Written by Murat Yilmaz
Last updated: May
Arriving in Belfast by cruise ship? This guide covers everything you need for a smooth day ashore — where the Belfast Cruise Terminal is, how far it is to the city centre and Titanic Belfast, your shuttle and taxi options, and the best private shore excursions for your hours in port.
The Belfast Cruise Terminal sits on Stormont Wharf, on the River Lagan where it meets the Irish Sea. It is the most-visited cruise port in Northern Ireland and your gateway to the Giants Causeway Coast. With well over a hundred cruise calls each season, berths and the best private tours fill quickly, so it pays to plan early.
Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is a compact, walkable city of nearly 500,000 people. Its centre is full of history, lively pubs and fine restaurants, and it makes an outstanding base for exploring the wider Causeway Coast.
How much you can see depends on how long your ship is in port. Here is the best use of your time ashore:
Not sure how long you have? Tell us your ship and date and we’ll build the perfect day around your time ashore.
The Belfast Cruise Terminal sits on the edge of Northern Ireland’s capital, within a major working harbour that opens the door to both a city full of history and the dramatic countryside and coast beyond.
Ships dock at Belfast Harbour’s modern cruise berths, just a short ride from the city centre and the landmark Titanic Quarter, making it one of the most convenient and fastest-growing cruise calls on British Isles itineraries.
The harbour is one of the busiest cruise gateways on the island of Ireland, welcoming well over 150,000 cruise passengers a season, with deepwater quays able to handle some of the largest liners afloat.
Right beside the waterfront stands the city’s most famous landmark, Titanic Belfast, the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience. It rises on the original slipways where RMS Titanic was designed, built and launched in 1911, alongside the Harland & Wolff Drawing Offices, the SS Nomadic and the Hamilton Graving Dock.
Inside, Titanic Belfast is a genuinely immersive experience. Nine interactive galleries take you back to the shipyard and dockside where it all began, with full-scale recreations, special effects and original artefacts that bring the story vividly to life. For most cruise visitors, it is the first place they want to see, and it is only a short ride from where your ship berths.
Belfast packs a remarkable amount into a compact, walkable centre, so even a short call leaves time to enjoy the highlights. These are the attractions cruise passengers love most:
Short on time? A private Belfast city tour lets you combine several of these in one relaxed morning, with no queues and no waiting for a coach to fill up.
A little planning goes a long way. Keep these essentials in mind to make the most of your time ashore:
Have a question we haven’t covered? Get in touch with your ship name and date, and we’ll plan the perfect day around your call.
If your ship is in port for a full day, the real magic of Northern Ireland lies along the coast, and it is closer than you think. These are the most rewarding trips from the Belfast Cruise Terminal:
All of these can be combined on a private Giant’s Causeway shore excursion or a Game of Thrones tour, comfortably timed to have you back aboard well before your ship sails.
The Belfast Cruise Terminal sits about 2 miles (3 km) north-east of the city centre, and roughly the same short distance from Titanic Belfast. There are three easy ways to make the journey ashore:
Shuttle bus: The quickest way into town, taking around 15 to 17 minutes to the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre, directly across from City Hall. From there you are within easy walking distance of the main shops, landmarks and restaurants.
Taxi: A taxi rank operates at the terminal. A direct ride into the city centre takes about 10 minutes, and Titanic Belfast is just a short 5 to 10 minute hop away — ideal if the museum is your main goal for the day.
Private tour or transfer: Your driver meets you at the terminal with a name board, so there is no queue and no time wasted. It is the most relaxed way to see both the city and the coast, and your return is always timed comfortably around your ship’s departure.
Wondering how far it is to Belfast City Hall? It is roughly 3.5 miles by road from the port. The Visit Belfast Welcome Centre beside City Hall is the best first stop for maps, attraction tickets and friendly local advice.
Yes — in most cases there is. Shuttle buses run regularly between the Belfast Cruise Terminal and the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre, right across the street from City Hall in the heart of the city. Whether the shuttle is free or carries a small charge is decided by each cruise line, so it is always worth checking your ship’s daily programme before you go ashore.
The terminal itself is well set up for visitors, with a helpful information desk and a gift shop selling everything from local treats to thick, cosy Irish wool socks. If you would rather skip the shuttle queue, a taxi from the rank or a pre-arranged private pickup will have you in the city — or out on the Causeway Coast — within minutes, with no waiting around.
Follow us for travel inspiration, local insights, and real moments from our private tours across Northern Ireland. Stay updated with new experiences, seasonal highlights, and guest stories.
Belfast Tours NI specialises in private shore excursions for cruise passengers arriving at Belfast Cruise Terminal. With your own expert local guide and a luxury Mercedes-Benz V-Class, we make the most of your time ashore at the Giant’s Causeway, Game of Thrones locations, the Causeway Coast and more — and we always get you back to your ship on time.
