Belfast hotspot.

If you love adrenaline-fuelled activity, or just being out and about when the sun is shining, Belfast has plenty to offer. The great outdoors may not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of Belfast, but these fab activities and attractions may just surprise you…

Just a short drive from Belfast outside the city and you’ll reach The Gobbins, a pathway that curves along the coast with amazing views. Originally, opened in 1902, the pathway closed in the 1950s and has only recently reopened. Here you will come face to face with nature and the sea, so get ready to brace the fresh air.

Take a pleasant walk through this country park and be rewarded with spectacular, panoramic views across the city. There are different routes to take, as well as archaeological sites and a helpful visitor centre. Be sure to stop off at the Cellar Restaurant in Belfast Castle too.

1 hour 30 minute drive from Belfast

Feeling daring? Then take a walk across the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. Just a short drive from the Giant’s Causeway, the bridge stretches across a gaping 100-foot chasm with spectacular views on either side – just don’t look down!

The Giant’s Causeway is just 1 hour and 30 minutes from Belfast. Thousands of fascinating hexagonal basalt columns jut out of the choppy North Atlantic Ocean, creating a positively dramatic UNESCO World Heritage Site. An absolute must-visit.

Are you a fan of Game of Thrones? If so, then you may recognise some spots in Northern Ireland from the show, namely Ballintoy Harbour as the Iron Island, as well as scenes from Dragonstone and Vaes Dothrak. You can even try your hand at archery at Castle Ward, a key filming spot for Winterfell.

1 hour drive from Belfast

Crowned by craggy granite tors, the Mourne Mountains boast the highest peak in Northern Ireland, Slieve Donard. Discover crystalline lakes, pale grasses, huge rocks and expansive views – all just an hour away from Belfast. Wear a comfy pair of walking shoes and choose one of the many routes that wind through the mountains.

There really is something for every kind of shopper in Belfast. From well-known high street stores to unique boutiques and family owned businesses, set aside some time to explore the city’s eclectic retail offering – and remember to save up some spending money!

This major shopping centre is the number one retail spot in the city. As well as browsing around one of the many lively shops, you can take a tour of the dome with Gerry, the centre’s resident tour guide. These interesting tours take place every day on the hour, from 10am to 4pm.

There has been a market on this site since 1604, and when it’s in full swing, it truly is a sight to behold. Try some of the fresh fruit and veg, as well as the fine selection of meat and seafood. You can also grab some souvenirs at the Sunday market, which features local art and crafts.

This area of Belfast is known for its vast selection of fashion boutiques. It’s also home to several wine bars, restaurants and coffee houses, so you can easily spend a whole day there. A shopper’s paradise.