During your city trip to Belfast, there are plenty of things to do and see. To ensure you catch the most important and enjoyable sights, we’ve compiled a list of must-see Belfast attractions for you. This way, you can be sure your stay in the city will be a great success.
Belfast, the dynamic capital of Northern Ireland, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Once a scene of conflict, the city is now a cosmopolitan destination where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Here, you’ll find a wide range of museums, excellent restaurants, and tangible reminders of its rich past.
Discover 23 essential attractions in Belfast that offer you an in-depth look into the city’s fascinating history and guide you to contemporary hotspots. These attractions are an absolute must during your city trip.
For an authentic and fun way to explore the city, our Belfast Highlight Bike Tour offers a unique opportunity. Guided by our experienced guides, you’ll discover Belfast on two wheels and experience the city like a local. It’s the ideal way to elevate your city trip to Belfast.
With these Belfast attractions, you’ll dive into the impressive history of Belfast while also visiting the city’s hotspots. These attractions are not to be missed during your city trip.
1. Titanic Belfast
During a city trip to the capital, a visit to Titanic Belfast is a must. This is the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience and a must-see attraction when visiting the capital. The museum is just a 15-minute walk from the city center, and you can easily spend half a day there.
Titanic Belfast is located next to the Titanic Slipways, the Harland and Wolff Drawing Offices, and Hamilton Graving Dock. This is where the Titanic was designed, built, and launched in 1911. The front of the museum is as tall as the Titanic once was.
Titanic Belfast tells the story of the Titanic from its design in the early 1900s, through its construction and launch, to its maiden voyage and subsequent place in history. The self-guided Titanic Experience tour consists of nine interpretative and interactive galleries exploring the sights, sounds, smells, and stories of the RMS Titanic. It also tells the story of the city and the people who made it.
2. SS Nomadic
In the harbor next to Titanic Belfast, you can visit the SS Nomadic. This is the last remaining tender ship of the RMS Titanic and has been restored to its original condition. Walk the decks, explore the ship, and journey through more than 100 years of authentic maritime history.
The SS Nomadic is particularly known for its role in the Titanic story, as it ferried first and second-class passengers to the cruise ship from Cherbourg. During a visit to the SS Nomadic, you can best experience what it was like to board the Titanic during its fateful maiden voyage.
Tickets for a visit to the SS Nomadic can be purchased as part of a visit to Titanic Belfast.
3. HMS Caroline
In the Titanic Quarter, alongside Titanic Belfast and the SS Nomadic, you can also visit the HMS Caroline. Built in 1914 for the British Royal Navy, the ship served during World War I. In 1924, it was moved to Belfast Docks. During World War II, the ship was used as a depot and a base for strategic operations.
The ship was restored in 2016 and opened to the public as a ship museum. You can start your visit to HMS Caroline at the small Dockside museum next to the ship and then take a self-guided tour on the ship itself. It’s also possible to visit HMS Caroline with a guide. Onboard, through exhibitions, films, reconstructed historical spaces, and interactive screens, you can learn more about the construction, history, and living conditions on board.
To visit the ship, you need to purchase a ticket. This can be done in advance or on-site. There is a small café and gift shop on the ship. The ship is accessible by public bus, and there is a parking area available.
4. Titanic Dock & Pump House
If you want to get an idea of the scale of the RMS Titanic, a visit to the Titanic Dock & Pump House is highly recommended. This is where the Titanic was docked and fitted out for its sea trials. The dock was originally called Thompson Dock. The adjacent pump house was used to pump water from Thompson Dock and from Alexandra Graving Dock (where HMS Caroline is located).
There is a small fee to visit the Titanic Dock & Pump House. The ticket grants access to both the pump house and the dock. You can take a self-guided tour or book a guided tour in advance.
The Titanic Dock & Pump House is about a ten-minute walk from Titanic Belfast and just a one-minute walk from HMS Caroline. You can easily combine a visit to both attractions.
5. Titanic Studios
Unlike the previously mentioned attractions, this one has a bit less to do with the Titanic, despite what the name might suggest. Titanic Studios is one of Europe’s largest film studios, where producers like HBO and Universal create their films and series. The set was once part of the shipyards where the Titanic was built and is considered one of the city’s most enjoyable attractions.
With a set area of 106,000 square meters, Titanic Studios was the main studio for the production of the internationally successful series Game of Thrones. During a visit to Titanic Studios, you can, for instance, visit ‘The Throne Room’ built for Game of Thrones. It’s definitely worth visiting the studio if you’re a fan of the series.
6. St. George’s Market
If you’re in the capital on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, you should definitely pay a visit to St. George’s Market. The covered market was built at the end of the 19th century and has won several local and national awards for its fresh, local products and great atmosphere. The live music and lively ambiance make it a perfect weekend activity.
