Travel to and tour Belfast - Ireland | Keytours Vacations

Discover Belfast's Wonders

Belfast may be a small city but don't let the size fool you - because we're big on excitement. Once the home of the Irish linen industry, tobacco production, rope making and the world famous Harland and Wolff shipbuilders, Belfast lays claim to a unique history. And there's something for everyone to love. Shopping, tours, world-class dining, block rockin' beats, you name it - we've got it. So dig a little deeper and start planning your Belfast adventure!

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Description

Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland. Its name originates from the Irish Béal Feirste, or 'the mouth of the Farset', the river on which the city was built and has now been superseded by the River Lagan. Belfast saw the worst of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, and since their start in 1969, news of violence and disruption marred the city’s image as a tourist destination. Since the 1997 cease-fire and the Good Friday agreement; however, Belfast is making up for lost time. With the help of massive investment, the city has undergone a remarkable transformation, and now has a booming economy and high employment rates. The River Lagan has been cleaned up and inner city areas, such as the Cathedral Quarter, have been revived, attracting new restaurants, hotels, shopping areas and cafes. Belfast was once home to C.S.Lewis, author of the Chronicles of Narnia. Was this setting the source of his inspiration to create his enchanting fantasy world? The famous musician Van Morrison also grew up in Belfast and music is indeed an important part of this city’s social scene, with bands often performing at the Odyssey Arena or the Belfast Waterfront. The numerous Victorian buildings of the city have been juxtaposed with impressive 20th-century architecture, creating a sense of progress and change. With its sights set on the future, Belfast is a vibrant, friendly and exciting city, waiting to be discovered in a myriad of new ways.

Useful information

Population:

647,438 (2024)

Currency:

1 pound £ = 100 pence

Emergency Info:

Fire, police & ambulance: 999

Opening Hours:

City centre shops are generally open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm and Thursdays until 9pm. Some larger stores open Sundays from 1pm to 6pm. Neighbourhood and convenience shops are often open much longer, 24 hours in many cases.

Do & See

Aunt Sandra's Candy Factory

Visit the magical world of chocolate and sweets at Aunt Sandra’s, where you can also make your own chocolate pizzas, lollipops or any kind of sweets you can imagine. The factory is nationally renowned for its fine handmade chocolates, fudge and boiled sweets, made using time-tested 100-year-old recipes.

Belfast Castle

This majestic castle nestled on the slopes of Cavehill dates back to 1870 and offers great views over Belfast Lough and the city. It is one of the most imposing buildings in the city, and visitors flock there to enjoy afternoon tea, a meal at the in-house restaurant or just to stroll around the beautiful, landscaped garden.

Belfast City Hall

The Belfast City Hall is a luxurious building built in the early 1900s, in classical Renaissance style, symbolising the sudden wealth of Industrial Revolution of Belfast. Free guided tours are available. Make sure to check out the collection of portraits of past Lord Mayors.

Belfast Zoo

With more than 1,000 animals and 150 species, you will have plenty to explore at Belfast Zoo. Many of the animals are in danger in their natural habitats, so the aim is to provide them with the best possible care. Don't miss out on the feeding times of your favourite animal.

Black Taxi Political Tour

A great way to see Belfast’s political hot spots is in a black taxi. At very moderate prices, a cab will show you the famous political murals, Falls and Shankill Roads and the Peace Walls. Moreover, these rides are usually often highly entertaining, depending on the driver you chance upon. Tours of this type are offered by several competing companies. Some will even pick you up at your hotel.

Botanic Gardens

Just a short walk away from the university lies this green haven, sloping down to the River Lagan. Its centrepiece, the Palm House, is a beautiful conservatory of cast iron and glass designed in 1939 by Charles Lanyon.

City Sightseeing Belfast Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

With this open-top double-decker City Sightseeing bus, you will get a great view over some of the most important sights in the city. The tour starts from the Belfast City Hall, but you can hop on at any stop along the route. There are 20 total stops, and the entire route takes about 1 hour.

Crumlin Road Gaol

This former Victorian prison, now open to visitors, is the spot to visit if you want to learn more about the dark history of the city. Here, you will have the unique opportunity to explore the rooms where inmates were imprisoned while hearing their at times heart-wrenching stories. Last admission is around 4pm.

Dining

Bank Square Brasserie

A hidden gem tucked away in the city centre behind Bank Square, this brick-walled casual restaurant serves fusion Asian and European food prepared with local produce. The high-quality food is beautifully presented by the skilful chefs and served by the attentive staff in a location with a unique decor and full of character.

