Belfast is a unique place to visit. The city appeals to a wide range of travelers for a variety of reasons. Our top things to do in Belfast includes must-see attractions and few hidden gems, as well!
Belfast is not a one-dimensional location or a checklist destination. The city has depth, which makes sightseeing in Belfast an intriguing adventure.
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Prideful of its contributions during the Industrial Age, Belfast’s historic buildings and maritime past are preserved and put on display. That said, the city doesn’t shy away from its troubling times.
Furthermore, Belfast is surrounded by abundant nature and some of the region’s most incredible landscapes are nearby.
Best Things To Do in Belfast, UK
We’re featuring the must do things in Belfast for your trip. Need help putting your travel plan together? Our Belfast Itinerary is a detailed outline for 3 days in the city!
#1 See Belfast City Hall and the City Center
Opened in 1906 at Donegall Square, Belfast City Hall is a grand civic building. The exterior perimeter host numerous monuments – including the Titanic Memorial Garden and a statue of Queen Victoria.
Visitors can also take a tour of the interior of City Hall – it’s one of the top free things to do in Belfast!
You will also find more Belfast City Centre things to do nearby. Go to the Victoria Square Shopping Centre and climb to the top of The Dome.
Then check out the Albert Memorial Clock, the grandiose Merchant Hotel and visit St. Anne’s Cathedral.
Another recommended thing to do in Belfast City Centre is to take a guided walking tour. Join a fun and entertaining local guide along with fellow travelers as you learn more about the city!
#2 Walk the Belfast Maritime Mile in the Titanic Quarter
This adventure begins at The Big Fish Salmon of Knowledge. From here, cross the Lagan Weir pedestrian bridge and walk 1.5 miles along the water’s edge to the HMS Caroline.
The top things to see are the SS Nomadic tender, Titanic Museum (which we highlight next), The Slipways, The H & W Samson and Goliath Cranes, The Great Light and the Titanic Dock and Pump House.
In addition to the series of Game of Thrones glass artworks in the Titanic Quarter, you can also seek out interesting sculptures that pay tribute to the district.
One of the highly-rated family attractions is the W5 Science Museum, which sits next to the SSE Arena Belfast.
#3 Visit Titanic Belfast Museum
This state-of-the-art exhibition traces the history of the Titanic – from building it right on the docks in Belfast to the moment it sank during its fateful maiden voyage.
We highly recommend purchasing your entry ticket for the Titanic Belfast Visitor Experience in advance – as they do sell out!
#4 Learn about The Troubles at The Peace Wall
The 30-year period from the late 1960s through the 1990s was a turbulent time for Belfast and Northern Ireland.
Dubbed ‘The Troubles’, the conflict divided the country along political and religious lines. Riots and violence led to separating the two communities by barriers – now called Peace Walls.
They separate the Falls Road community (Irish Nationalist/Catholic) from the Shankill Road community (Unionist/Protestant) and are one of the more unusual Belfast sights.
Those interested in learning more can tour the neighborhoods to see poignant memorials, evocative murals and feel the stark differences between the two communities.
The famous Black Taxi Tours aim to offer a personal introduction to The Troubles with a balanced viewpoint. To explore on your own, use this map.
#5 Spend an Afternoon in Queens Quarter
Also known as the University Quarter, this fun cultural district is one of the best places to go in Belfast to see fine architecture, visit museums and experience the vibrant nightlife.
At the center of the youthful enclave is Queens University Belfast. The highlight of the campus is the exquisite Tudor-style Lanyon Building, but the thriving café scene is not to be missed!
The 28-acre Belfast Botanic Garden was completed in 1828 as a private Royal Garden. The space was opened to the public in 1895 and the cast iron Palm House Conservatory is a must-see!
The Ulster Museum sits on the garden grounds as well. Displays trace the history of the city through engaging exhibits.
#6 Seek Out Belfast Street Art
All across Belfast expressive murals decorate multistory buildings, political messages are spray-painted on walls and artists’ tags cover hidden alleyways.
The prime place to seek out many of these is in the Cathedral Quarter. Vibrant, edgy, hip and poignant, we found the works here as interesting as art in many museums.
You can wander and search for street art on their own or join a tour. A local guide leads the way to the best Belfast murals and explains the history behind them.
Top Tip: While you’re there, pop into The MAC – a performing arts venue with a free contemporary exhibit!
#7 Shop at St. George’s Market
If you’re on a weekend trip to Belfast, then the St. George’s Market is a must! The red brick building was constructed in the late 1800s as a chicken and dairy hall.
Today, the buzzing bazaar hosts 200 vendors selling everything from antiques and modern art to fresh fish and produce.
With live music and a food court, you could easily spend a few hours here perusing the goods and feasting on local fare.
Our favorite spot to eat is the Belfast Bap Co, where they make insanely delicious (and absolutely massive) breakfast sandwiches!
#8 Eat the Best Belfast Boxty
A Northern Ireland specialty, Boxty is a classic Belfast meal! The savory dish consists of a potato pancake topped with steak and onions or chicken and mushrooms.
Incredibly satisfying, the meal is comfort food at its best. Several eateries serve boxty in Belfast, but at McHughs Bar and Restaurant, it’s there specialty. Just be sure to book ahead!
Pro Tip: Need more food and drink recommendations? Use our guide to the Best Pub and Restaurants in Belfast!