On Fridays, about 200 market stalls sell fruit, vegetables, antiques, books, clothing, hot dishes, cakes and pastries, crafts, and a large selection of fish. The Saturday market features more local, continental, and specialty foods, such as meats and fish, cheeses, coffee beans, tapas, and organic products from around the world. The Sunday market is a combination of the Friday and Saturday markets. The market is open on Fridays from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
7. Cathedral Quarter
Northern Ireland’s capital has many attractions that are fun to visit during the day, like St. George’s Market, but the city truly comes alive in the evening. Cathedral Quarter, the cultural, creative, and social heart of the city, is always a lively place in the evening. The area is home to the city’s most innovative and exciting cultural venues, festivals, and events. Cathedral Quarter is also rich in creative and entrepreneurial talent and boasts an internationally renowned selection of hotels, restaurants, and bars. This makes it a unique and vibrant district, setting it apart from the rest of the city.
In the evening, you can enjoy music in traditional pubs like The Duke of York or chat with the locals. During the day, you can have a fantastic brunch or lunch with a delicious cup of coffee at Established Coffee.
8. The Crown
In Cathedral Quarter, you’ll find the city’s oldest pub, The Crown. This is undoubtedly a must-see attraction. Not only can you enjoy a drink in a cozy setting, but you can also admire the pub’s interior. The Crown is not only the oldest pub but also the most beautiful pub in Belfast. The building dates back to 1880 and is a listed monument. The pub’s impressive facade is also one of the city’s most popular photo spots.
9. Belfast Cathedral
Besides The Crown, you can also visit Belfast Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral Church of St. Anne. For over 100 years, it has been a place for Christian worship in the heart of the city. The first stone of the cathedral was laid in 1899. The cathedral is located next to the Cathedral Quarter, which is named after it.
The cathedral features detailed mosaics by sisters Gertrude and Margaret Martin, extensive stone carvings by sculptors Rosamond Praeger, Morris Harding, and Esmond Burton, stained glass windows, and much more. Inside the cathedral, you can freely visit the Chapel of the Holy Spirit for a moment of silent prayer.
10. The Big Fish
Within walking distance of the Belfast Cathedral, you’ll find The Big Fish. This ten-meter-high salmon was constructed in 1999 to celebrate the renovation of the River Lagan and the historical significance of the site.
Visit this public artwork for a selfie and a closer look, perhaps on a bike tour. The tour guide will tell you more about the history of the artwork.
11. The MAC
The Belfast Cathedral isn’t the only attraction you can combine with a visit to Cathedral Quarter. The MAC is located in the Cathedral Quarter district. This is a modern museum with various exhibitions, theater performances, experimental works, and countless other activities.
The MAC is a suitable museum for all ages. It’s the ideal place for family fun. ‘The Permanent Present’ is the only artwork permanently on display in the museum. The rest of the art changes after a certain period. The museum is open during the day from Tuesday to Sunday. There is a Cafe Bar in the museum.
12. Belfast Barge Museum
Besides The MAC, the city boasts many other museums. The Belfast Barge Museum is located on a former cargo ship, the MV Confiance. This museum tells the story of the industrial heritage and maritime history of the capital. The MV Confiance was purchased in 2006 and sailed to Belfast. The ship is currently moored in the River Lagan. The Belfast Barge is not only a museum but also a venue for events and a café.
A small fee is charged for a visit to the Belfast Barge Museum. It’s a small attraction, and it’s best to check the current opening hours in advance.
13. The Ulster Museum
Another museum that’s definitely worth a visit is The Ulster Museum. This museum is Northern Ireland’s treasure trove of the present and the past. You’ll find a rich collection of art, history, and natural sciences in a beautiful setting. You’ll come face to face with dinosaurs, meteorites, Spanish sailors, and Egyptian mummies. In the museum, you’ll discover new perspectives on ancient Ireland, global history, challenges, and future prospects.
It’s possible to take a digital tour of the museum. You can also enjoy a snack and a drink at the Wynne Pym Café. Admission to the museum is free. Children under 16 can only visit the museum under the supervision of a parent. You can visit the museum during the day from Tuesday to Sunday.
14. Botanic Gardens
After your visit to The Ulster Museum, make sure to stroll through the Botanic Gardens. This beautiful garden is an important part of the city’s Victorian heritage. The grounds feature exotic tree species and impressive plants from the southern hemisphere. Today, the park is very popular with residents, students, and visitors. Additionally, it’s a key location for concerts, festivals, and other events.
15. Belfast City Hall
One of the most iconic buildings in the capital is Belfast City Hall. The building opened its doors in August 1906. The City Hall is the city’s public building and is definitely worth a visit.
During a visit to the building, you can use the City Hall App. This app offers tours of the extensive collection of stained glass windows, artworks, and artifacts. Additionally, there are many monuments and memorials on the City Hall grounds. You can follow this tour independently.
To enhance your tour of the City Hall, you can download an audio tour for €1.99. It’s available in multiple languages and adds extra information and interviews with city residents to enrich the tour.
