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Exploring Belfast, United Kingdom: A Guide to the Must-

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Belfast

About Belfast, United Kingdom

Belfast, United Kingdom is a city that has reinvented itself after years of political turmoil. Today, it is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment. From the stunning architecture of City Hall to the lively nightlife scene, Belfast truly has something for everyone.

Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland and is a city steeped in history and culture. The city was once the center of the Irish linen industry and was an important shipbuilding hub, with the famous Titanic being built in the city's shipyards. Today, Belfast is a vibrant city that offers visitors a rich cultural experience, as well as stunning architecture, great food, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

One of the top attractions in Belfast is the Titanic Belfast museum, which tells the story of the famous ship and its ill-fated voyage. The museum is located on the site of the former Harland and Wolff shipyard, where the Titanic was built, and offers visitors the chance to explore the history of the ship and the city's shipbuilding heritage.

Another must-visit attraction is the Ulster Museum, which houses an extensive collection of art, history, and natural science exhibits. The museum's collections include everything from ancient Irish artifacts to contemporary art, making it a great place to learn about the history and culture of Northern Ireland.

For those who love the outdoors, Belfast also offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling. The city is surrounded by beautiful countryside, including the famous Giant's Causeway, a natural wonder that is made up of thousands of hexagonal basalt columns.

When it comes to food, Belfast has a thriving food scene that offers something for everyone. From traditional Irish pub food to modern fusion cuisine, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from.

Overall, Belfast is a fantastic travel destination that offers visitors a unique mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Whether you're interested in exploring the city's shipbuilding heritage, learning about Irish history and culture, or simply taking in the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, Belfast has something for everyone.

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Popular Stays in Belfast, United Kingdom

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Belfast, United Kingdom

Business hotelsHotels with charm

Europa

Featuring a prime location in Belfast city centre, this luxurious hotel is a short distance from many of the most important attractions in the city, including Ulster Museum, Grand Opera House, City Hall, Titanic Belfast and the Odyssey Arena, a large sports and entertainment centre. Belfast International Airport is to be found some 30 kilometres from this outstanding property. Guests will find a wide choice of tastefully decorated and superbly furnished rooms featuring a charming atmosphere in which to completely unwind. This superbly appointed property features an excellent service and is equally suited to a short break, residential conference or a grand event. The onsite dining options serve a wide range of delicious dishes elaborated with fresh local produce as well as tasty snacks and pastries, while corporate travellers can take advantage of the state-of-the-art conference facilities.

Business hotels

Stormont

Located only 8 km from Belfast city centre, this hotel stands in 12 acres of beautifully secluded gardens and woodland. It is adjacent to Stormont Castle and situated within only 900 m from shopping venues, bars, nightclubs and public transport. The hotel offers luminous and well-appointed rooms, where guests may completely unwind after all day of work or venturing into the city. The units are en-suite and come complete with state-of-the-art amenities. There is a small gym located on-site offering a combination of cardio and weights - free for guests to use. There are a variety of dining options to suit all tastes. Guests can enjoy the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the bistro, or simply relax in the stylish lounge and reception area by the log-burning fire. Corporate travellers may avail for functional meeting facilities and afterwards while away at the welcoming bar.

Business hotels

Crowne Plaza Belfast

Crowne Plaza Belfast is a 4-star hotel situated in the surroundings of Lagan Valley Regional Park, just 15 minutes by car from Belfast's thriving city centre. Free WI-FI is available throughout the property. Each en-suite room at Crowne Plaza Hotel Belfast has a king-size bed or 2 queen-sized beds. They all have a flat-screen TV, a mini-fridge and facilities for making tea and coffee. Guests have access to DW Fitness, with facilities including a 20 yards swimming pool, sauna and steam room. The property also features conference and meeting rooms for business events. There is also an on-site hairdresser at the property. Crowne Plaza Belfast has a choice of dining options. The Green Room offers innovative Irish cuisine, in addition to the Spice Club Menu, which offers Indian food. More casual dining is available in The River Bar. A full English breakfast is available in the morning.

Business hotelsGolf hotelsHotels with spaSport hotelsFamily hotels

Gasworks Hotel

The Gasworks Hotel is a modern and elegant addition to the Belfast hotels scene. It offers you a luxurious and comfortable stay with stunning views of the city and the river. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a business trip, or a special occasion, The Gasworks Hotel has everything you need to make it memorable. Our 120 cozy rooms and suites are equipped with free high-speed Wi-Fi, spa-quality bathroom amenities, and soft bedding. You can also enjoy the scenic views of the Belfast skyline or the River Lagan from some of our rooms. At The Gasworks Restaurant & Bar, you can savor the authentic local cuisine and drinks in a stylish and friendly atmosphere. Our menu caters to all tastes and preferences, and our staff will ensure you have a wonderful dining experience.

