Top Things to Do in Belfast | Best Attractions & Must-See Places
Written by Murat Yilmaz
Last updated: September
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Belfast, you’re in the right place. As someone who lives here and works as a local guide, I explore this city every day — and I can honestly say Belfast always has something new to offer.
Belfast is a fascinating city, rich in history, character, and striking architecture. From historic landmarks and political murals to lively pubs, museums, and waterfront walks, there’s something here for every type of traveller. Even if you’ve visited before, the city continues to evolve, blending its past with a confident, modern energy.
While a hop-on-hop-off bus can provide a general overview, the best way to truly experience Belfast and Northern Ireland is on a private tour with a local guide. When you travel with me, you’re not tied to fixed stops or rigid schedules. The day moves at your pace, with time to ask questions, explore places in more depth, and adjust plans if something captures your interest.
Northern Ireland is about stories, scenery, and real local insight. Having a local guide beside you transforms a simple visit into a deeper and more memorable experience.
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This immersive and engaging tour takes you on a guided bus ride through the vibrant streets of Belfast. It allows you to experience the very best this city has to offer.
With a knowledgeable and friendly guide by your side, you will receive full guidance throughout the journey, ensuring that you don’t miss out on any of the stunning sights and fascinating history that Belfast has to offer.
As you travel through the bustling streets of this charming city, you’ll see some of the most iconic parts of Belfast. Moreover, you can visit all the main attractions that draw visitors from far and wide.
From the stunning Victorian architecture to the vibrant street art and the famous political murals, there is so much to see and experience in Belfast.
One of the best things about this tour is that you can hop off at any point along the route to explore what catches your eye. No problem – simply hop off the bus and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and stories of these iconic locations.
Or perhaps you’d like to try some local cuisine or do some shopping in one of Belfast’s bustling marketplaces? With the hop-on-hop-off bus tour, the choice is yours, and the possibilities are endless.
So whether you’re a solo traveller, a family with kids, or a group of friends on a city break, a hop-on-hop-off bus tour is an excellent way to introduce yourself to the beauty and diversity of Belfast. It’ll give you a unique and unforgettable perspective on this amazing city.
Commercial Court
Looking for a beautiful and relaxing stroll in the heart of the city? Look no further than this incredible alleyway that offers a peaceful and serene experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
As you make your way down this incredible pathway, you’ll find yourself surrounded by stunning scenery and awe-inspiring architecture that will take your breath away. With so much to discover in this incredible location, you won’t want to miss a single moment of your exploration! And when you’re ready to head out,
be sure to make a right onto Donegall Street where you’ll find two of the city’s premier attractions – the John Hewitt and St. Anne’s Cathedral. So why wait? Come and discover the beauty of this incredible location for yourself today!
Top Things to do in Belfast City
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best free things to do in belfast
Visit Belfast City Hall and the Titanic Memorial Garden
Explore the Peace Walls and political murals
Wander the Cathedral Quarter
Visit the Ulster Museum and Botanic Gardens
Walk around the Titanic Quarter waterfront
Hike Cave Hill for city views
Stroll along the River Lagan
About Belfast and Things to do in Belfast
Belfast is a city that you simply can’t miss! It’s the political and cultural heart of Northern Ireland, where history and modernity meet most excitingly. And let me tell you, there are plenty of things to do in Belfast.
One of the most famous events that occurred in Belfast is the building of the infamous RMS Titanic in 1912, which forever left a mark on the city. Belfast takes great pride in preserving this story, and the Titanic Quarter is a stunning example of this.
This incredible neighbourhood is home to the impressive Titanic Belfast Museum, a towering aluminium structure designed to resemble the Titanic’s hull.
Visitors will also marvel at the preserved Harland and Wolff Drawing Offices, where the Titanic was designed, and the Titanic Slipways, which have been transformed into an open-air concert venue.
In addition to its rich heritage, Belfast boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere, with a fantastic food and drink scene, an excellent shopping district and a welcoming and thriving arts and culture scene.
When is the Best time to visit Belfast
The best time to visit Belfast is between May and September, when the weather is mild, days are longer, and the city comes alive with festivals and events.
Spring & Summer (May – September)
Best for sightseeing, walking tours, and enjoying the Causeway Coastal Route.
Temperatures are pleasant (15°C–20°C on average).