The Belfast Cruise Terminal is purpose-built to handle everything a busy cruise day demands. There is generous space for all shore-side operations, a dedicated cruise visitor information centre, ample coach parking, and clearly marked areas for shuttle buses and taxis.
It is also one of the most convenient berths anywhere on the island of Ireland — set right beside the port’s deepwater turning circle and on the main Victoria Channel access route. The city centre is a short coach transfer away, and the motorway network is easy to reach, so private tours and coaches can head straight out to the Giant’s Causeway and the wider Causeway Coast without delay.
If you are joining your ship in Belfast, aim to arrive at the Belfast Cruise Terminal around one hour before departure. That gives you plenty of time to pass through security and check-in calmly, without any last-minute rush.
To keep things moving, complete your cruise line’s online pre-registration before the day and print your boarding pass in advance. With everything ready, you will move through the terminal quickly and board with ease — leaving you free to relax and look forward to the journey ahead.
It is best not to. Although the Belfast Cruise Terminal is within the city, it sits around 2 miles from the centre, and the route runs through a working harbour estate along busy roads that are not designed for pedestrians — there is no scenic walking path into town. The shuttle bus, a taxi from the rank, or a pre-booked private pickup are all safer, quicker and far more comfortable, and they leave you with more of your precious time ashore to actually enjoy Belfast.
Many cruise visitors love Belfast so much they come back to stay. If you are adding a night or two before or after your sailing, give yourself at least three full days and two nights to enjoy the city properly. Here are three of the finest hotels in Belfast, each with its own character and all within easy reach of the Belfast Cruise Terminal and the Titanic Quarter.
The reimagined Harland & Wolff shipbuilding headquarters, situated adjacent to Titanic Belfast, exudes a timeless and dramatic presence. It houses an impressive collection of 500 works of art, artefacts, and photographs that showcase the grandeur of ocean travel during the past.
Even the standard rooms at the Titanic Hotel incorporate Art Deco elements, such as ship lanterns, imposing metalwork, and superking beds. Notably, Drawing Office Two, a spacious room with a curved, three-story ceiling, serves as the hotel’s central hub and was the site where the Titanic was meticulously designed. It features a central bar and a contemporary restaurant for dining experiences.
The award-winning 5 AA Red Star Merchant Hotel seamlessly combines Victorian grandeur with Art Deco-inspired modernity.
Located in the heart of Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, the original Grade A listed building boasts its grandeur, while an elegant Art Deco-inspired wing offers a range of captivating amenities. These include a luxurious spa, a rooftop gymnasium with panoramic city views, and a dedicated meeting and events suite.
A diverse culinary experience awaits guests. The Great Room Restaurant serves award-winning fine dining, showcasing the finest local produce. The Merchant Hotel is rightly proud of its revival of traditional afternoon teas in Belfast, which are available daily (booking recommended).
Bert’s Jazz Bar is Belfast’s sole live jazz venue, featuring exceptional local jazz musicians every evening. Additionally, the Merchant Hotel houses the multi-award-winning Cocktail Bar, the Cloth Ear public bar, and Ollie’s, its premium nightclub venue.
Hastings Grand Central is more than a hotel; it is an ode to Belfast. Standing tall on Bedford Street, this imposing structure seamlessly blends glamour and grandeur with the uniquely Belfast spirit.
Perched atop the city skyline, The Grand Central Hotel transcends its role as a mere hotel; it is a thoughtful fusion of the past and present in Belfast. An elegant gateway to the city, contemporary luxury permeates every aspect of the establishment.
From our ground-floor gourmet bistro to the 23rd-floor cocktail bar, this modern five-star hotel situated in the heart of Belfast city centre offers an unparalleled 360-degree vista of Northern Ireland’s historic capital. Exceptional service is the hallmark of this establishment.
As Belfast is the lifeblood of the Grand Central, the Grand Central is the lifeblood of Belfast. Nestled in the vibrant Linen Quarter, the hotel serves as a spectacular hub for exploring the Titanic Quarter’s rich history and the Cathedral Quarter’s charming cobblestone streets, pubs, and eateries.
Theatre enthusiasts, shopaholics, and historians alike will find an abundance of options conveniently within reach. Equipped with seamless transportation access, the Grand Central is ideally positioned for all city centre endeavours, encompassing business, leisure, and every conceivable activity.
Arriving in Belfast by cruise ship? We will help you make the very most of your day ashore. As a local team with years of experience, we design private Belfast shore excursions entirely around your ship’s schedule — meeting you at the Belfast Cruise Terminal with a name board, and bringing you back in plenty of time, every time.
The highlight for most cruise passengers is a private Giant’s Causeway shore excursion along the spectacular Causeway Coastal Route. The Causeway lies about 60 miles (97 km) from the terminal, roughly 90 minutes each way, and a full day runs around 8 to 9 hours — with a shorter express option for ships with less time in port. Along the way you can take in Dunluce Castle, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the Dark Hedges of Game of Thrones fame, and the Old Bushmills Distillery, the oldest working distillery in Ireland.
