BELFAST
Belfast is a city of remarkable resilience, now celebrated for its industrial heritage, cultural verve, and compelling history. It perfectly blends grand Victorian architecture with the contemporary buzz of regenerated waterfront areas.
A city of vibrant quarters, it offers everything from world-class maritime museums to historic pubs, street art reflecting its past, and a dynamic culinary scene. Belfast truly embodies the ‘Giant Spirit’ of Northern Ireland.
Most Popular Attractions
City Core & Historic Sites:
Belfast City Hall: A magnificent Edwardian Baroque building offering free public tours and home to the Titanic Memorial Garden.
St Anne’s Cathedral (Belfast Cathedral): A stunning example of neo-Romanesque architecture in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter.
Grand Opera House: A beautifully restored Victorian theatre, one of the city’s most iconic architectural landmarks.
Crumlin Road Gaol: A historic Victorian-era prison (known locally as ‘The Crum’) offering immersive tours detailing its 150-year history.
Albert Memorial Clock: Belfast’s own leaning tower, a prominent Victorian landmark in Queen’s Square.
St George’s Market: One of Belfast’s oldest attractions, a vibrant, award-winning market open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Crown Liquor Saloon: A National Trust-owned Victorian gin palace, famous for its ornate interiors and private snugs.
Ulster Hall: A historic music and events venue, known for its superb acoustics and famous rock performances.
Titanic Quarter & Maritime History:
Titanic Belfast: The world’s largest Titanic visitor experience, a striking building situated on the slipways where the ship was built.
SS Nomadic: The last remaining White Star Line vessel, which served as the tender ship for the Titanic and Olympic.
HMS Caroline: A preserved World War I light cruiser, one of the last remaining vessels of the Battle of Jutland.
Titanic’s Dock and Pump-House: The massive dry dock where the Titanic sat before its launch, now home to a museum and distillery.
Samson and Goliath (Cranes): The iconic twin ‘gantry’ cranes of the Harland & Wolff shipyard, dominating the city skyline.
Maritime Mile: A trail along the historic waterfront connecting the Titanic Quarter’s main attractions.
Culture, Parks & Modern Attractions:
Ulster Museum: Home to wide-ranging collections of art, history, and natural science, including dinosaur bones and the Egyptian mummy Takabuti.
Botanic Gardens: A public park featuring the beautiful Victorian-era Palm House and Tropical Ravine glasshouses.
Cave Hill Country Park: A sprawling park overlooking the city, famous for the ‘Napoleon’s Nose’ rock formation and Belfast Castle.
Belfast Castle: A stately castle on the slopes of Cave Hill offering spectacular city views and dining.
Peace Walls and Political Murals: Iconic separation barriers adorned with colourful, politically themed street art, often explored via a Black Taxi Tour.
W5 Interactive Discovery Centre: An award-winning science and discovery centre with hundreds of interactive exhibits.
The MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre): A contemporary arts venue in the Cathedral Quarter hosting theatre, art, music, and dance.
Cathedral Quarter: The city’s historic core and cultural hub, known for its cobbled streets, pubs, and burgeoning street art scene.
Parliament Buildings (Stormont): The seat of the Northern Ireland Assembly, set in a grand estate perfect for a scenic stroll.
Activities & Experiences
Explore the Titanic Quarter: Immerse yourself in the story of the famous liner at Titanic Belfast, an award-winning interactive museum built on the ship’s former slipways, and tour the last remaining White Star Line vessel, the SS Nomadic.
Take a Black Taxi Tour (Political Murals Tour): Book a tour with a local driver in a traditional black cab to gain personal and historical insight into Belfast’s political past, seeing the famous murals on the Falls Road and Shankill Road, and the Peace Wall.
Visit the Crumlin Road Gaol: Take a guided tour through this Victorian-era prison, known as ‘The Crum’, to explore the tunnels, cells, and the execution chamber.
Wander through the Botanic Gardens and Ulster Museum: Stroll through the beautiful Victorian glasshouse, the Palm House, in the Botanic Gardens, then explore the nearby Ulster Museum for art, history, and natural science exhibits (free entry).
Discover the Cathedral Quarter: Explore the cobblestone streets of this cultural and arts hub, known for its vibrant street art, independent shops, traditional pubs, and the beautiful St Anne’s Cathedral.
