Belfast is the capital and biggest city of Northern Ireland, located along the River Lagan on the east coast. The city is known for its strong connection to the Titanic, with the Titanic Quarter home to a ship-shaped museum called Titanic Belfast, and the old Harland & Wolff shipyard, where the famous ship was built. The city’s skyline features Belfast City Hall, with its copper dome, and the leaning Albert Memorial Clock. The Cathedral Quarter has old cobbled streets and creative spaces like the Black Box. At weekends, you can enjoy live music and food stalls at St. George’s Market, while Victoria Square offers modern shopping under a giant glass dome. The colorful murals on Falls and Shankill roads reflect Belfast’s deep political and religious history. You can learn more about this past at the Ulster Museum, located in the peaceful Botanic Gardens.
Belfast – places to visit in Belfast
Titanic Belfast
Titanic Belfast is a museum located where the famous RMS Titanic was built in the Titanic Quarter. The building’s design looks like a ship and tells the story of Belfast’s shipbuilding past. Inside, you’ll find nine galleries with interactive exhibits, event spaces, and a themed bar called Hickson’s Point. The attraction has been visited by many notable people, including Queen Elizabeth II and Hillary Clinton. It shows what life was like for passengers aboard the Titanic. Visitors can also learn about the ship’s construction and tragic voyage. It’s one of Belfast’s most famous attractions today.
Belfast City Hall
Belfast City Hall is a grand building in the center of Belfast at Donegall Square. It’s the headquarters of the city council and a key symbol of the city. Inside, visitors can see impressive rooms like the Grand Staircase and the Banqueting Hall. The building also holds exhibitions about Belfast’s history and people. Guided tours help visitors understand its architecture and role in city life. Outside, the gardens are a peaceful place to relax. City Hall’s iconic dome is one of the most recognized sights in Belfast.
HMP Belfast (Crumlin Road Gaol)
Crumlin Road Gaol is a former prison in Belfast, now open for tours. It was built using dark Antrim basalt stone and operated for over 150 years. The prison is linked to the nearby courthouse by an underground tunnel. Visitors can explore cells, learn about past executions, and discover chilling stories from its history. Seventeen men were executed here during its use. Today, it’s a popular site for ghost tours and events. The building shows a different side of Belfast’s past.
SS Nomadic
SS Nomadic is the last remaining ship from the White Star Line, now docked in Belfast. It was used to transport passengers to larger ships like the Titanic. Visitors can walk through four decks and see what life was like onboard in 1911. The ship features areas separated by class, just like the Titanic. Restored with care, it offers a close-up experience of Edwardian ship design. The vessel is part of the Titanic Quarter’s attractions. It’s like stepping back in time to the golden age of sea travel.
Belfast Castle
Belfast Castle sits on the slopes of Cave Hill, offering great views over the city and Belfast Lough. Built in 1860, it is one of the city’s most well-known historic landmarks. The area includes a visitor center, café, and landscaped gardens. A nearby rock formation, known as “Napoleon’s Nose,” is said to have inspired Gulliver’s Travels. There are walking trails and play areas for families. The castle is a favorite spot for weddings and events. Its peaceful setting makes it perfect for a day out.
Golden Mile
The Golden Mile is a lively area stretching from Belfast City Hall to the university area. It includes streets like Dublin Road and Great Victoria Street. The area is packed with pubs, restaurants, clubs, and theatres. Famous places like the Crown Liquor Saloon and Grand Opera House are located here. It’s the heart of Belfast’s nightlife and entertainment scene. Locals and tourists come here to eat, drink, and enjoy live performances. It’s one of the city’s most popular hangout spots.
St George’s Market
St George’s Market is a historic covered market in Belfast, built in the 1890s. Today, it is full of stalls selling fresh food, handmade crafts, and local products. It’s a great place to enjoy live music while exploring food from around the world. The market has about 300 vendors, including farmers, artists, and bakers. On weekends, the atmosphere is vibrant and full of energy. It also hosts concerts and special events. It’s a must-visit spot for culture and shopping.
Carrickfergus Castle
Carrickfergus Castle is a large stone fortress on the shore of Belfast Lough in County Antrim. Built in the 12th century by the Normans, it has stood strong for over 800 years. The castle was used in battles, sieges, and wars throughout history. Today, it’s open to visitors who can explore its towers and thick walls. Inside, you’ll find cannons and displays about its history. Its location by the water makes it very scenic. It’s one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland.
Albert Memorial Clock
The Albert Memorial Clock is a tall clock tower in Belfast’s Queen’s Square. Built in 1869, it honors Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria. The tower leans slightly due to soft ground beneath it. It features detailed carvings, including lions, angels, and floral designs. The statue of Prince Albert stands in the middle of the structure. It’s one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. Locals often call it simply the “Albert Clock.”
Divis and the Black Mountain
Divis and the Black Mountain are natural landscapes just outside Belfast, offering amazing views of the city. On clear days, you can see as far as Scotland and the Mourne Mountains. The area is full of walking trails and open hills, great for hiking. Wildlife and old archaeological sites can be found along the paths. Managed by the National Trust, it’s a peaceful escape from the city. Visitors enjoy the scenic routes and fresh air. It’s perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Best time to visit Belfast
The best time to visit Belfast is between April and October.
During these months, the weather is milder and more pleasant.
Flowers bloom in spring, and the city comes alive with color.
Summer is perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and festivals.
July and August are the warmest, great for sightseeing and walking tours.
Autumn brings golden leaves and fewer crowds.
Many events, like music and arts festivals, happen in these months.
It’s the ideal time to enjoy Belfast’s culture, history, and charm.