Prefer to stay closer to the city? We also run private Belfast city and Titanic tours, taking in Titanic Belfast, the famous Peace Walls and political murals, City Hall and the Cathedral Quarter. Every tour is private — just your group, your own local guide and a luxury Mercedes-Benz V-Class — and you might round off the day with a pint of Guinness and fresh fish and chips in a traditional Irish pub.
The Belfast Cruise Terminal at Stormont Wharf is about 2 miles (3 km) from the city centre — roughly a 10-minute taxi ride or a 15-minute shuttle, and a similar hop to Titanic Belfast.
Sometimes. Shuttle buses run between the cruise terminal and the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre by City Hall, but whether it’s free or a small charge (around £10) is set by each cruise line — check your ship’s daily programme. A taxi or pre-booked private pickup skips the queue.
Cruise ships dock alongside at Belfast Harbour’s modern berths on Stormont Wharf, where the River Lagan meets the Irish Sea — no tendering. It’s about 2 miles from the city centre and right beside the Titanic Quarter.
About 60 miles (97 km) from the Belfast Cruise Terminal, roughly a 90-minute drive each way along the Causeway Coastal Route. A full-day private shore excursion runs 8–9 hours, with a 5–6 hour express option for shorter calls.
With a few hours: Titanic Belfast, City Hall, the Peace Walls and political murals, and the Cathedral Quarter. With a full day, the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, the Dark Hedges and Bushmills are all within reach on a private shore excursion.
Not recommended. The terminal sits inside a working harbour about 2 miles from the centre, along busy roads with no pedestrian route. A shuttle, taxi or pre-booked private pickup is safer, quicker and leaves you more time ashore.
Northern Ireland uses the pound sterling (£), not the euro. Cards are widely accepted, but carry a little cash for small purchases, parking and tips.
A short call of 4–5 hours suits the city and Titanic Belfast. For the Giant’s Causeway and the Causeway Coast, allow a full day of 8–9 hours; if your ship is in port for less, an express tour covers the highlights in 5–6 hours.
Yes — especially in peak season. Belfast takes well over a hundred cruise calls a year and the best private tours and dates fill fast, so booking early secures your preferred itinerary and pickup time.
A private shore excursion is just your group, with your own local guide and a luxury Mercedes-Benz V-Class — you set the pace, skip the coach queues, and your return is timed around your ship’s departure, so you’re always back on time.
Every tour below is fully private — just your group, your own expert local guide and a luxury Mercedes-Benz V-Class — and planned around your ship’s departure, with a guaranteed on-time return. Pick the option that suits your hours in port, or ask us to tailor a day to you.
A full day at the Giant’s Causeway from Belfast, travelling the Causeway Coastal Route with your own local driver-guide and time for photos at every stop.
Visit the real Game of Thrones filming locations across Northern Ireland, including the Dark Hedges and Ballintoy Harbour, on a fully private tour.
Private shore excursions from Belfast Cruise Terminal, planned around your ship’s schedule with a guaranteed return before departure.
A four-hour private tour of Belfast taking in City Hall, the Peace Walls, the Falls and Shankill murals and the Titanic Quarter.
Short on time? A private half-day run to the Giant’s Causeway and the Antrim Coast, ideal if your day in Belfast is already busy.
Belfast city highlights combined with a visit to Titanic Belfast, exploring the museum at your own pace with a local guide.
Arriving in Belfast by cruise ship? ➔ Let’s plan your perfect day ashore.
From the windswept Causeway Coast to hidden castles and centuries of living history, our latest guides are full of inspiration and insider tips to help you plan an unforgettable journey. Take a look below and let the adventure begin.
Travel Guide to Causeway Coastal Route Written by Murat Yilmaz Last updated: January 12, 2026 Discover the enchanting beauty of the Causeway Coastal Route, a journey like no other. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and
Must-Visit Attractions in Northern Ireland Complete Northern Ireland Travel Guide Written by Murat Yilmaz Last updated: June 12, 2025 Northern Ireland is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture in the
Old Bushmills Distillery – Ireland’s Oldest Working Whiskey Distillery Written by Murat Yilmaz Last updated: September 16, 2025 No journey along the Causeway Coastal Route feels complete to me without stopping at Old Bushmills Distillery. Just
Belfast Tours NI offers a range of resources to help visitors plan a trip to Belfast, Northern Ireland. Our blog post highlights the best things to do in the area and provides insider tips to ensure visitors have an unforgettable experience.
We encourage you to explore our social media channels as well, where you can find additional information and travel inspiration. Trust our team of experts to guide you through the planning process and provide you with the tools you need to fully immerse yourself in the culture and attractions of Ireland.