Bites of India Botanic

Serving truly authentic Nepalese and Indian food at its best, Bites of India offers a unique dining experience, enhanced by the beautiful Nepalese-inspired design of the restaurant. The menu combines fresh and healthy imported ingredients and local produce; come here and taste their delicious starters and spicy meats.

Ginger Bistro

Ever since opening in 2000, Ginger Bistro has won many awards and is recognised as one of the best restaurants in Belfast. Located just off Great Victoria Street, this popular gem serves modern Irish classics with an international twist. The well balanced menu highlights locally sourced seafood and lean meats, such as the chicken schnitzel and their famous Gingers Squid and Dips.

House of Zen

Opened in 2012, this fusion restaurant will delight you with different kinds of Asian cuisine served in a very elegant venue, where the interior takes inspiration from the Orient. Come here and make sure to try their duck salad along with one of their renowned cocktails, such as the passion fruit cocktail and the raspberry mojito. Furthermore, House of Zen is located right next to one of the main attractions of the city, St Anne's Cathedral.

James St

When dining at this stylish and vibrant restaurant, one can enjoy their celebrated steaks, cooked to perfection on a charcoal grill. On the menu you will also find fresh fish, pasta dishes and Sunday roast. The carefully selected wine from around the world complements the mouth-watering food in an impeccable way.

Molly’s Yard

Molly’s Yard is a highly recommended restaurant located in the Queen’s University Quarter. It offers excellent dishes of the modern Irish cuisine at reasonable prices, such as porchetta with apple and cider purée. They also brew their own beer.

Nu Delhi Lounge

This Indian restaurant is top-notch when it comes to food, but also in creating a perfect dining experience thanks to the service-minded staff and the night entertainment. Come here and spoil yourself with some fine Indian specialities, such as the unmissable chicken jalfrezi.

The Morning Star

This hidden gem may not be the easiest spot to find, but it's highly recommended to make an effort because it will surely become one of your favourites. This old coaching stop houses a bar and a cosy wood-panelled restaurant upstairs, where you will be served experimental creations prepared with fresh, local ingredients and a full steak menu.

Cafés

Afternoon Tea at Europa Hotel

If you want to play English aristocracy around a traditional English Afternoon tea, there is no better place than in the luxurious ambience of the Europa Hotel in Belfast. Savour the delicate pastries, scones and sandwiches served with premium blended teas and just enjoy the whole experience.

Cafe Mauds

Mauds is a great busy place, which prides itself on quality ice creams and good service. It sets the highest standards to the quality of its products as well as their provenance. The result is apparent: their ice creams and dairy products are beyond delicious, and they have multiple awards to show for it.

Established Coffee

Boasting a relaxed ambience and efficient service, Established Coffee is a thriving café and retailer in Belfast's Cathedral Quarter. The staff is dedicated to serving coffee from some of the best farms across the world and they put care and attention into everything they do. Here, the menu is simple, and focuses on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

Ground Espresso Bar

The staff and owners at Ground Espresso Bar are not only passionate about their coffee, they also give a lot of importance to music. The coffee shop runs live acoustic sessions every week in Belfast, and throughout their various branches across Northern Ireland.

Mad Hatter Café

Located on the corner of Eglantine Avenue and Lisburn Road, this family owned café combines awesome breakfasts and tasty meals with a friendly staff, which will make you feel at home. Mad Hatter Café is famous for their great variety of fry-ups and mouth-watering cakes. When here try their famous Ulster fry or the homemade apple pie.

Oliver's Coffee Bar

A popular spot, Oliver's Coffee Bar is a little gem where to enjoy freshly made food and desserts. It has earned a good reputation for its homemade Granola and award-winning scones, so why not give it a try while here? The welcoming staff and the well thought interior design only enhance the café experience. Oliver's has three locations in Belfast.

Sinnamon Coffee

Here at Sinnamon Coffee you will be served with the perfect cup of coffee and mouth-watering food. This family-run business offers customers a wide selection of appetisers and desserts like paninis, salads, pastries and cakes.

Spoon Street

Create your cup with your favourite frozen yoghurt and toppings. There are 16 flavours of frozen yoghurt and over 40 topping so it is easy to get carried away by all the choices; however, be aware the price is calculated by weight. Lactose-free, gluten-free and sugar-free options are also available.

Bars & Nightlife

Belfast Pub Crawl

Explore some fantastic traditional pubs with some excellent Irish music by joining this Traditional Irish Pub Crawl. At this well organised tour, you will be shown the nightlife of the city, its sights and sounds, and some interesting stories will be told along the way. Mingle, have fun and meet some new friends; it will certainly be a night to remember.

