In recent years Belfast has shaken off its image as the troubled capital of Northern Ireland. An extensive programme of regeneration has allowed it to emerge as a lively city with a vast amount to see and do. Today it combines heritage with contemporary culture and a warm welcome. There is something for all types of visitor: these are my suggestions for planning a day in Belfast.
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Why Visit Belfast?
Belfast has responded to the turmoil of its 20th century history with resilience and creativity. The modern city retains its industrial, architectural and maritime heritage, but at the same time it has a thriving food and arts scene.
The riverside area has been transformed with lively promenades such as the Maritime Mile, where joggers, cyclists, and families can enjoy the waterfront and the attractions of the Titanic Quarter. Elsewhere you can explore the Victorian and Edwardian architecture, listen to music both classical and modern, or discover the murals of the Cathedral Quarter. And, of course, there is no shortage of places to eat and drink.
Planning Your Belfast Itinerary
If you just have one day in Belfast you will want to take in the Maritime Mile and the city centre: this will allow you to immerse yourself in different aspects of the city’s history and to experience both classic architecture and the modern cityscape.
Maritime Mile And The Titanic Quarter
Historically the River Lagan was home to Belfast’s shipping industry and associated trades (a major local company was Harland & Wolff, who built the ill-fated Titanic). The waterfront district has now been regenerated, with around 10 km of riverside path along which visitors can walk or cycle, and explore a variety of attractions.
The Titanic Quarter is based on land once occupied by the Harland and Wolff shipyard. This is a mixed use space of apartments, restaurants, film studios and visitor entertainment. The main attraction is the award-winning Titanic Museum (Titanic Belfast), an immersive experience that traces the ship’s journey from the first plans to the final tragedy. Nearby is the SS Nomadic, a tender ship that once served the Titanic. Combined tickets for the two exhibits are available, and it is advised to book in advance at busy times.
Note that this area is very popular at weekends and during holiday periods.
City Centre
From the Titanic Quarter cross the river by the Lagan Weir footbridge to reach the city centre. Here you can appreciate Belfast’s Victorian architecture, with its impressive buildings such as the Grand Opera House and Belfast City Hall. It’s not all large public buildings – look out for the ornate Crown Liquor Saloon, probably the city’s most famous pub, or the very grand Merchant’s Hotel (you can go inside to have a look, but book in advance if you want to dine in the opulent surroundings).
Cathedral Quarter
Built in 1899, Belfast Cathedral is notable for its ornate interior and for its tall stainless steel spire that was added in 2007. It is worth visiting not only for the cathedral itself but also for the vibrant maze of streets surrounding it.
This area, known as the Cathedral Quarter, is famous for its “entries”, a series of small alleyways dating from the Victorian era. Here you will find street art, snippets of poetry, and lots of bars. Stop for a drink at the Dark Horse, a historic pub and restaurant with antique decor and a courtyard full of political murals.
St George’s Market
If you are in Belfast during the weekend (Friday to Sunday) don’t miss St George’s Market. Housed in a 19th century iron and steel building, this is packed with stalls selling fresh food, local products, crafts and antiques. It also serves as a food court, offering everything from traditional Irish dishes to international flavours. Frequented by both locals and tourists, and often hosting live music and other events, this is one of the city’s liveliest places.
Before you leave have a look at the information boards near the entrance. These tell the story of the market, and in particular its partial destruction during World War II and its later rebuilding.
Other Belfast Sights
The Maritime Mile and the city centre will easily fill a day trip, but for longer visits Belfast offers plenty of additional attractions. The Botanic Gardens (free entry) were established in 1828 and include a Palm House and Tropical Ravine. The Ulster Museum has historical information about the Troubles era, as well as art and natural science. And Belfast Castle, on the slopes of Cave Hill, has an information centre, extensive grounds, and walking trails. It also offers panoramic views across the city.
A black cab tour is a good way of learning about the city’s recent past. Local guides share personal stories while driving through neighbourhoods like the Falls Road and Shankill Road, where murals tell the story of the Troubles.
You can also use Belfast as a base to explore more of Northern Ireland. The Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s most famous natural wonder, is an obvious day trip destination. But you could also take a tour of Castles in County Antrim (including the ghostly Dunluce Castle), or a train ride to the border city of Derry/Londonderry.
Eating And Drinking In Belfast
Whether your preference is for traditional pubs, wine bars or upscale restaurants, there is no shortage of places to eat and drink. You’ll find everything from traditional local fare to international cuisine and gourmet offerings. However, be aware that popular spots fill up quickly on weekends, so booking ahead is advisable (or be prepared to queue).
How To Visit Belfast
- Belfast International Airport is the main arrival point for international visitors, located about 30 minutes by bus from the city centre. It is also possible to fly to Belfast City Airport.
- Ferries run to Belfast from Liverpool in England and Cairnryan in Scotland. There are also rail links from Dublin and other destinations in the Republic of Ireland.
- I stayed at the IHG Holiday Inn (a short walk from Grand Central railway station, and very close to the Crown Liquor Saloon), and at the IHG voco (a nice hotel with a good restaurant, located in a repurposed industrial area beside the river). But there is a wide choice of other accommodation options available.
- The Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus is a good way of getting around the main city sights.
This article is also featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Belfast.
