Belfast - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips
In recent times, Belfast has become a modern city that has polished its past to create a hip and happening travel destination. As the capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast is a forward-looking city, now determined to reconcile the cultures of Britain and Ireland that have caused so much conflict in the past. With a stunning backdrop of Victorian and Edwardian architecture and new bars and restaurants popping up at an unprecedented rate, a trip to Belfast, new and improved, is just waiting to be discovered. As are the friendly locals, ready and waiting to share their pride in this intriguing Irish city.
Travel Highlights
- In the very spot where the ill-fated, infamous Titanic was built now lies the Titanic Belfast museum, a passionate and extravagant display of the world’s most ocean liner.
- Cave Hill Country Park is a great way to take in the Irish air and get to grips with the lay of the land from the 368m high summit.
- The Botanical Gardens are a lush green oasis held in a beautiful 19th century iron and glass dome.
- Take a tour of Crumlin Road Gaol and explore the underground tunnel from the courthouse to the jail.
- The Crown Liquor Saloon is actually under the patronage of the National Trust and is the most historical place to enjoy a pint in the city.
- St. George’s Market is the oldest market in Ireland and is a celebration for the senses. Head there on a Friday for a little bit of everything.
- Visit Belfast’s ‘Entries’. These narrow alleyways from High St and Ann St hide pubs, houses and more.
Travel Tips
- General protocol is to avoid talking politics.
- Northern Ireland’s currency is the Great British Pound.
- A tour to Belfast is very walkable but metro buses are also a reliable way to get around.
- Despite its past reputation, Belfast is considered a very safe city in the UK.
- To avoid the cold weather, travel to Belfast between April and September.
- Belfast is one of the most affordable cities in the UK, so a trip to Belfast won’t break the bank.