Leonardo Hotel Belfast Formerly Jurys Inn

Leonardo Hotels is one of the most convenient hotels in Belfast - just a minute from the beautiful Grand Opera House, less than ten minutes walk to two major shopping areas of the city such as Victoria Square and Castlecourt Shopping Centre, and only 12 minutes walk from the beautiful Albert memorial Clock. The hotel is also a 20 minute walk from the obligatory visit Titanic Visitor Center, Dock and Pump House, as well as a 15-minute walk from Queens University, the Botanical Gardens and the Ulster Museum. Enjoy all the comforts of home in one of 190 spacious rooms. Settle into one of the largest soft or relax in a bubble bath in the bathroom with free toiletries beds. The hotel rooms include a flat-screen TV with Freeview and free WiFi, and have the capacity to accommodate up to three adults or two adults and two children under twelve. *It is mandatory to provide a full name per room in case of 2 or more rooms are booked.

Business hotels

Holiday Inn Belfast City Centre

Holiday Inn Belfast City Centre is conveniently located close to the city’s retail and entertainment districts. The hotel is adjacent to Belfast’s main transport interchange and is easily accessible to the main road network, providing a perfect base for visiting Titanic Belfast and Game of Thrones attractions. This modern 4-star hotel has been recently completely refurbished and features the new ‘Open Lobby’ concept which provides a relaxed multi-use space for guests to enjoy all-day dining, Starbucks coffee and full bar service. During your stay you can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout and secure discounted overnight parking nearby. The hotel features full dining options, 24-hour room service and a fitness centre. All bedrooms are air-conditioned and feature a flat-screen TV, a pocket sprung mattress, a safe, modern bathroom, and tea and coffee making facilities. Executive Rooms are also available with additional features of Nespresso coffee machine, a mini-fridge with complimentary soft drinks, a bathrobe and slippers. The complimentary fitness centre includes a range of cardiovascular, free weights and multi gym equipment. You can also work in the E-Bar, which features power points and a wireless printer. The To Go Café offers quick take-away food and drinks 24 hours a day. Our meeting room has air conditioning, natural light and enough space for 50 people. The hotel's meeting organisers will help ensure your event is a success.

Business hotelsSustainable Hotel

Hilton Belfast

The following services and amenities are available, but with **reduced service**: Business Center, Concierge, Fitness Center, Breakfast, On-site Restaurant(s), Valet Parking.The following services and amenities are currently **not available**: Executive Lounge.On the banks of the River Lagan and the heart of the city, Hilton Belfast offers 198 guest rooms and suites. All rooms and suites are fitted with: - LED TV - Air conditioning - Working desk with ergonomic chair - Tea/Coffee making facility and minibar - Iron and ironing board - In-room safe Enjoy the benefits of our hotel including: - Amazing views from the 11th Floor Executive Lounge for guests booking into Executive Floors and Suites; breakfast and evening drinks and canapes (6 - 8 pm) are served daily - Prime city center location next to Central Station, Belfast Waterfront and St. George's Market with financial, shopping and social districts nearby - Odyssey Arena, Titanic Belfast, Belfast City Hall, T13 and the Cathedral, Titanic and Queens Quarters all within 1 mile - WiFi available throughout hotel in public areas and in all areas for Hilton Honors Members - Sonoma Restaurant with river views serving breakfast and dinner daily - Relaxed dining, coffee and extensive drinks menu all day in Cables Bar - 24-hour fitness center - Meeting and Event Facilities with business center for up to 450 delegates and 300 dinner guests - Covered walkway to Belfast Waterfront for convention guests (subject to convention organizer discretion)

Business hotels

Clayton Hotel Belfast

This hotel is located in the heart of the city in a walking distance away from the main business districts, tourist attractions and shopping areas. Belfast Airport is about 25 km from the hotel. The hotel is a modern, contemporary property with a broad range of facilities such as hotel safe, restaurant and a bar. Moreover, there are conference and banqueting facilities for up to 600 people. The property comprises of 170 fully air-conditioned guest rooms, all well-equipped as standard. The hotel has a fully-equipped gym. Avenue 22 restaurant offer its guests varied and appealing menu which reflects all that is great about modern British cooking. Hotel has implemented a full range of enhanced sanitisation procedures and new practices which have been rigorously reviewed by Bureau Veritas, a trusted, independent global leader in tested, inspections and certification.