Hike up Cave Hill: Climb to the summit of Cave Hill (to ‘Napoleon’s Nose’) for spectacular panoramic views over Belfast Lough and the entire city. Belfast Castle is located on its slopes.
Sample Local Delights at St George’s Market: Visit one of the UK and Ireland’s best indoor markets (open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) to sample local produce, street food, arts, crafts, and enjoy live music.
See a Performance at the Grand Opera House: Attend a show in this stunningly restored Victorian theatre, known for its exquisite interior and diverse programming, from opera to comedy and musicals.
Take a Day Trip to the Giant’s Causeway: Join an organised tour or rent a car for the drive up the scenic Causeway Coastal Route to see the UNESCO World Heritage site of interlocking basalt columns.
Walk the Maritime Mile: Follow this waterfront route from the Titanic Quarter, passing historic docks, public art installations, and enjoying the contemporary architecture.
Try Local Craft Beer in a Traditional Pub: Experience the famous pub culture and try local Northern Irish brews in historic pubs like the Crown Liquor Saloon (a stunning National Trust property) or a more contemporary craft beer bar.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking is Recommended for the City Centre: Belfast is a compact city, and the main central attractions (City Hall, Cathedral Quarter, St George’s Market) are easily explored on foot.
Public Transport (Translink): The city’s main public transport provider is Translink, which operates Metro buses (in and around the city centre) and the Glider (a rapid transit bus system on key routes).
- Day Tickets: A dayLink travel card offers unlimited day travel on Metro and Glider services and is the most cost-effective option for multiple trips.
- mLink App: Using the Translink app for tickets is often the simplest and cheapest way to buy them.
Getting to Further Attractions: For places like the Titanic Quarter, you can use the Glider or a local bus. For attractions outside the city, like the Giant’s Causeway or the Mourne Mountains, booking a day tour or renting a car is usually the best approach.
Taxis (Black Cabs and Private Hire): Black Taxis are often used for the politically themed tours. For general travel, private hire companies like Value Cabs or fonaCab are widely used, can be booked via phone/app, and are metered.
The Troubles – Approach with Sensitivity: The history of the Northern Ireland conflict is complex and sensitive. The Black Taxi Tours are excellent for understanding ‘The Troubles,’ but visitors should be respectful and avoid taking a strong political stance. It is a topic that requires tact, especially in conversation with locals.
Language and Identity: While English is the primary language, you’ll hear distinct local accents and slang. Be mindful that people in Northern Ireland hold various national identities. “Northern Ireland” is the most neutral term.
Pub Etiquette – The ‘Round’: If you are drinking in a group at a pub, it’s customary to take turns buying a ’round’ of drinks for everyone, rather than individuals buying their own. Skipping your turn is considered rude.
The ‘Ulster Fry’: Don’t leave without trying a traditional Ulster Fry—a hearty cooked breakfast often including bacon, egg, sausage, soda bread, potato bread, and black pudding.
Belfast Biking: The Belfast Bikes scheme offers a great way to cycle through the city, with docking stations available throughout the centre.
Hidden Gems:
- The Duke of York: Tucked away in a cobblestone alley in the Cathedral Quarter, this pub is a Belfast institution, famed for its whiskey and classic atmosphere.
- The Dark Hedges: Not in Belfast, but often included on day tours, this stunning avenue of intertwined beech trees gained fame as a Game of Thrones filming location (King’s Road).
- The Big Fish (Salmon of Knowledge): A giant ceramic salmon sculpture on the banks of the River Lagan, popular for photos and covered in tiles detailing Belfast’s history.
- Sunflower Public House: An unpretentious, traditional pub with a cage around the entrance, reflecting a time of greater security needs, and often hosts live music.
Top Restaurants
Darcy’s Belfast [$25-$40] – A charming, family-run restaurant near Queen’s University focusing on locally sourced ingredients and authentic, hearty Irish cuisine.
The Morning Star Bar & Restaurant [$20-$35] – A tucked-away, historic 19th-century alehouse known for serving excellent, simple food, including grass-fed beef from the owner’s family farm.
Holohan’s Pantry [$30-$50] – A cozy spot near Queen’s University specializing in traditional Irish food, particularly their famous ‘Boxty’ (a traditional Irish potato pancake).