Bert’s Jazz Bar

Bert's Jazz Bar, at the luxury five-star Merchant Hotel in Belfast City, is the ideal place to have a relaxing evening while listening to live Jazz music. The bar oozes a sleek elegance of the art deco era, and the handpicked list of cocktails enhances the whole experience.

Boombox Belfast

Situated on the corner of Union Street and Donegall Street in Belfast City centre, Boombox nightclub and The Maverick Bar is the place to head for when it comes to drag cabaret shows and disco club nights. They are open five nights a week with free admission.

Crown Liquor Saloon

Sit in a cosy snug with a pint of Guinness and admire the mirrors, the coloured tiles and the gas lighting. The Crown Liquor Saloon calls itself 'the world’s most beautiful bar,' so take the opportunity to discover one of the prominent symbols of this city's nightlife.

Duke of York

The Duke of York is a great, cosy and friendly bar with live traditional music on Thursday nights and DJs on the weekends. It hosts Ireland's largest Whiskey collection. An interesting fact to know about this pub is that the Sinn Fein leader, Gerry Adams, used to be a barman here.

Fibber Magees

Another great traditional Irish pub that features a vibrant atmosphere thanks to the amazing music nights. Come here to discover the essence of Ireland by having a Guinness and listening to traditional Irish music at this cosy hidden gem.

Harp Bar

Located alongside its big brother, the incredibly famous Duke of York, Harp Bar is another must-see establishment where the bar offers independent draught beers and extensive whiskies. This is also a live music venue, hosting national talents in a welcoming atmosphere.

Kelly's Cellars

Kelly's Cellars, one of Belfast’s oldest pubs, is a venue full of character and a great place for a hearty Ulster fry. Here you can spend a great evening in a warm atmosphere enjoying traditional music sessions which are held on a regular basis, and order first class beers.

Shopping

Carrolls Irish Gifts

Whether you want to buy a souvenir to bring back home or a gift for someone special, you will surely find it at this Irish-to-the-bone location. This retail store features many Irish brands, so it can be the right place to find the perfect memento of your time in Ireland.

CastleCourt

The CastleCourt Shopping Centre, situated on Royal Avenue, is Northern Ireland’s largest shopping mall, with more than 80 different shops and countless spots where you can take a break with a good coffee or a tasty meal. New Look, Miss Glam, Jack & Jones and Yankee Candle are some of the stores located here.

Co Couture

If you have a sweet tooth and love chocolate, do not miss the Co Couture, where luxurious hand-made chocolates are sold. Only the finest raw ingredients are used when creating these premium chocolate bonbons and other products, all to ensure the ultimate flavour experience.

No Alibis Bookstore

If you are a thrill-lover looking for a novel or publication in the criminal genre, No Alibis bookstore is the right place for you. Located on Botanic Avenue, in the centre of Belfast, this shop is Northern Ireland's only specialist crime bookstore.

Oakland Antiques

One of the busiest antique shops in Northern Ireland is located at the centre of Donegall Pass. Oakland Antiques is the largest antique showroom in Belfast, with two floors with antique furniture, silvers, porcelains, glasses, clocks, paintings and much more.

Primark

This Irish clothing company offers fashion at staggeringly low prices. Here, you can update your wardrobe with several items without breaking the bank. The wide selection of products range from women's to men's wear, including also children's clothing and accessories.

Skechers

Skechers is a shoe store with locations around the whole world and one can be found in Donegall Place, Belfast. Here you will find quality shoes for the whole family, for every age and activity. If you are a walker or casual runner, they have a huge variety of fitness and performance-geared shoes.

St George's Market

Saint George’s Market is the last surviving covered Victorian market in Belfast which has been newly restored, giving it a new lease of life. On Fridays you can find a wide array of products in the Variety Market, including food and antiques, while on Saturdays the City Food and Craft Market mingles food and handmade crafts, as the name suggests. On Sundays the two markets basically fuse together into the Sunday Market.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

April to September, as well as October, is the best time to visit Belfast. Be prepared for some wind and rain, but there are also sunny days, especially in the summer. Try to avoid the two weeks around the 12th of July, Orangemen's Day. Many people have their holidays during the period when the traditional Protestant marches take place and the city gets very crowded.