On the City Hall grounds, you can also visit the Titanic Memorial Garden and several other monuments and memorials. When you decide to visit the building, look forward to the lighting that illuminates the City Hall at night in various colors and combinations, showcasing the building’s stunning architectural features.
16. The Belfast Peace Walls
Another attraction where you can uncover a piece of Belfast’s history is The Peace Walls. The walls were built as an attempt to reduce tensions in the city between the loyalist and nationalist communities. This happened after the outbreak of persistent violence in 1969, also known as ‘The Troubles’. The Peace Walls have stood longer than the Berlin Wall ever did and are now part of the city’s social fabric. They have become an iconic part for those making a city trip to understand its turbulent past.
17. Black Cab Tour
A great way to see The Peace Walls is by taking a Black Cab Tour. Especially if you want to dive deep into Belfast’s history and discover the true story of Northern Ireland’s capital. This excursion takes you through the city to the murals and The Peace Wall to explore the city’s turbulent history and its bright future.
The Black Cab Tour is led by drivers who have lived through the many years of unrest in Northern Ireland. These tours offer a unique insight into the city’s tumultuous past and provide an understanding of how the city has changed over the decades. The driver will share stories about life during The Troubles.
There are various types of Black Cab Tours you can take. Three that are definitely worth doing are The Political Taxi Tour, The Taxi Mural Tour, and Political Wall Murals and Peace Wall. The duration of the tour depends on the provider, but they generally last about an hour.
18. CS Lewis Square
CS Lewis Square is a public square commemorating Belfast-born author C.S. Lewis. While strolling through the square, you can rediscover The Chronicles of Narnia, the writer’s most famous work. The square is a beautiful collection of public art and is definitely worth a visit.
The square is located next to the EastSide Visitor Centre. Here, visitors can find information about the city’s attractions through interactive screens and a wall map. Additionally, the Centre houses a coffee bar named after C.S. Lewis. JACK Coffee Bar offers locally produced products.
19. Titanic Hotel
The Titanic Hotel is a 4-star hotel located in the building that once served as the headquarters and drawing office of Harland & Wolff. This company designed and built the Titanic. It’s a beautifully historic hotel with artistically themed rooms, a bar, a restaurant, and many other amenities for guests.
Since the hotel is in the heart of the Titanic Quarter, it’s a great place to stay for those wanting to spend time in this part of the city. The hotel is just a one-minute walk from Titanic Belfast.
Even if you’re not staying at the Titanic Hotel, it’s worth a visit. The hotel is partly a museum with a lot of history and artworks throughout the building. You can explore the highlights in several heritage rooms in the hotel using a self-guided map. You can also enjoy a drink, lunch, or dinner at the hotel.
20. Cave Hill Country Park
Looking for a more challenging attraction than a visit to the Titanic Hotel? Then Cave Hill Country Park is definitely for you! From viewpoints on the hill in the park, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Additionally, the park features an adventurous playground, archaeological sites, walking trails suitable for both experienced and novice hikers, and much more. The park is the perfect day out if you love outdoor activities.
Cave Hill Country Park is named after the five caves found on the side of the main cliffs of the capital. A visit to Cave Hill Country Park is free. The park is open seven days a week.
21. Belfast Castle
If you want to combine your visit to Cave Hill Country Park with a bit of history, you can visit Belfast Castle. This castle is located in the park. It was built in the 1860s and is one of the city’s most famous attractions.
Belfast Castle houses a fantastic restaurant with varied menus, offering something for everyone. You can have lunch at the Cellar Restaurant and enjoy coffee with delicious scones in the morning at the Tavern. The catering is provided by the local family business French Village, known for the quality and innovation of its food in the capital and beyond.
22. Belfast Zoological Gardens
Next to Belfast Castle, Belfast Zoological Gardens is the perfect attraction to visit when heading to Cave Hill Country Park. The zoo is just a five-minute walk from the park.
The Zoological Gardens are home to more than 120 different animal species. Many of these species are endangered in their natural habitats. It is one of Northern Ireland’s oldest attractions. With over 200,000 visitors annually, the Zoological Gardens is now an important and award-winning attraction.
Animals that are popular and definitely worth a visit include elephants, lions, giraffes, sea lions, penguins, and monkeys. The zoo also houses squirrels, giant anteaters, bears, boars, kangaroos, a red panda, and reptiles.
23. Cycling in Belfast
As Dutch people, we are known for our cycling. We cycle everywhere, so why not do it on holiday abroad? Exploring a city by bike is a fantastic experience. You get to see many different places, visit numerous attractions, and discover spots along your bike route that you might otherwise miss.
You can book various bike tours, but the Belfast Highlights Bike Tour is highly recommended. Enjoy cycling past the historic attractions of the Titanic or the impressive museums and monuments the city has to offer.
Belfast has a lot to offer and boasts many unique attractions. A great way to explore is through a bike tour. This way, you stay active and see a large part of the city and its surroundings in just a few hours.
Map overview of attractions in Belfast