The Cloth Ear [$25-$40] – An upscale gastro-pub in the Merchant Hotel offering classic Irish and British dishes with a refined touch, known for its comfortable, relaxed atmosphere.
White’s Tavern [$20-$35] – Belfast’s oldest tavern, dating back to 1630, offering a historic setting for enjoying traditional pub grub like excellent chowder and Irish coffee.
Molly’s Yard [$25-$40] – Tucked away in a converted Victorian stable and courtyard in the University Quarter, this restaurant focuses on modern Irish food and local craft beers from the Hilden Brewing Company.
Hadski’s [$30-$50] – A stylish, casual brasserie in the Cathedral Quarter by renowned local chef Niall McKenna, offering great steaks, fish, and classic bistro fare.
The Sunflower [$15-$25] – A no-frills, friendly pub that’s a local favorite, known for its caged facade (a relic of the past) and simple, traditional pub food.
The Garrick Bar [$15-$25] – A classic, long-standing pub popular with locals in the city center, offering a solid menu of traditional pub food and a wide selection of real ales.
Mourne Seafood Bar [$30-$50] – A city-center institution for fresh, locally caught seafood, with shellfish sourced from their own beds, offering excellent quality at reasonable prices.
The Muddlers Club [$50-$80] – A Michelin-starred restaurant hidden down an alleyway in the Cathedral Quarter, offering sharp, modern European food from an open kitchen with an industrial-chic vibe.
OX [$60-$90] – A Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking the River Lagan, known for its creative, contemporary take on seasonal Irish and British ingredients, with a superb wine bar (OX Cave) next door.
Waterman Restaurant [$35-$60] – Awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand, this Cathedral Quarter spot offers a no-frills, modern British/European dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal, and local produce.
Home Restaurant [$30-$50] – A popular city center spot with a Michelin Bib Gourmand, known for its wholesome, feel-good, seasonal food and excellent attention to dietary requirements.
Cyprus Avenue [$30-$50] – A deservedly popular neighborhood bistro in the East Belfast suburb of Ballyhackamore with a lively atmosphere and contemporary European cooking.
Ginger Bistro [$35-$55] – A multi-award-winning, well-established restaurant offering modern Anglo-European cuisine in a relaxed bistro atmosphere, a favorite for special occasions.
James St [$45-$70] – A sophisticated spot in the city center with a charcoal grill at its heart, offering some of Northern Ireland’s best steaks, fresh fish, and classic bistro dishes.
EDŌ Restaurant [$35-$55] – A smart and trendy brasserie with international influences, particularly Spanish (paella, tapas), with many dishes cooked in a Bertha oven over apple or pear wood.
Shu Restaurant [$40-$65] – An upscale restaurant on the Lisburn Road serving seasonal, modern takes on classic dishes with French influences, a favorite for a luxurious experience.
Howard Street [$40-$65] – Known for its focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a modern, creative menu guided by international influences, often listed as a top Belfast dining experience.
La Taverna [$30-$45] – A popular local Italian restaurant near the city center, known for its authentic, simple Italian dishes and cozy, non-chain feel.
Deanes Eipic [$100-$150] – A highly-regarded, upscale Michelin-starred restaurant by Chef Michael Deane, offering multi-course tasting menus focused on refinement and high-quality seasonal produce.
Deanes Meat Locker [$60-$100] – Part of the Michael Deane collection, this is a Michelin-recommended, beef-driven grill room and steak house, specializing in top-quality cuts cooked on a charcoal grill.
Deanes at Queens [$45-$75] – Another elegant Michael Deane venue in the vibrant Queen’s Quarter, known for serving simple, hearty, local food cooked to perfection.
Six by Nico [$55-$75] – A concept restaurant that changes its entire six-course tasting menu every six weeks, revolving around a new theme, offering an innovative and exciting dining experience.
The Great Room Restaurant [$70-$120] – Located in the stunning Victorian-style Great Room of The Merchant Hotel, this offers an elegant, top-class fine dining experience in an opulent setting.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Cocktail Bar at The Merchant Hotel: Located in the luxurious Merchant Hotel in the Cathedral Quarter, this highly-acclaimed bar is known for its exquisite cocktail list, from timeless classics to innovative house creations, served in a stunning room with antique Baccarat chandeliers.
