Belfast travel guide

Belfast has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years which means that it is now just as appealing to tourists as its fellow Irish city of Dublin. It boasts an exciting and vibrant urban atmosphere with all of the modern amenities and attractions one would expect in a leading city break destination, from gourmet restaurants and shopping areas to museums and theatres.

Northern Ireland's capital is more than just a big city, however, as its location near the coast of County Antrim means that stunning natural attractions such as the Giant's Causeway and the Mourne mountains are just a short drive away.

Getting there

Ferries to Ireland are provided by a number of operators from various destinations on mainland Britain and Europe, meaning visiting the country has never been easier. Ferries from Liverpool to Belfast are available with Norfolkline Irish Sea, while people travelling from the Isle of Man can catch ferries to Belfast from Douglas with the Steam Packet Company.

Holidaymakers setting off from Scotland can travel on the Stranraer to Belfast ferry route operated by Stena Line, which also offers ferries to Larne, just north of Belfast, from Fleetwood.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company provides a Belfast ferry service from Douglas, while P&O Ferries sails to Larne from Troon and Cairnryan during the summer.

Ferry to Belfast timetable information

Things to do

The city of Belfast will host a wide range of events over the coming weeks and months providing a variety of entertainment for visitors. People planning a trip over the forthcoming May half-term period will be able to attend the Belfast Children's Festival from May 22nd to 31st, while summer visitors will get to experience the Belfast Taste and Music Fest from August 6th to 9th and the finale of the Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge from August 13th to 16th.

Family groups will find plenty to interest children at attractions such as Belfast Zoo, which boasts a picturesque setting next to Belfast Castle and is home to more than 160 species of animal. Aunt Sandra's Candy Factory could be just as tempting a prospect for many visitors, while some slightly more sensible meals are on offer at the Michelin-starred restaurants, gastro pubs and cafes located in Belfast's city centre and surrounding areas.

Travellers planning to head out of the city to explore the full extent of County Antrim can test their nerve by crossing the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. The bridge is suspended over an 80ft chasm on the north Antrim coast in an area of stunning natural beauty, with verdant rock formations rising in dramatic shapes out of clear blue waters. Golf fans will be able to squeeze in a few rounds at clubs such as Balmoral, Dunmurray and Malone, while those more interested in hitting the shops will be able to stay in the city and head to Lisburn Road, St George's Market and other retail areas.

Things to see

One of the best ways to take in the sights of Belfast is by taking a tour of the city's quarters. At the heart of the Queen's Quarter is the famous Queen's University, a grand building that is situated in close proximity to several other examples of impressive architecture as well as shops, bistros and bars. The Cathedral Quarter is also home to an impressive collection of fascinating public buildings and institutions, while the Titanic Quarter offers tours of a number of locations associated with the construction of the famous ship after which the area is named.

Located in the centre of Belfast is City Hall, one of the grandest sights for visitors to see during their trip. Tours offer a fascinating insight into the history of the hall itself and aspects of the city of Belfast. The building is located in Belfast's Golden Mile area, which links City Hall to Queen's University and is popular with tourists owing to its variety of bars and restaurants.

While Belfast is home to plenty of sights and experiences of its own, travellers interested in seeing some of the natural wonders of Northern Ireland can venture out of the city to explore the counties of Antrim and Down. Located on the north coast of County Antrim is one of Ireland's most famous tourist attractions, the Giant's Causeway, an area of some 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that was formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. A little further along the coast is Dunluce Castle, which boasts a stunning location atop limestone cliffs looking out over the sea.

In County Down, holidaymakers can get back to nature by going hiking in the Mourne mountains or pay a visit to attractions such as Castle Ward and Mount Steward House.

Places to stay

Three-star hotel options in Belfast include the Travelodge in the centre of the city and the Days Hotel, which offers excellent value and a location close to the Great Victoria Street railway station, the Grand Opera House and other attractions.

An upgrade to four-star accommodation offers travellers the opportunity to experience establishments such as the striking Radisson SAS Hotel, which boasts a good location and modern amenities including free internet access. Other four-star options include Wellington Park in the trendy Malone Road area and the Europa Hotel in the city centre.

Those really looking to push the boat out can stay in one of Belfast's many five-star hotels, such as the Hilton Belfast in the city's Laganside riverfront area. The Culloden Estate and Spa is an ideal option for a luxury break, located on wooded slopes near the County Antrim coastline and offering facilities including a health spa and tennis courts.

Written by Mark Robinson