Major events include the Belfast Maritime Festival, Belfast Pride, and the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival.
Autumn (October – November)
Fewer crowds and lower prices.
Beautiful autumn colours in the surrounding countryside.
A great time for whiskey tours, museums, and cosy pubs.
Winter (December – February)
Colder and wetter, but festive with Christmas markets and seasonal lights.
Perfect for visitors interested in Titanic Belfast, museums, and indoor attractions.
Accommodation prices are generally lower.
Spring (March – April)
A quieter time to explore before peak season.
Cherry blossoms brighten Botanic Gardens and parks.
Good balance of moderate prices and improving weather.
✅ In summary:
May–September → Best weather & festivals.
March–April / October–November → Great for fewer crowds & lower prices.
December → Magical for Christmas markets and winter vibes.
Tip: Always pack a raincoat or umbrella — Belfast weather can be unpredictable year-round!
Popular Accommodation in City Centre
The Merchant Hotel: Should you happen to be in search of a luxurious historical hotel that boasts 5-star accommodations, the esteemed and highly esteemed Merchant Hotel should undoubtedly be considered. Situated in a stunning 1860 building, at a central location in the Cathedral Quarter, the hotel offers a plethora of indulgent amenities that are essential to an opulent stay:
from an exquisite restaurant, bar, and lounge, to a relaxing spa, hot tub and a sun-drenched rooftop gymnasium. The Merchant Hotel provides a unique chance for those coveting an exceptional experience while visiting Belfast.
Grand Central Hotel Belfast: Hastings Grand Central is more than a hotel. It’s an ode to a city. Standing tall in Bedford Street, this impressive jewel fuses glamour and grandeur with a uniquely Belfast spirit. Perfectly placed in Belfast City. Just as Belfast is at the heart of the Grand Central, the Grand Central is at the heart of Belfast.
The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast: Awarded Five Stars by the AA, The Fitzwilliam Hotel is a super-elegant masterpiece located in the heart of the city centre. 146 fabulous guestrooms and suites, incredible food, a much-loved bar and the best service you’ve ever experienced: A new definition of boutique hotel, it’s Belfast’s five-star superstar.
Titanic Belfast Best Things to do in Belfast
Titanic Belfast is truly remarkable and one of the must-see things to do in Belfast visitor attraction that has captured the hearts and minds of locals and tourists alike since its opening in 2012.
Located on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard, where the legendary RMS Titanic was built, this attraction is a monument to Belfast’s maritime heritage. With its impressive size of over 12,000 square metres (130,000 sq ft) of floor space, this stunning building houses a variety of exhibitions, private function rooms and community facilities.
The galleries within Titanic Belfast are a true testament to the captivating stories of the Titanic and her sister ships, RMS Olympic and HMHS Britannic.
Visitors will be transported back in time and gain a true insight into life on board these magnificent vessels, including the tragic events that took place during the Titanic’s maiden voyage in 1912. Titanic Belfast is one of Northern Ireland’s most highly visited attractions and a must-see for anyone with an interest in history or maritime heritage.
Titanic Belfast opening hours
We operate seasonal opening hours with last admission to the Titanic Experience 1 hour 40 minutes before closing time.
SS Nomadic opens reduced hours in line with Titanic Belfast’s seasonal schedule, and last admission is 30 minutes before closing time.
Planning a visit to Titanic Belfast? The attraction adjusts its opening times throughout the year, so it’s good to know what to expect before you go.
Seasonal Opening Hours
January – March: Daily from 9:45 am to 5:00 pm, with the last admission around 1:40 pm.
April – May: Extended spring hours start from 8:45 am to 6:00 pm, giving you more time to explore.
June: Longer summer days mean opening from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm.
July – August: Peak summer hours are 8:30 am to 7:30 pm, and on some days the centre stays open until 8:30 pm.
September: As autumn begins, hours adjust to 8:30 am to 6:00 pm.
October: Daily opening runs from 8:50 am to 6:00 pm.
November – December:
Winter hours revert to 9:45 am to 5:00 pm.
What to Know Before You Go
Titanic Belfast is open every day of the year, with seasonal variations in opening times.
Last admission is typically about 1 hour and 40 minutes before closing, so plan your visit with that in mind.
Special events, holidays, or operational changes can affect times, so it’s wise to check the official site on your travel date before setting out.