Things to do in Belfast, United Kingdom

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Belfast, United Kingdom

Digital Voucher480 minutes

Luxury Tours Belfast. Full day Private Hire Tour for 2- 6 people

Bespoke Private Hire Tours Belfast, For up to six people for one costing !!!, If you are planning to visit Ireland then you will find our range of one-day trips, short breaks, and luxury escorted tours the best way to see the real Ireland - a land of Castles, picturesque Coastlines, and spectacular scenery Our tours are the perfect way to explore the real Ireland and are convenient with daily departures on the most popular Ireland North Antrim Coast tours. We select the routes and tour guides or if you have your own itinerary, we will work with you to ensure you have a memorable visit Full details of the tour itinerary are in the Activity Details below 1) Causeway Coast Tour 2) St Patrick's Trail 3) Belfast City Tour 4) Belfast Political Tour We can supply the following Luxury Transport Executive Mercedes S-Class (or similar) Sedan car seating 2/3 in comfort Luxury Mercedes V-Class (or similar) Minivan MPVs seating 6 people

Digital Voucher480 minutes

Luxury Private Hire Tour for 2- 6 people around Northern Ireland

Digital Voucher480 minutes

The Giants Causeway Tour

Locally experienced world host tour guides and drivers. Can be tailored to meet customer requirements. Tour features : Drive along the beautiful Antrim Coast to the causeway with several stops

See the beautiful and unspoilt North Irish Coast

Digital Voucher420 minutes

Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Ropebridge and Belfast Titanic - 5 Star Tour

This a 5 star rated tour carried out by a qualified and published historian. You travel in luxury to the best sites and scenery in Ireland and hear the story of the Irish people told through the castles and living rocks of the ancient Irish landscape. You will travel from the Giant's Causeway to the movie sets of Game of Thrones and also see the building slips of the famous Titanic before seeing the iconic Peacewalls and Murals of Belfast. This is a unique travel experience where even lunch becomes an event as you dine in a haunted 5 star hotel and visit the spooky ghost room of the Grey Lady. On the way you will hear the story of the Irish and how they influenced the world through their migration to the North America and helped shape the constitution of the United States of America before becomeing the 'Fighting Irish' of the American Civil War. In 7 packed hours you will experience the best that Ireland has to offer with a qualified dedicated tour guide.

Ballintoy Harbour (Iron Islands) - Taxi Tours NI

Digital Voucher600 minutes

Private Giants Causeway & Coastal Tour from Belfast in Luxury Mercedes

How does taking your tour with a provider that has received the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for EVERY year in business? Look no further! An award winning tour with guides that have years of experience providing world-class tours creating memories worth remembering for a lifetime! The tour is conducted in a luxury Mercedes vehicle that puts the tourist at complete ease for the duration of their trip. WiFi can be enabled to keep you online at all times. Our vehicles sit up to 7 people comfortably, so we can keep the whole group together! We hand pick our guides to ensure you are in the best hands, is there a spot you aren't seeing but would love to see? Ask your driver on pick up and see what we can do for you. We believe in making your experience fantastic and your trip to Northern Ireland one to remember. **Top Choice for Cruise Ships & Hotels** - TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Holder!

Digital Voucher360 minutes

Giants Causeway & Game of Thrones Tour from Belfast

A privately hosted tour, suitable for groups of up to 7 passengers per vehicle travels through the North Coast visiting the different key areas from the Game of Thrones TV Show in comfortable executive vehicles with onboard amenities. The Game of Thrones TV Series is now regarded to as the largest TV Series worldwide! The filming locations are to be preserved as famous filming sets with their own Game of Thrones boards to bring you back to the very episodes they were used in. This tour is a fully guided tour lasting 5-6 hours travelling the North Antrim Coast to the locations where the Game of Thrones was recorded. The tour itself will bring you back in time to educate you on the history, mythology and politics of the surrounding areas and its relevancy to our Game of Thrones experience!

Digital Voucher600 minutes

Visit Belfast top attractions in one day

Up to 8 passengers per cab in fully air conditioned modern vehicles. This day tour visits the Top 2 attractions of Giants Causeway and Titanic experience and includes a short city tour of famous landmarks such as the Peace Wall, Murals and main prominent City buildings. Travelers should be aware that tickets for Titanic experience need to be Pre booked and are the responsibility of the guests. Our job is to advise times and make your day trip a memorable one for all the right reasons. Tours can be modified with a private itinerary when booking to include Carrick a rede rope bridge.

