Belfast - Discovering United Kingdom

Travelling to Belfast

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Belfast, a pretty good destination in United Kingdom (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Belfast and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Belfast, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through United Kingdom, here's everything to know about Belfast for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Belfast

Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. It is located on the east coast of the island of Ireland and has a population of approximately 340,000 people. Belfast is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful architecture. It is also home to many famous landmarks, including the Titanic Belfast museum, Belfast Castle, and the Ulster Museum. The city is also a popular destination for shopping, with high street stores, independent boutiques, and markets offering a wide range of products. Additionally, Belfast has a thriving food scene, offering traditional Northern Irish cuisine, as well as international options.

What to visit in Belfast

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Belfast, along with some information about each: 1. Titanic Belfast - This museum is dedicated to the history of the Titanic, which was built in Belfast. It is located on the site of the original shipyard where the Titanic was constructed and features a range of interactive exhibits, as well as artifacts from the ship.
2. The Ulster Museum - This museum has a range of collections, including art, natural history, and local history. It is located in the Botanic Gardens and is free to visit.
3. St. George's Market - This traditional, covered market is a great place to go shopping for locally made goods, including crafts, food, and flowers. It is open Friday to Sunday and is a popular spot with both locals and tourists.
4. Crumlin Road Gaol - This former prison is now a museum and visitor attraction. Visitors can take guided tours of the cells and learn about the history of this notorious jail.
5. Belfast Castle - This beautiful castle sits on a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views over Belfast Lough. It is free to visit and has a range of exhibits about the history of the castle and the surrounding area.
6. Botanic Gardens - These gardens are home to a range of exotic plants, as well as the Palm House and the Tropical Ravine, which are both Victorian-era glasshouses.
7. The Linen Hall Library - This historic library is one of the oldest in Belfast and has a range of books, archives, and artifacts related to Irish history and culture.
8. The Grand Opera House - This beautiful theater hosts a range of performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts. Visitors can take guided tours of the auditorium to learn about the theater's history.
9. The Crown Liquor Saloon - This iconic pub is one of the oldest in Belfast and features stunning Victorian-era decor, including intricate tiles and stained glass windows.
10. The Murals - Belfast is famous for its political murals, which can be found in many areas of the city. These murals are a testament to the troubled history of Belfast and are well worth seeing for their powerful artwork and messages.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in United Kingdom, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Belfast.

When to go on holiday to Belfast

The best time to travel to Belfast, United Kingdom would be during the months of May through September when the weather is relatively mild and there are less chances of rain. July and August are the peak tourist season months in Belfast, so expect higher prices and larger crowds during this time. However, if you are interested in experiencing the city's cultural and festive events, then travelling in November and December could be a good option as it is the time of the year when the Christmas markets and events take place in Belfast. Overall, the weather varies and can be unpredictable so it is recommended to check the weather forecast before planning your trip.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Belfast

There are several ways to get to Belfast, United Kingdom. If you're flying, the Belfast International Airport (BFS) is located about 30 minutes outside the city. You can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or public transportation to get to your destination in Belfast. If you're coming from Great Britain, you can take a ferry from Liverpool, Cairnryan, or Isle of Man to Belfast. You can also travel to Belfast by train from cities in Great Britain like London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Manchester. The journey time ranges from 2.5 hours to 6 hours depending on the starting point. Another option is to drive, with various road and motorway connections available from different parts of the UK. However, do note that driving on the left-hand side of the road in the UK may take some getting used to if you're not used to it!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Belfast, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Belfast

Here are some typical foods of Belfast, United Kingdom, along with a short description: 1. Irish Stew: A hearty stew made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and other vegetables. It is a traditional comfort food that is perfect for the cold weather.
2. Soda Bread: This is a type of bread that is made without yeast. It is dense and hearty, with a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. It is often served with butter or jam.
3. Ulster Fry: A traditional breakfast dish that consists of fried eggs, bacon, sausages, black pudding, fried tomatoes, and soda bread. It is a hearty and filling meal that is perfect for starting the day.
4. Champ: This dish consists of mashed potatoes with scallions and butter. It is often served as a side dish with meat or fish.
5. Potato Bread: This is a type of bread made with potato flour. It is similar to regular bread, but has a slightly different texture and flavor. It is often toasted and served with butter.
6. Tayto Crisps: A brand of potato chips that is popular in Northern Ireland. They come in a variety of flavors, including cheese and onion, salt and vinegar, and smoky bacon.
7. Boxty: A type of potato pancake that is made with grated potatoes, flour, and milk. It can be served as a side dish or as a main course with toppings such as bacon or eggs.
8. Yellowman: A type of candy that is made from pulled sugar and baking soda. It has a crunchy texture and a sweet, honey-like flavor. It is often sold at fairs and festivals in Northern Ireland. These are some of the traditional foods of Belfast, and are definitely worth trying if you are visiting the city.
You can find general info about typical foods in United Kingdom here.