Bert’s Jazz Bar: Also within The Merchant Hotel in the Cathedral Quarter, this bar offers a 1930s New York-style experience with live jazz every evening and a cocktail selection inspired by the world’s great jazz capitals.
The Perch Rooftop Bar: Situated in the city centre, this unique rooftop bar occupies a converted Victorian warehouse and features floral décor, a lively atmosphere, and classic cocktails alongside freshly baked pizza.
Tetto Rooftop Garden: Found on a rooftop in the Cathedral Quarter/City Centre area, this venue offers imaginative cocktails, International small plates, and impressive views, making it an energetic spot for drinks.
The Observatory: Perched on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel in the city centre, this is the tallest cocktail bar in Ireland, offering an opulent setting and breathtaking panoramic views of Belfast alongside its themed cocktails.
Rattlebag: A late-night concept cocktail bar hidden within the Bullitt hotel in the city centre, offering an intimate atmosphere and a rotating menu of seasonally-inspired cocktails.
Rita’s: Located in the vibrant Linen Quarter, this stylish bar boasts a cosy interior, live music, and an extensive menu of signature cocktails, gins, and spirits.
Orisha Belfast: Found on Fountain Street in the city centre, this charming bar features industrial décor and Mexican-style artwork, focusing on contemporary and classic cocktails, often with a Latin American influence.
Liquor XXX: A uniquely themed bar with a racy twist on the cocktail bar concept, this centrally located spot takes inspiration from South America, offering tequila, pisco, and cachaça-laced mixes.
Angel & Two Bibles: A sophisticated speakeasy cocktail bar, found in the historic Brewery Quarter, which pays tribute to its 18th-century namesake. It offers a craft cocktail experience with a stunning heated rooftop terrace.
Margot Belfast: Tucked away below street level in the city centre, this stylish bar is known for its warm, funky interiors and a range of creative, bespoke cocktails and spirits.
The Bar at Fitzwilliam Hotel: An ultra-chic and lively bar in the city centre, known for its plush interiors and an expansive, Flamboyant list of unique and classic cocktails.
The Tipsy Bird: A quirky late-night cocktail bar on Anne St in the city centre, offering amazing cocktails, a lively atmosphere, and live music throughout the week.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast: Located in the city centre, this bar offers a taste of Cuban culture with a tropical party vibe, famous for its Cuban food and extensive cocktail selection, including a signature Zombie.
The Northern Whig: Located in the Cathedral Quarter, this vast and vibrant bar is known for its stylish décor and extensive cocktail list, including a “Cathedral Menu” with drinks named after local sights.
Howard Street: Situated in the city centre, this sophisticated spot offers a great setting for sipping gorgeous signature cocktails like a white chocolate and passionfruit martini.
Limelight: A major nightlife complex on trendy Ormeau Avenue, popular with students and music lovers. It features a dance club (Limelight 1), a live music venue (Limelight 2), and a rooftop terrace (The Rock Garden).
Thompsons Garage: A vibrant, long-standing nightclub located in the heart of the city centre, known for its nightly club events, guest DJs, and a mix of house, electronic, and club anthems across its two-tiered dance floor.
Ollie’s Belfast: An exclusive, sophisticated underground bar and nightclub located in the former bank vaults beneath The Merchant Hotel in the city centre. It features private booths, VIP areas, and plays a mix of hip-hop, house, and R&B.
Alibi: Found on Bradbury Place in the Queen’s Quarter, this sophisticated three-floor nightclub is known for its wide range of drinks, beautiful low-lit interior, and high-energy R&B, House, and Hip-Hop nights with guest DJs.
Voodoo: A two-floor venue on Fountain Street that functions as a bar and a club. The upstairs space is a popular nightclub with music ranging from house to drum n bass, often hosting music events on weekends.
Club LUX: Situated in the Cathedral Quarter, this trendy nightclub is a popular spot for party-goers and students, offering a large dancefloor, a stylish interior, and budget-friendly drinks.
The National: Housed in a listed Victorian building in the city centre, this venue offers a contemporary twist, featuring a cocktail bar, a dedicated nightclub area, and Belfast’s biggest beer garden.
Lavery’s: A large, long-standing traditional bar institution in the city centre that also hosts a popular Saturday club night with two floors and a large capacity for dancing.