Passport & Visa

For travel to the UK, citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland (except Irish citizens) need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). However, those planning to work or study in the UK for more than six months will need to obtain the appropriate visa. Additionally, residents of nine other countries — including Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, and the United States — can also visit the UK for up to six months without a visa, but they will still need an ETA. To ensure a smooth journey, it is advisable to consult the UK government website for any specific visa requirements or regulations.

Belfast International Airport (BFS)

Belfast International Airport (BFS) is located approximately 20 minutes from the city centre and you have different options to choose from when deciding on the best way to get here. Airport Express 300 buses run between the airport and the city centre roughly every 15 minutes at peak times and the journey takes about 30-40 minutes. Taxis are also available outside the terminal building. The International Airport Taxi Company, for example, is available every day, all day.

George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD)

Belfast City Airport is located to the east of the city centre, about a 5 minute drive from the centre. Trains run every half an hour during the day between Sydenham Station, near the airport, and the central train station in Belfast. The Airport Express 600 bus takes you to the city centre and leaves every 20 minutes, but you can also take Metrobus number 3 or The Airporter. Finally, you can also reach the city centre by taxi, which leave from outside the terminal building.

Public Transport

Translink runs the public transport system in Belfast that consists of busses and a railway system. At the front of all Metro vehicles you can see the number and destination, and services usually start and end around the City Hall with fares that can be paid in coins directly to the bus driver/operator on-board. Smartlink Multi-journey tickets and travel cards are available in shops displaying the Metro sign or from the Metro Kiosk in Donegall Square West.

Taxi

You can easily call for a taxi or hail one down in the street. Value Cabs, for example, is always available right in front of the two airports and will also collect and drop passengers at their preferred locations, operating 24 hours. If you prefer using a rideshare service, Uber also operates in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.

Electricity

Electrical appliances in the UK use a three-pin plug known as plug type G. The sockets come with on-and-off switches, unlike many other countries. The average voltage of a UK power socket is 230v or slightly higher, so check the voltage of your device before plugging it in.

Pharmacy

You can easily find a pharmacy in Belfast. The most important independent pharmacy chain in town, Gordons Chemist, has stores scattered all over Northern Ireland and Scotland.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-see attractions in Belfast?

Belfast is home to several iconic attractions. The Titanic Belfast museum is a must-visit, offering an immersive experience into the history of the ill-fated ship. Stroll through the historic Cathedral Quarter, known for its vibrant arts scene and nightlife. The Belfast Castle, with its stunning views of the city, and the Botanic Gardens, featuring the Palm House and Tropical Ravine, are also worth exploring.

What is the best way to get around Belfast?

Belfast is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, the public transport system, including buses and trains, is efficient and affordable. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. Consider renting a bike to enjoy the city's extensive network of cycle paths.

When is the best time to visit Belfast?

The best time to visit Belfast is during the late spring and summer months, from May to September, when the weather is milder and outdoor events are plentiful. This period also hosts several festivals, including the Belfast International Arts Festival in October, which is worth planning your trip around.

What local dishes should I try in Belfast?

Belfast offers a variety of traditional dishes. Be sure to try an Ulster Fry, a hearty breakfast featuring bacon, eggs, sausage, black pudding, and soda bread. For lunch or dinner, sample Irish stew or colcannon, a comforting dish of mashed potatoes with cabbage. Don't miss out on trying some local seafood, such as mussels or smoked salmon.

Are there any day trips from Belfast worth taking?

Yes, there are several fantastic day trips from Belfast. The Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a popular choice with its unique basalt columns. The scenic Antrim Coast Road offers breathtaking views and leads to attractions like Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. The historic town of Derry/Londonderry is also accessible for a day trip.

What cultural events or festivals take place in Belfast?

Belfast hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Belfast International Arts Festival in October features performances in music, dance, and theater. The Belfast Film Festival in April showcases local and international films. Additionally, the city's St. Patrick's Day celebrations in March are lively and colorful, with parades and events.

What safety considerations should I keep in mind while visiting Belfast?

Belfast is generally a safe city for travelers, but it's wise to take standard precautions. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and keep an eye on your belongings. While the city has a history of political tension, it has become much more peaceful in recent years. It's advisable to stay informed about local news and avoid any potential demonstrations.

Trips

Belfast Discovery

Irelands Vibrant Capitals Explorer

Ultimate Ireland Circle Private Journey

Celtic North Discovery

Celtic Legends and Grand British Isles Adventure

Grand Journey of the British Isles for the Sports Enthusiast

A Historic Private Journey Through the British Isles

Wild Northern Ireland Explorer

Derry Halloween Discovery

Halloween in Derry and Bram Stokers Dublin Discovery

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