Belfast was a dream. I’m usually not a huge fan of city breaks, but I knew that I had to make it back to Ireland while living in the UK. Last time I went, I went to Cork, so I decided that this time around I would head to Northern Ireland instead. And whether you’re doing a quick city break or you’re doing a tour of all of Ireland and Northern Ireland, there are a number of things to do in Belfast during your time there.
Most people do a road trip around Ireland and Northern Ireland. I opted to stay put in Belfast for two nights. It’s a great city to base yourself if you only have a few days as the rest of Northern Ireland is easily accessible by car rental or by tour!
Six Things To Do In Belfast
300A Bus Belfast
I suggest spending two nights in Belfast, like I did. Fly in early on your first day and late on your last day — this will be more than enough time. Plus, if you’re flying into Belfast International Airport, your travel experience will be really easy. The airport is tiny and you can catch the 300A bus into the city. It takes about 40-45 minutes.
You can purchase your ticket for the 300A bus into Belfast in two different places. You can pick it up at the counter inside the airport or on the bus. It will cost you about 11 pound.
So, now that you’re there, it’s time to check into your hotel before you start looking at things to do in Belfast.
Check Into A Great Hotel
I spent my two days at the Europa Belfast Hotel. It was really comfortable and my room was very spacious. I was booked into a double room. The bed was very comfortable and I even enjoyed a wonderful bath one evening. There’s a delicious restaurant where you can eat dinner and have breakfast. And if you have any questions at all, be sure to ask the concierge as they are incredibly helpful!
The hotel is located in the city center making it the perfect jumping off point for when you explore Belfast!
Spend Some Time At The Belfast Castle
Things To Do In Belfast: Belfast Castle
The Belfast Castle is more of an estate than an actual castle, but it’s beautiful. Plus, it’s free to explore both the castle and the gardens. And you can fly your drone there if you have one… I had a blast doing it. The Castle is located up on a hill overlooking Belfast City and Belfast Harbor. You can grab the bus there from the city center — it’ll cost you about 2 pounds each way.
Once you get off the bus, you’ll have to walk a bit, but it’s definitely worth the uphill trek!
Explore Titanic Belfast
Carve out at least three hours when you’re planning your visit to Titanic Belfast. This museum is so cool and definitely deserves the right amount of time to fully explore it. Titanic Belfast is the world’s largest Titanic exhibit. It’s several floors of interactive exhibits, experiences (there’s even a ride), information, videos, and more. Plus, if you buy the main ticket you also have access to the SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line vessel.
Hop On A Game Of Thrones Tour
You should have already read about my Game of Thrones Tour experience but, if you haven’t, this will be the highlight of your trip to Belfast whether you’re a fan or not (but probably more if you’re a fan). Of all of the things to do in Belfast, this is the can’t miss for me because you not only get to explore locations where the amazing show has been filmed, but you get to explore the Northern Ireland Coast which is absolutely stunning. You’ll visit places like Giants Causeway and the Carrick Rope Bridge!
Take A Self Guided Street Art Tour
If you’ve visited Travel Colorfully before, then you know that I love some good street art. And Belfast was brimming over the edge with awesome murals. I suggest doing a self-guided tour. I found this one online and it has a map of some of the hot spots featuring murals. The whole walk will take you about an hour.
Wander Around The Botanic Gardens
Unfortunately I wasn’t able to make it to the Botanic Gardens in Belfast. I really wanted to do this, but there just wasn’t anytime! Plus, it was a bit cold outside to be wandering around a Botanic Garden. However, if you find yourself in Belfast on a nice day, I definitely suggest checking this place out. The public garden spans over 28 acres and also features the entrance to the Ulster Museum.
Go On A Food Tour
Food tours are one of my favorite ways to explore a new city! It’s the perfect way to taste your way through a place, especially if you aren’t going to be there for a long time! I was really upset that this tour was completely booked (it often is, so do yourself a favor and book in ahead of time). I had heard so many great things about it, but I had to skip it this time around. The award-winning food tour will take you through St. George’s Market, and onto several bars and restaurants in the area. You’ll be able to learn about traditional Irish cuisine and get to know some of the best kept secrets of Belfast.
More Things To Do In Belfast
I made two videos highlighting the things to do in Belfast! Please watch and subscribe!!
Travel Colorfully received a complimentary ticket to Titanic Belfast as well as a media rate for the Stones and Thrones tour. As always, all opinions are my own.
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