The best things to do in Belfast, Northern Ireland
Are you planning a trip to Belfast, Northern Ireland? Then get ready to be wowed by the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery. With so much to see and do, we’ve compiled a list of must-see attractions to help you make the most of your visit.
You can also check out our posts on the best cafes and restaurants in Belfast.
We’ve included some affiliate links if you want to book any of the tours/tickets we offer.
Quick links
Getting around: Black cab tour | Hop-on, Hop-off bus
Cultural sites: Titanic Belfast | Stormont | Crumlin Road Gaol | Peacewall
Food and drink: Food tours | Cathedral Quater | St George’s Market | Crown Liquor Saloon
Shopping: Castle Court | Victoria Square
Scenery: Cave Hill | Malone Road
Activities: SSE Arena (Ice Hockey) | W5
Getting your barings around the city
Taking a guided tour around the city is often an excellent way to get an overview of what that city has to offer. We recommend doing a guided tour near the start of your stay so that you can have an idea of what you want to spend your time doing for the rest of your trip.
Black cab tours
Take a tour of the city in a traditional black cab and discover the fascinating murals that adorn the walls of Belfast’s buildings. The tour is a great way to learn about the city’s troubled past and the murals that reflect it. We’ve found a tour that lasts 2-3 hours and includes the famous peace wall and entry to Crumlin Road Gaol.
2-3 hour tour including the peace wall and Crumlin Road Gaol from £90
Hop-on hop-off bus
A hop-on hop-off bus is a great option for a more flexible and functional way of seeing the city. You can jump off at any stop to explore an attraction in more detail, then hop back on when ready to move on.
The Belfast hop-on hop-off bus goes to most of the famous sites on this post, and a day ticket costs £20. You can see the full map here.
Cultural sites
Titanic Belfast
Visit the birthplace of the legendary Titanic and explore the history of the Harland and Wolff shipyard. The Titanic Belfast Museum is a fascinating experience that will transport you back to the era of the great ocean liners.
The Parliament Buildings (Stormont)
The Parliament Buildings at Stormont are an impressive sight and are home to the Northern Ireland Assembly. Take a guided tour and learn about the history of the building and the political landscape of Northern Ireland.
Crumlin Road Gaol
Discover the fascinating history of this notorious prison on a guided tour. The gaol has housed some of Northern Ireland’s most notorious criminals and political prisoners.
Included in the black cab tour above.
The Peace Wall
Explore the famous Peace Wall, built to separate Catholic and Protestant neighbourhoods during the Troubles. Take a walk along the wall and learn about the history of the conflict.
Included in the black cab tour above.
Food and drink
Belfast city food tours
Belfast has a fantastic food scene, and a food tour is a great way to experience it. Sample local delicacies and learn about the city’s culinary history on a guided tour.
Cathedral Quarter
The Cathedral Quarter is the cultural heart of Belfast, with a vibrant arts scene, galleries, and street art. Explore the cobblestone streets and discover the many shops, bars, and restaurants.
St George's Market - Street food
Visit the award-winning St George’s Market and sample some of the best local produce in Northern Ireland. This vibrant indoor market has been in operation since the 1800s and is a must-visit for foodies.
Crown Liquor Saloon - The oldest pub in Belfast
Visit the Crown Liquor Saloon, the oldest pub in Belfast. This beautiful Victorian pub is a must-see for anyone who appreciates traditional Irish pubs.
Shopping
Belfast has two excellent shopping centres Castle Court and Victoria Square. Both offer a wide range of high-street and designer shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Scenery
Cave Hill
Take a hike up Cave Hill and enjoy stunning views of Belfast and the surrounding countryside. It’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some fresh air.
Malone Road
Take a stroll along the beautiful Malone Road and admire the stunning architecture of the many grand houses and buildings.
Activities
Watch the Giants at the SSE Arena
Catch an ice hockey game at the SSE Arena and cheer on the Belfast Giants. This is a great family-friendly activity and a chance to experience the local sports culture.
Immerse yourself at W5
W5 is an interactive science centre that offers a fun and educational experience for all ages. It’s a great option for families and is located in the Odyssey complex, including a cinema, bowling alley, and restaurants.