Digital Voucher600 minutes

SHORE EXCURSIONS BELFAST / up to 5 tours in 1 day from CRUISE SHIP @ MICKS TOURS

5 in 1 SPECIALIST OFFER. At Micks Belfast tour we are able to offer an unforgettable experience. Your day starts with a trip to the Giants causeway and a view of Carrick a rede rope bridge along with a photo stop at Dunluce castle, before driving along the scenic north coast drive to visit the Glens of Antrim and spectacular waterfalls on the route towards Belfast castle. We then visit the famous troubles Peace wall and Murals before we take in some of the City's main character buildings on a city tour on our way to the titanic museum experience. Time to spare will allow for a quick pint of Guinness or a measure of Bushmill's whiskey at McHugh's Belfast's oldest building. This is a unique tour as it covers 5 different tours 1- Giants causeway, 2- Glens of Antrim, 3- Belfast City Tour, 4- Murals tour, 5- Titanic experience. All in one day. Titanic Experience tickets need bought at time of booking. Contact for more info. This is a 10 hour tour. Can be modified slightly upon request.

Why People Love Belfast, United Kingdom

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Belfast, United Kingdom

S
Sonya_N
5
Jun 2023
Luxury Tours Belfast. Full day Private Hire Tour for 2- 6 people
We really enjoyed our day exploring Northern Ireland with John as our guide. John was a great driver and shared a lot of history and cultural information with us. He had great recommendations for what to do with our day, where to eat, and how to best explore the sites we visited. This was one of ...

G
Glendine_O
1
Sep 2023
Luxury Tours Belfast. Full day Private Hire Tour for 2- 6 people
Nice car. Pick up was listed as 8:00 then 10:00. Driver didn’t know where the ship was. Would have had more “Belfast History” with a taxi from the ship. Spent hours looking at gates and walls. With no history significance. Huge waste of $$$$$$!

W
W8320UHjennifers
5
Aug 2023
Luxury Tours Belfast. Full day Private Hire Tour for 2- 6 people
I can’t not find the words to express how wonderful Steven our guide was. I knew he was going to be perfect for our group right from the start! He was so knowledgeable of the area and kindly accommodated every request we made! He took me to the exact street my grandmother lived on in 1940s as wel...

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Frequently Asked Questions about Belfast

What are the must-see attractions in Belfast?

Belfast is a city with a rich history and many great attractions. Some of the must-see sights include the Titanic Belfast museum, the Ulster Museum, the Crumlin Road Gaol, and the Belfast Castle. Don't forget to take a stroll through the Botanic Gardens and visit the famous political murals.

What is the best way to explore the city?

One of the best ways to explore Belfast is on foot. The city center is relatively small and easy to navigate. You can also take a guided tour or a hop-on hop-off bus tour to get an overview of the city's history and culture.

What are some of the best places to eat in Belfast?

Belfast has a thriving food scene with many great restaurants and cafes. Some of the must-try places include Ox, Edo, Coppi, and Made in Belfast. Don't forget to try some traditional Irish dishes like Irish stew and potato bread!

What are some fun activities to do in Belfast?

There are plenty of fun activities to do in Belfast. You can take a Black Taxi tour of the city's political murals, visit the Ulster Folk Museum, or take a day trip to the Giant's Causeway. You can also explore the city's many parks and gardens or take a boat tour of Belfast Lough.

What is the best time of year to visit Belfast?

The best time of year to visit Belfast is in the summer months from June to August. The weather is mild and there are many festivals and events happening around the city. However, if you're looking for a quieter visit, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn can also be a good time to visit.

What are some of the best accommodations in Belfast?

Belfast has many great hotels and guesthouses to choose from. Some of the top-rated options include The Merchant Hotel, Grand Central Hotel, The Fitzwilliam Hotel, and Malmaison Belfast. There are also many budget-friendly options like hostels and guesthouses.

What are some of the best day trips from Belfast?

There are many great day trips you can take from Belfast. Some of the most popular options include the Giant's Causeway, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and the Antrim Coast. You can also explore nearby towns like Bangor or take a trip to the Mourne Mountains.

What is the nightlife like in Belfast?

Belfast has a vibrant nightlife scene with many great bars and nightclubs. Some of the top spots include The Dirty Onion, The Duke of York, The Spaniard, and The Harp Bar. There are also many live music venues and theaters around the city.

What are some of the best shopping destinations in Belfast?

Belfast has many great shopping destinations, from high-end boutiques to quirky independent stores. Some of the must-visit spots include Victoria Square, St George's Market, and CastleCourt Shopping Centre. Don't forget to explore the city's many bookshops and vintage stores!

What is the best way to get around Belfast?

Belfast is a relatively small city and is easy to navigate on foot. You can also take a bus or taxi to get around the city. If you're planning on exploring outside of the city center, you may want to consider renting a car or taking a guided tour.