Is Belfast an expensive destination for tourists?

Belfast can be an affordable destination if you plan your trip carefully. Accommodation can vary in price, with options ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Eating out can also range in price, with plenty of affordable options available. Additionally, many of Belfast's top attractions, such as the Ulster Museum and the Botanic Gardens, are free to visit. However, some tours and activities may be more expensive, so it's important to research and compare prices before booking. Overall, Belfast can be a budget-friendly destination if you plan ahead and make smart choices.

Where to find accomodation in Belfast

Some of the best areas to find accommodation in Belfast include: 1. Cathedral Quarter: It is a historic neighborhood with great restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions.
2. Titanic Quarter: It is a modern area that is home to the famous Titanic Belfast museum.
3. Queen's Quarter: It is a lively neighborhood filled with restaurants, bars, and shops, close to the Queen's University.
4. Botanic Avenue: It is a vibrant area near the Botanic Gardens, where you can find many great restaurants, bars, and shops.
5. City Centre: It is the heart of Belfast, with many popular tourist sights and great shopping options.
These areas are all easily accessible by public transportation, so you can easily explore the city from any of these locations.
You can check hotel prices at Belfast here:
Booking.com

Is Belfast a safe destination for tourists?

Overall, Belfast is generally safe for tourists. Like any city, there are some areas that can be more dangerous or have a higher crime rate, so it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. However, the city has seen significant improvements in recent years in terms of safety and security. The police force is very active in the city center, which has a strong police presence. Visitors should also take basic safety precautions such as keeping valuables out of sight, being aware of pickpocketing, and avoiding walking alone at night in less crowded areas. Additionally, It may be useful to research the specific areas you plan on visiting and take special precautions in those areas.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in United Kingdom here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Belfast.

What type of travelers will enjoy Belfast the most?

Belfast, United Kingdom is a great destination for all types of travelers, including couples, young people and families. There is something for everyone to discover and enjoy in this vibrant city. Some popular attractions that couples may enjoy include the Titanic Belfast, St. George's Market, and the Belfast Castle. For young people looking for fun, there are numerous bars, nightclubs, and music venues to explore. Families may enjoy the Ulster Museum, W5 Science Centre, and the Belfast Zoo, which offer fun and educational experiences for visitors of all ages. Overall, Belfast has a lot to offer and is a great place to visit regardless of your age or interests.

How to get around Belfast

Belfast has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trains, and taxis. There are also bike rentals and car rentals available for people who prefer to travel independently. Buses are the most commonly used mode of transportation in Belfast, and there are several routes that cover the entire city. The train network in Belfast is also extensive, making it easy to travel to other parts of Northern Ireland. Taxis are another popular way to get around Belfast and are available 24/7. Lastly, biking around the city is an option, as there are numerous bike rental shops in Belfast.

What to see around Belfast

Sure, here are some places you can visit on a day trip from Belfast (United Kingdom): 1. Giant's Causeway: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on the north coast of County Antrim.
2. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: A famous rope bridge connecting the mainland to Carrick Island near Ballintoy.
3. Dunluce Castle: A ruined castle set atop a cliff on the coast of County Antrim.
4. Belfast Castle: A beautiful 19th-century castle located on Cave Hill, with panoramic views of Belfast Lough and the city.
5. Titanic Belfast: A museum dedicated to the story of the Titanic, located in the former Harland and Wolff shipyard where the ship was built.
6. Castle Ward: A beautiful 18th-century mansion and estate sitting on the banks of Strangford Lough.
7. Mount Stewart: A stunning 19th-century neoclassical mansion and garden located on the Ards Peninsula.
8. St. Patrick’s Trail: A 92-mile long scenic route winding through some of Northern Ireland's most beautiful countryside and historical landmarks, following in the footsteps of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
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