Crumlin Road Gaol
The Crumlin Road Gaol is a significant landmark in Irish history, having been built in the year 1845. Spanning over 150 years, it served as a place of incarceration for individuals from various walks of life.
The prison witnessed dark and tumultuous periods in Irish history, and among the inmates were children from poverty-stricken families, political prisoners, and suffragettes, to name a few. Today, while the prison has been closed since 1996, it has been repurposed impressively.
Today, it serves as a thought-provoking and unforgettable visitor attraction which never fails to leave an enduring imprint on every visitor’s mind. Additionally, the prison has become a highly sought-after venue for conferences, concerts, and events. All in all, Crumlin Road Gaol is a landmark attraction you simply cannot afford to miss!
The Crumlin Road Gaol Experience
The Crumlin Road Gaol Experience in Belfast is open seven days a week throughout the year except for select dates like Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Tours usually run from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, with last admission around 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm depending on the season. Self-guided tours take approximately 60 to 90 minutes.
Key Information & Details
Location: 53–55 Crumlin Road, Belfast, BT14 6ST.
Opening Times: Typically open daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm–4:30 pm. Opening hours may vary seasonally, so checking in advance is recommended.
Booking: Advance online booking is strongly recommended. This helps secure your preferred time slot and often provides access to discounted rates.
Ticket Prices (approx. 2026): Adult tickets are generally £14.50–£16.50. Child, student, senior, and family tickets are also available. Prices may vary depending on the tour type and season.
The Experience: Visitors can explore the Victorian-era prison, including the underground tunnel, the Circle, cell wings, and original prison cells. Guided and self-guided options are available.
Dining: Cuffs Bar & Grill is located on-site and open daily, offering meals, snacks, and refreshments.
Accessibility: The majority of the site is wheelchair accessible. However, access is limited in the underground tunnel and the drop cell area.
St Georges Market, one of the must Things to do in Belfast
St George’s Market is a one-of-a-kind destination that has been captivating locals and visitors alike since it was built between 1890 and 1896. This historic landmark has garnered a reputation for offering the freshest and most diverse locally sourced produce in the region.
Its lively atmosphere and vibrant energy make it a standout attraction, earning numerous accolades and awards. The market has been recognized by national and local organizations, such as the NABMA Great British Market Awards, which named it the Best Large Indoor Market in the UK in 2023.
Throughout the weekends, visitors can enjoy the sounds of live music and soak up the electric atmosphere. With such a wide variety of goods and entertainment, St George’s Market should be at the top of anyone’s list of must-see destinations.
Location
St George’s Market is opposite the Waterfront Hall. You can get to the market from Oxford Street, May Street and East Bridge Street.
St George's Market opening hours
| Day | Open |
|---|---|
| Friday | 8am to 2pm |
| Saturday | 9am to 3pm |
| Sunday | 10am to 3pm |
Visit Belfast Castle
Belfast Castle, located in the Cave Hill area of the north of Belfast, is a popular destination, celebrated for its natural, archaeological, and historical significance.
The Castle was constructed in the 1860s, and it has become one of Belfast’s most well-known landmarks. Cave Hill, an imposing natural feature of the region, has been associated with Belfast for generations, with its silhouette visible across the city.
The Castle boasts a variety of attractions, and visitors can traverse the Cave Hill Adventurous Playground (presently closed until mid-October for refurbishment), archaeological sites, the Belfast Castle Visitor Information Centre, beautiful gardens, eco-trails, walking, and orienteering routes.
The estate consists of landscaped gardens and mature mixed woodland and offers spectacular views of the city from different vantage points.
Visitors can expect to witness a diverse range of flora and fauna, including long-eared owls, sparrowhawks, and the scarce town hall clock plant, among others. The Castle has recently opened a fantastic café with a choice of hot and cold refreshments and snacks.
Introduction (Opening Times)
- Opening times:.
- Castle: 09:00 – 18:00 daily.
- Ability Cafe: 9:00 – 16:00 (Hot food served until 15:00).
- Cave Hill Visitor Centre: 9:00 -17.30.
- Cave Hill Adventure Playground: 9:00-21:00 (summer hours).
Visit Belfast City Hall
Located in the heart of Belfast at Belfast City Hall. Sitting in Donegall Square, the iconic green-domed building is one of the most iconic buildings in Belfast. It dates back to 1906 and is the city’s main civic building.