#9 Imbibe at the Best Belfast Bars
Somewhat surprisingly, Guinness is the go-to beer in Belfast – but try a Beamish as well. Pubs like The Duke of York and Bittles Bar pour a fine pint.
We also suggest sampling locally-produced craft brew at The Deer’s Head. Their Elephant West Coast IPA was superb!
Bushmills Whiskey is a regional favorite, as the 400-year-old distillery hails from Northern Ireland. The Crown Liquor Saloon is a fun place for a dram.
However, for an exceptional beverage in a posh atmosphere, go to The Cocktail Bar at The Merchant Hotel.
Additionally, many Belfast pubs host live music or Trad Sessions, which are a meet up of musicians who play traditional tunes.
#10 Go to Giant’s Causeway
Created from a volcanic eruption, this UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of thousands of stacked basalt columns on the shoreline that rise out from the sea.
Hiking the coastal trails and playing on the hexagonal stepping stones are our top things to do at Giant’s Causeway.
You can also learn more about the natural history of the land and the intriguing legend of the giant, Finn MacCool, inside the Giant’s Causeway Visitor’s Center.
How To Get to Giant’s Causeway from Belfast
The most popular way to see Giant’s Causeway is on an organized tour. You will visit multiple attractions along the way – like the Antrim Coast Road, Carrickfergus Castle, Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge and The Dark Hedges.
As we were on a last-minute trip to Belfast, all tours had sold out. Instead, we purchased an all day combo ticket. This covered the direct Bus 221 to the causeway, a scenic bus ride along the coast to Coleraine and the train back to Belfast.
In hindsight, we would have opted for the cheaper ‘bus only’ all day ticket to save money and time. We were told the train ride was far more scenic than the bus route, but honestly didn’t think that was the case.
Top Tip: Interested in more unique things to do in Northern Ireland? Make a stop at the famed Old Bushmills Distillery for a tour or tasting. It’s the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world – and just 3 miles from Giant’s Causeway!
Belfast City Centre Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive, online version of our Belfast Tourist Attractions Map below.
More Belfast Things To Do
We have shared our top tips for greatest places to go and a few unusual things to do in Belfast. However, there are more Belfast attractions that might be of interest to fellow travelers.
Linen Quarter and the Grand Opera House
South of City Hall is the Linen Quarter. Once a thriving center of industry and innovation, it fell to disuse for a time and only recently has been revitalized.
Old warehouses are being transformed into chic offices and the entire enclave is getting a makeover.
Entertainment and hospitality thrive in the Linen District. It is home to some excellent restaurants in Belfast – like the historic Crown Liquor Saloon and the Michelin Star Eipic.
The Belfast Opera House, which first opened in 1895, is also situated here. Performances include theatrical plays, musicals, ballet and stand-up comedy.
Nearby Ulster Hall – dating to the mid-1800s – is the city’s premier concert hall, which also hosts fairs and conferences.
Crumlin Road Gaol
The Crumlin Road Gaol operated from 1846 until 1996. After the jail closed its doors, the space was renovated to be a tourist attraction in Belfast.
Visitors can learn about the prisoners held here, how the prison operated during The Troubles and see the Execution Cell.
Cave Hill and the Belfast Castle
Cave Hill Country Park sits north of the city center with the landmark Belfast Castle perched on top.
It’s a place to get outdoors and walk the paths, tour the castle gardens and take in the expansive views. The Belfast Zoo is also located on Cave Hill.
Divis and Black Mountain Hikes
Those looking for fun Belfast things to do for free might want to consider going hiking. Divis and the Black Mountain offer numerous trails with some of the treks providing stunning views.
Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park
South of the city is the Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park. Best known for its rose garden, it features 128 acres of vast green space and pleasant walking paths.
Ulster Folk Museum
Ulster – the original name of the historic Irish province – has a long history and it’s on display at the Ulster Folk Museum.
Designed as a century-old village, costumed guides bring to life daily chores and crafts from 100 years ago. You can also watch demonstrations on tweed weaving and blacksmithing.
CS Lewis Square
CS Lewis, the renowned author of The Chronicles of Narnia, was born in East Belfast in 1898. Today, this square marks the starting point for exploring the city’s east side and the author’s story.
In the area there are 7 bronze statues depicting characters from the book, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. Stop by the EastSide Visitor’s Center to pick up a map!
Tips to Plan Your Belfast Trip
Now that you know what to do in Belfast, we have some final hacks that will help you plan your vacation to the UK!
As we already mentioned, our Belfast Itinerary and guide to Belfast Restaurants and Pubs offer a wealth of information.
Those visiting multiple destinations in the region should find these articles to be helpful, as well!
- Dublin 3-Day Itinerary
- 1 Week Ireland Itinerary
- See the Irish coastal towns of Howth, Bray and Malahide
- Visiting Galway, Doolin and The Aran Islands in Ireland
- Planning a trip to lively London, gorgeous Bath, buzzing Bristol and underrated Norwich
- Take a trip to lovely Edinburgh, alluring Inverness and intoxicating Glasgow in Scotland
- Top Things To Do in Manchester, Cardiff and Birmingham
As you make plans, staying organized is essential. Use our Printable Travel Planner to sort all the details of your trip to Europe!
Start planning your trip to the UK! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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