Visitors can take free guided tours inside City Hall (you need to register at the visitor exhibition/guided tours reception), or you can explore the monuments, memorials, and gardens outside, including the Titanic Memorial Garden.
About the City Hall
Belfast City Hall was built to commemorate the event of Belfast becoming a city, having been granted the status in 1888 by Queen Victoria in recognition of the contributions of Belfast in the industries of linen, rope, tobacco, engineering, and shipbuilding.
This imposing structure of Portland stone has a copper dome topping out at 173 feet high, as well as a statue of Queen Victoria celebrating her jubilee standing out front Many other statues and monuments can be found on the surrounding grounds, including the Thane Memorial for the victims of the Titanic sinking, which was expanded in 2012 to become the Titanic Memorial Garden.
Crown Liquor Saloon
Please step into The Crown, a traditional pub that boasts unique character and an eclectic range of real ales and classic pub food, served with famous Irish hospitality.
The Crown, formerly known as The Liquor Saloon on Great Victoria Street, is one of the greatest bars in the world and a gem of Victoriana. As one of the mightiest Victorian gin palaces dating back to 1826, The Crown is owned by the National Trust and has been carefully restored over the years.
The Crown remains an architectural wonder and a masterpiece of bar design, known to millions worldwide. The exterior of the bar is adorned with polychromatic tiles, providing only a glimpse into the treasures found inside.
The bar’s interior is rich in colour and design, featuring primrose yellow, red and gold ceilings, mosaic tiled floors, and highly patterned tiles. The ornate mirrors, wood carvings and painted and etched glass displays are exquisite. Additionally, the ten wooden boxes provide a unique place for quiet drinking or hidden conversations.
Ulster Museum Other top Things to do in Belfast
The Ulster Museum is an exceptional museum that offers a plethora of exciting things to see and explore. With its state-of-the-art facilities, you could easily spend the whole day there, discovering the many treasures that the museum houses.
However, if you’re short on time, there are three exhibits that you simply cannot miss: The Armada Room is a must-see, showcasing valuable and unique artifacts recovered from the wreckage of the Spanish Galleon, Girona, that sank in 1588.
The Egyptian Room is another wonder that awaits you, featuring the Takabuti, a 2500-year-old mummy, unwrapped in Belfast in 1835, leaving everyone who sees it in awe. Lastly, the Early Peoples Gallery boasts of the incredible Bann Disc, a bronze artifact with superb Celtic designs dating back to the Iron Age. All in all, visiting the Ulster Museum promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Queen's University Belfast
Lanyon Building, Queen’s University Belfast, Northern Ireland. Founded more than 170 years ago, Queen’s University Belfast was established as a non-denominational institution that would offer a viable alternative to Trinity College in Dublin.
Over the years, the university has established itself as a premier learning institution renowned for its magnificent medieval-style campus, which is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates stunning architectural wonders.
Visitors to the campus are enchanted by the eclectic mix of architectural styles and the tranquil green spaces that provide a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
For Harry Potter enthusiasts, a visit to the red brick Lanyon Building is a must – this imposing edifice resembles a real-life version of Hogwarts and will leave you spellbound! With its rich history, stunning architecture, and commitment to academic excellence, Queen’s University Belfast is a destination that should be on everyone’s must-visit list.
Fun Things to Do in Belfast for Adults – Private Tours with a Local Expert
Belfast Tours NI provides private, chauffeur-led tours and bespoke day trips across Northern Ireland and Ireland. Whether you’re searching for fun things to do in Belfast for adults or planning a full coastal adventure, every experience is tailored around you.
From exploring Belfast’s historic streets to standing at the Giant’s Causeway or enjoying a relaxed shore excursion from Belfast Cruise Terminal, your day is carefully planned to match your pace and interests.
Our service combines comfort, local knowledge, and genuine personal attention. Your chauffeur is more than a driver — they are a local expert who brings each location to life with stories, context, and thoughtfully chosen routes that showcase the very best of each destination.
As a trusted private tour provider in Belfast, we create personalised itineraries shaped around your interests — whether that includes coastal scenery, historic castles, cultural landmarks, or iconic filming locations. Whether visiting for leisure or arriving by cruise ship, Belfast Tours NI offers a refined and stress-free way to experience Ireland at its best.
Planning a private tour of Northern Ireland? ➔ Get in touch to discuss your ideas.
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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.
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